2nd Tillamook Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting for 2009 THIS Thursday, April 2

Calendar Post at: http://www.pumpclub.org/node/994

At the PUMP meeting last night I spoke with Joe (WTF) and Stephanie
(WTF) about attending the ODF TRAC meeting this Thursday.  Joe can not make
it, but Stephanie indicated that she might be able to go.  From PUMP, Wayne and
Fred will NOT be able to make it to the meeting.  It would be great to have
more presence in the room from the mountain bike community.  Attached are the
TRAC meeting materials.  Please consider attending this event.
 
Given the current economic times for ODF, it is important that we (mountain
bikers and other trail users) show support for the existing recreational
programs and that we show ODF that we have capacity to help take on a greater
role as volunteers in the maintenance and development of recreational
opportunities.  As you may be aware, PUMP has held several work parties in the
Tillamook State Forest, with approximately 300 hours of volunteer time donated
so far for 2009.  WTF and PUMP has recently had another positive planning
meeting regarding Mountain Bike Area #1.  Through these efforts, we have
been strengthening our existing positive working relationship with ODF and
working towards taking on larger roles for recreation.
 
In light of the trail asset losses that the mountain bike community has
recently faced through land management changes in the Mt Hood and Syncline
areas, it is important that we step up in areas that need our help.  ODF is
facing up to a 40% budget reduction which will likely eliminate nearly all of
the recreation staffing and programs that they currently provide.  This will
of course put a great strain on ODF's capacity, and discussions have been had
regarding campgrounds that will not open, trail projects that may not be
continued, and other immediate and negative impacts to recreational users.
This concerns me from the stand point that we recently lost trail access at two
other locations and still have many miles of trail that are in need of
maintenance and repair in the Tillamook alone - likely other riding areas that
are currently under snow require this too.
 
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to car
pool to the meeting.
 
Kind regards,
Ryan K.
Portland United Mountain Pedalers (PUMP; www.pumpclub.org)
Tillamook Recreation Advisory Committee: Mountain Bike Community Representative
2008-2009