Green Ridge State Forest in MD: If you’ve ever visited, or would want to visit, better let your voice be heard now; looks like they are considering closing the ORV trails.

You can read the report and post a comment here:

http://www.dnr.sta...ests/orvreport.asp

PS
It's a fun time, a beautiful area, and... there's LOTS of UE (days worth).



Edit: bad link

Well, it appears it’s over:

ORV Trail Status
Effective immediately, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has permanently closed three of the State’s off-road vehicle (ORV) trails; the Green Ridge Trail at Green Ridge State Forest, Chandler Trail at Pocomoke State Forest, and Poplar Lick Trail at Savage River State Forest. These trails had been temporarily closed pending the results of a forest certification audit. The decision is based on the results of environmental assessments conducted by the Department and the results of our recent forest certification audit. That audit completed last week is part of the State’s effort to receive dual certification for all three western Maryland State Forests — a move that will protect the $950 million western Maryland forest products industry, which employs 9,200 people.

Working as a customer/owner of forest products, I call BULL on the effect to the industry – but hey, who knows.

(still say it’s Bull and the real reason is:
The United Nations General Assembly declared 2011 as International Year of Forests to celebrate the sustainable management of the world’s forests. Organizations throughout Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay watershed have taken this opportunity to encourage the celebration of forests for people. To add to the celebration the Forest Service has developed a poster contest for all 5th graders in the State and an opportunity for everyone to submit a photo of their favorite Maryland Tree Lined Street)

http://www.dnr.state.md.us./forests/