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2019 End of Year Report – Trails Preservation Alliance

This End of Year Report provides an overview of the TPA’s 2019 activities, significant accomplishments, and events. For more detailed information, please visit the “News” tab on the TPA website (https://www.coloradotpa.org). 2019 has been an effective year for the TPA and its partners in keeping access to public lands open and available for multiple-use recreation, especially for off-road motorcycles and OHVs. 2019 has also been a rewarding year with the TPA’s Colorado 600 moving to a new venue along with several accomplishments that we know will help maintain our freedom to access and recreate on public lands.

Message from the Chairman of the Board

The TPA has had a big year in 2019 and we couldn’t have done it without your support, both financially and emotionally.

The big event, The Trails Symposium/Colorado 600, held at the Monarch Lodge near Salida was a great event with some spectacular riding. We had tremendous support from both the local riders and the Texas Sidewinders to make it another awesome year! There were some drawbacks to the venue, but the riding and the weather made up for it. Next year, we are on to Crested Butte for more epic riding (they have cell service too)!

I want to thank each of my fellow Directors for volunteering all the time they do to make this a better organization. While volunteering takes away some riding time for us, we believe it has big gains for all riders. Each of our Directors has fantastic ideas and is doing great work. TPA is moving forward with hiring an Executive Director to lead this important organization. This might take a while, but we want to make sure we hire the right person. This was a tough decision to make, but we feel to move the TPA into the future we need to appropriately fund this position to generate more money down the road. The TPA would not be in a position to hire this leader without all of your generous support.

The Board was also very active assisting the San Juan Trail Riders with the lawsuit in the Rico Dolores and the Pike/San Isabel where we are awaiting decisions from the USFS and courts to move forward. There were several lower-profile issues around the state that the TPA was able to assist and aid local clubs along with providing advice and technical resources.

Lastly, I want to encourage local clubs to apply for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, OHV program grants (https://cpw.state.co.us/aboutus/Pages/TrailsGrantsOHV.aspx) to help out and direct change within their respective riding areas of the state. TPA Director Scott Bright and I are both currently serving on the State OHV sub-committee. Each year I see more and more Forest Service and BLM sponsored grants than applications from local clubs. The grant program is for all OHV uses. If you want a new trail or have one you want to make better – apply for a grant. If you have questions, please email us and we will answer questions for you.

We are looking forward to another great year in 2020.

Jason Elliott
TPA Chairman

2019 Success Stories

TPA Financial Summary

Income
2019 EOY income graphThe TPA continues to be well managed financially. As a 100 percent volunteer organization, $0.00 goes to pay administrative staff. Approximately 90 percent of our income comes from direct public donations, from generous riders with a passion to keep trails open, as well as our corporate sponsors. Our investment income accounts for the remaining 10 percent.

Distribution
As you look at the attached chart, we have spent only 8.4 percent of our total expenses on G&A and our website. Everything else is mission support. By far the two largest categories are “Consultants” and “Legal Fees”, both of which are totally a ‘pay as you go’ approach.

2019 EOY distribution graph

In addition to our regular operating income, we have also begun to secure a limited number of commitments from donors in their estate plans. Please contact Dennis or Don if you would consider adding yourself to this list. Income significantly exceeds expenses, so that the TPA is in a financial position to pay an Executive Director, as soon as we find the right person. It will be tight at our current income level, which is why we are working hard to secure monthly/annual commitments from our supporters, to ensure a stable and sustainable future for the TPA. Can YOU commit to a regular donation?

2019 Colorado 600 (https://www.colorado600.org) – This year’s Colorado 600 was moved from South Fork, CO to Monarch Lodge west of Salida, CO. The new location and venue provided participants with new riding areas and new routes to explore and experience a different area of the Colorado Rockies. Opportunities for riding included epic high country single-track and dual-sport adventures through historic mining areas. The 2020 edition of the Colorado 600 will be held 13-18 September in Crested Butte, CO.

First Annual TPA sponsored Winter Meeting – In February, The TPA hosted what is intended to be an annual event gathering Colorado off-road motorcycle clubs together with the TPA Board of Directors, consultants and other friends of the TPA in order to share information and strategize for the coming year. The 2020 Annual Meeting is scheduled for April 2020.

Legal Issues

TPA & Partners File Lawsuit – The Rico West Dolores (RWD) lawsuit has been fully briefed, with the Petitioners (TPA, SJTR, and PAPA) as well as the Wild Earth Guardians group filing reply briefs on November 1, 2019. (https://www.coloradotpa.org/2019/11/01/tpa-files-final-brief-in-rico-west-dolores-lawsuit/) The case was originally filed on September 14, 2018. The TPA Petitioners have raised various claims under the Administrative Procedure Act, NEPA and the Travel Management Rule seeking to have the RWD Travel Plan declared unlawful and set aside. If the TPA Petitioners succeed, it could result in the Plan being remanded to the Forest Service for further analysis, including to consider and/or adopt a plan that will modify or reduce the roughly one-third reduction of motorcycle trails in the challenged decision.

The joint case management plan, which was approved by the Court, states “[a]ll parties agree that this case would be aided by oral argument.” The Court has not yet indicated whether it will hear argument. A decision on the merits in a case of this nature typically issues about 3-6 months from final submission of the briefs, or, if argument occurs, the end of argument. So a decision from the district court seems likely sometime during the spring-summer of 2020.

Federal Legislative Issues

TPA representatives conducted two trips to Washington DC to meet with elected officials and agency leaders on a wide range of issues including travel management, the OHV program benefits, electric bicycles and testifying at a Western Congressional Caucus on Endangered Species Act reform.

Our efforts repeatedly blocked passage of Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet’s CORE wilderness proposal that would have closed large tracts of public land to motorized usage and put extensive areas at risk of loss or closure in the future. CORE Wilderness is a combination of the old San Juan Wilderness legislation and Hidden Gems and despite claims of being a widely supported recreation bill, it simply did nothing to protect or improve most types of recreation. For specific TPA comments visit: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2019/03/06/summary-of-core-wilderness-opposition/ and https://www.coloradotpa.org/ 2019/02/17/core-wilderness-proposal-curecanti-nra/

The TPA worked closely with Colorado Rep. Scott Tipton and Colorado Sen. Cory Gardner in the development of the REC Act, which would protect large tracts of public lands for motorize usage, provide additional protection for significant areas such as the Calico Trail area and release several Wilderness Study Areas for motorized usage, such as the North Sand Hills area.

Efforts to revise regulations implementing the Endangered Species Act were completed with the adoption of new rules and regulations by the US Fish and Wildlife Service that made listing more difficult and delisting of a species easier. The action taken in El Paso County relative to the Captain Jacks/Bear Creek trail system is simply not acceptable to anyone and these regulations would be a major step in avoiding another Captain Jack’s situation.

The TPA remains optimistic that many of the regulatory changes adopted by the USFWS are going to be permanently included in the Endangered Species act through the revisions of the ESA that are proposed.

Significant Activities

US Forest Service Projects and Actions

Pike and San Isabel National Forest Public Motor Vehicle Use Environmental Impact Study (EIS) – The TPA has been working as the lead with many of its partners to monitor the progress of and participate in the Pike and San Isabel National Forest Public Motor Vehicle Use Environmental Impact Study (EIS). The USFS’ Draft EIS (DEIS) was released in October 2019 at which time the TPA began its comprehensive, detailed review of the DEIS documents. The TPA prepared extensive review comments and has submitted those comments to the Forest Supervisor and the PSI Project Team for inclusion in the Public Record. A copy of the TPA’s comments can be found at: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2019/11/01/pike-san-isabel-national-forests-public-motor-vehicle-use-draft-environmental-impact-statement- deis-comments/

Forest Plan Revisions – The TPA has prepared and submitted comprehensive comments on each of the revisions for both the GMUG and RGNF Forest Plans to ensure that existing recreational opportunities are not lost and future trail systems are provided for the next 30 years on these lands. The TPA filed an objection to the Rio Grande Forest plan when exclusionary corridors were inserted in the Forest Plan proposal at the “last minute” despite these concepts being previously removed. We are optimistic this objection will be successful and we hope drive reform of CDNST. The TPA’s multiple submissions of comments for both GMUG and RGNF Forest Plan revisions can be found at:https://www.coloradotpa.org/news/

Continental Divide Trail – The TPA provided comments throughout planning efforts across the entire Continental Divide Trail on the extensive Congressional protections of multiple uses on the Continental Divide Trail in response to the widespread proposal of exclusive use of the CDT for horses and hiking only within ½ mile wide prohibitions of motorized usage around the trail. These comments addressed the CDT on the Santa Fe, Cibola, Gila, Carson and other National Forests. Unfortunately these corridor concepts have been identified in many locations around the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in California and the TPA has been working with local partners throughout the PCT route to ensure closure corridors are not implemented around this trail either. For additional reading visit: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2019/02/05/continental-divide-recreation-wilderness-and-camp-hale-act-2/

Rocky Mountain Region Trails Strategy – The TPA was influential in the development of the Rocky Mountain Regional Trails strategy by the USFS to ensure the winning concepts of the national trails strategy, such as the need to expand access for all uses and that ALL activity has impacts that should be managed were not diluted in the regional planning documents.

NEPA – The TPA and partners actively participated in USFS efforts to streamline NEPA planning requirements and were able to obtain clear rules that you can build up to five miles of road or trail without extensive NEPA documentation and that the only time Wilderness designations should be relied on to increase NEPA requirements is in Congressionally designated Wilderness areas. This is a small win, but it has major implications for motorized users. For more information visit: https:// www.coloradotpa.org/2019/09/05/comments-from-the-tpa-for-the-nepa-streamlining/

BLM Projects and Actions

Statewide Motorized Action Plan – The TPA has partnered with COHVCO and NOHVCC to develop a motorized action plan for Colorado BLM lands. This plan will result in a report created to identify the needs of the motorized community in Colorado that BLM National headquarters will include as an order to the state to include in future land use planning. These plans have been highly successful in the other states that have developed similar plans. For details on the BLM’s plans and process for Colorado please visit: https://www.nohvcc.org/state-ohv-action-plan-process-to-move-forward-in-colorado/

Royal Gorge Field Office – The TPA submitted extensive comments on the revision of the Royal Gorge BLM Field Office plan to ensure that motorized opportunities are protected and expanded on lands managed by the Royal Gorge Field Office. We continued our collaborative efforts with land managers to expand motorized access in this part of the state. To view the TPA’s comments visit https://www.coloradotpa.org/2019/09/19/draft-resource-management-plan-comments-for-royal-gorge-field-office/

Uncompahgre Field Office – The TPA reviewed the final Uncompahgre BLM Field Office plan and were pleased to see that much of the requests from the motorized community were included in the plan!

TPA supports local riders to re-establish motorized single-track near Silverton, CO – The TPA in cooperation with the San Juan Trail Riders initiated discussions with the BLM and Rio Grand National Forest (RGNF) to re-establish motorized trail access from the Silverton area up Minnie Gulch, over the Continental Divide into the RGNF. The project proposed by the TPA partnership would reopen the trail to motorcycles and help pay to improve the trail corridor. The TPA believes a favorable decision by the BLM and USFS is in the near future. For additional information visit the TPA’s website at: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2019/03/14/minnie-gulch-connectivity-restoration/

Other Activities

TPA representatives continued to advocate motorized recreational interests in a wide range of efforts including the CPW OHV program, CPW CO-OP roundtable discussions, and State Forest Health advisory committees. These efforts ensure that our OHV registration money is benefitting the OHV community and that additional barriers are not imposed to deal with issues like cutting trees blocking trails.

The Colorado motorized community was the only motorized group to become actively involved in discussions around the registration of electric bicycles and possible registration of mountain bikes on public lands. The motorized community may have been the first to adopt the “pay to play” model but we never agreed to be the sole group to adopt this model.

SUMMIT COUNTY OFF-ROAD RIDERS BUILDING TRAILS

SUMMIT COUNTY OFF-ROAD RIDERS BUILDING TRAILS

 

The TPA in collaboration with local clubs has continued to drive numerous site-specific projects including the Lefthand Canyon area reopening in Boulder County by partnering with the USFS to obtain OHV funding for public meetings.

TPA Participation in State/Local Organizations

TPA teamed with Great Outdoors Consultants to lead a session at Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s annual Partners in the Outdoors Conference – The Partners in the Outdoors Conference is Colorado’s foremost opportunity hosted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife cultivating common ground, exploring best practices for partnering, and designing collaborative solutions with stakeholders to conserve Colorado’s outdoors. The TPA teamed with Great Outdoors Consultants (http://www.greatoutdoorsconsultants.com) to lead a breakout session describing innovative concepts and ideas to foster and enhance the providing of multiple-use recreational and expanding motorized recreational opportunities.

TPA continues to support the Colorado Governor’s Outdoor Recreation Council and The Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) – The TPA has continued its participation in statewide and local councils and partnerships focused on outdoor recreation. Three years ago, the TPA was selected to be one of the founding members of the Governor’s Outdoor Recreation Council. The PPORA is a collaboration of businesses, nonprofits, land management entities, and individuals who recognize the value of the Pikes Peak region’s outdoor recreation assets. The TPA is the recognized leader and advocate for motorized, multiple-use recreation.

TPA and local club participates in Community Vision project for Waldo Canyon – In 2012, the Waldo Canyon Fire burned over 18,000 acres west of Colorado Springs. The fire damaged the once-beloved Waldo Canyon Trail system, which has remained closed to the public since the fire was contained.

The TPA along with the Colorado Motorcycle Trail Riders Association (CMTRA) have engaged in this project to advocate for the inclusion of motorized single-track trails into the Vision for the Waldo Canyon area.

TPA supports CPW OHV Grant applications – The TPA is routinely asked to provide Letters of Support for Colorado Parks and Wildlife OHV Grant applications. This highly competitive program awards over $4 million in grants each year for trails and projects that support motorized recreation. Each year the TPA prepares several Letters of Support for projects that it believes are beneficial and valuable to motorized single-track riding and generally support motorized recreation in Colorado. The TPA has staff with substantial experience with the CPW trails and grant program. The TPA can provide OHV grant application review services, technical assistance, and consultation for those clubs/organizations seeking and preparing CPW OHV grants. The TPA cannot prepare the actual grant application but will provide advice and expertise with the intent to improve a club/ organization’s competitiveness for an individual grant application. The TPA can also help mentor and coach spokesmen preparing to make presentations to the CPW OHV Subcommittee. For more information visit the TPA website at: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2018/07/23/ohv-grant-writing-assistance/

OHV Workshops – TPA and partners helped facilitate several meetings of the OHV community as a whole including OHV Workshops and annual meeting for TPA and meetings seeking to organize the side-by-side community. In 2020, the TPA will again support two Workshops, location and dates TBD. TPA also made several presentations to a wide range of users at events such as CPW Partners in the Outdoors meetings.

Major Projects for 2020

Following is a list of projects that will be the focus of the TPA, the Board of Directors and the TPA’s team of consultants in 2020. The list is not all-inclusive but represents the majority of effort that will be funded and pursued by the TPA. As new challenges emerge and develop, the TPA will mobilize and advise our local affiliated clubs and organizations to engage with their local land managers and task our consultants to research and prepare relevant documentation as directed by the Board of Directors.

Search for an Executive Director – The TPA Board of Directors is currently searching for an Executive Director to lead the TPA into the future. The desired responsibilities, education, experience and qualifications for the Executive Director can be found on the TPA’s website at: (https:// www.coloradotpa.org/2019/10/22/executivedirectorsearch/). The Board of Directors desires to hire the right person and get them working for the TPA as soon as possible. If you are interested, meet most of the qualifications, or know of someone who does, please consider talking directly to the Board of Directors about the position.

Development of a State Motorized Action Plan – This project is in its infancy but seeks to provide a roadmap of the desires of the Colorado motorized community for opportunities on BLM and USFS lands moving forward. This process has been highly successful in other states that have pursued these plans. Given the vigor of the Colorado OHV grant program, we expect returns at least as well as the deliverables developed in other states. This process starts with a series of meetings throughout the state to identify the needs and desires of the motorized community that would result in a final order from the BLM National Office to implement the report. These goals and objectives would then be implemented is subsequent planning efforts or simply completed based on the specific goals.

Colorado 600 logo

Colorado 600 in a new location, Crested Butte – The 2020 edition of the TPA’s Trail Awareness Symposium/Colorado 600 will be held in Crested Butte, 13-18 September 2020. The area is renowned for it’s exceptional riding and destinations. Registration opens on 1 February.

Expanding donations to the TPA to grow funds for operations –Virtually every non-profit organization struggles to obtain and maintain consistent donation cash flow, and the TPA is no different. The Colorado 600 is a proven source of funds, as are our friends at Klim and Rocky Mountain AVT/MC. For the TPA to be sustainable long into the future, we will need additional firm and certain financial commitments. We have been working to establish regular (monthly/annual) commitments from folks, but have only gained a few. We would appreciate hearing from each of you regarding what we need to do in order to get YOUR commitment. If you would like additional information or would like to discuss in more detail, contact Dennis directly at: dennis.larratt1@gmail.com or 720-530-9974.

Rico/West Dolores Travel Management Decision – Continue the litigation for the Rico/West Dolores Travel Management Project Decision on the Dolores District of the San Juan National Forest until an amicable solution has been developed and agreed upon.

Pike and San Isabel National Forest, Public Motor Vehicle Use EIS – Continue to monitor and participate in the Pike and San Isabel National Forest Public Motor Vehicle Use Environmental Impact Study (EIS) (aka PSI) to ensure that off-road motorcycle and OHV recreational opportunities are preserved, protected and expanded to meet the public’s needs for access and recreation.

