From: Ben Wells

Sent: Monday, June 02, 2008 3:33 PM
To: COACHER, MARY (DNR)
Cc: Dave Hiatt

Subject: Proposed WAC 332-52 (locking up state land)

Dear Ms. Coacher, I oppose the proposed new rules. They are clearly designed to lock out public citizens from public land because the DNR is not interested in serving the public and is instead interested in reducing its responsibilities to the public.

First, the proposal repeals a long standing policy with the DNR to “…encourage public use of all roads and trails … consistent with trust responsibilities…”  The DNR is proposing to “REPEAL” this policy.  This is very troubling.

Second, the DNR has not illustrated what serious problems are arising from light ORV use (trail bikes and Quads).  I am only writing on behalf of these uses as I do not believe they are causing any serious problems with trust land.

Third, the DNR is criminalizing trail work and volunteerism.  It also threatens fines for simply riding on public land when no damage is occurring.

Forth, kicking off law abiding citizens instead of managing the use and incorporating them into the process to protect state trust land is short sighted.  The public needs state land to recreate on and for families to enjoy.  Instead, the DNR is kicking off reasonable use and doing nothing material in combating the real problem (timber theft, illegal drug manufacturer, garbage dumping) Furthermore, the presence of an educated public on trust land could go a long way towards combating these REAL problems.

I think the DNR should think out of the box and not be afraid to show some leadership.  This is poor rule making without regard to what is needed on trust land. 

Ben Wells (member of Skagit Motorcycle Club)