Encouraging News for the Elwha Restoration Project

We are thrilled to hear that biologists have observed the largest Chinook salmon run since 1992 in the Elwha River and that dam removal is back on schedule. Biologists counted 1,741 adult Chionook and mapped 763 redds (salmon nests) between the mouth of the river and Glines Canyon dam. Of the total salmon counted during the one-day survey, 75% were observed upstream of the former Elwha Dam site.

The dam project, which began in September of 2011, had been on pause for the last year while water intake issues were dealt with at the Elwha Water facilities site.  While the engineers were working at the facilities site, habitat restoration within the drained reservoirs continued in full force. By the beginning of October dam removal was ready to resume and a ten foot vertical notch was blasted from the Glines Canyon dam.  Additional notches in the dam will be made in the next calendar year on case by case basis depending on current flows and reservoir levels and will continue until the sediments settle appropriately. The National Park has some great details about the process here.

The dam removal project is projected to be completed in 2014 but habitat restoration efforts will continue for the next five years. During this time biologists and researchers will continue to study the river as it changes and we look forward to seeing salmon populations approach 400,000 once again.

To learn even more about this incredible project check out the Burke Museum’s newest exhibit based on The Mountaineers book Elwha: A River Reborn.

         "Elwha: A River Reborn takes you to the Northwest's legendary Elwha River Valley to discover the people, places, and history behind a remarkable local story--and the largest dam removal project ever undertaken."

The exhibit goes through March 9, 2014. More details about the Burke exhibit can be found here.  

Also check out the awesome videos of the project put together by Olympic National Park http://www.nps.gov/olym/naturescience/restorationoftheelwha.htm

Last Chance to Comment on the Sustainable Roads Project

Tell the forest service what roads matter to you!

The Forest Service is holding their final public meeting for the Sustainable Roads Project in Everett on November 13 (rescheduled due to government shutdown earlier in October). This series of public meetings have been scheduled to help the forest service identify a road system within budget for safe travel, use, administration and resource protection. In simpler terms, the forest service can only afford to maintain about a quarter of the 2500 miles of roads that crisscross our forests. They need public input to help make future decisions about road projects such as upgrades, closures, decomissioning and road to trail conversions.  This is your chance to provide feedback on what roads are important to you and why. Mt.Baker-Snoqualmie FS staff and local recreation and conservation leaders will be on hand to answer your questions.

Please note that comments via online survey closed October 31st.

Event Details

When: Nov. 13, 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Where: Everett Community College, Jackson Conference Center, 2000 Tower Street, Everett, WA 98201

Free Parking Flyer, Campus Map and Directions 

Who:  You!

RSVP: to sustainableroads@gmail.com.

Background on Sustainable Roads

Each year five million people visit the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. They drive forest roads to get to their destinations, to experience spectacular vistas at places such as Big Four Ice Caves, Mt. Baker, Heather Meadows, Skagit Wild and Scenic River and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. But what does the future hold for these beloved places?

Approximately 2,500 miles of roads crisscross the forest, from the Canadian border to the Mt. Rainier National Park on the western Cascades.  The Forest Service can afford to maintain about a quarter of them.

Guided by mandates in the 2005 Travel Management Rule, each national forest must identify a road system by 2015 within budget for safe travel, use, administration and resource protection.  To complete this report, the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest staff wants to find out what roads are important to the public and why.

Eight meetings are scheduled June through October in Seattle, Sedro-Woolley, Issaquah, Bellingham, Enumclaw, Monroe and Everett. Those who do not attend a meeting will be able to give their input online.   Partners and stakeholders representing a broad range of interests, from environmental, timber industry to off-road vehicle groups, have formed a “Sustainable Roads Cadre” to engage the public in the process.

A science-driven approach developed by the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station and Portland State University will be used to understand how people use and value landscapes and resources. Social scientists from the lab will guide meeting participants in using maps to identify places of significance and assign values or activities associated with them.

This process creates socio-spatial layers that will be incorporated into digital map data to contribute to the report and can be used for future recreation and stewardship planning.  The results will provide visual displays of visitor destinations, routes, and show places with special meaning or value.

The forest will share the results with the public in the late fall after the report is compiled and analyzed.  No decisions will be made.  Before doing road upgrades, closures, decommissioning or road conversions to trail, the forest will execute the National Environmental Policy Analysis.

“The future is uncertain. But that doesn’t mean we can afford to stand back and let circumstances dictate our decisions for us. This analysis will guide us, in a holistic forest-wide approach, choosing the roads we can afford to keep open,” said Jennifer Eberlien, forest supervisor.

Learn more about the Sustainable Roads Process 

Fundraising goal met for Vantage toilet!

The Washington Climbers Coalition, the American Alpine Club and The Mountaineers announced on July 18 that they have reached their fundraising goal to install a toilet at the Frenchman Coulee climbing area in central Washington. “It is going to be a great day when, after a two or three hour drive from Seattle or Spokane, there is some place to ‘go’,” said Washington Climbers Coalition president Dave Haavik. 

Climbers at Vantage's Feathers.
Photo by Brad Stracener.

Climbers have been asking for a permanent toilet facility at the popular Frenchman Coulee climbing area (often referred to as "Vantage") for 20 years.  In February 2012 the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife authorized the project, saying they would built a toilet if climbers could fund it.  A fundraising goal of $50,000 was announced in March 2012.  The Washington Climbers Coalition reports that the $45,000 mark was met in June 2013 when they received a grant from the Spokane Mountaineers.  The American Alpine Club holds another grant from the Access Fund in the amount of $5,000 which is dedicated to this effort.  Virtually all of the local climbing clubs in Washington and several gyms and climbing shops, have hosted fundraising events or made significant donations to the effort. 

This project presents challenges above and beyond the simple matter of building a toilet.  State regulations required a cultural resource study to insure that no sensitive artifacts are disturbed.  The hole for the holding tank is going to have to be blasted into bedrock.  An ADA ramp will serve the entry.  But it will all be worth it: the planned facility will be a concrete vault toilet similar to those at many recreation sites across the state and it will replace porta-potties and cat-holes to provide a much more enjoyable and environmentally sustainable climbing destination.  “We are on track for an installation in the fall,” said Washington Department of Wildlife Assistant Manager for Frenchman Coulee, Chad Eidson.