Relationships with Land Managers – Continue to foster, develop and build enhanced relationships with Federal and State land managers throughout the State.

1 Percent Program – The TPA is starting a pilot program for power sports stores to ask customers to add 1percent to customers’ credit card receipts to aid motorized recreation. More details will follow in the future for this promising program.

Donations and Support

The TPA Board of Directors continues to support various organizations throughout Colorado and in adjoining states with issues to protect motorized access to public lands and support OHV recreation. In 2019 this support included financial assistance to the following organizations:

  • Colorado Motorcycle Trail Riders Association (CMTRA)
  • Colorado Water Council
  • Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO)
  • Summit County Colorado Off-Road Riders (SCORR)
  • Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA)
  • New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA)
  • Utah’s Ride with Respect (RWR)

Summary

The annual Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium remains the TPA’s most significant fundraising event. Please join us this September in Crested Butte for the 2020 event.

The TPA is also very grateful for the sustained generous support provided by KLIM and Rocky Mountain ATV/MC. Both of these industry leaders continue to be major financial supporters of our work. We are also extremely grateful to our corporate sponsors: KTM USA, Motion Pro, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires and our newest partner, Elite Motorsports in Loveland, CO. (The TPA encourages all of our friends and followers to support these businesses and manufacturers who help the TPA fight for your rights and work diligently to keep your motorized trails open and accessible.)

The TPA could not survive without the generous donations provided by individuals, estates, riders and other off-road businesses that have supported the TPA for the past 11 years!

The TPA continues to be a volunteer-led organization, placing the majority of our annual donations directly to saving our sport and motorized recreational activities. The TPA Board of Directors thanks all of our supporters: individuals, corporations and clubs. The future will undoubtedly continue to demand our collective teamwork, vigilance, resolve and dedication, and donations.

Please feel free to contact us for suggestions concerning how you can help with the ongoing work the TPA is pursuing on your behalf to save our sport in the Rocky Mountain Region.

Thank you,
Trails Preservation Alliance
Board of Directors

 

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2019 End of Year cover

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2018 End of Year Report

2018 TPA End of Year Report

This End of Year Report provides an overview of the TPA’s 2018 activities, significant accomplishments and events. For a more detailed review, please visit our “News” tab on the TPA website (http://www.coloradotpa.org). This has been a challenging year for TPA and its partners to continue to keep access to public lands open and available for multiple-use recreation, especially off-road motorcycles and OHVs. However, 2018 has also been an exciting year with the TPA’s Colorado 600 and several accomplishments that we know will help maintain our freedom to recreate on public lands.

2018 Success Stories

TPA begins 2018 with a new Board of Directors – Early in 2018 the TPA designated a new Board of Directors composed of:
Ned Suesse
Dennis Larratt
Jason Elliot
Scott Bright
Don Riggle

2018 Colorado 600 (http://www.colorado600.org)
This year’s event once again brought riders to South Fork, CO, in mid September for a week of trail and adventure riding. Former AMA National Motocross Champion and AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee Broc Glover attended this year and provided his insightful and entertaining remarks and to the annual banquet gathering. Also attending this year’s 600 was Chad de Alva, a writer and photographer for Upshift Online magazine. You can check out Chad’s excellent article at https://www.upshiftonline.com in the magazine’s October issue.

The TPA and every Colorado 600 participant over the past 10 years owes the Texas Sidewinders Motorcycle Club a huge “THANKS” for its decade-long support of the TPA and specifically the Colorado 600. Members of the Sidewinders have selflessly volunteered to lead, organize and perform all of the many tasks, duties and responsibilities it takes to put on a first class event like the Colorado 600.

To see a video from the 2018 Colorado 600, visit: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2018/12/01/colorado-600-video/

Partners in the Outdoors Conference with Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Presented by CPW, the annual Partners in the Outdoors Conference brings together stakeholders engaged in the future of Colorado’s conservation and recreational opportunities. The conference provides a platform to network, collaborate, and create initiatives that connect coalitions of organizations, agencies, schools, businesses, and communities. TPA representatives attended the conference in 2017 and was one of the only organizations advocating for multi-use and motorized recreation at the conference. In 2018, the TPA was selected to increase its participation and support of motorized recreation by leading one of the conference’s “break out” sessions. The TPA’s session was titled “Management of Multiple-use Recreation on Public Lands”.

New efforts to increase motorized recreational opportunities on Colorado’s West Slope
The TPA has engaged David Lykke to be the TPA’s Representative for Western Colorado and partner on the ground with the BLM, local clubs and other organizations in the Grand Junction area. Due in large part to Lykke’s efforts, the Grand Junction BLM Field Office has been supportive of TPA’s request for the development of additional motorized single-track trails. The BLM is on task to plan and construct one new route per year and is making positive progress to accomplish this goal. In 2018, the BLM opened a 3-mile section of new technical single-track just to the south of Grand Junction. This is very close to town and conveniently ties into an 8-mile section of trail built about nine years ago. The BLM is also finishing construction of a 15-mile section of trail that connects to a larger 60-mile loop to the north of the Grand Junction valley. With a $1000 donation from the TPA and an additional $900 from two local motorcycle clubs, the BLM trail crew has almost completed the trail and is expected to open in early 2019. Project planning is similarly underway for another single-track trail south of Grand Junction and is expected to be open to motorcycle riders in 2020.

Finally, TPA has been providing advice and expertise as the Grand Junction airport expands and encroaches on existing OHV recreation areas. To mitigate the loss of OHV opportunities immediately adjacent to the airport, the expansion project is directly paying for OHV facility improvements next to the old MX track. The project and improvements will include gravel parking areas, fencing, toilets and overall track improvements.

TPA partners with Back Country Discovery Routes
Over the past year, TPA has solidified a teaming relationship and partnership with the Backcountry Discovery Routes (BDR), a non- profit organization (ridebdr.com). Similar to TPA, the BDR’s mission is to establish and preserve off-highway routes for dual- sport and adventure motorcycles. Through education, advocacy, and promotion of responsible motorcycle travel, BDR seeks to preserve backcountry motorcycling opportunities for generations to come. Since the two organizations have complementary missions, the TPA and BDR have formed a joint partnership to save the sport for all off-road motorcycle riding for future generations.

Legal Issues

TPA & Partners file Lawsuit
The TPA, San Juan Trail Riders, and the Public Access Preservation Association (PAPA) jointly filed a lawsuit in September challenging the Forest Service’s Rico/West Dolores Travel Management Project Decision in the San Juan National Forest. The three partners filing the lawsuit have long enjoyed motorcycle access along prized single-track trails within the Project area. The USFS’ Decision would roughly close 30 percent of the trails, and impose seasonal restrictions eliminating motorcycle use between Nov. 1 and May 31 each year. The case was filed in federal court for the U.S. District of Colorado, bringing claims under the National Forest Management Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, various regulations and the Administrative Procedure Act. The trails at issue are found in an area along the Dolores River, generally between Durango and Telluride in southwestern Colorado. The case is in its early stages, and will likely proceed into 2019 under the Court’s Administrative Procedure docket. For more information, be sure to visit TPA’s website at: https://www.coloradotpa.org/2018/09/18/trail- riders-bring-suit-challenging-rico-west-dolores-plan/

Legislative Issues

Continental Divide Wilderness/Gunnison Public Lands/ San Juan Wilderness Proposals
The TPA along with the Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO) provided extensive comments to all elected officials involved in these discussions addressing concerns about existing protections of multiple usage in proposed Wilderness and the proximity of new boundaries to existing trails. In addition to these formal comments, a huge public response was received opposing each of these Proposals. The Proposals continue to languish and our efforts and comments on the San Juan and Continental Divide avoided designation of these proposed Wilderness areas.

Limited club immunity legislation passage in Colorado
Additional protection for clubs performing public stewardship projects was obtained in Colorado, which will hopefully reduce
insurance costs to these clubs and allowed OHV grant funds to flow to these clubs more quickly. This legislation passed the entire Colorado Legislature with only two “no” votes.

County Road Safety legislation undergoes significant revisions prior to passage in Colorado
Legislation had been proposed that would have given local communities wide authority to require safety equipment for OHVs used on local community roads, some of which was prohibited by the manufacturer. The legislation was amended to require only manufacturer approved safety equipment.

Endangered Species Act Reform efforts
The OHV community has been working with both the US Fish and Wildlife Service and Western Governors Association to reform the Endangered Species Act and related regulations to make this act both more efficient in protecting species and to avoid unintended impacts to many activities, including trails.

Fire Borrowing fix with US Forest Service
The motorized community worked with a large number of partners to address how the USFS funds firefighting efforts. Agreed upon language was adopted and should be in the 2020 budget. We are optimistic that this should expand or at least slow the decline of recreation budgets.

Exclusionary Corridors for Continental Divide Scenic Trail
Wilderness advocates and others continue to push for motorized exclusionary corridors around trails identified under the National Trails System Act. The corridors are proposed for National Forests such as the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison, Rio Grande, Santa Fe and many others in California, as well. A California forest recently returned a successful appeal on a winter travel plan regarding designations of exclusionary corridors around the Pacific Crest Trail.

Renewed calls for larger identifiable license numbers on all vehicles
In an effort very similar to one proposed by Responsible Trails America a few years ago, several groups opposed to motorized recreation again were pressing for larger registration stickers and full-sized license plates on OHVs. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission voted this down as a result of TPA’s efforts

Miscellaneous Legislative Actions in 2018:

  • TPA supported federal legislative efforts to withdraw several Wilderness Study Area (WSA) designations on several important OHV accessible areas in Colorado
  • Supported reauthorization/renewal of the Land and Water Conservation Fund
  • Detailed involvement in a variety of recreational legislative pieces, such as Recreation Not Red Tape Act, GO Act, Endangered Species Act Reform and many others
  • Extensive input and discussion with National leadership on the fire borrowing fix, which changes how the USFS funds fire fighting and hopefully will expand funding to the agency as 56 percent of the USFS budget was used for fire fighting in 2017;
  • Active participation in ongoing efforts to allow OHV recreation around Bears Ears National Monument in Utah

Other Activities

TPA Affiliated Clubs fight to maintain motorized access
The Tomichi Trail Riders and Gunnison Valley OHV Alliance of Trailriders (The GOATs) have both been participating and representing motorized trail riding in the Gunnison Public Land Initiative (GPLI). The GPLI has been less than supportive toward motorized recreation and is working to stymie future trails and reasonable expansions of motorized recreational opportunities in the Gunnison area.

Similarly, in the Durango and southwest corner of the state, the San Juan Trail Riders, along with the Public Access Preservation Association (PAPA) are both representing motorized trail riders to ensure fair and equitable access and recreational opportunities are considered and included in the San Juan Mountains Wilderness Act.

TPA continues to support PPORA
The Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) is a collaboration of businesses, nonprofits, land management entities, and individuals who recognize the value of the Pikes Peak region’s incredible natural and recreation assets. The TPA was a founding member of the PPORA and continues to participate in PPORA functions, often with the Colorado Motorcycle Trail Riders Association and provides advice and expertise on multiple-use recreation and campaigns for increased opportunities for motorized recreation in the Pikes Peak area.

Colorado Governor’s Outdoor Recreation Council
Three years ago, the TPA was selected to be one of the founding members of the Governor’s Outdoor Recreation Council. Of the 29 members on the Governor’s Council, the TPA is the only member that is associated with any type of motorized/OHV recreation. The TPA has assumed this responsibility to help educate and remind other Council members that multiple-use and diverse forms of outdoor recreation all benefit from the efforts and funding provided by the CPW OHV Registration and Grant program. The TPA is also actively supporting a registration or “use fee” for mountain bikes in Colorado similar to the existing CPW OHV Registration program.

RGNF Forest Plan Revision
The Rio Grande National Forest is currently revising its 1996 forest plan. The forest plan is the overarching document that guides all management decisions and activities on the entire Rio Grande National Forest, including activities such as wildfire management, grazing, timber production, recreation, wildlife management, and firewood cutting. The recently finalized 2012 Planning Rule for all national forests governs this Revision process. The Rio Grande is the first forest in the Rocky Mountain Region to undertake this effort. The TPA has been a stakeholder and participant in the Forest Plan revision since the project began. The TPA, partnering with COHVCO, has been the principal advocate for multiple-use and motorized recreation and has been routinely providing review and input to the Forest Plan revision process to ensure recreational opportunities are maintained and hopefully increased for off-road motorcycles, OHVs and other forms of motorized recreation.

GMUG Forest Plan Revision
Similar to the RGNF Forest Plan Revision, the TPA and COHVCO are also partnered stakeholders and advocates for multiple-use and motorized recreation as the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests work to revise and update their Forest Plan. In 2006, the GMUG put a multi-year plan revision effort on hold until the Colorado Roadless Areas were defined and a final planning rule was established for the Forest Service. The GMUG’s prior planning effort was extensive, between February 2002 and November 2003 and the public comments were many. The GMUG Forest Planning team will use the previous work as a springboard for the current process incorporating new science, requirements and previous public input.

New Club is Making a Difference in Salida
The Central Colorado Mountain Riders (CCMR) is a non-profit 501(c)3 motorcycle club based out of Salida, CO. The club’s mission is to preserve, maintain and create motorized trail opportunities in the Central Colorado area through cooperation, education, etiquette and stewardship. Founded in 2016 with seed money from the TPA, CCMR has experienced many successes in its short existence. The club’s most notable accomplishment to date has been the “sign project” that aims to educate users on the nature of multiple-use trails and proper trail etiquette. These signs, first installed on Monarch Pass on the North end of the Monarch Crest Trail, will ultimately end up on all multiple-use trails within the Salida Ranger District.

New Club in Montrose gets rolling
Western Colorado Riders & Enthusiasts (WESTCORE) was established in the Montrose area of western Colorado. WESTCORE’s mission is to keep public lands accessible to all user groups in Western Colorado. Notable 2018 accomplishments include:

  • Club cleanup day on BLM lands with the collection of over 10,000 lbs. of trash.
  • Clearing over 400 trees and logs from multiple-use trails.
  • Signed a volunteer agreement and adopted trails with the USFS
  • Began planning with the USFS Ouray Ranger District to replace trail signs on multiple-use trails on the Uncompahgre Plateau, Lou Creek and Alpine Trail
  • Established a working relationship with the local power company to donate the use of a hydraulic dump trailer for club projects.
  • Check out WESTCORE’s website at www.westcore.co

Pike and San Isabel National Forest Public Motor Vehicle Use Environmental Impact Study (EIS)
The TPA in partnership with COHVCO continues to monitor the progress of the Pike and San Isabel National Forest Public Motor Vehicle Use Environmental Impact Study (EIS). The Draft EIS is expected to be completed in early 2019. The Draft EIS will be available for public review and comment, followed by a Draft Record of Decision, which will be subject to objections. The TPA previously prepared and submitted extensive comments for this project (https://www.coloradotpa.org/2016/09/07/pike-san-isabel- national-forest-travel-management-eis/). Over 30 percent of the existing multiple use trails and roads throughout the Pike and San Isabel National Forests are at risk of closure and lost to multiple- use and OHV use. It will be very important for all multiple-use/OHV users to review the draft EIS in detail and submit their individual comments. The TPA generally supports the proposed Alternative D with modifications.

OHV Workshops
The OHV community has completed two NOHVCC inspired Great Trails training workshops, one in Canon City/Royal Gorge area and one in Silverthorne, CO that brought OHV users and land management maintenance crews together to educate all parties on the best methods to build and maintain trails. Efforts are moving forward to conduct a third workshop to address strategic trails issues.

Economic Contributions from Motorized Recreation
The TPA is aware of a large conflict between the Outdoor Industry Association’s (OIA) estimates and the new Colorado Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) documenting motorized recreational spending from all sources, including new research from the Department of Commerce (DoC). While the DoC recently identified motorized recreation as the largest spending category, with motorcycles and ATVs as the fastest growing segments of the recreation economy, OIA says that motorized recreation has declined by almost 50 percent over the last several years. The TPA, in partnership with COHVCO, is working to clarify this rather comical conflict, but anticipates this discrepancy will be hard to resolve.

Collaborative Meetings with Land Managers – TPA has been an active participant in:

  • Personal meetings in Washington, DC, with top USFS and BLM leadership on a wide range of motorized recreational issues including limited funding, reducing the “sue and settle” culture of litigation against the agencies on motorized issues; streamlining planning and limited trail access with expanding state and regional populations
  • Meetings with the new BLM state director to address the strength of registration/motorized funding program and needs of motorized users moving forward
  • Continuing to maintain and expand our Memorandum of Understanding with the BLM State Office
  • Meetings with individual Field Offices to address and improve motorized opportunities in that Field Office, such as the meeting with the Royal Gorge FO which was attended by more than 40 OHV users and established goals and objectives from motorized users for the FO
  • Meetings with the Regional Office of USFS on expansion of stewardship programs and motorized trail access throughout the state and implementation of the 2015 National Trails Stewardship Act requirements
  • Meetings with USFS Forest Supervisors both coordinated and individually to expand motorized opportunities on the Forests and specific projects such as Lefthand Canyon project in the Boulder Ranger District and the South Rampart Travel Management Plans on the Pikes Peak Ranger District
  • Providing advice to the State Trails Committee/ Program and guiding both motorized and non-motorized grant program funding
  • Providing detailed presentations and actively participating in panels on trails at annual Partners in Outdoors meetings with CPW, which is attended by more than 500 recreational leaders
  • Continuing active involvement in the CO-OP meetings with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The CO-OP convenes approximately two dozen leaders in the recreational community quarterly in order to create larger understanding of the motorized/OHV grant process and maintenance program and aligning support for state and federal legislation such as the Future Generations Act, which altered how CPW funded recreation and renewal of the Colorado Lottery, which provides significant funding for recreation in Colorado
  • Representing motorized recreation interests in the Forest Health Advisory Committee to allow for greater understanding of land management decisions and challenges that are faced by the recreational community due to poor forest health and how the exceptionally poor forest health relates to Wilderness Proposals
  • Continued involvement in Department of Commerce (DoC) efforts to develop detailed analysis of economic impacts from motorized recreation and understanding why there is such a difference between DoC and Outdoor Industry Association analysis.

