From: Roybal, Marcos A -FSTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: FW: Fossil CreekDate: Monday, January 23, 2017 3:56:27 PM

  

From: Branton, Nicole -FS Sent: Monday, January 23, 2017 3:55 PMTo: Roybal, Marcos A -FS ; Munding, Elizabeth A -FS

Subject: FW: Fossil Creek   From: Barbi Buchanan [mailto:barbivaaler51@gmail.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 18, 2017 2:14 PMTo: Branton, Nicole -FS Subject: Fossil Creek I support Preferred Alternative D that would limit visitors to Fossil Creed to 1700 perday along with the other improvements and limitations. Thanks for asking forfeedback. --Barbi Barbi Buchanan480.330.6049 cell1108 No. Alyssa CirclePayson, AZ 85541-3371

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From: NICK ElenzTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Monday, January 23, 2017 9:05:23 PM

I have hiked in the area for 30 plus years, I get the permit, ok with it.What I would like is some way to permit back country hikers to allow access into the canyon earlierthan the current 8 Am, in summer. I have sometimes in the past hit the trail in the dark before sunrise. It is the best time to be in the wilderness, when the sun rises.Please consider it.Thank YouNick Elenz602 881 2399

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From: Rich RudowTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Monday, January 23, 2017 11:23:57 AM

Hello,

As an avid hiker, canyoneer, and paddler, I'm enclosing these comments to the Fossil CreekCRMP. In general, it's my view that the preferred Alternative (E) is far too heavy handed inthe development of infrastructure to enable increased use. As you know, the main problem atFossil Creek has been increased use by people who don't have a sense of Wilderness ethics. Iapplaud the use of adaptive management to maintain the Wilderness values of Fossil Creek,but the preferred alternative suggests the use of adaptive management as a tool to buildinfrastructure to enable vastly increased visitation. I cannot support this idea.

I believe the "People At One Time" (PAOT) should remain at the current level rather than beallowed to expand as a result of infrastructure construction. Allowing more people will onlybring more impacts. The permit system has shown success in reducing the environmentalimpacts and it should be maintained and improved. I'm in favor of modest infrastructureimprovement, using a thoughtful adaptive management process involving the public in thedesign phase, to further reduce the impacts of the current PAOT, but not development focusedon cramming more people into an already sensitive area.

Paddlers have been using Fossil Creek for kayak and packraft outings for many years. Ibelieve paddlers are far more educated in Wilderness ethics and safety than the general "waterplay" swimmer, tuber, or jumper. I'm troubled that paddlers are lumped into this water playcategory. Paddlers need to be broken out from this water play category and regulated basedon their unique ethics and safety attributes. Furthermore, I'm firmly opposed to any closure ofwaterfalls or other features to paddling. Fossil Creek is special because it's one of the veryfew year round water courses deep enough for paddling. Paddlers deserve the right to paddlethrough rather than having to walk around regulated features. Of course, I fully supportregulations to ensure that paddling is safe such as the use of customary safety systems (PFD's,helmets, throw bags, scouting waterfalls). I could support thoughtful restrictions on paddlingin order to help safety around the waterfalls, such as scouting falls to alert swimmers topaddlers playing through, or the use of seasonal restrictions, such as running the falls in the offseasons, if scouting proves to be ineffective. I fully support the detailed comments submittedby the American Packrafting Association on the Fossil Creek CRMP.

Finally, I do not support commercial guiding in the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic area. Thereare already too many people with impacts. Guiding will reduce the number of permitsavailable for the unguided recreational community.

I sincerely appreciate the work the Forest Service is doing to balance the visitor experience atFossil Creek with minimal environmental impacts.

Thank you for receiving my comments,

Rich RudowMesa Arizona

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: Vergano, Brendan A.To: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Monday, January 23, 2017 7:55:00 PM

Please keep Fossil Creek public access! My family and I have gone to Fossil Creek many timesover the past couple of years and it would be a shame if it were closed down. It is a beautifulplace for all the enjoy and should be kept open for all.-Brendan Vergano

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: Joni WardTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockCc: Dawn Goldman; Kris SchloemerSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP Proposed Actions CommentsDate: Monday, January 23, 2017 11:55:29 AM

comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us To: U. S. Forest ServiceFossil Creek CRMP Group Re: Fossil Creek CRMP Proposed Actions CommentsDate: January 23, 2017

I am writing to express my opinion about the proposed actions for the CRMP for the FossilCreek area. Over the last 5 years I have been the coordinating botanist on a Floristic Surveyof the area bounded on the west by the old Irving Power Plant site and the east by theconfluence of Sand Rock and Calf Pen Canyons, including the Fossil Springs Trailhead andTrail, Fossil Creek Botanical Area, the Flume Trail and Wilderness area and FR 708 betweenthese two areas. This project entitled “Fossil Creek Watershed” originated out of the PlantAtlas Project of Arizona (PAPAZ) and has included up to 12 other botanists and volunteers(occasionally including USFS Staff). We have collected from about 72 families and have alist of about 350 taxa so far. My colleagues on this project, Dawn Goldman and KrisSchloemer, have submitted detailed opinions on this matter as well. As your group is wellaware, this area is rich in habitat, wildlife, archeological sites and geological formationsincluding the unique formations in and along Fossil Creek.