This popular climbing and hiking destination features outstanding rock climbing in a desert environment and attracts climbers from around the region.  The area includes climbs for virtually all ability levels, and hundreds of climbers can be found here on a busy weekend in the spring or fall.  Frenchman Coulee is a Northwest gem where thousands of climbers left the ground for the first time.  The construction of a toilet facility will be a big step toward taking care of this valuable recreation area.     

Glacier Creek Road 39; Public Scoping Now Open for Your Comments

Project Vicinity Map, USFS image. 

Due to a washout that occurred on May 14th of this year Forest Service Road 39 has been damaged and is temporarily closed.  The U.S. Forest Service, Mt. Baker Ranger District is open for public comment regarding the repair of approximately 60 feet of road at Milepost 2.8.

Currently the road is closed to all motorized vehicles at Thompson Creek Bridge (MP 1.0) due to the severity of damage.

Washout at Glacier Creek Forest Service Road 39, USFS image. 

In order to meet the needs of forest users, access to the area will be restored in accordance with the goals of both the Forest Service Strategic Plan FY 2007-2012; and the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (1990).

Proposed Action: The Proposed Action to repair FS Road 39 includes stabilizing the soil on the grade side with 20-80' soil nails, applying a spray concrete to any surface at any grade, and reducing subsurface seepage with a drainage system. All work will be done within the existing road prism footprint. 

Proposed Action, USFS image.

How to Comment: The Forest Service is inviting the public to provide comments on the analysis and issues for the proposed project by August 19, 2013. Comments should be in the form of specific issues raised by the action as proposed.

Comments my be written or electronic. 

Address comments to Theresa Mathis, Environmental Coordinator, Attn: Glacier Creek Road (FSR 39) Repair, Mt. Baker Ranger District, 810 State Route 20, Sedro Woolley, WA 98284.

Electronic comments may be sent via fax to (360) 856-1934 or email to tjmathis@fs.fed.us Documents must include "Glacier Creek Road (FSR 39) Repair" in the subject line. 

For more information please contact Jim Mitchell, Project Leader, North Zone Engineering, Mt. Baker Ranger District, (360) 854-2620, jbmitchell@fs.fed.us or Theresa Mathis, Environmental Coordinator at (360) 854-2632. 

Current road conditions in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Forest can be found here.

Celebrating 100 years of beautiful climbing--and the hidden surprises on Denali

A view from the top. Photo- National Park Service

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first summit on Denali (aka Mount McKinley), which is for many the ultimate image of a pristine wilderness. However, recent research by Dr. Michael Loso from Alaska Pacific University points to a very different reality. By calculating the average number of climbers who have ascended the popular West Buttress Route and the average multi-week expedition length of 18 days, Dr. Loso estimates between 152,000 and 215,000 pounds of human waste have been deposited by climbers in crevasses of the Kahiltna Glacier. In more illustrative terms, we are talking 13 adult male Asian elephants’ worth of waste in the crevasses.

While the waste may be out of sight, it is buried by snow accumulation and incorporated into a river of ice that moves 1,400 feet per year in some areas. Preliminary findings suggest the crevassed waste remains biologically active and will emerge at the Great Ice falls in the next decade (9.3 miles downstream from Basecamp). The National Park Service anticipates public health issues as well as negative impact on the visitor experience as these waste piles start emerging.

A 2007 mandate in Denali National Park requires climbers at base camp (7,200 feet) and those who ascend above the camp at 14,200 feet to pack out waste in a personal, portable canister called a Clean Mountain Can (CMC). Since implementation, conditions have greatly improved above the 17,200-foot High Camp, which had become notoriously unsanitary.

“Climbers have been really receptive to changes,” said Lead Mountaineering Ranger Coley Gentzel. “Staff has seen nothing but positive reactions towards the CMC program.” While the pack-out program has succeeded in reducing waste encountered at the high camps, climbers are still directed to deposit the contents of their CMCs into designated crevasses below the 14,200-foot camp.

The findings at the Kahiltna raise questions about the ongoing practice of crevasse disposal on Denali. Meanwhile, two popular summits closer to home—Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker—have long required that climbers pack out their waste with “blue bags” that are issued with climbing permits. Blue Bags must be disposed of in designated receptacles, not in the garbage.

What can you do to reduce your impact on other snowy summits? Commercially available products like Cleanwaste WAG Bags and Biffy Bags include a biodegradable powder that deodorizes and neutralizes solid waste so that it can be disposed of directly in the trash after your adventure.

To read more on the story please visit www.nps.gov/dena/naturescience.

Forest Road Planning Meetings Announced

News Release from Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

 Photo by Gary Paull.

Everett, Wash., June 10, 2013—Each year five million people visit the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. They drive forest roads to get to their destinations, to experience spectacular vistas at places such as Big Four Ice Caves, Mt. Baker, Heather Meadows, Skagit Wild and Scenic River and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. But what does the future hold for these beloved places?

Approximately 2,500 miles of roads crisscross the forest, from the Canadian border to the Mt. Rainier National Park on the western Cascades.  The Forest Service can afford to maintain about a quarter of them.

Guided by mandates in the 2005 Travel Management Rule, each national forest must identify a road system by 2015 within budget for safe travel, use, administration and resource protection.  To complete this report, the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest staff wants to find out what roads are important to the public and why.

Eight meetings are scheduled June through October in Seattle, Sedro-Woolley, Issaquah, Bellingham, Enumclaw, Monroe and Everett. Those who do not attend a meeting will be able to give their input online.   Partners and stakeholders representing a broad range of interests, from environmental, timber industry to off-road vehicle groups, have formed a “Sustainable Roads Cadre” to engage the public in the process.

A science-driven approach developed by the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station and Portland State University will be used to understand how people use and value landscapes and resources. Social scientists from the lab will guide meeting participants in using maps to identify places of significance and assign values or activities associated with them.

This process creates socio-spatial layers that will be incorporated into digital map data to contribute to the report and can be used for future recreation and stewardship planning.  The results will provide visual displays of visitor destinations, routes, and show places with special meaning or value.

The forest will share the results with the public in the late fall after the report is compiled and analyzed.  No decisions will be made.  Before doing road upgrades, closures, decommissioning or road conversions to trail, the forest will execute the National Environmental Policy Analysis.

“The future is uncertain. But that doesn’t mean we can afford to stand back and let circumstances dictate our decisions for us. This analysis will guide us, in a holistic forest-wide approach, choosing the roads we can afford to keep open,” said Jennifer Eberlien, forest supervisor.