Forest/Field office/Collaborative Planning
TPA provided extensive comments on national efforts such as US Forest Service NEPA streamlining and the Council on Environmental Quality regarding our experiences with NEPA failures and the need to update the Wilderness Inventory process and Travel Management Orders from the 1970s.
TPA provided extensive comments on Rio Grande and GMUG NF in Colorado and Gila and Santa Fe NF in New Mexico on a wide range of issues including economics; Illegal nature of corridors around Continental Divide Trail; Economics; previous releases of lands for non- wilderness multiple use by Congress;
Provided extensive comments regarding the revision of the Endangered Species Act implementation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service;
Actively commented and monitored Gunnison Public Lands efforts which failed to address fire risks, significantly expanded Wilderness recommendations and failed to engage with most user groups;
Provided extensive comments opposing the Teton Public Lands efforts outside Jackson Hole, WY.

New Off-road Motorcycle Clubs
In addition to the two clubs mentioned before, the TPA also was able to assist in the forming of two new off road motorcycle clubs this year, one in Colorado and one in northern New Mexico.

  • In the Steamboat Springs area, Mountain Trails Access (MTA) was formed to assist in preserving riding in and around the Steamboat area.
  • The TPA also had the opportunity to assist with the establishment the Enchanted Circle Trails Alliance (ECTA), which will focus its advocacy efforts to protecting motorcycle trail riding opportunities in Northern New Mexico.

Major Projects for 2019

Following is a list of projects that will be the focus of the TPA, the Board of Directors and the TPA’s team of consultants moving forward in 2019. The list is not meant to be all-inclusive but represents the majority of significant efforts that are currently being funded, worked and tracked by the TPA. As new challenges emerge and develop, the TPA will mobilize and advise our local affiliated clubs and organizations to engage with their local land managers and task our consultants to research and prepare relevant documentation as directed by the Board of Directors.

  • 2019 TPA Winter Meeting – the TPA will be hosting the first annual Winter Strategic Planning Meeting for TPA associated clubs, and select individuals who help the TPA accomplish its mission. The goal of this first meeting will be to introduce organizations across the state, offer support from the TPA, and refine common goals and objectives for the coming year and beyond. The meeting will be held in Frisco, CO, on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019. For more information visit the TOA’s website at: https://www.coloradotpa.org/news/.
  • Continue to pursue and support the litigation for the Rico/ West Dolores Travel Management Project Decision on the Dolores District of the San Juan National Forest until an amicable solution has been developed and agreed upon.
  • Continue to monitor and participate in the Pike and San Isabel National Forest Public Motor Vehicle Use Environmental Impact Study (EIS) (aka PSI) to ensure that off-road motorcycle and OHV recreational opportunities are preserved, protected and expanded to meet the public’s needs for access and recreation.
  • Resume evaluation of different areas in Colorado for hosting the Colorado 600/Trails Awareness Symposium.
  • Continue the TPA’s participation and engagement in the Forest Plan revisions for the RGNF and GMUG.
  • Conduct an annual meeting for TPA affiliated off-road motorcycle clubs and organizations to share information and coordinate our collective efforts to preserve the sport of off-road motorcycle travel on public lands.
  • Continue to develop and build enhanced relationships with Federal and State land mangers throughout the State.
  • Seek to improve the TPA’s reputation and relationship with leaders and staff at the USFS’ Region 2 Headquarters in Denver.
  • The TPA in partnership with the SJTR and PAPA will pursue re-opening several historic motorcycle single-track trials in and around the Silverton area. The area containing these trails has recently come under the supervision of the Gunnison Field Office of the BLM after a transfer from the USFS.
  • Development of a State Motorized Action Plan – This project is in its infancy and would seek a series of meetings throughout the state to identify the needs and desires of the motorized community. This would be similar to efforts that BLM offices in several other states and would provide determinations of the meetings be reduced to actionable order signed by the DC office. The Forest Service has expressed significant interest in participating in these meetings as well.

Donations

During 2018 the TPA made donations to several motorcycle organizations that included:

WESTCORE (www.westcore.co)
Mountain Trails Access (MTNAXSS)
Motorized Trails Riders (MTA)
Ride with Respect (Utah) (https://www.ridewithrespect.org)
NMOHVA (https://www.nmohva.org)
COHVCO (https://cohvco.clubexpress.com)

Summary

The annual Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium has been our most significant fundraising activity over the years and will be held 8-13 September 2019 at the Monarch Mountain Lodge, 16 miles west of Salida, CO in 2019. The new venue at Monarch Mountain will provide many new and varied opportunities for single-track, Dual Sport and “Big Bike” riding and exploring. The 2019 KTM Adventure Rally returns to Colorado in 2018 and will immediately follow the 2018 Colorado 600 in Breckenridge.

The TPA appreciates our ongoing multi-year support agreement with KLIM (http://www.klim.com). Having the support of the #1 Off-Road apparel manufacturer has been a major endorsement of the TPA mission.

The TPA is also very grateful for the sustained generous support provided by Rocky Mountain ATV/MC (https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com) which continues to be a major financial supporter of our work.

We are also extremely thankful to our corporate sponsors: KTM, USA, Motion Pro, Centura, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires and our newest partner, Elite Motorsports in Loveland, CO. (https://www.elitektm.com).

The TPA encourages all of our friends and followers to support these businesses and manufacturers who help the TPA fight for your rights and work diligently to keep your motorized trails open and accessible.

The TPA could not survive without all of the donations provided by individuals, riders and other off-road businesses that have supported the TPA for the past 10 years!

The TPA continues to be a volunteer-led organization, placing the vast majority of our annual donations for direct use in saving our sport and recreational activities. The TPA Board of Directors thanks all of our supporters: individuals, corporations and clubs. Without their support and your donations, we could not enjoy all of the accomplishments that we have achieved thus far. The future will undoubtedly continue to demand our collective teamwork, vigilance, resolve and dedication, and donations.

Please contact us for suggestions concerning how you can help with the ongoing work TPA is pursuing on your behalf to save our sport in the Rocky Mountain Region.

Your TPA Board of Directors

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Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA) 2017 End of Year Report

TPA 2017 End of Year Report

This report provides an overview of the TPA’s 2017 activities, accomplishments and events. For a more detailed review, please visit our “News” tab on the TPA website (http://www.coloradotpa.org).  2017 has been another very busy and productive year for the TPA and a year that we believe has seen positive progress in working to keep our access to public lands open and available for multiple-use recreation.

2017 Success Stories

Bear Creek/Jones Park motorcycle trails reopened – The TPA and its partners, primarily CMTRA, is proud to announce that the new single-track trail developed to replace lost opportunities in the Colorado Springs area is now open. The old trail network was lost because of concerns regarding cutthroat trout habitat in the Pikes Peak Ranger District. This project highlights the value of the state OHV grant program and of diverse groups coming together on the issue and overcoming a range of various challenges.

COOP/Collaborative Efforts – The TPA has been one of several active participants in new efforts including the COOP group that was convened by the Governor to try and unite recreational and conservational interests in the state. Preserving multiple use opportunities is our major concern along with addressing challenges like poor forest health, declining budgets and increasing demands.

Bears Ears Monument Designation Review – The TPA was encouraged when Interior Secretary Zinke announced significant reductions in the size of the Bears Ears National Monument that was designated in the waning days of the Obama administration. The TPA believes that the 4.3 million-acre Bear Ears area and some selected other national monument designations may have overstepped the federal law’s provisions by including more than just the “smallest area compatible with proper care and management of the objects to be protected.” These reductions ensure opportunities for responsible off-highway recreation are continued. For additional information and a more in-depth discussion on the Bear Ears Designation, below is a web link to the “Year In Review” from our partners in Utah, Ride With Respect/Clif Koontz: http://www.coloradotpa.org/2017/12/28/ride-with-respect-2017-year-in-review/

The Colorado 600 is featured in Dirt Rider magazine – Dirt Rider magazine featured a daily report from the TPA’s annual Colorado 600 – Trails Symposium Workshop.  To read the daily reports:
https://www.dirtrider.com/2017-colorado-600-day-1-report
https://www.dirtrider.com/2017-colorado-600-day-2-report
https://www.dirtrider.com/2017-colorado-600-day-3-report
https://www.dirtrider.com/2017-colorado-600-day-4-5

Legislative Issues

Colorado State legislation providing increased protections to clubs performing land stewardship activity on public lands – SB17-100 provides an increased level of liability protection and removes several contracting requirements related to state grants for clubs performing land stewardship activities on public lands. Many clubs were unable to afford or obtain insurance required for OHV grants. This legislation makes it easier for clubs to get insurance at reasonable rates.

BLM Planning 2.0 is withdrawn – The BLM recently developed a new planning process that governed how much of their local planning process (Field Office Resource Plans and similar) would proceed. The TPA along with our partner organizations expressed serious concerns regarding the lack of public input and about the imbalance of resource protection in the planning process. Colorado Congressman Scott Tipton championed a resolution of non-support for the BLM Planning Rule in the US House and this resolution subsequently was passed into law.

HB-1030 allows expanded OHV usage on county roads – COHVCO efforts (with support from the TPA) at the Capitol resulted in passage of legislation (HB 1030) in Colorado expanding usage of OHVs on county roads. County roads often provide important connectivity for trail networks and allow riders to come into cities and towns for fuel, supplies and lodging.

Local communities expand access under HB 1030 – The groundswell of local community support for HB 1030 has been overwhelming as more than two dozen municipalities or counties have opened some or all public roads to OHV usage. Several communities have even chosen to reject proposals that would have closed public roads to OHV traffic.

Endangered Species Act reform – The TPA remains involved in a wide range of efforts to revise and improve the effectiveness of the federal Endangered Species Act. While we all support the goals of the Act, the Act has become a cottage industry for certain anti-access groups to sue land managers. Our efforts/comments have included: 

  1. The TPA was invited to participate in efforts being undertaken by the Western Governors Association (WGA) regarding species conservation and reform of the Endangered Species Act. We were pleased when our comments were adopted into the WGA resolution on ESA reform.
  2. The US Fish and Wildlife Service recently increased the threshold to be achieved in order to petition the Service to list a species as threatened or endangered.
  3. The US Fish and Wildlife service has been revising their internal handling of the ESA petitioning process, which should make it easier to protect species and avoid listing species where the scientific basis is questionable. Your TPA and COHVCO both vigorously supported these efforts.

Federal economic legislation – The TPA, COHVCO and many of our other partners were pleased with the passage of federal legislation (Sponsored by Colorado Sen. Cory Gardner) requiring development of a report to Congress regarding the national economic contribution of outdoor recreation. This report should result in a more accurate calculation of positive economic impact and avoid the undervaluation of recreation on federal lands.

Legal Issues

Pike & San Isabel (PSI) National Forest MVUM Challenge – The first lawsuit was filed on Jan. 31, 2011 by anti-access plaintiffs including the Wilderness Society, the Quiet Use Coalition, Wildlands CPR, the Center for Native Ecosystems and the Great Old Broads for Wilderness regarding the Pike and San Isabel National Forests’ existing Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs). The TPA led the effort to intervene with the USFS to defend this lawsuit as it could impact every MVUM route. These defense expenses are being borne solely by motorcycle advocacy groups/TPA up to this point. This case seeks to remove any trails and/or roads (possibly 30-50 percent of the existing routes) that predated NEPA and were grandfathered in during the development of the MVUMs on ALL six Ranger Districts of the PSI! Per the settlement, an EIS is now being completed that reviews the MVUM routes. (additional info below).

Rico West Delores (RWD) Travel Plan – The TPA and San Juan Trail Riders (SJTR) are challenging the Draft Record of Decision document issued regarding the West Delores/Rico area on the San Juan National Forest. This document simply fails to account for multiple-use recreation and closes some of the best single-track riding in Colorado, despite these trails being in use for almost a century. The TPA and SJTR are once again leading the effort to fight for multiple-use recreation, especially motorcycle single-track trail riding. Currently our appeal is in the administrative review stages. For the most up to date information on this issue can be found at: http://www.coloradotpa.org/news/

The TPA stays actively involved in all ongoing legal issues.

Other Activities

New Colorado Off-Road Motorcycle Clubs – The TPA continues to assist with the establishment of new or reenergized clubs to help advocate for multiple-use recreation and single-track motorcycle trails.  In Salida the Central Colorado Mountain Riders (CCMR, http://centralcoloradomountainriders.com/index.html) has done an outstanding job getting established and recruiting new members and supporters.  This new club has set a high standard of building relationships and consensus with other trail users in this very popular area and has partnered with their local land mangers.  In Sargents, the Tomichi Trail Riders launched their new club and promises to work closely with the Gunnison Ranger District along with their adjacent motorcycle clubs namely the G.O.A.T.S. and CCMR.  In Western Colorado, the TPA assisted the Westcore Club (Western Colorado Riders & Enthusiasts) to get started and establish itself as a 501(c)3 in the Montrose area.

Pike & San Isabel (PSI) National Forest planning efforts – The TPA remains involved in efforts to develop an alternative to satisfy the lawsuit settlement around existing road designations in the PSI. These efforts would include identifying that the OHV community has contributed almost $1 million in grants for the maintenance of OHV infrastructure in the PSI in the past year. Additionally, the TPA remains steadfast in asserting that re-designating a USFS road to a multiple-use “trail” would satisfy terms of the settlement. Given the fact that roads and the interpretation of the minimum road system (“MRS”) are clearly going to be major challenges in planning efforts on the PSI (and other forests) the TPA is very concerned that any recommended closures would disproportionately impact larger size vehicles and user groups such as full size 4×4, UTVs and side by side users.

Gunnison Public Lands Proposal – The TPA and our local partners are involved in the discussions concerning this Proposal. We are troubled with the direction of the Proposal, even though legislative support appears to be minimal. While several important recreational areas have been removed from possible Wilderness designation, there has been no discussion regarding the designation of these areas in the legislation to protect and preserve these areas for multiple-use recreation, which is a protection that must exist for any area found unsuitable for Wilderness designations. Many areas with motorized use and recreation remain at risk. This Proposal needs significant improvement, with a better balance of uses and diversity of support similar to what was achieved in the Hermosa Watershed legislation.

Rio Grande National (RGNF) Forest Plan Revision – The TPA has been very involved in all phases and aspects of the Rio Grande Forest Plan Revision efforts.  These efforts have resulted in a preferred alternative in the plan that proposes no reductions to motorized access moving forward and recognizes poor forest health is a larger challenge on the forest than multiple-use recreation ever could be. One alternative actually expands access by more than 20 percent in the Forest. The TPA is optimistic about this Forest Plan Revision and has submitted extensive comments supporting the expanded opportunities and opposing development of corridors around the Continental Divide Trail.

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest Plan Revision – Similar to the RGNF Forest Plan Revision above, the TPA has been very involved in the public meetings regarding the development of the GMUG Forest Plan Revision and have submitted extensive comments on the initial Assessment Reports. Our comments have centered around: 1.) The illegal nature of proposed exclusionary corridors around the Continental Divide Scenic Trail of up to 1/2 mile; 2.) The need to address the exceptionally poor forest health on the GMUG, which is a major challenge to all recreational usage; 3.) Addressing recreational opportunities in the forest to provide high quality experiences for a growing visitor base; 4.) The importance of the CPW OHV grant program in providing these opportunities; 5.) The lack of need for any new Wilderness areas; and 6.) The significant economic contribution of motorized recreation to the communities in and around the GMUG.  The TPA anticipates a draft GMUG Forest Plan Revision in the near future.

Uncompahgre Field Office BLM Resource Plan – The BLM Uncompahgre Field Office (UFO) is developing a new Resource Management Plan (RMP) for the Field Office. While the UFO has been providing balanced recreational opportunities in the past, the TPA prepared extensive comments regarding proposed major expansions of Areas of Critical Environmental Concern and Wilderness Characteristics areas within the proposal. The TPA remains hopeful these concerns will be resolved and the UFO will continue to provide the high quality multiple-use recreational opportunities it has provided in the past.

White River BLM Resource/Travel Plan – The TPA submitted detailed comments opposing much of the proposed closures and restrictions in this plan, which resulted from major expansions of Wilderness Characteristics Areas (WCA) and Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). This Proposal was moving forward under the BLM Planning 2.0 process, which was recently withdrawn. This Proposal was a very good example of our concerns under the new Planning 2.0 process. In 2004, a citizen inventory of ACEC and WCA was submitted, but the BLM never moved on this document. The BLM then chose to adopt the inventory as “objections” to a 2012 Oil and Gas Amendment to a 1990s Plan. Similarly these ACEC and WCA proposals were again included in the travel plan being developed for the local BLM Field Office without required notice to the public.

