Letter: BIC doesn't speak for Eastern Oregon

The BIC states that “The public has a desire to be well informed on forest access, therefore a current and comprehensive inventory of all forest roads and trails that is displayed on an easily read map which clearly lists status is essential. Any proposed changes to the status of the road system would be evaluated and analyzed at the project level through the NEPA process in coordination with the local and tribal governments and with comprehensive public notice and involvement. Where applicable, road and trail systems available for public use should be maintained according with their designated purpose. Any use restrictions previously reviewed and approved through the NEPA process are clearly and effectively posted for the public and reflected on updated maps.”

This statement is in support of travel management, closure of cross-country travel and closure of motorized access to roughly 95% of the national forest in Northeastern Oregon. The statement must be changed to “The BIC has a desire to be well informed…” as the BIC developed these desired conditions outside public participation and without consideration of past public comments or objections filed.

The BIC’s documents should reflect it speaking for itself, and not representing itself as a voice of the residents of Eastern Oregon, as it is not a representative body of Eastern Oregon.

John George

Bates