Forest Service’s Liz Davy graciously agreed to meet with
me monthly to discuss any Forest Service plans for the Island Park Caldera. We
held our first “kumbaya” last Friday. These are the bullet points of that
conversation:
With the funds generated by the Island Park Chamber’s “Sawtelle
Fun Run”, the Forest Service intends to finish the non-motorized community
trail that stretches from Harriman Park to Henry’s Lake. Signage will be
installed along the trail this summer. Liz wanted to convey her appreciation of
the Chamber for their support of this project.
Last summer’s decision to close numerous ATV trails
throughout the caldera may not be implemented for five years. Lack of funding
will preclude efforts to erect the necessary signage and block existing trails.
The only road grading in the caldera this summer will be
on Chick Creek and Green Canyon Road (and those two projects are tentative).
Liz recommended that one avoid driving on muddy back roads this spring or
accept the deep ruts throughout the year.
A project will be implemented this summer to bear-proof
the Forest Service campgrounds. Food safes, lighting and improved garbage cans
will be installed. With the increase in the grizzly population, efforts are
being made to limit bear visits to the campgrounds.
The Forest Service will be conducting Sustainable Fire
Community seminars July 22-25 in Island Park in an effort to help property
owners protect the area from catastrophic fires. More info will be available,
including locations as the time nears.
There is no money to fill and grade the craters in the
access road to the boat launch at Big Springs. There is an effort underway to
partner local volunteers and the Forest Service to fix the problem before
someone loses a car.