Efforts to ensure that grant funding is timely and easier for OHV clubs to use – In conjunction with SB17-100 legislation, the TPA and COHVCO worked with CPW to streamline the OHV grant process. This has resulted in grants funds being available to clubs months sooner than before.  CPW OHV grant funds remain a major funding source for multiple-use trail and route construction and maintenance on public lands within Colorado.

Wilderness Proposals – The TPA continues to be heavily involved in the numerous Wilderness proposals that threaten continued recreational access to large portions of the state, including Hidden Gem (and its variations), the San Juan Wilderness proposals and others. The TPA has developed a draft proposal opposing many of the site specific Wilderness Proposals and is seeking to affirmatively protect multiple-use recreation on several of these areas.

Site-specific fees – The TPA along with our other partner organizations has been committed to the future process that will be used to review site-specific fee increases for users of developed recreational sites in Colorado. This has included a significant public review and process being required before any fee increase could be implemented. The TPA has vigorously asserted that the imposition of any “fee for use” of facilities constructed, developed or maintained with OHV grant funding was completely unacceptable to the motorized community, as these programs are already providing approximately $1.25 to federal land managers for every resident of the state. It is unfair to ask the motorized community to increase support further when other recreation groups provide absolutely no funding at all.

Silver Thread Trail – As we reported last year, the BLM Gunnison Field Office has now taken over responsibility of the “Silver Thread” area around Silverton, Eureka and Animas Forks along with the associated high elevation passes.  The TPA continues our discussions with the Field Office to explore re-opening access of two historic single-track trails that were closed to motorized recreation during the late 1980s.  The two routes are Minnie and Maggie Gulches, which are both 4WD roads that turn into single-track trails and could provide access into the Rio Grande National Forest’s Pole Creek area. The proposed plan being discussed is to reopen these trails for a single-track route out of the Animas Forks area back into the Pole Creek area.

NOHVCC Trails handbook – NOHVCC (A national partner of the TPA) has developed an exceptional reference for land managers, which is a 300-page color manual directed at the development and maintenance of motorized routes and trails. The TPA secured 100 copies of this handbook and is donating them to land managers throughout Colorado. This document is available for download free of charge at: http://gt.nohvcc.org.

Taylor Pass closure to camping – The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest’s leaders are proposing to close the Irwin area, north of Crested Butte, and the Tincup area, southeast of Taylor Reservoir to dispersed camping from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Camping will still be allowed at the Lake Irwin and Mirror Lake campgrounds. The closures result from an increasing number of dispersed campers, expansion of user-created roads and spurs and successional occupation during the summer months. Additionally, increased use of motor vehicles off the designated roads, trailers and motorhomes with associated group camping are causing impacts. The TPA and others were vigorously opposed to this Proposal and recommend that alternatives to be developed to avoid closure.  In this same area, the TPA is also working diligently to mitigate closure of the road to the Alpine Tunnel and restore motorized access to this popular and historic landmark.

Travel Management should be properly balanced with other issues facing land managers – The TPA was alarmed when several national groups, including some motorized user groups, took the position that completing travel management plans should remain a priority for land managers. The TPA opposed travel management being arbitrarily elevated above other management concerns, which have more significant impact than travel management could ever be. Land managers must be able to prioritize threats based on the scale of the threats rather than to conform to an arbitrary national objective.

An example of why elevating travel management above other concerns would be detrimental is the recent research showing the extremely poor forest health in Colorado (which found 9 percent of all trees in Colorado are dead!). The poor forest health greatly increases the risk of loss to recreational usage of these lands due to catastrophic wildfire. Managers should be allowed to look at threats to public lands in relation to the priority of threats and not illogically react to concerns of a particular user group(s).

Federal Legislation on permits GO ACT (HR 289) and RNR (HR3400) – The TPA along with other organizations has provided extensive comments on both the GO Act and the Recreation Not Red Tape Act (RNR). The TPA supported the GO act, which would greatly streamline the permitting process for events on federal lands and provide these permits in a more efficient and effective manner but had concerns on the RNR.  Concerns were reduced when the GO Act was merged into the RNR.

Milk Creek Trail Access Closure, Gunnison National Forest – A new landowner has closed a historic access (across private property) to the Milk Creek Trail on the Gunnison National Forest.  Lost access has shut out the public from some very popular and historic OHV trails. The three local motorcycle clubs in Salida, Sargents and Gunnison along with leadership by the TPA are all working in concert with the USFS to reestablish access to these important recreational (e.g., single-track) opportunities.

The TPA also continues to work with the Rio Grande National Forest in the ongoing effort to protect the Vietnam War Memorial on the top of Sargents Mesa.

Grand Junction Area Coordinator – The TPA has established an onsite representative for the TPA to work with the BLM Field Office and local clubs on a strategic multiple-use single-track and motorcycle recreational plan to help avoid development of other myopic master plans that benefit only single user groups.  This effort to develop a strategic plan was specifically requested from the TPA by the BLM Field Office.  This will be a unique partnership for the TPA and our local associates to provide our collective expertise to improve riding opportunities in the Grand Junction area.

Representing Motorcycle Trail Riding and OHV Recreation During 2017, TPA representatives have traveled to and attended hundreds of separate meetings to represent the interests of off-road motorcyclists and OHV recreation.  These meetings have included the USFS Federal, Regional, Forest and District Ranger offices, BLM State and Field Offices, Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) staff, Colorado Department of Natural Resources, Regional Outdoor Recreational Organizations (e.g., PPORA), local and state elected officials, City/Town staffs, County staffs, Regional Roundtables, Manufacturers, OHV clubs and local organizations, and we attended numerous Outdoor Recreation Conferences and Symposia.

Additionally, TPA representatives traveled to Washington, DC twice this year to discuss a wide range of topics with the new administration and elected officials including the illegality of corridors around national trails, Wilderness study area releases and many other topics outlined in this document.

Governor’s Colorado Outdoor Recreation Council – The TPA continued to serve as a representative for OHV recreation on Governor Hickenlooper’s Outdoor Recreation Council.  This working group seeks to leverage the value of the entire outdoor recreational community within the state of Colorado.

  • The TPA is the primary OHV rep for the entire state on this council.
  • The TPA is working directly with CPW and the Colorado Department of Natural Resources to promote OHV recreation and increase opportunities and access for motorized recreation.
  • The TPA is shouldering the responsibility to represent all motorized and OHV recreational interests in campaigning for equal access, recognition and resources in response to the Statewide Trails Strategic Plan. The TPA fought diligently, but unsuccessfully, to include at least one OHV trail in the Governor’s 16 Highest Trail Projects.  Be assured the TPA will not give up and continues to fight for, and be your advocate for motorized recreation.

Various Other Activities and Projects:

  • The TPA actively supported many OHV organizations in their requests for $4.2 million in Colorado Parks & Wildlife OHV grants and other funding.
  • The TPA advised and worked with the Mile-Hi Jeep Club as a consultant to the club’s project to reopen the Rollins Pass/Wagon Route to OHV recreation.
  • The TPA remains committed to efforts addressing routes in the Wildcat Canyon/Hayman fire area. Reopening of routes in this area has been deferred by the Pike San Isabel National Forest Travel Management Plan EIS. Completion of the EIS may allow the reopening of these important routes to move forward.
  • The TPA supported the San Juan Trail Riders (SJTR) throughout the development of the Rico/West Dolores Ranger District’s Draft Record of Decision and Environmental Assessment.

Major Projects for 2018

The following list of projects will be the emphasis and focus for the TPA in 2018.  Projects marked with the “*” are projects that the TPA considers to be critical to the future and sport of off-road motorcycle riding and OHV recreation is Colorado:

  • Welcome three new members to the TPA’s Board of Directors (BoD) and amend the individual responsibilities of the BoD. In 2018 each BoD member will have specific duties and responsibilities for helping to improve TPA operations and increase our fund reserves for ongoing and anticipated future legal actions.
  • Expand specilized consultant services to better achieve TPA’s mission and improve our collective expertise in saving the sport.
  • *Support to the San Juan Trail Riders (SJTR) for the Rico/West Dolores Ranger District’s Travel Management Draft Record of Decision (ROD)*
  • *Pike & San Isabel National Forest*
    • Implementation plan for the Pike San Isabel National Forest Travel Management Plan Environmental Impact Study (EIS)
    • Development of the subsequent Travel Management Plan (TMP)
  • *Rio Grande National Forest (RGNF), Forest Plan Revision*
    • Forest Plan Revision
    • Development of the subsequent Travel Management Plan (TMP)
  • *Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest, Forest Plan Revision*
    • Forest Plan Revision
    • Development of the subsequent Travel Management Plan (TMP)
  • Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium (9-14 September, 2018See the TPA website for additional information)
  • Increase TPA’s interaction and coordination with the BLM’s Grand Junction Field Office to promote and increase opportunities for motorized recreation.
  • Continue to pursue opportunities to establish local clubs that build and foster relationships between local riders with each and every USFS District and BLM Field Office throughout Colorado.
  • Participation in Governor’s Office, Outdoor Recreation Council
  • Support for the South Fork Enduro

Donations

The TPA has continued to make donations to organizations and clubs working in tandem with the TPA. These organizations include:

  • Outdoor Recreation Business Association (ORBA) membership
  • Blue Ribbon Coalition Legal Fund
  • Chain saw purchases for local motorcycle clubs
  • Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO)
  • Colorado Motorcycle Trail Riders Association (CMTRA)
  • Tomichi Trail Riders (TTR)
  • Rio Grande National Forest
  • Motorcycle Trail Riders Association
  • Ride With Respect (Moab, UT)
  • The Central Colorado Mountain Riders (CCMR), Salida

Summary

2017 was another successful and productive year for the TPA and our efforts to lead and represent off-road motorcycle recreation, multiple-use and OHV recreation. 2017 was our 13th year as an organization and our 11th year as an IRS-approved 501c3 organization. The TPA could not have done this on our own and we certainly owe our accomplishments in 2017 to our many sponsors and volunteers! The importance of the TPA’s effort cannot be overstated, as the results of our work will effect motorized access to our public lands for decades to come.  The TPA is especially grateful to all of the volunteer efforts provided by the Sidewinders Motorcycle Club of Texas in their support of the Colorado 600, to the local motorcycle club officers that lead and manage the collection of OHV clubs across the state, to the many local volunteers that advocate so passionately with their land managers, and to all of you who provide the increasingly necessary funding that keeps the TPA functioning.

The Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium (http://www.colorado600.org/Colorado_600_2017/Home.html) has been our most significant fundraising activity over the years and will continue in a similar format and program for 2018 (2018 event dates: 9-14 September).

The TPA appreciates our ongoing multi-year support agreement with KLIM (http://www.klim.com). Having the support of the #1 Off-Road apparel manufacturer has been a major endorsement of the TPA mission!

The TPA is also very grateful for the sustained generous support provided by Rocky Mountain ATV/MC    (https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com) who continue to be a major financial supporter of our work.

We are also extremely thankful to our corporate sponsors, KTM USA, Motion Pro, Dunlop Motorcycle Tires and Slavens Racing, along with all of the TPA donations provided by individuals, riders and other off-road businesses that have supported the TPA for years!

The TPA continues to be a volunteer-led organization, putting the vast majority of our annual donations to direct use in saving our sport and recreational activities. The TPA Board of Directors thanks all of our supporters: individual, corporate and the clubs. Without their support and your donations we could not enjoy all of the accomplishments that we have achieved thus far. The future will undoubtedly continue to demand our collective teamwork, vigilance, resolve and dedication, and donations.

Please contact us for suggestions concerning how you can help with the ongoing work TPA is pursuing on your behalf to save our sport in the Rocky Mountain Region.

The TPA Board of Directors

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2016 End of Year Report

 2016 TPA End of Year Report

This report provides an overview of the TPA’s 2016 activities, accomplishments and events. For a more detailed review, please see projects/issues in the news section of the TPA website. 2016 has been another very busy and productive year for the TPA and a year that we feel some positive progress has been made in working to keep our access open and available for multiple use recreation.

2016 SUCCESS STORIES

OHV use on Colorado County roads – TPA partnered with COHVCO to obtain passage of Colorado Legislation that clarified and expanded the legal usage of all OHVs on County Roads.

  • County roads often provide important connectivity for trail networks and allow riders to travel into towns and communities for fuel, supplies and lodging.
  • For a list of Colorado Cities & Counties that have already taken steps to allow OHV use on County roads – click here

Construction of new motorized trail in Bear Creek – Since 2013, motorcyclist have been closed out of the historic Cap’n Jacks single-track trail in the Bear Creek Watershed outside Colorado Springs, and the TPA has been instrumental in restoring motorcycle access to this area. The Cap’n Jacks trail system has been in use and ridden by Colorado Springs area riders for decades! The trail was closed to motorized use by the United States Forest Service as part of a lawsuit settlement with the Center for Biological Diversity. The TPA, in cooperation with Colorado Motorcycle Trail Riders Association (CMTRA) has been heavily involved in the process to reopen the area, has represented motorized recreation at countless meetings and has prepared extensive written comments arguing for reopening of the area to motorcycles. We are glad to report that as a result of our collective efforts and partnerships, construction of a new trail began in 2016.

  • The United States Forest Service along with El Paso County have partnered to construct a new trail that will restore access for motorcycles.
  • The new trail will restore connectivity to historical destinations and will be constructed outside of the Bear Creek watershed in order to meet requirements to help preserve the endangered Greenback Cutthroat Trout.
  • The new trail was originally to be completed by Fall 2016, but due to planning issues with the original, new trail alignment, a modified trail alignment has now been worked out and construction will re-start in the spring of 2017.
  • The TPA has worked diligently and tirelessly to restore motorcycle access to the area and again provide a first class riding experience in the foothills of Pikes Peak.

Formation of a new advocacy club in Salida – The TPA has provided logistical and organizational support for the development of a new motorcycle and land use advocacy club in Salida Colorado.

  • The Central Colorado Mountain Riders (CCMR) club is ramping up operations and is actively involved with the United States Forest Service, Salida Ranger District.
  • The initiative and willingness of these individuals to get involved is very much appreciated and needed in this area of Colorado.

Distribution of NOHVCC’s Great Trails Handbook – The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC – One of the TPA’s national partners) has developed an exceptional new resource for land managers, which is a 300-page color manual for the development and maintenance of motorized routes and trails.

  • The TPA has purchased 60 copies of this book and is currently circulating them to public land managers throughout the State of Colorado.
  • Copies of the handbook were distributed at the 2016 COHVCO OHV Workshop and will again be provided at the 2017 Workshop.
  • The new handbook is rapidly becoming the definitive guide for the planning, designed, constructing, managing and maintaining OHV routes and trails.

There are several new single track projects completed or in the process of being completed including:

  • The Tenderfoot Trail in Summit County
  • Basalt to Gypsum single track
  • Eagle County Motocross Park
  • Expansion of Lake County motorcycle track

All of these single-track projects are good examples of the local motorcycle clubs working with their local Federal Land managers to make this happen! 

Colorado 600 is featured in Dirt Rider magazine – Dirt Rider magazine wrote a feature article about the TPA’s annual Colorado 600, Trails Symposium Workshop. To see the entire article go to: http://www.dirtrider.com/2016-colorado-600

Historic Agreement with the Bureau of Land Management – The TPA along with the Blue Ribbon Coalition and COHVCO joined into an agreement settling decades long lawsuits over management of public lands in Utah. The agreement provides and outlines an acceptable planning solutions and alternatives and should help prevent years of further litigation. The proposed settlement agreement was filed in U.S. District Court in Utah, and governs Bureau of Land Management ‘s oversight of lands in six Utah field offices. The other parties entering the settlement include Bureau of Land Management and numerous preservationist plaintiffs led by the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance. A few key elements of the settlement include:

  • The settlement does not require “temporary” closure of any route or area.
  • It specifies where and when Bureau of Land Management will perform travel planning.
  • The identified procedures improve opportunities for public engagement and are justifiably designed to produce more defensible decisions.
  • All parties and the public retain full rights to participate in, and challenge the final outcome of the new travel plans.

For more information: https://sharetrails.org/media/recreation-groups-sign-historic-blm-agreement/

Additional Successes:

  • TPA supported passage of Federal Legislation requiring that recreational activity actually be meaningfully reflected in both the Gross National Product (GNP) and federal lands planning efforts.
  • TPA partnered with COHVCO to defeat state level legislation that would have subsidized expanded use of E15 motor fuels in the state.
  • TPA submitted extensive comments regarding Endangered Species Act reform to the Western Governors Association (WGA) and was pleased to see that almost all issues were supported in the WGA resolution on the issue.
  • A new and updated TPA website was launched.

LEGISLATION ISSUES

All of the issues discussed in the 2015 end of year report are still valid, and TPA is still pursuing them to help protect our sport. In 2016, TPA took on additional legislation issues:

  • Partnering with Congressman Scott Tipton’s Office to obtain legislation seeking the release of the North Sand Hills area from its Wilderness Study Area (WSA) designation.
  • TPA reviewed and commented on a wide range of federal legislative proposals regarding recreation and trails maintenance.
  • TPA is also partnering with COHVCO in an effort to insure that the insurance requirements for OHV grants are not an insurmountable barrier to motorized trail development and that these grants continue to be provided in a timely manner.
  • The TPA has been working with the Colorado Federal Congressional delegation seeking the release of several Wilderness Study Areas important to multiple use and permanent protection of motorized access to several areas slated for closure in the near future.

