Editor’s note: The BlueRibbon Coalition sent over this note regarding the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails project.

The San Bernardino National Forest (SBNF) is pleased to announce the availability of the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails project. The Forest Service is seeking public comments on this proposal for 30 calendar days; comments must be received by December 16, 2015.

The Rattlesnake Mountain OHV Trails EA evaluates the environmental consequences of the proposal to designate off highway vehicle (OHV) routes and to close/restore unauthorized routes in the Rattlesnake Mountain and Big Pine Flat areas of the SBNF.

The proposed action is to designate 8.1 miles of OHV trail and road access and to close/restore approximately 25 miles of unauthorized routes within the approximately 8,000 acre project area. The proposed action also includes a project-specific Forest Plan amendment to change current zoning along some of the proposed trails from non-motorized to motorized use.  An alternative to the proposed action has been developed in response to public scoping. The alternative would designate an additional 4.9 miles of Coxey Road (3N14) as OHV mixed use.

The purpose of this comment period is to provide an opportunity for the public to provide specific written comments regarding concerns about the proposed action and alternatives prior to a decision being made by the SBNF Forest Supervisor.

How to Comment:  The draft Environmental Assessment and supporting documentation is available online at the project web page at http://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=43331. The comments must be received by December 16, 2015.

Electronic comments are preferred.  Comments may be submitted by following the “Comment on Project’ link from the project web page (see link above). Comments may also be emailed to the SBNF Mountaintop Ranger District inbox at: comments_pacificsouthwest_san_bernardino_mountaintop@fs.fed.us. If you are unable to submit comments electronically, comments may be mailed to: Mountaintop Ranger District, Attn:  Scott Eliason, PO Box 290, Fawnskin CA 92333.

If you would like additional information regarding this project, please contact Project Leader Scott Eliason via email at seliason@fs.fed.us or by phone at 909-382-2830.