Having visited this area multiple times, in all seasons over the last 5 years, including a recent“bucket list” backpacking trip, I just want to say “Thank you” for the 2016 interimmanagement reservation system. The difference in the amount of trash and overall apparentdisruption in the habitat of the area was striking in a positive way. In 2015 we had all agreedthat we would not visit the Waterfall Trail again because it was just too depressing with all ofthe trash and the reservation system in 2016 made a big difference.

Realizing that one cannot pick and choose parts of the proposed action plans I feel thatAlternative B with enhanced protection would offer the best protection of this beautifultreasure while still providing access for the public. I find the following actions appropriateand attractive:

The addition of “vault and portable toilets, trash receptacles, kiosks, signs, interpretive trail,barriers, bike racks and gates” would provide a safer, healthier and richer experience.

The setting aside of a site for Tribal use, assuring this has been vetted with the tribes thatwould use it, would provide a secluded, protected area.

The designation of camping sites at Fossil Spring Historic Dam would provide for awilderness experience in this unique habitat.

Development of the West Welcome Center with interpretive displays, trails, vault toilets andparking will encourage visitors to learn more about the habitats around Fossil Creek and theirsignificance historically, prehistorically and as part of the Verde River Watershed.

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:dawn380@cox.netmailto:phx-schloemer@cox.net

Continued closer of FR 708 between the junction of FR 591 on the east and the WaterfallTrailhead (Lewis) on the east. (see note below)

I would ask reconsideration on the following point in Alternative B: Consider closing thewaterfall area to swimming-I have hiked all along the Waterfall Trail and there are many spotsfor swimming. I approve of the waterfall overlook and restricting swimming will protect thehabitat and protect people from injuries. The “hanging gardens” in this area have not beenfully documented and closing the waterfall to swimming would protect this are for futurestudies.

In Alternative C, one of the actions includes adding picnic tables and camping sites at theFossil Springs (renamed Bear) Trailhead. I like this idea as it allow more of the generalpopulation to explore the area without having to hike a steep trail or drive in from CampVerde. This site is already somewhat developed and has been used for grazing and would notadd any additional disruption to the habitat.

Please do not open FR 708 between the junction with 591 on the east and with LewisTrailhead on the west. Herbarium records found in SEINet indicate that Galium collomiae canbe found along this section of road. While we have not observed it along the road, I believewe will find it in the future.

Thank you for extending the time for providing input on the Proposed Alternatives. I had afamily emergency and having additional time helped me get this done.

Yours truly,

Joni Ward1261 E. La Jolla DriveTempe, Arizona 85282jbeward@rocketmail.com

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From: Wirl, Austin C.To: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Monday, January 23, 2017 8:14:27 PM

To whom it may concern, I am emailing to you today to petition you to keep Fossil Creek open. The permit program that thegovernment has implemented has worked, and shutting down this beautiful piece of propertyfrankly makes no sense whatsoever. This property is very important to not only me, but also the entire state as a whole. I am not fromArizona but I can tell the people here have a passion for this land and would feel terrible if the fedswere to shut it down. Regards,Austin WirlEmbry Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, AZ208-891-7122 | wirla@my.erau.edu

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

ARIZONA SHERIFFS ASSOCIATION

1910 W. JEFFERSON• PHOENIX, ARIZONA• 85009 TELEPHONE: (602) 252-6563 • FACSIMILE: (602) 254-0969

MARK DANNELS, COCHISE COUNTY SHERIFF, PRESIDENT

JIM DRISCOLL, COCONINO COUNTY SHERIFF, VICE PRESIDENT

THE ARIZONA SHERIFFS ASSOCIATION IS THE ONE UNITED CREDIBLE VOICE REPRESENTING LAW

ENFORCEMENT AND PUBLIC SAFETY FOR THE COUNTIES OF ARIZONA

January 24, 2017

Marcus Roybal Coconino National Forest P.O. Box 20429 Sedona, AZ 86341

RE: Fossil Creek CRMP

Dear Mr. Roybal:

The Arizona Sheriffs Association wishes to express concerns as part of the public comment period for the upcoming Comprehensive River Management Plan by the U.S. Forest Service regarding the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River in the Coconino and Tonto National Forests. While it is the sheriffs offices of Yavapai and Gila counties that handle the first responder, search and rescue, and law enforcement issues in the Fossil Creek recreation area, the Arizona Sheriffs Association believes that any type of forest management plan in Arizona requires the input of local agencies, especially law enforcement.

