Many aspects of the draft recreational
plan will result in better mountain bicycling in Region 7 State Forests,
and we support their recommendations. Furthermore, there are some recommendations
that do not result in better mountain biking that we support in the interests
of developing an overall comprehensive recreation plan.
We support the closure of trails that
are inherently unsustainable. Such trails include those that go through
wetland areas or other poorly drained soils, and those that are routed
along the fall line, or otherwise have excessively steep slopes. Many trails
that exhibit these properties can be reopened following reroutes and/or
drainage improvements. Those that can not be so fixed should be closed
permanently to all users.
We support seasonal closure of trails.
Most impact to trails is during wet conditions. However, the recommended
six month closure period is much too long. The closure period should be
limited to the period just before and after snowmelt, February 15 through
April 15. Where possible, DEC or authorized volunteer organizations
should be able to adjust these dates depending on actual trail conditions.
Usage is typically much less in late fall wet conditions and should not
be restricted then. During winter, usage can be prohibited when trails
are covered with snow to preserve cross country skiing conditions. These
limitations should not be exempted for Shindagin Hollow. As this is the
most popular place for cycling in Region 7, these protections are needed
here as elsewhere. These closure dates should apply, or at least
be recommended for all other uses of trails, including hiking.
We support the designation of 29 Region 7 state forests to be entirely without trails. This recommendation negatively impacts mountain bicycling, as this may eliminate areas that may be suitable for trail construction in the future. However, we support this designation as part of an overall recreational management plan for Region 7, providing opportunities for solitary enjoyment of the forests.