LEGAL ISSUES

  • Bear Creek/Greenback Cutthroat (Pike/San Isabel Forest /Pikes Peak Ranger District). The TPA has submitted extensive comments subject to the settlement of the litigation to insure that actual threats to the cutthroat trout are addressed in planning and alternative development. The United States Forest Service is now moving forward with construction of a rerouted trail funded with OHV grant money. The new trail will be re-establish access to motorcycles later this summer.
  • Pike San Isabel National Forest Travel Management Plan EIS (AKA Pike/San Isabel MVUM challenge) – The TPA is leading the effort for the entire Colorado OHV community’s response to the United States Forest Service on this very important issue. In 2017, the TPA hired a consultant/program manager to represent the TPA as a United States Forest Service plan is developed and implemented.  This case was originally filed in 2011 and challenged the United States Forest Service’s management of vehicle access in all six of the Ranger Districts within the Pike/San Isabel National Forest. This case had sought to remove any routes/trails that were “grandfathered” in during the creation of Pike/San Isabel National Forest’s Motor Vehicle Use Maps (aka MVUMs). The defense expenses are being born solely by the Colorado OHV advocacy groups, namely the TPA. The United States Forest Service is in the process of developing a plan to meet the court’s settlement agreement and address the 500 miles of routes targeted by the lawsuit.
  • Rico/West Dolores Ranger District Travel Management Challenge. This case was filed by the Colorado Chapter, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (CBHA) and sought to close 14 prime motorcycle trails in the Rico/West Dolores area of the San Juan National Forest. Along with COHVCO, San Juan Trail Riders, Public Access Preservation Association, and the Blue Ribbon Coalition, the TPA intervened as co-defendants in concert with the Forest Service. The district court denied CBHA’s motion for a preliminary injunction and ruled in favor of the Forest Service and pro-access interveners on the substantive claims of the case. CBHA appealed to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, which has now confirmed the lower court’s dismissal.

The TPA stays actively involved in all ongoing legal issues.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

The TPA has been actively engaged in a number of activities supporting our OHV goals:

The Colorado 600 (Trails Awareness Symposium) is our major fund raising activity. KLIM, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC, KTM, Motion Pro and others continue to support this important event. In 2017 the Colorado 600 will once again be held in South Fork, CO on 10-15 September. This year’s CO 600 has been scheduled so riders can also attend the KTM’s Adventure Rally the following week in Crested Butte, CO.

Badger Flats Management Project – The TPA took the lead in 2016 to review and prepare public comments regarding the Badger Flats Management Project. The Badger Flats riding area is located just northwest of Lake George, CO in the South Park Ranger District.

  • UPDATE: (as of December 13, 2016) Due to pressure from the anti-access groups, the United States Forest Service is revising the DRAFT EA for this project. The TPA will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Sheep Mountain Management Project – The Sheep Mountain area is located southwest of Fairplay, CO and has some of the only motorized single-track trails in the South Park Ranger District.

  • Once again, the TPA took the lead on this project to prepare public comments supporting the history and need for trails in the Sheep Mountain area.
  • This project continues to move through the analysis process.

Rio Grande National Forest, Forest Plan Revision – The Rio Grande National Forest has begun collaborative efforts moving towards the development of a new resource management plan for the forest. This project is expected take at least 3-5 years. The TPA has been involved in all of the public meetings to insure that the high quality motorized recreational opportunities in the area are maintained. The TPA was the lead partner with COHVCO in preparing comments for both the Forest Inventory phase and for the Proposed Action. The TPA was optimistic to see that the purpose and need for the new Forest Plan does not seek to limit or reduce motorized access to the Rio Grande planning area since this area has exceptional motorcycle, especially single-track riding opportunities.

TPA also continues to work with the Rio Grande National Forest in the ongoing effort to protect the Vietnam War Memorial on the top of Sargent’s Mesa. 

Governor’s Colorado Outdoor Recreation Council – The TPA was asked in 2015 to serve as the representative for OHV recreation on Governor Hickenlooper’s Outdoor Recreation Council.

  • This working group council seeks to leverage the value of the outdoor recreational community within the state of Colorado.
  • TPA is the primary OHV rep for the entire state on this council.

COHCVO OHV Recreation Workshop – COHVCO, in conjunction with the TPA, Colorado State Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the United States Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) sponsored the 2016 Colorado OHV Recreation Workshop in Colorado Springs on 23-25 July 2016.

  • Focus of the 2016 workshop was on sustainable OHV route design.
  • Two separate OHV workshops are scheduled for 2017.

Tenderfoot Mountain Single-Track Trail Construction – The Tenderfoot Mountain Trail Construction Project is a long-term single-track trail construction project (approx. 25 mi) just outside Silverthorne, CO (near Breckenridge, CO).

  • This project has been the recipient of several Colorado State OHV grants and is the result of an enduring partnership between the Summit County Off-Road Riders (SCORR http://scorr.org) and the Dillon Ranger District, White River National Forest.
  • The TPA along with COHVCO and the local motorcycle club, SCORR were very involved in the process and helped enable moving this project forward to the trail construction phase.

West Magnolia Trails: Phase 1 Implementation Project – The TPA in cooperation with COHVCO prepared and submitted comments voicing our concerns regarding this non-motorized trail construction project. The TPA and COHVCO had previously submitted formal, written objection and protest comments to the United States Forest Service regarding this project in the Boulder Ranger District.

  • The TPA specifically objected to the proposal as it seeks to convert a historic multiple-use area to an area for the exclusive use of a small and limited user group under the excuse that the area suffered from a lack of maintenance.
  • The proposal/project would add more mileage for bicycle recreation than currently exists for all other forms of multiple-use recreation on the Boulder Ranger District.
  • The West Magnolia area is just one of 3 major/critical OHV action areas in Boulder Ranger District (i.e. Left Hand Canyon, the Wagon Road area and West Magnolia).
  • The TPA continues to work diligently to restore OHV access to the Left Hand Canyon area. This area of the Boulder Ranger District represents an important recreational opportunity along the Front Range of Colorado, and the TPA continues to push for reopening access to this area.

Support for motorized recreation in Wyoming – The TPA in support of fellow motorcycle riders in Wyoming.

  • The TPA prepared and submitted comments to the Tongue Ranger District within the Big Horn National Forest to keep Trail #038 open and accessible to motorcycles in the Bighorn National Forest.
  • The TPA partnered with the Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC) to support work by the BRC to keep this trail open.

Various Other Activities and Projects

  • TPA actively supported many OHV organizations in their requests for Colorado Parks & Wildlife OHV grants and other funding.
  • TPA submitted extensive comments on Bureau of Land Management’s 2.0 Planning Proposal.
  • TPA representatives continue to attend many United States Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and State Parks meetings concerning issues related to travel management, endangered species issues, the OHV grant programs and Colorado Parks & Wildlife strategic planning.
  • TPA partnered with COHVCO to undertake a complete redevelopment of the 2012 economic contribution study. This study has proven to be a very important tool in preserving OHV recreation. A copy of the study is now available on the TPA website.
  • TPA remains committed to efforts addressing routes in the Wildcat Canyon/Hayman fire area. Reopening of routes in this area has been deferred by the Pike San Isabel National Forest Travel Management Plan EIS. Completion of the EIS may allow reopening these important routes to move forward.
  • TPA and partners vigorously opposed closure of dispersed camping opportunities in the Taylor Park area.
  • TPA provided extensive comments on the proposed revisions of the White River Bureau of Land Management and Uncompahgre Bureau of Land Management Field Office plans.
  • Bureau of Land Management efforts in the 4-Mile area of the Royal Gorge Field Office has caused the TPA to become very concerned about the flurry of proposals seeking to open extensive trail networks for the exclusive benefit of some small non-motorized user groups. The TPA is continuing to monitor this issue and area.
  • The Bureau of Land Management’s Gunnison Field Office has now taken over responsibility of the “Silver Thread” area around Silverton, Eureka, Animas Forks along with the associated high elevation passes. The TPA is in discussion with the Field Office to explore re-opening access of 2 historic single-track trails that were closed to motorized recreation during the late 1980’s. The two routes are Minnie and Maggie Gulches, which are both 4wd roads that turn into single-track trails and could provide access into the Rio Grande National Forest’s Pole Creek area. The proposed plan being discussed is to re-open these trails for a single-track route out of the Animas Forks area back into the Pole Creek area.
  • The TPA has been engaged in with the Bureau of Land Management’s Grand Junction Field Office for over 18 months during the development of the Field Office’s Resource Management Plan (RMP). This plan will have long term affects on the routes available for OHV recreation and the access to public lands in this area.
  • Support to the San Juan Trail Riders (SJTR) throughout the development of the Rico/West Dolores Ranger District’s Environmental Assessment (EA).

MAJOR PROJECTS FOR 2017

The following list of projects will be the emphasis and focus for the TPA in 2017. Projects marked with the * are ones that the TPA considers to be extremely critical for the future and sport of off-road motorcycle riding and OHV recreation is Colorado: 

  • *Pike San Isabel National Forest*
    • Implementation plan for the Pike San Isabel National Forest Travel Management Plan Environmental Impact Study (EIS)
    • Development of the subsequent Travel Management Plan (TMP)
  • Rio Grande National Forest, Forest Plan Revision
    • Forest Plan Revision
    • Development of the subsequent Travel Management Plan (TMP)
  • *Completion of the Bear Creek/Cap’n Jacks re-routed trail and restored access for motorcycles*
  • *Continued support to the San Juan Trail Riders (SJTR) for the Rico/West Dolores Ranger District’s Travel Management Challenge and the development of the Environmental Assessment (EA)*
  • *Continued work with the Bureau of Land Management‘s Grand Junction Field Office during the development of the final Resource Management Plan (RMP) and the impact to over 500 miles of routes*
  • Restoration of OHV opportunities within the Boulder Ranger District
  • Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium.(See the TPA website for additional information)
  • Participation in Governors Office, Outdoor Recreation Council
  • Support to the South Fork Enduro
  • Support to the KTM Adventure Rally in Crested Butte

DONATIONS

The TPA has continued to make donations to organizations working towards the same goals as the TPA. These organizations include:

  • The San Carlos Motorized Trail Alliance (SCMTA), Pueblo
  • Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO)
  • Meeker Rendezvous OHV event
  • Rocky Mountain Sport Riders (RMSR)
  • Book Cliff Rattlers Motorcycle Club (Grand Junction area)
  • United States Forest Service Divide District, Rio Grande National Forest
  • The Gunnison Valley O.H.V Alliance of Trailriders (The GOATs)
  • United States Forest Service Mount Taylor District
  • Ride With Respect (Moab, UT)
  • Utah Trail Machine Association
  • City of South Fork, CO
  • New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA)
  • The Central Colorado Mountain Riders (CCMR), Salida

SUMMARY

2016 was another very significant year for TPA operations and we have built upon our past successes. 2016 was our 12th year as an Organization and our 10th year as an IRS-approved 501c3 Organization. The TPA took on several very important projects this year and is continuing to provide leadership for the OHV community in ensuring our access to public lands and the availability of recreational opportunities for off-highway motorcycles and vehicles. The importance of this effort cannot be overstated, as the results of our work will affect our access to public lands for decades into the future.

The Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium (http://www.colorado600.org/Colorado_600_2017/Home.html) has been our major fund raising activity for the last few years and will continue in the same format and structure for 2017.

The TPA appreciates our ongoing 5-year support agreement with KLIM (http://www.klim.com). Gaining the support of the#1 Off-Road apparel manufacturer has been a major endorsement of the TPA mission!

The TPA is very grateful for the generous support provided by Rocky Mountain ATV/MC (https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com) who continues to be a major financial supporter of our work.

We are also extremely thankful to our corporate sponsors, KTM USA, Motion Pro and Dunlop Motorcycle Tires along with for all the TPA donations provided by individuals, riders and other off-road businesses that have been on-board for several years!

The TPA continues to be a 100% volunteer organization, putting a high percentage of all of our annual donations to direct use for saving our sport. The TPA Board of Directors thanks all of our supporters: individual, corporate and the clubs. Without their support we could not have accomplished the things we have so far. The future appears to be even more demanding and will require even more financial support to continue our successful efforts in the future.

Please contact us for suggestions concerning how you can help with the ongoing work TPA is pursuing on your behalf to save our sport in the Rocky Mountain Region.

Thank you for your continued participation,

There are some significant United States Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Land use access for recreation issues that will be addressed in 2017

  • Grand Junction Bureau of Land Management Field Office Resource Management Plan (RMP)
  • Implementation plan for the Pike San Isabel National Forest Travel Management Plan Environmental Impact Study (EIS)
  • Rio Grande Forest Plan Revisions and subsequent Travel Management Plan (TMP)
  • United States Forest Service Rico/West Dolores, Environmental Assessment (EA) and Travel Management Plan (TMP)

The TPA Board of Directors

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2015 End of Year Report

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2015 End of Year Report

 

This report provides an overview of 2015 activities and events. For a more detailed review, please see projects/issues in the news section in the website news section. Last year we said there was some light at the end of the tunnel for Off Highway Vehicles (OHV) recreation in Colorado…this year we say there is.

Progress and Perspective. Years ago, while TPA was working with two older Colorado National Forest (NF) master plans, the Forest Service told us “point blank” that while they could not stop us from riding the trails in a particular NF, they were going to “make sure that our grandchildren could not.” On another occasion (in a different NF), a senior NF recreation planner told us that “his” NF was for skiing and wilderness use only, and he had no time for OHV recreation in “[his] forest.” We are sharing this historic information because we are not seeing this position in most of our current work with the Forest Service (FS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM). True, there are still a few isolated cases in which some District Rangers do not support OHV recreation, and they seem to go the extra mile not to support OHV recreation on public property. However, for 2015, TPA is pleased to report that we are starting to see our current Federal Land Managers showing an interest in fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with TPA and our goal to preserve OHV recreation. That’s good news, and we hope to bring you even more in 2016.

2015 Success Stories

The Greater Sage Grouse was not listed as an endangered /threatened species, which could have severely impacted large portions of the state we use for motorized recreation. As part of the multi-agency process to avoid listing, natural surface roads/trails were excluded from calculation of the surface disturbance cap applied in habitat areas in the Northwest Colorado Plan.

Improvements in the Grand Junction BLM Resource Management Plan (RMP) plan. Between the draft and the final RMP/Travel Management Plan (TMP), more than 500 miles of routes proposed to be closed were allowed to remain open. The TPA continues to work other efforts related to this RMP.

The recent federal court dismissal of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers challenge to motorized routes on the Rico/Delores Ranger District of the San Juan NF was confirmed on appeal. This was a major victory for the San Juan Trail Riders, the TPA and everyone who rides in that area.

There are several new single track projects completed or in the process of being completed including:

  • The Tenderfoot Trail in Summit County
  • New trails in the Rampart Range area and new connector trail in the Uncompahgre National Forest area
  • New single track routes in the Hartman’s Rocks area
  • The Sidewinder Trail on the Gunnison Gorge Natural Conservation Area (NCA)
  • The Tabeguache Connector Trail outside Grand Junction.

All of these single track projects are good examples of the local motorcycle clubs working with their local Federal Land managers to make this happen!

Legislation Issues

All of the issues discussed in the 2014 end of year report are still valid, and TPA is still pursuing them to help protect our sport. In 2015, TPA took on additional legislation issues:

  • TPA is partnering with the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition’s (COHVCO) statewide effort for the licensing of OHV vehicles (UTV/ATV) for use on public roads. While this effort does not directly relate to our core efforts for our sport, it is a major factor in helping develop OHV tourism/income in Colorado’s small towns. The Colorado plan is modeled after systems Arizona and Utah currently have for OHV registration.
  • TPA is also partnering with COHVCO in an effort to insure that the insurance requirements for OHV grants are not an insurmountable barrier to motorized trail development and that these grants continue to be provided in a timely manner.

Legal Issues

  • Bear Creek/Green Back Trout (Pike/San Isabel Forest /Pikes Peak Ranger District). Motorcycle use of this area continues to be denied regardless of the facts and the patchwork of ownership of the land is still an issue. The FS has settled the lawsuit and is in the process of building several re-routes of trails to avoid the trout habitat area in the Bear Creek drainage. The FS is in the process of completing a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) study of the entire area.
  • Pike/San Isabel NF Challenge. This issue concerns existing designations of more than 500 miles of routes on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). This case was filed in January 2011 and challenges FS management of vehicle access to the six (6) Ranger Districts in the Pike/San Isabel NF currently in place. The TPA-led interveners have been allowed to participate indirectly in this effort and mitigate adverse impacts on historical access. This case has now been settled. The FS is in the process of developing a plan to meet the court’s settlement agreement and address the 500 miles of routes targeted by the lawsuit. The FS plan can be read on the PSI web site. NOTE: The TPA has hired a consultant/program manager to represent the TPA as the new FS plan is implemented.
  • Rico/West Dolores RD Travel Management Challenge. This case was filed by the Colorado Chapter, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (CBHA) and sought to close 14 prime motorcycle trails in the Rico/West Dolores area of the San Juan NF. Along with COHVCO, San Juan Trail Riders, Public Access Preservation Association, and the Blue Ribbon Coalition, the TPA intervened as co-defendants in concert with the Forest Service. The district court denied CBHA’s motion for a preliminary injunction and ruled in favor of the Forest Service and pro-access interveners on the substantive claims of the case. CBHA appealed to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, which has now confirmed the lower court’s dismissal.

The TPA stays actively involved in all ongoing legal issues.