Learn more about the Sustainable Roads Process.  If you cannot attend a meeting, visit the Sustainable Roads blog site and complete a questionnaire.

Sustainable Roads Meeting Schedule
RSVP to sustainableroads@gmail.com, capacity is limited and attendance is on a first-come basis.

June 29, 10 a.m.-12:30 noon
Seattle, REI downtown

July 9, 10 a.m.-12:30 noon
Sedro-Woolley, Mt. Baker District office

July 23, 5:30-8 p.m.
Issaquah Main Fire Station office

Aug. 6, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Enumclaw Public Library

Aug. 21, 4:30-7 p.m.
Darrington Public Library

Sept. 10, 5:30-8 p.m.
Bellingham Public Library

Sept. 24, 1-3:30 p.m.
Monroe Public Library

Oct. 9, 5:30-8 p.m.
Everett Public Library downtown

Comment period for proposed Skykomish Dam

Posted by Sarah Krueger, Public Lands Programs Manager

On June 12, hundreds of people packed an overflowing public meeting at the Index Fire Station to express concerns about the Snohomish County Public Utility District's plans to build a dam and power plant near Sunset Falls on the South Fork Skykomish River, one mile south of Index.  This section of the Skykomish (home to threatened salmon and bull trout) is noted for its ecological and recreational values and has been recommended to Congress for National Wild and Scenic River designation by the U.S. Forest Service. Check out the video below of salmon returning to the proposed dam site.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is currently reviewing the "Pre-Application Document" submitted by the Snohomish County PUD for the licensing of the proposed dam and is accepting public comments on the proposal until July 19.  You can review the official scoping documents online and learn more about the "Save the Skykomish" campaign.

Official comments should be submitted online by July 19 with the FERC's eComment tool.  All filings  must include the project name (Sunset Falls Fish Passage and Energy Project) and number (P-14295-001), and
bear the appropriate heading: “Comments on Pre-Application Document”.

Alpine Lakes Wilderness Legislation Passes Senate

Senator Patty Murray announced yesterday that Senate Bill 112, The Alpine Lakes Additions and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act, passed the Senate by unanimous consent!  The Mountaineers have long supported the effort to federally designate the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild & Scenic and also expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness by 22,000 acres to include important lower-elevation forests.  Learn more. 

Rafting the Middle Fork Snoqualmie.  Photo by Tom O'Keefe.  

“Today we moved one step closer to expanding the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and ensuring this pristine landscape will be preserved as a legacy for generations to come,”said Senator Murray, “This designation will allow our children and grandchildren to experience these special places in their natural state.”

 “The Alpine Lakes Wilderness offers incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation just 45 minutes from Seattle,” said Senator Cantwell. “Areas like Alpine Lakes help make Washington state unique, and draw visitors and talented workers to our communities. Wilderness areas also ensure the supply of clean water and vibrant wildlife populations."

 Companion legislation has also been introduced in the House of Representatives by U.S. Reps. Suzan DelBene (WA-1), Dave Reichert (WA-08), Adam Smith (WA-05), and Jim McDermott (WA-07). The House Natural Resources Committee announced that it will hold a hearing for the bill in July. Stay tuned for results from that hearing!

Wild Sky Trails Plan Completed!

Posted by Sarah Krueger, Public Lands Programs Manager

Yesterday, the Forest Service unveiled the Wild Sky Trails Plan, providing a vision for new and improved access for both hikers and equestrians to the State's most recently-designated wilderness area.  When Congress established the Wild Sky Wilderness in 2008, the legislation called for a trail plan to establish system of trails to provide access to the wilderness area.

The Mountaineers and The Wilderness Society convened a focus group of hiking and wilderness enthusiasts in fall of 2011 to inform the planning process, providing a map and prioritized list of trail recommendations to the Forest Service.  We are happy to see many of our recommendations reflected in the new plan, which outlines over 50 miles of trails in or adjacent to the Wild Sky (including improvements to existing trails).

Plans are great, but action is even better.  Thankfully, the Wild Sky Trail Plan is already coming to fruition with several trail proposals already underway or completed including the Beckler Creek Trail, additions to the Iron Goat Trail, Frog Mountain Trail and relocation of the Kelly Creek Trail.  Each new trail will require site specific analysis and environmental review and it takes an average of 3-5 years to implement projects after funding is received.  The Wild Sky Trails Plan is an important tool that will help leverage funding for implementation and will guide Forest in prioritizing resources over the years to come.  Thanks to all who contributed to the planning effort!

Volunteers Needed to Evaluate Grants for Parks, Trails and Boating

News release
OLYMPIA – The state Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) is seeking volunteers to evaluate grant applications that will help decide where the next parks, trails and boat launches will go in the state.  The volunteers will serve on one of eight advisory committees that will evaluate and rank grant requests in the spring and summer of 2014 for all types of recreation around the state. Volunteers with expertise in project design or management, landscape architecture, planning or engineering, permitting or property acquisition especially are encouraged to apply. Volunteers serve four years. Applications are due June 14.

Parks: Nine volunteers are needed to evaluate grant proposals in three different park grant programs.

• One volunteer is needed to evaluate grant requests in the Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account  program, which provides money to buy, improve and protect tidelands and shorelines for the public. The volunteer should have recreation and public access interests.
• Two volunteers are needed to evaluate grant applications in the Land and Water Conservation Fund  program, which provides grants to preserve and develop parks, trails and wildlife lands. The volunteers should use parks, trails or wildlife lands. One volunteer should be a citizen and one should work for a local government.
• Six volunteers are needed to evaluate grant proposals in the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program, which provides money to buy, develop and renovate lands for the public. When applying, select the online application for Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) – Outdoor Recreation.
• One volunteer should be from a recreational organization or parks board and three should be from local government. These volunteers will evaluate grant applications from state agencies and will serve on the State Lands Development and Renovation Advisory Committee.
• Two volunteers should work for local government and have experience managing parks for a diverse range of recreational activities. These volunteers will evaluate grant applications to buy land, build or improve local parks and will serve on the Local Parks Advisory Committee.

Trails: Seven volunteers are needed to evaluate grant requests in three different trail grant programs.

