New sign (see
larger version) placed on main
campground road near Big Meadow in early 2009.
The Forest Service contracted for significant vegetative
cuts in Dolly Copp during the first half of 2009. The reasoning
has been publicly posted on the sign above.
This clearance activity has been controversial,
legitimate safety pruning excepted. The sign states in part "It
may look a little discouraging now, but natural processes will
quickly improve what we see today." But the project has been
described as poorly executed and in part unnecessary.
I heard a local resident's comment that I believe
rings true; the USFS services contract for the cutting work was
poorly worded, insensitive to continuing ambience in an historic
pedestrian area.
I was told that timber cutting contractor language
suitable for an out of sight deep woods location was used, without
adaptation to the special needs of a venerated and historic recreation
area.
To their credit USFS staff are open to comment on
their activities and protests have been made to receptive ears.
Moving into 2010, some significant changes are proposed
for Dolly Copp as part of a rehabilitation project. Again there
is some controversy.
But also again the Forest Service is listening and is working
within the policy context is a rustic and historic federal recreational
facility.
Read all about
the
2010
Dolly Copp Campground
Rehabilitation Project.