Current OHV Tourism Projects

In 2014, the TPA accepted responsibility for an OHV tourism awareness project, and we are continuing to pursue this effort. The fundamental reason for encouraging OHV tourism in strategic Colorado communities is to garner the support of these communities in the ongoing struggle to keep public land open to motorized OHV travel. Once communities begin to see the economic benefits of OHV tourism, they will be more motivated to protect their OHV trail assets from closure. Please see the TPA website for a more detailed discussion of this project.

Other Activites

The TPA is now a member of the Off Road Business Association (ORBA).

The Colorado 600 (Trails Awareness Symposium) is our major fund raising activity. KLIM, RM ATV/MX, KTM, Motion Pro and others continue to support this event!

TPA continues to work with the Rio Grand NF in the ongoing effort to protect the Vietnam War Memorial on the top of Sargent’s Mesa.

TPA actively supported many OHV organizations in their requests for Colorado Parks & Wildlife OHV grants and other funding.

TPA submitted extensive comments on the Park Service’s proposed motorized usage limitation on White Rim trail in Canyonlands NP outside Moab, Utah. Unfortunately, the Park Service chose a different direction from the one proposed by TPA. Although the outcome was disappointing, through this process TPA gained valuable knowledge that we will apply elsewhere.

TPA supported the startup of a new Montana off-road motorcycle club.

TPA donated funds for the successful litigation by Wyoming motorcycle clubs addressing the closure of their local Trail 38.

TPA has also partnered with the New Mexico Off-Highway Vehicle Association in support of their efforts on the Magdalena Ranger District, Mount Taylor area, Santa Fe NF/Carson NF TMPs.

TPA representatives continue to attend many USFS, BLM and State Parks meetings concerning issues related to travel management, endangered species issues, the OHV grant programs and Colorado Parks & Wildlife strategic planning.

TPA partnered with COHVCO to undertake a complete redevelopment of the 2012 economic contribution study. This study has proven to be a very important tool in preserving OHV recreation. This planned revision should prove an even more important tool in future discussions.

TPA partnered with the Bookcliff Rattlers MC to rent a trail dozer for 30 days to re-build the trail in the Uncompahgre NF.

BLM landscape-level work. TPA is opening discussions with the BLM regarding a master plan for motorized recreation in Colorado to ensure motorized concerns are addressed. Too often agency efforts do not reflect the desires of the motorized community.

Left Hand Canyon work. TPA believes this area of the Boulder Ranger District represents an important recreational opportunity on the Front Range of Colorado, and TPA continues to push for reopening of the area.

TPA remains committed to efforts addressing routes in the Wildcat Canyon/Hayman fire area. Reopening of routes in this area has been delayed by the Earth First challenge to the PSI MVUM. With settlement of that litigation, reopening these important routes can move forward.

BLM efforts in the 4-Mile area of the Royal Gorge Field Office (FO) caused TPA to become very concerned about the flurry of proposals seeking to open extensive trail networks for the exclusive benefit of some small non-motorized user groups. Often these proposals have no funding and are seeking to close multiple-use areas. This is directly contrary to the “rising tide floating all boats” position conveyed by many land managers as part of the grant process. TPA advocates that all proposals should be governed by the same standards and requirements.

TPA is developing a new 5-year strategic plan to ensure the continued success of our long range work. This plan includes issues such as: (a) senior management, (b) development of a new TPA web site and (c) creating a new donor/endowment program for the TPA.

Major Projects in 2016

The Grand Junction BLM RMP/Transportation Plan remains a major issue. TPA continues to appeal the Grand Junction Field Office (GJFO) RMP. The current version of the plan allows for more than 500 additional miles of routes to remain open compared to the previous draft. That’s good news. However, our appeal process continues as there are still many critical violations of federal law in the plan that will impact OHV recreation moving forward.The Rio Grande NF has started a revision of their RMP and a subsequent update of their Travel Plan. TPA expects this revision to take at least five (5) years. We have been and will continue to be very involved in these proposals and the collaborative process leading up to them to ensure the area remains synonymous with multiple use routes.

The Rio Grande NF has started a revision of their RMP and a subsequent update of their Travel Plan. TPA expects this revision to take at least five (5) years. We have been and will continue to be very involved in these proposals and the collaborative process leading up to them to ensure the area remains synonymous with multiple use routes.Efforts targeting the San Juan National Forest, Rico Delores Environmental Assessment and Travel Plan remain ongoing, and TPA is heavily involved in these efforts to ensure motorized recreational opportunities are not set aside or lost.

Efforts targeting the San Juan National Forest, Rico Delores Environmental Assessment and Travel Plan remain ongoing, and TPA is heavily involved in these efforts to ensure motorized recreational opportunities are not set aside or lost.TPA has taken a leading role in the Pike/San Isabel NF Implementation Plan resulting from the settlement of the Earth First lawsuit. TPA is actively working with local land managers to make sure the settlement is fully understood and applied correctly and that land managers have resources necessary to make good decisions.

TPA has taken a leading role in the Pike/San Isabel NF Implementation Plan resulting from the settlement of the Earth First lawsuit. TPA is actively working with local land managers to make sure the settlement is fully understood and applied correctly and that land managers have resources necessary to make good decisions.TPA remains involved in the COHVCO-led project for the licensing of all OHV (ATV/UTV) vehicles in Colorado for use on public highways in a consistent manner throughout the state. Such licensing would be voluntary and separate from the current State Parks registration program.

TPA remains involved in the COHVCO-led project for the licensing of all OHV (ATV/UTV) vehicles in Colorado for use on public highways in a consistent manner throughout the state. Such licensing would be voluntary and separate from the current State Parks registration program.The TPA is now a member of the Governor’s Colorado Outdoor Recreation Council. We will use this involvement to promote the development of more OHV recreational opportunities.

The TPA is now a member of the Governor’s Colorado Outdoor Recreation Council. We will use this involvement to promote the development of more OHV recreational opportunities.

TPA has taken an active role in the Western Governor Association efforts regarding revision of the Endangered Species Act, which continues to function as a major barrier to recreational usage of public lands despite the often non-existent relationship between species decline and recreational usage of public lands.

TPA is partnering with the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council in distribution of their new motorized trail development and maintenance guide. TPA believes this new resource will be an important tool in the analysis, development, and proper maintenance of routes throughout the country and is highly relevant to many of the issues encountered in the recent PSI litigation.

Donations

The TPA has continued to make donations to organizations working towards the same goals as the TPA. These organizations include:

  • San Carlos MC, Pueblo
  • COHVCO
  • Gunnison MV club
  • USFS Mount Taylor District
  • Meeker Rendezvous event
  • Ride With Respect (Moab)
  • Rocky Mountain Sport Riders (RMST)
  • Utah Trail Machine Association
  • Book Cliff Rattlers MC
  • City of South Fork
  • USFS Divide District
  • New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Alliance (NMOHVA)

Summary

2015 was a very significant year for TPA operations and prospered on the successes we saw in 2014! 2015 was our 11th year as an Organization and our 9th year as an IRS-approved 501c3 Organization. As predicted, 2015 was the start of a 2 to 3 year period in which several major FS and BLM managed areas began undergoing their travel planning. The TPA will be actively involved with each of these activities. The importance of this effort cannot be overstated, as the outcome will dictate our access to public lands for the next 10 to 20 years.The Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium (http://www.colorado600.org/Colorado_600_2016/Home.html) has been our major fund raising activity for the last few years and will continue in the same format and structure for 2016. (Proven rider limit, with one-third new riders, one-third from industry and one-third returning riders who support our core mission.)

The Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium (http://www.colorado600.org/Colorado_600_2016/Home.html) has been our major fund raising activity for the last few years and will continue in the same format and structure for 2016. (Proven rider limit, with one-third new riders, one-third from industry and one-third returning riders who support our core mission.)The TPA appreciates our 5-year support agreement with KLIM (http://www.klim.com/). Gaining the support of the #1 Off-Road apparel manufacturer is a major endorsement of the TPA mission!

The TPA appreciates our 5-year support agreement with KLIM (http://www.klim.com/). Gaining the support of the #1 Off-Road apparel manufacturer is a major endorsement of the TPA mission!The Rocky Mountain ATV/MX Supply Company (https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/) continues to be a major financial supporter of our work. We are also grateful for all the TPA donations by individuals and other off-road businesses that have been on-board for several years!

The Rocky Mountain ATV/MX Supply Company (https://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/) continues to be a major financial supporter of our work. We are also grateful for all the TPA donations by individuals and other off-road businesses that have been on-board for several years!

The TPA continues to be a 100% volunteer organization, putting a high percentage of all of our annual donations to direct use for saving our sport. The TPA Board thanks all of our supporters: individual, corporate and the clubs. Without their support we could not have accomplished the things we have so far. The future appears to be even more demanding and will require even more financial support to continue our successful efforts from 2014 and 2015.

Please contact us for suggestions concerning how you can help with the ongoing work TPA is pursuing on your behalf to save our sport in the Rocky Mountain Region.

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT BUT OUR TASKS ARE FAR FROM OVER!

Thank you for your continued participation,
The TPA Board of Directors

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TPA 2014 End of Year Report

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Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA) 2014 End of Year Report

This report provides an overview of 2014 activities and events. For a more detailed review, please see the individual project/issue in the news section on the TPA web page. Is there light at the end of the tunnel for OHV recreation in Colorado? Well…. maybe…

In 2014 we have seen several major success issues related to saving our sport. Combining this with several changes in Forest Services (FS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) management actions, provides hope that OHV recreation is finally being given recognition as it relates to legitimate recreation on public property.


2014 SUCCESS STORIES

The Tenderfoot Trail Project was approved in the White River NF and created twenty two miles of new single track motorized trails outside Dillon, Colorado.

The Hermosa Watershed Legislation was approved which creates a 70,000 acre special management area for motorized recreation, protecting riding areas that had long been within recommended Wilderness areas and released a Wilderness Study Area for motorized usage.

The Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger District of the White River NF reopened almost 150 miles of motorized routes to OHV usage.

The Uncompahgre BLM Field Office determined that motorized and non-motorized usage should be balanced in a trail project in the Burn Canyon area that was originally to be exclusively non-motorized trails.

New management documents were issued for wolverine and lynx clearly stating that motorized recreation is not an issue on millions of acres of habitat. Previously this issue was classified as unresolved and resulted in overly cautious management decisions.

A more noticeable proactive involvement style by Federal Land Managers is apparent as it relates to a wide range of OHV issues impacting recreation on public lands continues to yield some positive results.

 

LEGISLATION ISSUES

In 2014, TPA addressed four key legislation initiatives:

We are building on the successful release of the West Needles Wilderness Study area in 2014 and are working to gain release of the North Sand Hills Wilderness Study area outside Walden Colorado due to the long history of motorized usage in the area

We are exploring landscape level tools for the release of Wilderness Study areas that have never been found suitable for designation.

TPA has strategically positioned itself to work more closely and effectively with Colorado’s elected officials in the US Senate and House.

TPA and our partners published a consolidated research paper noting a wide range of impacts for expanded Wilderness designations, including negative economic impacts to communities, low levels of utilizations of current opportunities and negative impacts to the overall health of public lands from wilderness management restrictions. This paper was written to give everyone in Colorado a better understanding of what the announcement of a wilderness designation does to a local area.

 

LEGAL ISSUES

Bear Creek/Green Back Trout (PPSI. Pikes Peak District). Motorcycle use in this area continues to be denied. Land ownership is still in question. (City of Colorado Springs) The FS is in the process of completing a NEPA of the entire area. The follow-on TMP is said to include a motorized bypass route of the endangered trout area. Until ownership of the land is settled and an agreement is in-place between the FS and landowner, motorized recreation in the area is on hold.

Pike San Isabel Filed in January 2011 this case challenges Forest Service management of vehicle access to six Ranger Districts in the Pike and San Isabel National Forest. Plaintiffs filed an opening brief on the merits in August 2013. The Forest Service and Plaintiffs began settlement discussions, which continue. TPA-lead interveners are allowed to participate indirectly in this effort, and to mitigate adverse impacts on historical access. No restrictions have been imposed as a result of this lawsuit.

Rico West Dolores. This case was brought by the Colorado Chapter, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and seeks to close fourteen prime motorcycle trails in the Rico West Dolores area of the San Juan National Forest. TPA and COHVCO, San Juan Trail Riders, Public Access Preservation Association and Blue-ribbon Coalition intervened as co-defendants alongside the Forest Service. The district court denied CBHA’s motion for a preliminary injunction, and ruled in favor of the Forest Service and pro- access interveners on the merits. CBHA appealed to the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, which heard oral argument on November 21, 2014. The appeal remains under advisement.

The TPA stays actively involved in all ongoing legal issues.

 

CURRENT OHV TOURISM PROJECTS

The TPA has accepted responsibility for an OHV tourism awareness project. This special project was developed to show the positive aspects of OHV tourism for towns and counties in western Colorado. The Economic Contribution study (funded by the TPA in 2009) was a first step in this initiative. A special TPA staff person is assigned to work with local communities in Colorado. This work is funded by TPA donations and a special Polaris grant. OHV tourism has proved to create a positive economic impact for our State and communities. A recent study showed that over $100.00 per day is spent per OHV use in local towns.

A new extensive economic study is approved for funding by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife OHV grants. This study will be much more in-depth than the 2009 study and is scheduled for completion in late 2015.

TPA works closely with the town of Meeker and the Rio Blanco County to promote OHV tourism. Today the Wagon Wheel Trail System is fully operational and providing an outstanding network of trails, right out of the town of Meeker. The TPA is also working with the following towns and counties helping them establish their own OHV tourism plans:

Clear Creek County
Hinsdale County
Lake County
San Juan County
Teller County

These counties understand the positive impact of OHV recreation. TPA is rallying rural Colorado as a ‘force multiplier” in the battle to keep public lands open for OHV recreation. To see the exact action on going in each of the above areas, please see the news section of the TPA web page.

 

OTHER ACTIVITIES

With TPA assistance, two new motorcycle clubs were started this year in Colorado: The San Carlos MC Club, Pueblo, and Grace Tours of Colorado Springs.

The TPA responded/provided comments on the following land use issues.

Bear Creek
Rollin Pass
Colorado River Valley BLM Protest
Domingez-Escalante NCA RMP
Grand Junction BLM D/RMP’s
Kremmling FO BLM Protest
Left Hand Canyon
San Juan NF TMP protest
Tenderfoot trail
Tres Rios BLM RMP protest
VURB issue

Wildcat canyon area discussions about possible opening of many OHV routes closed by the Haymen fire.

Multiple meetings with selected FS and BLM Land Managers

Significant involvement with the listing of the Greater and Gunnison Sage Grouse – both of which could impact millions of acres of riding areas

BLM Planning Rule Version 2.0 proposal

Arizona, Tonto NF EA

 

FUTURE PROJECTS

TPA is involved in several significant land usage issues originating from the FS and the BLM. These issues are critical to the future of OHV recreation in Colorado.

The final version of the GJ/BLM Resource Master Plan is expected for the entire Grand Junction area. Draft versions of this document proposed high levels of closures of motorized routes. TPA is optimistic that efforts, since the release of the draft, have resulted in a far more balanced plan for the usage of the area and far lower levels of closures than originally proposed.

The San Juan NF is commencing a travel management plan for the Rico area and TPA is working hard to avoid any unnecessary closures in this area as the area has a long history of motorized usage.

The Rio Grande NF Forest Master Plan, and follow on TMP will be actively worked in conjunction with the local OHV clubs in the RGNF.

TPA will undergo some slight reorganization and our web page will be updated to reflect the current operational position as it relates to saving our sport in Colorado.

TPA continues to work closely with all OHV clubs and organizations in clubs in Colorado.

Donations

TPA supported the following organizations in 2014:

COHVCO
Ride with Respect. Moab Utah
Grace Tours MC, Colorado Springs
RMSR, Eagle
Gunnison/Crested Butte MC club (Goats)
San Carlos MC, Pueblo
MTRA of Grand Junction
San Juan Trail Riders
NMOHVA
Volunteers of Colorado
PAPA, Telluride Colorado
Wyoming Trail Riders

SUMMARY

2014 was a very important year for the TPA as it marked our fourth year of operations. TPA has impacted many OHV issues and 2015 appears to be the most critical year for OHV planning in Colorado. Planned BLM and FS projects will impact future OHV recreation for the next 10-20 years.

The Colorado 600 Trails Awareness Symposium continues to be our primary TPA fund raising operation and your active support of this is event is appreciated.

TPA continues as a volunteer organization, putting a very high percentage of all donations to direct use for SAVING OUR SPORT.

The TPA Board of Directors thanks all of our supporters, individuals, corporate and clubs. Be assured that TPA is constantly striving to promote and preserve OHV recreation on public property.

Please contact us with any suggestions concerning on-going work or to recommend future work in which the TPA can be influential.
Thank you,
The TPA BoD

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2013 End of Year Report

   
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February 19, 2014

  The Trails Preservation Alliance Board of Directors (BoD) is pleased to describe the projects in which the TPA was involved in 2013. A majority of these projects are long-term efforts and are ongoing throughout 2014 and into 2015.

In 2013 we began to see some “light at the end of the tunnel” as relates to OHV recreation on public lands. New management from the Forest Service (FS), Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other Federal land managers have, at times, shown a willingness to stand up to radical environmental groups that want to shut-out all public recreation. We applaud them for their actions in showing support for public recreation.

On the other hand, we continue to see a number of elected Federal officials attempting to place their names on Federal land monuments, or wilderness areas. In conjunction with these activities they try and sell the idea that there is an associated economic boom to those local communities. In reality, proven results show exactly the opposite.

