This is a pre-made letter that you can put your own twist...its fast and easy...so "JUST DO IT"
http://www.sharetrails.org/letters/letter.php?id=14
SUBJECT: COMMENTS ON UPPER TELLICO OHV SYSTEM
Dear Ranger Lohr,
I am writing to provide comments on the changes at the Upper Tellico ORV Area in the Nantahala National Forest.
I would like to strongly suggest that the FS consider reopening and maintaining trails at Tellico instead of closing trails. The purpose and need for this action is to reduce sedimentation in streams, then that should be the desired outcome of this, not closing trails. If the FS were to change the proposed action to reduction of sedimentation, this would allow the FS to conduct a more comprehensive analysis under NEPA and could provide recreation opportunities to OHV community and reduce sedimentation in the Tellico River watershed at the same time.
I believe that the USFS has not properly evaluated the impacts of closing or restricting the Upper Tellico OHV Area. I believe that the economic impacts to the area have not been considered at all in determining the current proposed changes. I believe that the Forest Service has not considered the rapid, explosive growth of interest in motorized recreation, and has simply wilted in the face of a NOI from an extreme environment group. The FS needs to consider the interests of others besides itself and the few environmental lobbyists and lawyers who represent a small but well-financed group who wants to prevent the public's use of land that rightfully belongs to the public. The FS needs to consider where the OHV operators who currently utilize the Upper Tellico OHV Area will go, and what damage may occur from that shift to other areas. I believe that current plan for Upper Tellico OHV Area is unfair, unwise, and scientifically and economically unsound.
I've never got the opportunity to drive my new truck at Telico but its on my short list. If yall decide to close trails I will not come and the economy of the local area will suffer with me and many others not spending their "green" money at the park and local buisness's. This is a fast growing "sport" and we can work together in correcting certain issues I am sure it will benefit all involved.
Sincerely,
John Wellborn,
100 Flint Creek Dr
Richmond Hill, GA, 31324
