April 28, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GOCO awards Wolf Creek Pass Task Force $9,720 Grant
For separation of winter use project at Wolf Creek Pass
Boulder, CO - April 28, 2003: Colorado State Parks GOCO Grants Program awarded the Wolf Creek Task Force with $9720 to continue its work on Wolf Creek Pass (south central Colorado) to mitigate conflict between motorized and non-motorized winter users by creating separate use areas. The Backcountry Skiers Alliance authored the grant to ensure the continuation of the project.
The Wolf Creek Pass Task Force formed in 2001 to address the frequency and severity of user conflicts that were significantly degrading the overall recreational experience. The Backcountry Skiers Alliance joined with a group of volunteers representing all user groups on Wolf Creek Pass and - with the assistance and cooperation of the United States Forest Service (San Juan and Rio Grande Forests) - collaborated to develop a winter recreation plan. This plan addressed management issues such as signage, education, administration, and partnerships, all intended to improve the overall recreational experience. During the winter 2002-2003, survey data has been collected and is currently being analyzed to best determine management of the area.
Our program at Wolf Creek Pass is designed to separate the area into motorized and non-motorized zones such that each group will be allowed to enjoy the area without adversely impacting the experience of the other group. We are working with the Forest Service, local human-powered users, and local motorized enthusiasts to design a plan and an education program to implement the separation.
Founded in 1992, the Backcountry Skiers Alliance (BSA) is a not-for-profit organization that represents the interests of human-powered winter backcountry users by advocating for the creation, preservation, and management of non-motorized areas on public lands. It is our goal to work with land managers and other users to get areas designated as non-motorized so that you can enjoy a quality backcountry experience. In the past, the group has reached agreements on Vail Pass (1996) and Rabbit Ears Pass (1999) (just south of Steamboat Springs).
The BSA formed due to conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users on Vail Pass. The separation of use agreement was reached in 1996 and is currently funded through a fee demonstration project. On Rabbit Ears Pass and Buffalo Pass, the motorized and non-motorized groups have shared the costs of the facilitation of the meetings and production of the signs and maps.
It is important for the public to understand the reasons for the separation of use, and education helps all users to respect boundaries and the rights of others to use public lands.
GENERAL INFORMATION |
|
WHAT |
GOCO awards $9,720 Grant to Wolf Creek Winter Recreation Task Force |
WHEN |
April 28, 2003 |
WHERE |
Wolf Creek Pass, South Central Colorado |
CONTACT |
BSA |