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'Hidden Gems' debate over Co. forest lands heats up
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If you can't stand the heat, get out of the wilderness seems to be the message that both sides are sending in the recent debate over the use of some of Colorado's most prized forest lands. Supporters of the "Hidden Gems" proposal say that protection is needed or certain tracts of recreational land will be literally trampled to death. Opponents say that there is already plenty of Wilderness designated land in the White River National Forest and reclassifying hundreds of thousands of additional acres will greatly limit the use of these public lands and unfairly discriminate against those who physically can't get there on foot.
Gems supporter Sloan Shoemaker met a hostile crowd on Wednesday night at the Eagle County building as he rolled through his carefully prepared Powerpoint presentation. ATV and snowmobile riders were not pleased over stereotypical images that flashed on the screen showing machines supposedly damaging the floor of the beloved White River National Forest. This got the riders in a huff and things got vocal. Both motorized and non-motorized users are visibly upset with each other, claiming that their respective sides are important to the economy and the quality of lfe here in Eagle County and beyond.
It all started earlier this year with a series of guided hikes into key recreation ares in the forest. These Hidden Gems were being shown to locals who signed up for the walks as part of a campaign to introduce the areas for eventual inclusion into "Wilderness" status. if approved, this staus would block all forms of motorized travel, methods that are OK under current regulations.
The outcry from opponents is centered on the belief that hunters, fisherman, backcountry skiers and other outdoorsmen that spend millions in the state will be shut out if they have to walk to enjoy their respective hobbys. Supporters say that there is plenty of room to zoom, just not in the places that are in close proximity to the population bases and showing the wear and tear of decades of use.
There are certainly more questions than answers at this point in the debate. Hidden Gems opponent Bob Brownlee wished everything could slow down a bit. "What's the big rush on this" Browlee groaned. "We need more time to study it".
Both sides agree that more discussion is needed. Wednesday's get together was hosted by Eagle County with the hopes that it would flush out some common ground. Perhaps the main accomplishment was that of letting those on both sides see just how passionate the two camps are, and that it may take a miracle if the opposing sides are ever to meet in the middle after future talks.
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