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Proposed action for Over-Snow Vehicle use available for comment

BISHOP, Calif., September 6, 2023 – Environmental analysis has been initiated by the Inyo National Forest (the Forest) for the Over-Snow Vehicle (OSV) use, and will be holding two public meetings on September 20 and 21. Although comments can be submitted any time, those received by October 15 will be especially useful in the preparation of the environmental assessment.

The OSV Use Designation Process designates areas for these vehicles consistent with the Travel Management Rule, Subpart C. This project will officially designate system roads, trails and areas where OSV use will be allowed. Although the proposed action is very similar to the current OSV management on the Forest, there are some proposed modifications to consider changing conditions and minimize impacts on natural, cultural and recreational resources.

This project will review the entire portion of the Forest that has adequate snowfall, excluding areas where OSV use is already prohibited, such as Wilderness, Research Natural Areas and Recommended Wilderness.

The proposed action can be viewed at www.fs.usda.gov/project/inyo/?project=61466, and is currently available for a 45-day public scoping period. With this scoping notice we would like to invite your comments regarding issues, opportunities, concerns, and suggestions for the proposed project. Please submit your comments on the project website.

There will be two public open houses, one in person, and one virtual:

For more information about how to provide comments, please contact [email protected] or (760) 920-3048.