• One volunteer, who is a back-road recreationist (camper, wildlife watcher, gatherer, etc.) is needed to evaluate grant requests in the Nonhighway and Off-road Vehicle Activities program, which provides money to help plan, buy land, develop and maintain trails, as well as provide trail education and law enforcement activities.
• One volunteer is needed to evaluate grant requests in the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program. (Be sure to select the online application for Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) – Outdoor Recreation when applying.)
• The remaining five volunteers are needed to evaluate grant requests in the Recreational Trails Program, which provides money to help rehabilitate and maintain backcountry trails and amenities. Two volunteers should be citizens, and three should be from trail organizations, one each representing motorcyclists, mountain bikers and non-motorized boaters such as canoe users and kayakers.

Boating: Two volunteers are needed to evaluate grant requests in two programs that provide money to acquire or develop land for boating facilities. One volunteer from eastern Washington, who can represent motorized, recreational boating, and one volunteer who works for a local government are needed to evaluate grant proposals in the Boating Facilities Program and the Boating Infrastructure Grant program. (When applying, select the online application for boating programs.)

To Apply: Submit a completed application and support materials to RCO no later than June 14. Online applications are available.

Information: Contact Lorinda Anderson at 360-902-3009 (TTY: 360-902-1996).

Wish State Parks a happier birthday

By Sarah Krueger, Public Lands Programs Manager

Peshastin Pinnacles.  Photo by Todd Gordon.

Washington is home to an incredibly diverse State Park system – where you can climb the sandstone spires of Peshastin Pinnacles, paddle the dynamic currents of Deception Pass or witness annual eagle migrations along the Skagit River at Rockport.  2013 marks the 100th birthday of Washington State Parks – but there seems to be little to celebrate.  A recent Seattle Times article by Lynda Mapes chronicles the demise of funding for state parks.

Realizing that Discover Pass sales alone won’t keep our parks open, the Washington State Parks Commission requested $27 million in general funding – however both the Senate and the House operating budgets fall short in their requests for the agency ($16.4 and $23.7 million, respectively).  For more about the state budget, see the recent post by volunteer Robert Dengel.

As budget negotiations begin behind closed doors for the coming weeks, the legislature needs to hear from constituents who care about keeping our State Parks open.    Contact your representatives today and ask them to support the House operating budget request of $23.7 million for State Parks.  Send an email through the Washington State Legislature website or call the legislative hotline at 1.800.562.600.  A personal message of support will take five minutes – but can mean millions to our State Parks!

Show Me the Money - State Budget Process Underway

By Robert Dengel, Outdoor Advocate Volunteer

The various legislative budgets are beginning to being submitted. There are two types of budgets: 1) operating (day to day running of an agency) and 2) capital (construction and other development/conservation projects). While none of these initial proposals are likely to be the final budget, they do however begin to show everybody’s initial starting point. To overly generalize the budget proposals, the House Democratic Majority and the Governor are looking to avoid budget cuts by closing tax loopholes and extending taxes set to expire, a move the Senate Majority Coalition (Republicans and two Democrats) are opposed to. Please note that this year the Governor has provided a list of priorities rather than an entire budget proposal. The budgets (and priority list) are an opportunity for each of the major players to show where their priorities are by how much money they provide to an area.  So where does ensuring access and protection to the great outdoors land in the budgets?

State Parks 

The Senate Operating Budget identifies only $16.4 million of general funds in their budget for State Parks, this was done in part by sweeping funds from the Waste Reduction, Recycling and Litter Control Tax. The House Operating Budget, as well as the Governor’s priorities identifies $23.7 million of General Funds for State Parks.  Anything less than $23.7 million is expected to result in the closure of some State Parks, with $27.2 million needed to begin addressing maintenance backlogs, according to the Washington State Parks Commission.  State Parks reliance on state general funds is a result of lower than expected Discover Pass sales. This problem of funding for State Parks is highlighted in a recent story in the Olympian.

On a quick note: two Discover Pass bills which are begin tracked continue to move forward in the legislative process and remain in the House chamber for consideration. SB 5097 (Spouse combined hours) SSB 5289 (Revamps multiple aspect of the Discover Pass, including bulk sales). 

Dept. of Natural Resource and Dept. Fish and Wildlife Managed Lands

Both agencies appear to have received their usual amount of funding in each Senate and House Operating Budget to support recreation on the lands they managed, including funds from the Discover Pass.  

Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) 

The House Capital Budget provides $70 million for the WWRP grant program that funds parks and conservation throughout the state, based on a scored project list. The Governor wanted $76 million for WWRP in his priority list. The Senate Capital Budget only provides $40 Million for the WWRP project and did initially adhere to the scored project list. The current version of the Senate Capital Budget as passed out of the Ways and Means Committee does adhere to the project list but does not provide funding to WWRP land acquisition grants. Learn more at Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition.

The Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA)

The ALEA grants exist to protect and enhance aquatic lands, including development of waterfront parks and restoration of estuaries. The House provides $12 million in their Capital Budget, while the Senate provides only $6 million on their Capital Budget. 

More information on the the state budget process can be found in the 2013 Citizen's Guide to the Washington State Budget.  You can view detailed budget proposals at the following links:

House Operating Budget: HB 1057

House Capital Budget: HB 1089

Senate Operating Budget: SB 5034

Senate Capital Budget: SB 5035

Mt. Baker Highway 542 National Forest Service Enhancement Project is open for Your Comments

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Mt. Baker Ranger District is currently accepting public comments on a Forest Service Decision Memo for a recreation enhancement project along Mt. Baker Highway State Route 542. On this stretch of highway there is a need to improve access, enhance safety, increase resource protection and refurbish and upgrade existing facilities and dispersed recreation sites.

The purpose of this project is to improve visitor experiences by improving access to recreation sites and maintaining facilities and visitor amenities, providing additional interpretive opportunities and materials, increasing motorist and visitor safety, and providing resource protection at dispersed sites.

Background

The Mt. Baker Highway or State Route 542 (SR 542) is a state highway that runs through National Forest System (NFS) lands from the town of Glacier to the end of the road. The highway is designated a scenic highway by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and was designated a National Forest Scenic Byway in 1989. The Scenic Byway is

24 miles in length, beginning at the town of Glacier and terminating at Artist Point in the Heather Meadows Recreation Area. The Glacier Public Service Center, gateway to Mt. Baker, is a heavily used information center that serves over 60,000 visitors annually. Existing interpretive facilities, several built by the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC), and programs along the Mt. Baker Scenic Byway enhance the quality and broaden the scope of experiences for visitors.

