Closings due to bear activity.............
http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home.../trail-updates
http://www.appalachiantrail.org/docs...losure-map.pdf
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/gwj/a...ces/?aid=48759
Closings due to bear activity.............
http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home.../trail-updates
http://www.appalachiantrail.org/docs...losure-map.pdf
https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/gwj/a...ces/?aid=48759
Step in right direction finally
Shame it took so long
Delay and other attempts just made the problem worse and solution take longer
GSMNP is a good model to follow, they handle similar issues continuously.
I suspect ....the delay was until after peak summer activity was over.. ... .politics
Did you read the list of groups involved with formulating a plan?
It was quite long and involved several agencies.
The the government moves in mysterious ways.
They do what they do because they can.
Wayne
Where is the list of groups I nvolved in formulating the plan? I can’t find it in the links provided in post #1. While the ATC publicized the order, there doesn’t seem to be any indication that the ATC, or anyone other group, was involved in the FS decision and order. What would be the motive of the FS, or any other group , in delaying past peak hiking season. “The government moves in mysterious ways” doesn’t answer any of these questions.
Last edited by gpburdelljr; 09-01-2018 at 14:34.
LaurieP, The ATC spokes person, listed the committee members when the group was formed. In August I imagine. I was on vacation at the time and not privileged to 24/7 WhiteBlaze access. A WhiteBlaze search should find the information.
Wayne
The answer is rather evident >>> because it involves several government agencies. These government agencies are so effective and competent that they still have nothing posted at Elk Garden. We drove by the parking lot/trail head at 3:30pm today. Counted 27 vehicles in parking lot and two separate groups that appeared to be backpacking (packs too large for day hikers) heading towards Mt Rogers. Problem should have been handled in the spring and is still being bungled.
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Travel not for the destination, but for the joy of the journey.
As far as I know, no one has been injured as a result of the way the situation has been handled.
Surprising they haven't tried the simple solution. Posting at each access point (with a copy of the map shown in the links to make it easier to see which area they describe and where you are in relation to it):
The section of the AT between x & y has had increased bear presence. If you plan to camp in this area make sure you have appropriate items to protect your food and gear from bears.
Then let everyone choose what to do - if they choose to ignore it and something happens that's their fault, not anyone else's.
Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries
Grayson Highlands State Park
US Forest Service - GWJeffersion
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club
Were the primary entities determining a plan. Closure was delayed in part because due to an additional review requested surprisingly high up the food chain.
Happy to answer any other specific questions
Andrew, ATC.