We also see Wilderness Study areas being managed as wilderness areas while that is not the case in the eyes of the law. In addition, it seems that more public lands are being closed to public recreation utilizing administrative closures. The bottom line is that TPA is engaged in a never-ending battle to protect our right for public recreation on public property.

2013 Colorado Projects

TPA funded the initial “SAVE OUR SPORT” project for COHVCO. This project was started as a fundraiser and awareness issue for all OHV recreation in Colorado. COHVCO has taken over the project and is making it known throughout Colorado. 

Throughout 2013, TPA formally responded to many FS and BLM travel management plans. This allows TPA to develop a working relationship with Federal land managers as they finalize their plans. All of these formal responses are listed on the TPA web page, news section.

The most important of these response activities comes in the form of our response to the Grand Junction BLM’s draft Resources Management Plan. We expect this Plan to be released in 2014. 

This vast area of public lands represents a crucial point for future OHV recreation. This BLM area has sufficient recreation areas for all forms of recreation however it remains to be seen how the BLM adheres to our OHV comments. 

TPA expects this to be major project for 2014.

The TPA formed a strategic alliance with COHVCO this year. This alliance will provide assets and expertise needed to address a myriad of issues that are adversely impacting our sport. Exact wording and details on this alliance are shown on the TPA web page, in the news section.

Legal Issues

In 2013, the TPA was involved in three separate legal actions:

1. Bear Creek/Green Back Trout
2. Pike and San Isabel (PPSI) Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM)
3. Rico Delores OHV

Each action was a lawsuit filed by various organizations trying to eliminate OHV recreation. In one case an endangered species was even used as an excuse. 

In all cases the TPA filed for and was granted intervening status by the courts. This provides TPA with limited access to any pre court settlements. On advice of legal counsel we are instructed not to discuss in-process cases. 

As the issues are settled, outcomes are posted on the TPA web page. Because of the activity defending our rights in these issues, 2013 legal costs were very high and we predict a similar or higher amount of activity and expenditure in 2014.

4th Annual Trails Awareness Symposium

The TPA conducted our 4th annual Trails Awareness Symposium (Colorado 600). The event was a great success in educating the riders from many states, on what is going on in Colorado, and how they can help protect the sport in their area. A detailed write-up on the event is featured in the February 2014 issue of Dirt Rider, and is also posted on the TPA web page, new section. As result of TAS morning meetings, the TPA has started its own Facebook page. It was discussed that using current social media helps TPA contact a much larger audience.
 
 
Donations

The TPA continued its mission of providing resources/donations to new and existing clubs and organizations to help ensure continuing OHV recreation in their specific areas. These include:

• Alpine Loop Trail Ranger Program

• AMA Government Relations Division

• Boot Hill Motorcycle club

• COHVCO

• Exit Tours Motorcycle Club

• Gunnison/Crested Butte Trail Riders (GOATS)

• Mineral County Fire Department

• Motorized Trail Riders Association, Grand Junction

• New Mexico Off Highway Vehicle Coalition

• Public Access Preservation Association (PAPA)

• Ride with Respect (Moab, Utah)

• Rio Grande National Forest

• Rocky Mountain Sport Riders

• San Juan County

• San Juan Trail Riders

• St Anthony Hospital 

• Summit County Off road riders.

Local OHC Organizations & Positive Impacts

Two motorcycle clubs deserve special mention in this report. The Summit County Off Road Riders (SCORR) and the Rocky Mountain Sport Riders (RMSR) both had a successful year in working with their Forest Service land managers. Each of these clubs are formed by local riders wanting to work formally within the FS system for OHV recreation.

In the case of SCORR, their work in developing a local riding area near a major land file was a success. They have also succeeded in having the FS endorse their proposed 26-mile single track trail riding area. Approval is under final review.

RMSR worked closely with their FS Land Manager to further develop riding areas in the Eagle/Vail area.

Both clubs were started by local riders with assistance from TPA. To-date TPA has helped form 10 OHV recreation organizations.

Formation of local organizations that actively work with local land managers is the key to sustaining and building new recreation areas.

Thank You!

The TPA has received tremendous backing this year.

The TPA BoD especially recognizes two organizations that hold annual motorcycle events and provide important contributions to the TPA. The RMAR/CAM 1000 and the Gold Rush Ride are both great supporters of our off-road sport. Both of these Colorado events actively contribute to the TPA mission and we deeply appreciate their support.

The BoD also recognizes and is thankful for the continuing support of our private donors and motorcycle industry partner companies. Without their dedication and commitment we would not be able to do this important work.

During the Trails Awareness Symposium, one rider asked a very pertinent question, “Who is going to carry our cause into the next years?” Every motorcycle rider that wants to ensure the future of public access and motorized recreation needs to answer this question. If we don’t protect the future, then who will? This question needs to be answered by each one of us. Please take the time to pass on the work of the TPA, COHVCO and the local motorcycle and OHV clubs in Colorado. It takes a concerted from all of us to ensure future generations enjoy the privilege of OHV recreation on public lands. Please take time to bring new members into our sport – our future depends on it.

The TPA thanks all of our supporters, and solicits comments and suggestions to help in our work.
 
The TPA BoD

 

 

     
 

 

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2012 End of Year Report

   
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December 20, 2012

  Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA) 2012 End of Year Report

The Board of Directors (BoD) is pleased to present the 2012 End of Year report summarizing TPA activities over the last twelve months. Before providing the year’s operations details we want to remind you that we are still a 100% volunteer organization. There are no paid employees in the TPA. We do incur expenditures for technical support from our lawyers; CPA; web site support and subject matter experts (SME’s). TPA SME’s provide the technical knowledge used to respond to Forest Services (FS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) travel plans and other Federal regulations affecting our sport. Be assured that your TPA works hard to relevantly, consistently and professionally present our position as it relates to public access for recreation on public property.

All documents produced by the TPA are available on our web page in the news section. This provides easy member access to documents to be used at personal discretion in dealing with the local Federal Land managers. The TPA overall plan is to provide resources and technical expertise to the motorcycle community of Colorado and to further our collective work in protecting the sport of motorcycle trail riding.

2012 was a difficult year for motorized recreation on public lands – the recent federal election result means there are even greater challenges ahead. We can expect to see more wilderness designation and other types of restrictive land designations to reduce or eliminate the majority of public access to public property. One might think that the public would see that more wilderness areas are only going to put more recreation pressure on the few remaining areas that are left open. Unfortunately, logic does not always prevail in land use issues of this type. Regardless, TPA and your BoD continue to work relentlessly on protecting the trail riding sport.
There were some positive occurrences in Colorado this year with the advent of several new Federal Land Managers in the FS and BLM. With continued TPA input and guidance, the Colorado FS and BLM are realizing that the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) sport is a growing part of public recreation and that the restrictive plans of the past that seek to close OHV routes are not the best way to manage the sport. Also being realized is the positive economic impact OHV recreation has on local towns in Colorado.

In light of these positive indicators, TPA continues to take a proactive stance on issues, rather than being reactive. Although easier said than done, this remains an ongoing goal for 2013.

TPA had a significant number of projects/actions that were worked during 2012. While we continue to be confident, most are works in progress and require our continuing vigilance and effort.

1. Gunnison National Forest (GNF)
The GNF Travel Management Plan (TMP) and subsequent record of decision (ROD) closed a lot of historical motorized trails. TPA continues to work with GNF staff to provide more motorized routes.

2. White River (WR)
The WR TMP and ROD did the same thing as the GNF. WR is one of the biggest national forests in the state and has an abundance of user-built trails (mountain bike and other). TPA and local motorcycle clubs work with WR staff to provide more motorized recreation. The WR has the smallest number of motorcycle trails of any National Forest in Colorado – we are working to expand that number.

3. Grand Junction BLM
Grand Junction (GJ) BLM office has several major ongoing projects being worked by the TPA and local motorcycle clubs:

  • The Bang Canyon Project has been ongoing for several years, with some unforeseen delays it is nearing completion of planning, and could represent a significant increase in OHV recreation.
  • GJ BLM is in the final stages of releasing their draft Resource Management Plan (RMP); covering the entire GJ BLM area, of which the Gateway area is a major portion. The TPA and its associated clubs provide input into this draft plan. We hope GJ BLM uses this vast area to provide significant OHV recreation opportunities. There is an abundant amount of old mining roads and trails that can easily be inventoried for OHV recreation.


4. Wilderness Plan Input

  •  TPA provided input and analysis into the BLM Draft RMP for the Colorado River and Kremling area.
  • We provided analysis and input into the BLM and Colorado State Sage Grouse Plan. Unfortunately this plan caused closure of many OHV recreation areas throughout the state.
  • TPA continues to provide input and analysis into several proposed new Wilderness Plans presented by various environmental groups. Examples are Hidden Gem and numerous Wilderness Study Area (WSA) plans being considered for wilderness designation.

Affiliated Organization Support

TPA supported numerous local motorcycle clubs in their work throughout Colorado this year. Some of our major support activities were:

  • In the SW corner of the state San Juan Trail Riders for their work on the Rico Dolores trails in the Turkey Springs area
  • Tenderfoot Trails system developed by the Summit County Off Road Riders (SCORR)
  • Sports Riders of Colorado work in the Holy Cross and WR area
  • Colorado Motorcycle Trail Riders Association (CMTRA) efforts to preserve Captain Jack’s trail system near Colorado Springs, and their work on the Woodland Park Trail #717
  • Joint actions with the Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO) in many areas. These include plans to build several OHV recreation areas in conjunction with western countries and towns in Colorado.
  • COHVCO annual rendezvous
  • Support to the Ride with Respect Club in Moab Utah. While small in member number, this club does a significant amount of work with the Utah BLM, protecting OHV riding areas in eastern Utah. It deserves major Colorado support.
  • TPA continues to interact with Trout Unlimited, trying to find mutual ground for OHV support by TU. This includes work groups in the Silverton and Lake City area.

TPA helped with several new OHV organizations in 2012.

  • Rocky Mountain Adventure Riders (RMAR) is an ongoing organization and is now a member of the TPA. RMAR hosts A significant annual 7-day ride in Colorado called the Colorado Adventure Motorcycle ride (CAM 1000).
  • The other organizations were 2 new ATV clubs working in the NW section of Colorado. With the political environment of today, the TPA embraces all forms of OHV recreation. There is strength in the number of members and organizations, all of which can help the cause for more public access to public lands.

TPA is a member of Region Recreation Advisory Council (RRAC), Region #2 (Denver).

Legal Actions

TPA continues to be involved in Colorado legal litigation actions actively preserving our sport on public lands. Due to their complexity and ongoing current issues, exact details of the current status of each legal action are not available in this year-end report. The legal actions listed below all involve the Colorado Forest Service:

  • Pike San Isabel lawsuit
  • Rico Delores lawsuit
  • Bear Creek, Green Back Trout lawsuit

In each of these lawsuits the TPA, in conjunction with COHVCO and local motorcycle organizations, have filed for and been approved by the court for intervening status on each issue. In the case of the Rico Delores action, TPA and COHVCO were joined by the Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC).

We will keep you posted on our progress in all of these important issues. Please check our web site for updates.

3rd Annual Trails Awareness Symposium
The TPA conducted the 3rd annual Trails Awareness Symposium (TAS) this past summer. Reviews of this event were reported in the AMA magazine; COHVCO News and Dirt Rider magazine. (All articles are available in the TPA web page news section). This event is a major fund raiser for the TPA, but also focuses on helping riders plan and work with Federal Land managers with the ultimate goal of increasing OHV recreation opportunities for everyone.

Grant Projects

The TPA continued our work with the Colorado State Parks OHV grant program. TPA applied for and was awarded a large grant to build and install OHV barriers throughout the state for FS and BLM areas. The main project, Barrier #2, is designated to build various sizes of trail barriers to ensure proper use of the OHV route. This includes single track, 2-track (ATV), and 4WD. Barriers are built to the FS/BLM specifications and are installed by TPA crews or local organizations. This project continues through 2014.

The TPA received a second grant from Polaris Industries to be used in conjunction with the Barrier Grant #2.

Donations

The TPA continued its mission of providing resources/donations to local clubs and organizations to help ensure the continuation of OHV recreation in their area. These include:

  • Alpine Loop Patrol
  • American Motorcyclist Association (AMA)*
  • Boot Hill Motorcycle Club
  • Colorado Motorized Trail Riders association (CMTRA)
  • Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO)*
  • Creede OHV Club
  • Creede Search and Rescue
  • Motorized Trail Riders Association, Grand Junction (MTRA)
  • New Mexico Off-Highway Vehicle Association (NMOHVA)
  • Public Access Preservation Association (PAPA), Telluride Colorado.
  • Ride with Respect (MOAB)
  • Rio Grande National Forest (RGNF)
  • Rocky Mountain Adventure Riders (RMAR)
  • San Juan County Trail Patrol
  • San Juan National Forest (SJNF)
  • Silver Thread ATV Club, Del Norte

* TPA works very closely with COHVCO and the AMA on all Colorado OHV issues.

The TPA has received tremendous support and donations this year. The TPA BoD wants to recognize two organizations that hold annual motorcycle events that provide important contributions to the TPA. The RMAR/CAM 1000 and the Gold Rush Ride are both great supporters of our sport. Thank you!

The BoD also greatly appreciates support from our private donors and motorcycle industry companies. Without these supporters we would not be able to do the work with which we have been challenged. During the Trails Awareness Symposium, one rider asked a very pertinent question, “Who is going to carry our cause into the next years?” Every motorcycle rider that wants to ensure the future of public access and motorized recreation needs to answer this question. If we don’t protect the future, then who will?

The TPA thanks all of our supporters, and solicits comments and suggestions to help in our work.

The TPA Board of Directors

See images/graphics in the full PDF download.

 

 

     
 

 

 

 

 

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Trails Preservation Alliance 2011 End of Year Report

   
 

February 15, 2012

Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA)
2011 End of Year Report

  This end of year report provides a quick look at TPA challenges, progress and focus throughout 2011. For further details, the TPA web site news section has the issues listed in detail. Overall, it is best to say that 2011 was a year of mixed results. On the positive side, our working relationship with the White River National Forest (WRNF) improved – we hope this leads to more Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) recreation opportunities. The WRNF is the largest National Forest (NF) in Colorado, but has the least amount of motorized recreation opportunities – we would like to see this changed.

The TPA helped start two new motorcycle clubs in Colorado in 2011 – both groups having direct involvement with their local Forest Service/Bureau of Land Management (FS/BLM) to help in our goal of increasing OHV recreation. We have worked very closely with the western slope of Colorado, in the Rico/ Dolores area and with the BLM in the Gateway and De Beque areas.

On other issues, we were not satisfied with the Travel Management Planning / Motor Vehicle Use Map (TMP/MVUM) from the Gunnison National Forest (GNF) planning process. We are currently working with the local motorcycle club and GNF staff (BLM/FS) to determine if some historic motorized trails closed under TMP might be considered for reopening.

The TPA also worked on many other issues with the FS and BLM as detailed on your TPA web pages. In these cases, TPA worked directly with local clubs as they, in turn, work with their respective FS and BLM local staff.

2011 was a year full of challenges and successes. Because of the election, 2012 will prove to be even more challenging. Land issues and public access to public property will probably be greatly abused during the election process. We need active support from the entire OHV community if we are to keep moving forward in our quest for public recreation on public property.

TPA and the Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition (COHVCO) partnered to address many OHV issues in Colorado in 2011. So many issues/problems exist that no single organization can possibly address the issues on their own. The TPA and COHVCO share the same mission when it comes to motorcycle trail riding; therefore, expect to see continued mutual support arrangements in all of our work. Both organizations are committed to monitoring and preserving access to public property.

The TPA continues to be an all-volunteer organization. The only personnel paid are on our legal review team. We also fund necessary lawsuits (we use a law firm for all formal correspondence with the FS and BLM) and pay specific subject matter experts/consultants to provide expert knowledge on key issues. Other required operating costs include professional web page support and our Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The TPA Board of Directors (BOD) and other volunteers receive no salaries or reimbursement for any expenses. Ours is truly a PRO BONO organization.

We greatly appreciate the support you provide to the TPA mission. If we do not endeavor save our sport, future generations will never experience the enjoyment of trail riding.
 
 

2011 PROJECTS

 
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

  • Gateway and De Beque Castle Rock areas involved in the RMP planning process – performed in conjunction with Motorcycle Trail Riding Association (MTRA) of Grand Junction
  • Escalante/Dominguez NCA issue
  • Colorado basin/Kremling area RMP
  • Collaboration with Moab organization, Ride with Respect, in their ongoing effort to protect OHV recreation in the Moab area.

Forest Service (FS)

  • WRNF and GNF review of potential additions to current TMP/MVUM
  • WRNF and GNF worked jointly with local motorcycle clubs
  • PPSI/Salida DR on issues effecting motorcycle and ATV trails
  • Work with COHVCO by providing input on the Colorado Road issues, prior to final input into the Department of the Interior.
  • Collaboration with local clubs in the Rico/Dolores/Cortez area, trying to protect legal, historic motorcycle trails

In working with the FS and the BLM, the TPA generated a significant number of position papers and recommendations to protect our sport.