Proposed Action 

A brief description of the nine proposed actions to improve the visitors facilities, services and dispersed recreation sites along the highway are listed here:

A. Design and installation of map/orientation and interpretive signs at existing visitor services sites (e.g., campgrounds, picnic areas, trails) along SR 542

B. Improve visitor facilities (e.g., restrooms, signage, and refurbish interior of buildings) at

Glacier Public Service Center

C. Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities (e.g., signage, spotting scope accessibility, interpretive media development) at a variety of points including Heather Meadows

Visitor Center, Wild Goose Trail, and Artist Point

D. Reconstruct and lengthen an existing user created kayak access trail to the North Fork

Nooksack River to reduce resource impacts (e.g., sedimentation), and improve access and safety for users

E. Improve Shuksan Picnic area

F. Improve site accessibility and recreation facilities at Douglas Fir and Silver Fir campgrounds and Heather Meadows

G. Install rock and log barriers at dispersed recreation sites (e.g., Razor Hone) to prohibit vehicular access and protect natural resources while maintaining snowshoe access

H. Install pedestrian crossing safety signs at road crossings (e.g., Nooksack Nordic Ski Area,

Wild Goose Trail)

I.  Install a CXT outdoor toilet in the existing Heather Meadows Parking

Public Comment Guidelines 

If you choose to comment, please submit your written or electronic comments to Theresa Mathis by April 30, 2013. Comments can be sent by mail or hand delivered to Mt. Baker Ranger District, Attention: Debra Pal, 810 State Route 20, Sedro-Woolley, WA, 98284. Comments may also be sent by fax to (360) 856-2632, or by email to comments-pacificnorthwest-mtbaker-snogualmiemtbaker@ fs.fcd.us. Electronic comments must be submitted with the following subject line, "Hwy 542 Enhancement Project", and as part of the actual e-mail message, or in another readable format such as plain text (.txt), rich text format (.rtf), .pdf, or Word (.doc). In cases where no identifiable name is attached to a comment, a verification of identity will be required for appeal eligibility. If using an electronic message, a scanned signature is one way to provide verification. The office business hours for those submitting hand-delivered comments are: 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

The 30-day public comment period ends April 30th. In order to be eligible to later appeal any decision made regarding the enhancement project a comment must be made during this period.
Please visit the Outdoor Advocates Calendar and use the link provided to add to your calendar.

More information on the project and the preliminary Decision Memo are available at: http://go.usa.gov/y6e

Legislative Update from Olympia

By Robert Dengel, Outdoor Advocate Volunteer

March 13th  marked an important legislative cutoff in Olympia, as bills for had to be passed out of their respective chambers. House Bills had to be passed out of the House, and Senate Bills had to be passed out of the Senate. In my previous post I explained how bill passage was like an antelope migration full of various dangers. So how did the herd of bills of recreation bills do after this cutoff? Well, we have been tracking twenty bills and it is now down to three. The bill herd has been thinned out. Seeing how this cutoff also signaled the half waypoint for the session, the remaining bills a long lonely journey yet to go. You might notice from the summary below there are no House Bills which we were tracking survived the cutoff, with no real reason other than other priorities come to the fore.  

As mentioned in prior posts many of other the Discover Pass and State Parks funding bills will likely remain on hold until the larger operating budget proposals begin moving through the legislature. 

Following are the bills that appear to be heading for survival thus far:

SSB 5057 Prohibits certain private, not-for-profit organizations acquiring real property through state funds (including grants and transfers) from prohibiting or restricting public access for hunting, fishing, trapping, or other outdoor recreation on that property. This bill was amended to allow for limiting public access where it is necessary to protect natural resources and/or cultural resources. The bill is scheduled for a hearing on March 20th in the House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources at 8:00 AM

SB 5097 Allows a married couple to pool their volunteer hours (24 hours are required) to obtain a complimentary Discover Pass. The bill is scheduled for a public hearing on March 19th in the House Committee on Community Development, and Housing & Tribal Affairs at 10:00 AM. 

SSB 5289 Allows a Discover Pass holder to display their pass in any prominent location on the vehicle, instead of just their windshield. Exempts those driving on non-gated forest roads managed by the state from needing a Discover Pass.  Language was removed that allowed DFW vehicle pass holders to purchase a Discover Pass for $5. The latest bill language does allow for bulk sales of the Discover Pass to retailers. The bill is scheduled for a public hearing on March 19th in the House Committee on Community Development, and Housing & Tribal Affairs at 10:00 AM. 

Olympic Wilderness Plan in Development

By Lisa Miller, Public Lands Programs Intern


The Olympic Wilderness of Olympic National Park consists of rugged and remote mountains, lush rainforest valleys, and wild, roadless coastline. Olympic is also one of the most popular wilderness destinations in North America, with nearly 40,000 overnight wilderness visitors each year. Olympic National Park is beginning the initial scoping to develop a Olympic National Park Wilderness Stewardship Plan.

Park staff have been travelling around Western Washington holding public meetings to answer questions and accept  comments from the public. All those interested in the management, conservation and protection of one of the most popular wilderness areas in America are highly encouraged to participate. By stopping in at a public meeting or open house to ask questions or to fill out the questionnaire about what is important to you truly emphasizes how we all play a role in the future of the many resources within the Olympic National Park (ONP).

The meeting I went to in downtown Seattle was held in a small conference room at the flagship REI store, how appropriate. I almost picked up a guide book for my next visit to the Olympic Peninsula. This meeting was set up in an open-house format; newly appointed ONP Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum greeted us at the door with a warm smile and a handshake. New to the Pacific Northwest, but not the Park Service, Creachbaum is happy to hear about personal values, and ideas of the park. She even enjoyed a few photos of the Elwha River from a fellow kayaker.

A small television played a 4-minute loop about the Wilderness Act and the goals of the Wilderness Stewardship Plan. Around the edges of the room were a dozen or so displays highlighting goals and steps of the planning process, goals of the plan, and prompting questions one should ask themselves about why ONP is important to them, including:
1. What makes the Olympic National Park wilderness area special to you and why?
2. When you visit the Olympic National Park wilderness area, what activities and experiences are most important to you?
3. What do you think the issues are in the Olympic National Park wilderness area?
4. Imagine you are visiting the Olympic National Park wilderness area 20 years from now. What conditions, experiences, visitor services, and facilities would you like to see?


