I just got back from the meeting. I must say that I was very impressed with how open Bob Black and his associates were. They said, had they known how much the Offroad Community cared about the Rockgarden area, it would not have been touched. I absolutely believe that these guys will make sure the Rockgarden will be fully restored as good as, if not better than before. On that note: They have NO INTREST in creating a road that you could get your Subaru up. They want as few people up there as possible. The harder, the better. They want the trail to weed out the number of folks that come up to Mineral Basin and unknowingly drive where they should not. The more challenging the trail, the less people Snowbird will see in the summer.
The intrest in getting the Trackhoe down as far as it was, is due to the possible contamination of runoff from an open mine on Snowbird Property. They are working on sealing up this area in question. This project was a one time down and back up deal. They have a general understanding with the Forest Service concerning the access to their land. They DO NOT have to ask permission if they need access to an area. That is why the FS was out of the loop on the going ons in that area.
As for a timeline, look for the work to be wrapped up by next Wednesday. Brett and a couple select others will be in contact with Bob to ensure the Rockgarden is restored into a state which is very challenging, yet driveable. Ofcourse, this does depend on the reliablity of the equipment.
Some of the related subjects included the Bypass around the Rockgarden. As anyone who has been visiting Mineral Basin over the years knows, the bypass has develped over the last two to three years. The idea of closing the bypass was mentioned and very well recieved. The discussion included the idea to build a fence of sorts (Like the ones just below the turnoff for Pittsburg), plant seedlings and post the area as a reclaimation area. That way, if you aren't equipped to go beyond the Rockgarden, then thats the end of the line. I fully support this idea and hope to organize a weekend where we can see this done.
We have been asked to help Snowbird, to be the 'Eyes and Ears' in parts of the canyon where they can't always be.
I want to thank Shawn for his part in this and introducing a solution thru the meeting. For all those that contributed to the old thread, your ideas are always welcome. I do believe we need to realize that this isn't a private BBoard, anyone can read what is posted. I encourage thought before posting on a matter, which you may regret later on.
Thats all I have for now. If anyone wants to add anything or ask questions, lets see it! Thanks again, Greg
