What is the timeline for implementing the Rule on the Willamette National Forest?
A. There are three phases to implementation of the Rule on the Willamette National Forest. During the fall of 2007, the Forest requested the public’s help during Phase I (inventory) to supplement our internal inventory of popular OHV and motor vehicle travel routes and recreation spots. During the second round of public involvement last summer, we invited the public to review our overall strategy for implementing the Travel Management Rule. We are now entering Phase II of the process (decision documentation) by scoping the NEPA Proposed Action with the public. After we hear from you, the Forest plans to analyze elements of this strategy through an Environmental Analysis, which will likely be released for public comment this spring. A signed decision is expected during the summer of 2009, with the ultimate goal of completing a Motor Vehicle Use map by November of 2009. Phase III (implementation) will begin following the completion of the Motor Vehicle Use Map in November of 2009.