Available to answer questions or just talk about your love of the park were two more staff members, having the opportunity to chat with each of them helps bring the process to a truly public setting.  As I am also learning more about the policies and planning processes that take place to manage public lands I found this setting to be very relaxed, comfortable and informative. Taking an active role is the only way to have a voice and be a part of the final decision. In the end if I have not done my part then I will not have a fair reason to critique the final Wilderness Stewardship Plan. Share your thoughts and protect what is important to you in the wilderness of Olympic National Par during the Wilderness Stewardship Plan Update.

Olympia Update

By Robert Dengel, Outdoor Advocate Volunteer

Photo by Han van Hoof @photopedia

The Washington State Legislature has been actively moving bills through their respective committees. This last Friday (March 1st) marked an important legislative cutoff, as bills for had to be passed out of their respective committees. The process of passing a bill into law is similar to a large migration of antelope. First, not every bill is going to make it out alive, as many will die along the way at different points. Second, many of those bills that do make it out alive are changed as the legislature amends them.

Multiple bills were able to make the cutoff and continue on with the migration that is the legislative process. Please note that many of the Discover Pass and State Parks funding bills will likely be put on hold until the larger operating budget proposals begin moving through the legislature. Some of the bills that did not pass out of committees contain elements that are considered necessary to implement the budget (i.e. bills related to the Discover Pass) may still resurrect themselves.  Following are the bills that appear to be heading for survival thus far:

SSB 5054 Requires increased legislative oversight of recreation and habitat lands acquired by state agencies. After being passed out of its second committee it goes to the Rules Committee to be considered for the floor of the Senate.

SSB 5057 Prohibits certain private, not-for-profit organizations acquiring real property through state funds (including grants and transfers) from prohibiting or restricting public access for hunting, fishing, trapping, or other outdoor recreation on that property. This bill was amended to allow for limiting public access where it is necessary to protect natural resources and/or cultural resources. After being passed out of its committee it goes to the Rules Committee to be considered for the floor of the Senate.

SB 5097 Allows a married couple to pool their volunteer hours (24 hours are required) to obtain a complimentary Discover Pass.  The bill was passed out of the Senate and is currently in the House Committee on Community Development and Housing & Tribal Affairs with a hearing scheduled for March 6th.

SSB 5289 Allows a Discover Pass holder to display their pass in any prominent location on the vehicle, instead of just their windshield. Exempts those driving on non-gated forest roads managed by the state from needing a Discover Pass. Allows DFW vehicle pass holders to purchase a Discover Pass for $5. After being passed out of committee it goes to the Rules Committee to be considered for the floor of the Senate.

SHB 1632 Creates a new vehicle tag for wheeled all terrain vehicles (certain types of 4x4s). Funds from the new tags goes into account to pay for ORV education and enforcement programs. . ORVs are allowed to operate on rural roads so long as the vehicle meets a number of safety requirements and drive no faster than 35 mph. The bill was amended to a require that ORV riders under the age 16 years must be supervised by an adult who is within a reasonable distance at all times. After being passed out of its committee it goes to the Rules Committee to be considered for the floor of the House.

HB 1704 Requires notices to local jurisdiction when State Parks takes
action to acquire, develop or close a park. After being passed out of its second committee it goes to the Rules Committee to be considered for the floor of the House.

To track these bills, I recommend using the Washington State Legislature bill tracking tool.

Outdoor Recreation = Big Business in WA

 PRESS RELEASE

Big Tent Outdoor Coalition points to new report showing outdoor recreation as big business in Washington—worth $22.5 billion

The Big Tent Outdoor Coalition, an alliance of more than two-dozen organizations including The Mountaineers, is pointing to a new study that shows outdoor recreation is an economic powerhouse in Washington State and across the country.

The Outdoor Industry Association’s (OIA) recently released a report that provides both national and state-by-state figures – and its data show that Washington State has the sixth-highest number of outdoor recreation sector jobs in the nation. Over 63% of Washingtonians participate in outdoor recreation activities each year.

The overall data for Washington State is stunning. $22.5 billion is spent each year on outdoor recreation here, directly supporting 226,600 jobs and generating $1.6 billion in state and local tax revenue.  Direct jobs include the design and development of outdoor gear and apparel; wholesaling and retailing those products; providing lodging and transportation services; serving as guides and outfitters; and more.

“Here in Washington, we’ve always believed that outdoor recreation opportunities and quality of life are inseparable from the economy,” said Kaleen Cottingham, Director, Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. “Finally, we have current data that demonstrates that these activities are not only an important part of our culture—they’re big business for the state and our local communities.” 

This is the first comprehensive update of the economic impact of outdoor recreation since the OIA released figures in 2006 and the new data show significant increases in consumer spending and jobs.  It is important to note that this report does not include equestrian, sailing and diving activities—popular pursuits in Washington that likely push these numbers even higher. 

“Protecting our natural areas and our legacy of outdoor recreation is the right thing to do – and it’s pretty clear from this data that it’s the economic thing to do as well,” said Martinique Grigg, Executive Director of The Mountaineers.

Peter Schrappen, Government Affairs Director for the Northwest Marine Trade Association, points out that Washington State’s history of investing in public access to the outdoors has helped build a thriving recreation industry.  “Outdoors businesses are successful in Washington because our state has had the foresight to ensure access to public lands, waterways and trails.  Those investments are not just smart from a quality of life standpoint but smart from a dollars and sense standpoint,” he said.

The Big Tent Coalition believes the OIA data bolsters and reinforces the need for Washington lawmakers to protect dedicated capital accounts for outdoor recreation activities, to provide general fund assistance for State Parks, and to support significant funding for programs such as Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program.

The national report as well as a one page fact sheet for each U.S. state is available on the OIA website at outdoorindustry.org/recreationeconomy.

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Mountaineer Nominated as Secretary of the Interior

By Sarah Krueger, Public Lands Programs Manager

Official White House Photo by Pete Souza 

On February 7, President Obama nominated one of our very own as the next Secretary of the Interior. Sally Jewell, chief executive at REI, is named to lead the department that oversees the stewardship of hundreds of millions of acres of public lands.  The Mountaineers is proud to support Sally Jewell’s nomination. Sally, who learned to climb with The Mountaineers as a teenager, is a Peak Society member and serves on our Advisory Council.   “As an active hiker, paddler and climber, Sally is well-versed in the value of outdoor recreation and the importance of our public lands,” remarked Martinique Grigg, Mountaineers Executive Director, “we are proud of Sally’s rise to this important post and look forward to working with her to protect public lands and encourage more Americans – young and old - to get outdoors.” 

