High Sierra Topix

JMat wrote:That being said... most of our trails have been made and maintained by horses and mules but that certainly doesn't mean they should have unlimited access to our forests and there certainly is a happy medium. Just because horses have historically helped build trails doesn't mean they should always be there.

With out a doubt! That is why there is a quota on stock in the highcountry and I agree with the quota. All I am saying is that horses and mules belong and people shouldnt hate on them so much. They have their place and are every much a part of wilderness travel just as walking is. The Indians and early explorers depended on the horse not.

I tried not to bite, but can't help sharing some news, and venting.

The omnibus public lands bill is being heard by the House this Wednesday--great news for wilderness fans.

Those of you that support wilderness, please contact your representative (find his/her phone and email at house.gov) and ask him/her to vote for the lands bill without amendment.

For the rest of you, I can't wait until this passes and roads are NOT closed. Because this won't close any legal roads here in the Eastern Sierra. Look at the maps, people (available at Rep. McKeon's website). Black helicopters will not be following you. Locked gates will not suddenly appear across all roads into the mountains (as flyers posted in Bishop have alleged). I'm sure the government will still do plenty of things that you can complain about--here's one:

The Inyo NF travel management plan: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/inyo/news/2009/ ... mgmt.shtml

If you really care about public lands, and aren't just ranting and raving against so-called "lock up" you should be participating in the comment period. Lots of meetings throughout the Eastern Sierra this month.

Thought I posted this 1/2 hr. ago. My gimlet must have got in the way of my finger. Anyway, I must be one of the nutcases. Death by a thousand cuts will eventually start to hurt. jls

I must be one of the nutcases too...............

Oh, and yes, locked gates do appear accorss open roads. Wierd ehh?