Events

  • Second annual Trails Awareness Symposium at the Colorado 600 – a five-day event, with daily meetings and trail rides. Discussion topics are tailored towards preserving our sport. Joint support for the event is provided by the American Motorcyclist Association, (AMA) and the Texas Sidewinder Motorcycle Club (SWMC).
  • Assisted with the 37th annual Colorado 500 off-road event as Director of Operations. This five-day charity event supports small towns throughout the state. All funds donated to the TPA during the C500 were in turn transferred directly to COHVCO
  • Colorado State Parks OHV grant for construction and installation of trail barriers to ensure trails remain in the form intended. This is for single-track, two-track and other types of trails.
  • Polaris Industries grant for installation of trail barriers in the state parks OHV grant.
  • Applied for and approved for State Parks barrier grant in 2012/13.

Other
TPA was involved in two legal actions in 2011. Working jointly with COHVCO, we filed and received approval for intervening status in the Wilderness Society lawsuit against the USFS/R2.

TPA and COHVCO are intervening on behalf of the United States Forest Service (USFS)
TPA and COHVCO filed a lawsuit against the State Parks BOD for violation of the state charter on “open meetings.”

TPA and COHVCO are in the preliminary process of filing another intervening lawsuit on the side of the USFS/R2, in the case filed by sportsmen in the Rico/Dolores area.
 
 

DONATIONS

TPA donated to several organizations that help support joint operations for preservation of motorcycle trail riding. Many local organizations lack funding and legal expertise to fight and help protect our sport. The TPA acts as a support organization providing funding, legal expertise, and other types of support to help the cause. In all cases, donations undergo review for relevancy to the TPA mission.
 
Ride with Respect (RWR)
This small 501c3 organization is the primary reason the Moab area has remained open for OHV recreation. Riders from all over the US go to Moab to ride, yet very few provide any support to the locals in their work with the FS/BLM and state lands managers. TPA has formed a partnership with RWR in their effort to protect our sport. We urge everyone who goes to Moab to donate to RWR because this small organization is active and successful in protecting a unique area.

MTRA of Grand Junction The TPA is working directly with this club in the BLM work in the Gateway, De Beque Castle Rock areas.

Blue Ribbon Coalition (BRC) TPA works with BRC (a national recreation group that champions responsible use of public and private lands) on issues specific to Colorado and to the sport in general.

Gunnison/CB Goats a new club in the Gunnison/CB area

Ouray FS Trail Crew in their work to keep open the Alpine trails system

Greater South for Colorado Recreation Club – support to the TAS/C600

Silver Thread Outdoor Recreation Club – support to the TAS/C600

Boot Hill Motorcycle Club – support to the TAS/C600

COHVCO for ongoing work with the Colorado State Legislature

AMA for their work in protecting our sport

Rocky Mountain Sport Riders (RMSR) – a new club in the Gypsum/Vail area working with WRNF in planning new trails.
 
The TPA Board of Directors thanks all donors for their support during 2011. You have our commitment to remain focused on the goal of protecting public access to public lands and to maintain our single track trail systems throughout the area.
 

 

 

 

 

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Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA) End of Year Report for 2010

December 21, 2010
 

  The Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA) Board of Directors thanks everyone for their support to the TPA during 2010. This includes Colorado 500 and Rocky Mountain 400 riders and supporters; the Trails Awareness Symposium/ Colorado 600 and many other motorcycle riders who believe in what the TPA has committed to accomplish.

In our ongoing mission to preserve our sport and public access to public lands, TPA took the following actions on behalf of all motorcycle riders. The list of activities this year is extensive so this report is structured in two parts beginning with an Overview of activities. The Overview provides a quick and easily digestible review of major activities and donations. In-depth information for each item in the overview is provided in the Details section.

OVERVIEW

Activities:
Additions to volunteer staff

  • Western Slope
  • South Central
  • Front Range
  • Trails Advocate
  • Marketing/Communications Representative

AMA – Support against Salazar wilderness bill
AMA, BRC, and COHVCO – sponsor Indianapolis meeting
COHVCO – attend and support actions
COHVCO – funds for a law suit
COHVCO, Texas Sidewinders Motorcycle Club, and AMA – alliances for Colorado OHV issues
Colorado 500 and Rocky Mountain 400 events – donations
Draft Environmental Impact statement/Travel Plan
White River Alliance Fund
Establish working partner relationships with FS and BLM
Gateway region – new major OHV recreation area
Petitioning Trout Unlimited to change their anti-OHV actions in Colorado
San Juan Trail Riders, and PAPA (Telluride) – support
Trails Awareness Symposium/Colorado 600
Utah/Moab area motorcycle riders – support
Wilderness Bills – detailed responses

Donations to:
Colorado OHV grant (George Gangler)
Grand Junction BLM
Gypsum Area
Joint Trail Work Days
OHV grant requests
Ouray Forest Service
Summit County Trail Riders
White River National Forest TMP
Boot Hill Motorcycle Club

DETAILS
An extensive four-year effort working the Draft Environmental Impact statement/Travel Plan for the Gunnison National Forest. This initiative saved a significant amount of trails scheduled for closure. The TPA/COHVCO appeal regarding closures continues to work its way through the FS/BLM system

Helping Western Slope area (MTRA) through the BLM to develop more OHV recreation areas. Specifically TPA, through local members, is working to help establish the Gateway region as a new major OHV recreation area. This BLM work also included work in the Dry Creek and Dubuque areas recreation planning

Hosting of a joint meeting with the AMA, BRC, and COHVCO during the Indianapolis motorcycle trade show in February. This meeting enhanced working relationships between all three organizations relating to ongoing public access actions in Colorado

Detailed responses to three ongoing wilderness bills being introduced in Colorado

White River Alliance funds donation in support of their attempt to stop the Hidden Gems Wilderness

Support to AMA to attend and testify against the Salazar wilderness bill, as well as the DeGette wilderness bill.

Major support to Utah/Moab area motorcycle riders as they work to protect our off-road riding in their area. The TPA made significant donations to the Ride with Respect (Moab) and the USA ALL (all of Utah) in their effort to stop the Southern Utah Wilderness Association (SUWA) attempts to close off all the BLM to OHV recreation. With BRC taking the lead, TPA joined COHVCO in filing a legal action to offset the BLM Moab area recreation management plan that would have drastically reduced OHV recreation opportunities. The TPA hosted an AMA Management trail ride in the Moab area, to bring national attention to the BLM issues in Moab, as well as introduce the AMA to the great efforts being made by the Ride with Respect organization in Moab. The TPA believes that UTAH deserves support from Colorado riders, since that area is used extensively by Colorado riders. Utah needs the support from all of the riders that use Utah lands for recreation.

Attended and supported actions taken by COHVCO regarding Colorado State Parks Board’s attempt to divert use of Colorado OHV registration funds

TPA made significant funding donations were made to many organizations in Colorado to include:

  • Grand Junction BLM – Financial support for DeBeque area work and a pledge to donate more for Gateway area work
  • Gypsum area – Financial support to a new motorcycle club
  • Ouray FS – $1000 to help maintain the Alpine Trail area
  • Summit County Trail Riders – Supporting development of an off-road riding area near Breckenridge
  • Donations to Joint Trail Work Days – Motorized and mountain bikes in Colorado
  • Funds pledges to OHV grant requests – Trail-related work in 2011/2012
  • Support for a Colorado OHV grant (lead by George Gangler) – Construction of trail barrier systems at single track trail entry points. This grant and initial work translated in to a major action endorsed by the Forest Service and BLM to perform more construction and installation of barriers in all western FS districts


Donation to Boot Hill Motorcycle Club
for their work in maintaining OHV trails in South Central Colorado

Participation in 2010 Colorado 500 and Rocky Mountain 400 events resulting in donations to TPA mission. These events are positive examples of responsible OHV recreation events. CO 500 donations went to the TPA general fund. RM 400 donations went to COHVCO.

TPA and Sidewinders Motorcycle Club hosted first annual AMA-sanctioned Trails Awareness Symposium/Colorado 600. This annual event increases awareness of issues faced in Colorado supporting the TPA mission of protecting public access to public lands. Event showed positive benefits by assisting riders from South Dakota in their efforts to build a relationship with the local FS to open more trails for motorized recreation,

Joined COHVCO in funding a law suit challenging the State Parks Board actions that appears to be in violation of Colorado state laws.

Extensive Gunnison National Forest DEIS/TMP work augmented by TPA initiative for similar work on the White River National Forest TMP. Work is ongoing for two years and continues through 2011 and 2012.

TPA is attempting to be a working partner with the FS and BLM to develop more OHV recreation opportunities in the White River National Forest area.

TPA supported major actions in the SW portion of Colorado, by working with local motorcycle clubs that lack the funding and membership strengths that the Front Range clubs have in place today. Significant work has been done in supporting work of the San Juan Trail Riders, and PAPA (Telluride) in their work in the Pagosa Springs, Delores, Rico, Silverton and Telluride area. TPA has donated funds and the use of our technical consultants to assist in this work.

TPA has supported riders in the western slope area with their ongoing issues with Trout Unlimited. TU has taken an aggressive anti-OHV recreation stand in that area, as well as other OHV actions in the state. TPA has interceded in this issue, going to the National level of TU, working to get TU to change their anti-OHV actions in Colorado.

TPA filed a detailed response to the Sante Fe National Forest SFNF DEIS/TMP document. This will be an extensive, long term project. This effort is the right course of action to take in support of an area that Colorado riders visit. The TPA also has a significant amount of supporting members that live in New Mexico.

TPA announced additions to our volunteer staff with the following Colorado representative positions:

  • Western Slope
  • South Central
  • Front Range
  • Trails Advocate
  • Marketing/Communications Representative

TPA formed strategic alliances with COHVCO; Texas Sidewinders Motorcycle Club, and the AMA to bring focused attention on all OHV issues in Colorado. This is proving to be a great benefit for OHV work in Colorado.

And finally – a reminder to all to attend the TPA-sponsored annual Trails Awareness Symposium/Colorado 600, summer 2011. See the C600 web page, www.colorado600.org. for details.

The Trails Preservation Alliance Board of Directors appreciates the support and donations received on 2010. Suggestions on how to better protect our sport and increase OHV recreation opportunities are always accepted. Thank you for your dedication, interest and support.
 

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Trails Preservation Alliance (TPA) 2009 End of Year Report

December, 2009

  Before we go into specific details about the work the TPA did this year, we need to present some background information on events and issues that are being faced by the entire Colorado motorized recreation community. This included all of 2009 and throughout the next four years. The radical, liberal, National administration and liberal legislature in Colorado have created an environment that is trying to totally eliminate motorized recreation on public lands.

In the past 30 years of trying to preserve motorized recreation we have never faced a situation like we have today. To make it simple, we are in the worst situation possible.

Examples of these issues are the Travel Management Plans (TMP) of the Gunnison National Forest and the White River National Forest.

Both of these issues have been worked extensively in 2009 and are expected to be published as final plans in 2010. The Colorado Roadless issue was reopened by our Governor (to be reevaluated by a more radical environmental group) even though the State has spent significant time and money developing a Roadless plan that was approved by a bipartisan group. Now that plan is being scrapped in favor of a more radical rule, eliminating more public lands from use for public recreation. Perhaps even more dangerous, the rule changes make fire in roadless areas much harder to prevent and stop. At the same time all of this is being brought forward, we have four new Colorado Wilderness proposals that could remove as much as 2.6 million acres of public land from motorized recreation availability. The existing premise of public access to public lands has been totally eliminated.

The latest major issue that has developed against Colorado motorized recreation is the Responsible Trails America (RTA) attempt to take over the Colorado State Parks, OHV registration grant program. The RTA, using false accusations and local “environmental” surrogates, is attempting to mandate that OHV registration funds be used to “mitigate undocumented damage” by legal motorized recreation and spend 40% of the fund on law enforcement!

We have included a list of the major actions that the TPA took on behalf of all its members and supporters. To gauge work and success on each of the below issues is difficult. Many issues are a long way from being resolved. Other issues will end up in the administrative process of protest and appeal, while others may end up in some form of legal actions.

The TPA intends to continue work in support of our sport.

  Major tasks accomplished in 2009 include:

1. Gunnison NF and White River TMPs. These actions consumed most of the TPA’s time in 2009. Both initial TMP’s were extremely unfavorable to motorized recreation. The TPA took the lead working with assistance from the Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition and the Rocky Mountain Enduro Circuit. We have met extensively with both NF staffs to present our input on the “preferred alternative plan”. It is too early to predict what success we will have on each TMP. However, significant work has been accomplished in our efforts to present the motorized concept of what the TMP should be to all users of public lands.

2. Worked with the San Juan Trail Riders in their effort to preserve trail riding in the Pagosa and San Juan areas.

3. Working with motorized clubs in the Moab area, (Ride with Respect, and USA-ALL) and Grand Junction (MTRA), in an effort to help preserve access to public lands in their respective areas.

4. Donated significant funds to organized motorized groups in Utah and Colorado in support of their effort to educate public officials about motorized recreation on public lands.

5. Coordinated a plan with the AMA to add an additional subject matter expert to our combined efforts in responding to all of these various projects.

6. Joined the AMA, COHVCO, and other groups in an organized effort to eliminate and or reduce
the impact of the new wilderness proposals that have been presented for Federal action.

7. Worked with COHVCO and other Colorado organizations in an attempt to mitigate and curtail all actions associated by the RTA as it attempted to take over the management of the OHV funds

8. Managed a Colorado OHV grant that will build trail barriers and signs on multi use trails.

9. Continuing to work with the Grand Junction BLM and local clubs in the area to help develop a motorized recreation area on BLM managed lands in the Gateway area.

10. Provided “start up funding” for several motorized organizations in Colorado, as an attempt to build a bigger, more active, more educated motorized community around the state

11. Participated in several organized events as fund raisers for the TPA, COHVCO and Blue Ribbon Coalition.

12. Provided operational planning and support to the 34th Colorado 500 Charity Trail ride as a fund raiser for TPA.

13. Worked with Parts Unlimited in preparation of the 16th Rocky Mountain 400, a major fund raiser for COHVCO.

14. The TPA Trail Crew conducted significant tail maintenance during 2009, in the Gunnison NF, White River NF, Pike Peak/San Isabelle NF, and the Rio Grande NF.

The TPA Board of Directors thanks all donors for their support during 2009. The next four years are going to be more critical as we continue to focus on our goal to protect public access to public lands and to maintain our single track trail systems throughout the area. Your help is making it possible!

   
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TPA 2008 End of year and financial

January 1, 2009
Subject: Trails Preservation Alliance 2008 End of Year ReportThe Board of Directors (BOD) wants all TPA supporters and donors to be aware of the actions we have taken during 2008 to protect the sport of motorcycle trail riding in Colorado.

Since 2008 was our start-up year, we incurred numerous preliminary costs to establish a web site and an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) organization. These one-time costs and our ongoing costs for IRS accounting and reporting are time consuming and expensive. Be assured that your TPA BOD is making a concerted effort to reduce our overhead operating costs and to maximize donations that go towards supporting TPA goals.

Listed below are the major efforts undertaken by the TPA in 2008. It is hard to judge success in many of these areas, since measurable success may not come for some time. However, the TPA has been successful in establishing itself as a working partner with the FS and BLM on motorcycle trail riding issues. Please see our web site news section for updates on the most current issues.

• Alpine Trail Systems
Worked with Ouray FS trail crew on Alpine Trail systems
Pledged $1K in 2009 to support trail crew efforts

• BLM Grand Junction Field Office Support
One-year sponsorship of a volunteer to assist in planning for Gateway and Bangs Canyon RMP’s

• Colorado Motorcycle Clubs
Assisted with TMP issues to include state OHV grant request process
Donated several new chain saws and support awards for use in trail maintenance

• Colorado Off Highway Vehicle Coalition ( COHVCO)
Established a formal working relationship to maximize resources for joint responses to OHV recreation plans by FS and BLM

• Correspondence with FS Chief
Submitted several letters, with legal opinions, to Chief of the FS, on the FS TMR and MVUM regarding regional implementation plans

• Fundraiser Activity Support
Supported Rocky Mountain 400 and Colorado 500 off-road events
Both activities are major TPA and COHVCO fund raising events.
TPA to conduct several fund raising “rides” in 2009.

• GNF TMP Issue
Still ongoing, expected to be a major effort in 2009

• GNF/Taylor Park Trail
TPA trail crew performed extensive trail maintenance

• Moab RMP
Submitted in-depth position paper to BLM
Currently in discussion with BRC and local Utah organizations to determine best course of action for Moab RMP

• NF FS and BLM Office Participation
Attended many meetings and submitted several position papers to five separate NF FS and BLM offices in Colorado, for TMP and RMP planning considerations

• Position Papers
Submitted extensive position papers to BLM for: Ñ Moab, Monticello, Green River, Price and Dry Creek

• RMP Protest
Submitted a protest to BLM on RMP findings

• San Juan Trail Riders Support
Assisted in TMP issues with Pagosa FS district and San Juan NF recreation planning

• SMEs – Forest Service TMP/DEIS and BLM RMP Issues
Hired three Subject Matter Expert consultants who valuably assist TPA and COHVCO responding to all trail issues

• WR TMP/SDEIS Response
Completed an in-depth 20-page document shared with all WR NF users. The TPA (and former C500 LDF) has been continuously involved in this action for over three years

• Utah Motorcycle Organization Support
Active monetary and written material support for Utah efforts in preserving OHV recreation.

The TPA BOD appreciates the support and donations from motorcycle riders throughout the United States provided to the TPA in 2008. 2009 will be a critical year in our ongoing efforts to protect our sport.

If you have any comments or suggestions on TPA plans and actions, please let us know. Thank you for your support.

*Statement of Financial Position is attached in PDF.

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