 

The Mountaineers would like to thank outgoing Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar for his important contributions to recreation and conservation initiatives on our public lands in particular his work on the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative.

Outdoor Recreation in Olympia: An Overview of Legislation

By Robert Dengel, Outdoor Advocate Volunteer

The 2013 Legislative Session is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing sessions in recent years. The Legislature starts the session having to address a $2-2.5 billion shortfall due to a budget gap and a recent Washington State Supreme Court decision (McCleary v. State) which held that the Legislature was not adequately meeting their paramount duty to fund K-12 Education. To make matters more interesting two Democrats, Rodney Tom and Tim Sheldon, have joined Senate Republicans to form a majority “coalition” that looks to address budget issues without any new revenue. Needless to say those interested in promoting and protecting the great outdoors will have their work their work cut out for them during this session.

"Big Tent Outdoor Recreation Coalition" Legislative Day
Photo by Jim Thode

There are a number of bills that affect outdoor recreation; from the Discover Pass to land acquisitions.

State Parks Funding (also see Discover Pass)
State Parks is currently facing significant budget cuts, in part due to the Discover Pass generating less revenue than expected. State Parks is requesting $27 million from the general fund operating budget to help offset any significant new cuts. State Parks has already reduced its full time staff by a third as result of budget cuts from previous sessions. Any additional cuts will make it even harder to safely keep open parks, which we all enjoy.

SB 5575: Transfers funds from the litter tax over to State Parks. Amends the function of State Parks renewal and stewardship account and the outdoor recreation account for the maintenance and operation of existing facilities.

Discover Pass
In its second year of existence the Legislature has a number of bills that would tweak the Discover Pass. Most of the bills are focused on exemptions.

SB 5080: Allows individuals with a Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) vehicle pass to gain access to lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources where a Discover Pass is required.

SB 5084: Allows disabled veterans the ability to purchase a Discover Pass for $5 instead of $30. The bill also eliminates the temporary parking spots where a Discover Pass is not required.

SB 5097: Allows a married couple to pool their volunteer hours (24 hours are required) to obtain a complimentary Discover Pass.

SB 5266: Allows a person to purchase a Discover Pass through their vehicle renewals.

SB 5289: Allows a Discover Pass holder to display their pass in any prominent location on the vehicle, instead of just their windshield. Exempts those driving on non-gated forest roads managed by the state from needing a Discover Pass. Allows DFW vehicle pass holders to purchase a Discover Pass for $5.

SB 5319: Provides disabled veterans a free Discover Pass.

SB 5391/HB1755: Exempts vehicles with an ORV permit from needing a Discover Pass.

SB 5653/ HB 1530: State Parks would be allowed to request general funds to offset any loss of revenue from Discover Pass reductions and exemptions, based on a report delivered to the legislature. Would also create a greater effort to find and recognize donors towards to State Parks.

SB 5657: Provides a free Discover Pass for individuals with an identified need (e.g. veterans, food stamp recipients), as well as helps ensure access to parks by youth from low income families. Revenue from the Discover Pass, camp and reservation fees would be matched with revenue from the general fund. Also allows a married couple to pool their volunteer hours (see also SB 5097).

Off-Road Vehicles
SB 5513/ HB 1632: Creates a new vehicle tags for wheeled all terrain vehicles (certain types of 4x4s). Funds from the new tags goes into account to pay for ORV education and enforcement programs. . ORVs are allowed to operate on rural roads so long as the vehicle meets a number of safety requirements and drive no faster than 35 mph. The bill also requires that ORV riders under the age 16 years must be supervised by an adult who is within 300 feet at all times.

Land Acquisitions
HB 1704: Requires State Parks to provide written notice to ports and other local jurisdictions 60 days before acquiring land, developing a park, or closing a park, and respond to any requests from those jurisdictions.

SB 5054: Requires legislative approval for State Parks, DFW or DNR to acquire any lands. Such approval would be based in part on a plan submitted by the relevant agency on how they will maintain and operate the land purchased by the acquisition. This bill has passed its first committee.

SB 5057: Prohibits certain private, not-for-profit organizations acquiring real property through state funds (including grants and transfers) from prohibiting or restricting public access for hunting, fishing, trapping, or other outdoor recreation on that property. This bill has passed its first committee.

WWRP 
Capital Budget: The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program grant allows provides funding to state and local agencies to funds parks, trails and water access projects. The current recommended level is $90 million, an increase over the prior biennium.

Support funding for the Northwest’s Great Outdoors

By Kelly Huang, Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition

Calling on outdoor enthusiasts! Washington State’s largest funding source for safeguarding parks, trails, and water access– the Washington Wildlife & Recreation Program (WWRP) – needs your help!

The WWRP is the largest grant program funded from the capital construction budget that awards grants for conservation and recreation projects across the state. Every year trails, parks, and water access projects receive millions in WWRP grant dollars to create and maintain high quality hiking, skiing, kayaking, and climbing opportunities.

The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition is a non-profit citizens group founded in a historic bipartisan effort by former Governors Dan Evans and Mike Lowry. Our members consist of a diverse group of over 250 organizations representing conservation, business, recreation, hunting, fishing, farming, and community interests.

The Coalition promotes and advocates for state and federal funding for parks, wildlife habitat and working lands across Washington State, including the WWRP.

Pinnacle Peak Park is a forested volcanic cone rising 1,000 feet above the Enumclaw Plateau. With your help, access to the park would provide us sweeping vistas of Mount Rainier and the White River Valley.   Credit King County Parks

However, the state’s budget for the WWRP is limited. This year, projects like the PinnaclePeak Trailhead Development are at risk under the current budget level. Securing the WWRP will help improve access to the heavily visited Pinnacle Peak Park.

WWRP could also make the following projects possible:

*East Tiger Mountain Trail System, King County

* Olallie Trail Development, King County

*Spokane River Centennial Trail Extension, Spokane

If you want to support these projects, we need you to express your support for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) to Governor Inslee and your legislators in the 2013-2015 biannual capital budget.

Click here to learn more and take action.

UPDATED: Olympic National Park Launches Planning Process for Existing Park Wilderness

Press release from Olympic National Park Service

Avalanche lilies- NPS

Olympic National Park invites the public to participate in developing a Wilderness Stewardship Plan to help protect and manage the designated wilderness lands within the park.

"The Olympic Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1988 and has become one of the most popular wilderness destinations in the country," said Olympic National Park Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum. "We are excited to be moving ahead with a comprehensive plan for how we protect and manage this area and are looking forward to hearing thoughts and ideas from our public."

The plan will be developed in accordance with the Wilderness Act of 1964 and analyzed through an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process. In the coming weeks, a Notice of Intent to Prepare an EIS will be published in the Federal Register. The public comment period begins today and will continue for 60 days after the Federal Register notice is published.

"One of the first steps in any planning process is to learn what the public's thoughts, questions and concerns are," said Creachbaum. "We welcome online and written comments and have also scheduled eight public workshops for people to share their thoughts and learn more about the plan."

More information about the Olympic Wilderness Stewardship Plan and planning process, including a public scoping newsletter, is available online at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/olymwild. Comments may also be submitted at that website.

Public workshops will be offered around the Olympic Peninsula and are scheduled as follows.

February 19, 2013, 5:00-7:00pm
Sekiu Community Center, 42 Rice, Sekiu, WA 98381

February 20, 2013, 5:00-7:00pm
Department of Natural Resources Conference Room, 411 Tillicum Lane, Forks, WA 98331

February 21, 2013, 4:00-6:00pm
Amanda Park Library, 6118 U.S. Highway 101, Amanda Park, WA 98526

March 4, 2013, 5:00-7:00pm
Seattle REI Flagship Store, 222 Yale Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109

March 5, 2013, 5:00-7:00pm
Ridgetop High School, 10600 Hillsboro Drive NW, Silverdale, WA 98383

March 6, 2013, 5:00-7:00pm
Shelton Civic Center, 525 W. Cota Street, Shelton, WA 98584

**NEW** March 7, 2013, 5:00-7:00pm

Capital Plaza Hotel, 900 Capital Way South, Olympia, WA 98501

**NEW** March 26, 2013, 4:30-6:30

Aberdeen Timberland Library, 121 East Market Street, Aberdeen, WA  98520

Public comments may also be mailed or delivered to:
Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum
Attn: Wilderness Stewardship Plan
Olympic National Park
600 East Park Avenue Port Angeles, WA 98362

Ninety-five percent of Olympic National Park was designated as wilderness in 1988, and is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The Wilderness Act of 1964 established the National Wilderness Preservation System and established a policy for the protection of wilderness resources for public use and enjoyment.

For more information or to be added to the Olympic National Park Wilderness Stewardship Plan, people should visit http://parkplanning.nps.gov/olymwild or call the park at 360-565-3004. --NPS--

Pack a Picnic for Paradise: No need to bring extra for the Wildlife

By Lisa Miller, Public Lands Programs Intern

Cascade Fox -  Courtesy of Dave Cowell Photography

Now that we humans have fully embraced the winter season, stocked the pantry with food and piled on the layers of warm clothing and firewood; we would like to turn your attention as to how other animals prepare themselves and survive the winter.

Animals such as the rare Cascade Fox, found only at Mount Rainier and Mount Adams, are working hard to gather a cache of food for the winter. The foxes take great care in keeping their supply safe, hidden, and healthy. With relatively small stomachs for their size foxes eat small meals frequently, thus if they are successful in catching large prey they will save most of it to last several meals. Foxes spread their caches across large areas to prevent the loss of all their reserves in the event of spoilage or raid. If one small reserve is lost the fox can usually recover those calories with little stress.

Food scraps and debris from meal preparation are the items least likely to be considered litter; however these are among the most harmful types of litter. Leaving behind small scraps out of pity for the animals trying to make it through long winters does not increase their chance for survival in fact it does the opposite. When an animal happens to find an apple core or cracker crumb and take it back to their cache there is an introduced risk of contaminating the rest of their “pantry.” For example, imagine the carton of raspberries in your refrigerator, when one starts to grow a little fuzz action must be taken quickly to save the rest. Now if you have several fridges to monitor you may not notice that the supply has started to go bad and by the time you return everything is wasted, including all the energy it took to collect the raspberries in the first place.

Winter is one of the hardest times of the year for most animals due to the lack of available vegetation, frozen water sources, shorter daylight hours and increased stresses on the body. Local wildlife come to rely on the food that is left behind by frequent visitors during the warmer months when outdoor recreation is high and can slowly lose the ability to forage and hunt for themselves and their offspring. Higher rates of starvation in the winter occur if they have not been gathering food supplies. Many others do not survive due to habituation to people and the roadways, several foxes have been hit by cars attempting to find another Snicker's bar.

Cascade Fox at Mount Rainier - Courtesy of Kyle Wicomb

It can be tempting and exciting to feed small wild animals such as Townsend's chipmunks, Steller's jay, and the Cascade fox, however bringing these animals into areas of heavy traffic and visitors also brings their larger predators such as black bears and mountain lions into those same areas. Over time, both large and small animals become comfortable in the presence of humans and their natural behaviors change, including aggressiveness.

Thus, a seemingly harmless act of throwing out an apple core can be detrimental to the wildlife during harsh winter months, but there is not any time of the year it would be acceptable. Properly storing food as well as any other scented items is the easiest way to keep animals a safe distance away. There are several simple ways you can minimize your impacts and likelihood of further habituating wildlife, it all starts at home when planning your trip. Using a storage bag to mask the sight and smells of your food is a great practice; try an OPSAK or Grub Pack. If you are only going for a picnic preparation is still very important, repackage snacks together to avoid excess garbage, such as twist ties and corners of packaging. For those times you are going deeper into the backcountry take a Bear Vault or bag and most importantly know how to hang it out of an animal’s reach.

As of January 2013 Cascade foxes have been sighted in areas of winter camping at Paradise, and tracks were seen around a tent at Longmire. Currently Mount Rainier National Park and U.S. Geological Survey are conducting research to assess visitor activities and impacts. Educating the public about these behaviors and enforcement of no-feeding laws will continue to be a major part of the project. Luckily, Wildlife Ecologist Mason Reid has reported the foxes seem to be less persistent along the roadways and wilder than in past years. As visitors become more informed in how they can keep wildlife wild this trend is expected to continue.