It is our understanding that after an initial permitting plan was put into place in consultation with local law enforcement, five new alternative plans have now been proposed by an outside company. These new options were established without the input of local law enforcement or any of the community working groups that were used to come to a consensus on the permitting plan. The U.S . Forest Service is suggesting moving forward with Plan E, which closes the lower waterfall and prohibits waterplay in that area. This is the main attraction of the area and closing it would be an economic loss to area businesses and seems like a dramatic approach given that the permitting plan has been successful.

Requiring permits for the Fossil Creek area resulted in some of the public safety goals that were identified at the beginning of the process. For example, in the past season in the Yavapai County portion of the creek, there have been no fatal accidents, no DU!s on Fossil Creek Road, and vehicle crashes and Search and Rescue missions were both reduced by half.

However, there are other components of Plan E that would be welcome changes for law enforcement. A rehabilitation of FR 708 would once again provide the access law enforcement needs when an emergency situation arises and time is of the essence. In addition, we would encourage the maintenance of the upper springs trail and we oppose the removal of the bridge from the Irving service road.

AN AFFILIATE MEMBER OF THE ARIZONA ASSOCIATION OF (OUNTIES • JEN MARSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

page 2 of 2

As you know, local law enforcement plays a crucial role in public safety needs of all of Arizona's recreation areas. Any of our sheriffs, especially those from Yavapai and Gila are willing to sit down and discuss these items in further detail.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue and we look forward to continuing to be partners in providing access and safety for those wishing to visit Arizona's public lands.

Sincerely,

The Hon. Mark Dannels President, Arizona Sheriffs Association Cochise County Sheriff

AN AFFILIATE MEMBER OF THE ARIZONA ASSOCIATION OF COUNTIES• JEN MARSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

From: Jon VickTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockCc: Alan Newberry; Carlos Pinzon; Dan Collins; Davin Benner; Dean Wells; Don Walker; Donna Littlepage; Doug

McGlothlin; Jake Hotsenpiller; Jim Reilly; Jon Lewis; Justin Cartwright; Larry Lemke; Mark Yost; Matt Maurer;Mike Neal; Paula Swenski; Rich Kilgore; Robb Keller; Vince Myers; Gary Griffith; Steve Vick

Subject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 3:52:18 PM

I am a lifetime Arizona resident who has enjoyed Fossil Creek for years.

I highly approve of the current management plan. It works great, and has done much topreserve the area. In fact, I support increasing the user fee in order to cover costs ofadditional personnel to ensure those enjoying the area are complying with rules, includingsafety and habitat preservation.

That said, I am very much against the proposal to limit access to only a few "parking areas"along the creek. There are better ways to prevent the need for emergency rescues anddegrading of the habitat by a few irresponsible people.

Fossil Creek is an Arizona jewel that swimmers, hikers, boaters, backpackers, and campersshould all be able to enjoy. It is worthy of state or even national designation, and responsiblesteward-citizens will pay more for the privilege of enjoying it while protecting it at the sametime. Please keep the creek open to responsible, taxpaying citizens.

Sincerely,

Jon VickTeacher,Prescott Valley, Arizona

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From: American Packrafting AssociationTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek commentsDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 10:59:49 AMAttachments: APAcomments-FossilCreek.pdf

Hello,

Please accept the following PDF document with comments on the Fossil Creek CRMP fromAmerican Packrafting Association.

Would you please confirm that you received the document and are able to open it?

Thank you,

Brad MeiklejohnPresident

We will see you on the trails and on the water!

******************************************

American Packrafting Associationhttp://www.packraft.org

Board of DirectorsBrad Meiklejohn, PresidentThomas Turiano, Vice PresidentMoe Witschard, TreasurerForrest McCarthyRoman DialTheresa LundquistDavid NixSarah Tingey

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.ushttp://www.packraft.org/

“Atthewater’sedge…justkeepgoing” January25,2017MarcosA.RoybalFossilCreekProjectCoordinatorCoconinoNationalForestRedRockRangerDistrict8375StateRoute179Sedona,AZ86351DearMarcosRoybal;WehavereviewedtheFossilCreekWildandScenicRiverCRMPproposedactionsandalternatives,andappreciate the opportunity to comment on behalf of our 1,300 members and the paddling andconservationcommunities.TheAmericanPackraftingAssociation(APA)isaninternationalassociationofpaddlersdedicatedtotheconservationofwildriversandwildplaces,promotionofpackraftersafetyandeducation,andpreservationofpackraftingopportunitiesonwildriversandinwildplaces.We fully appreciate the extreme challenges planners face in writing this CRMP and commend theCoconinoNationalForestongeneratingfivereasonableandsimplealternatives,andsharingthemwiththe public in an open, simple, and organizedway.We appreciate the diligent care you have taken toprotectthisuniqueandsensitiveplace,bothinthepastandintheCRMPalternatives,whiledelineatingsustainablecarryingcapacitiesforthearea’sgrowingrecreationalinterests.For APA and itsmembers, Fossil Creek is of paramount importance as a venue for packrafting in thesouthwestern U.S. because of its uniquely magnificent geology and hydrology, and its rareness as aperennial navigable stream in an otherwise vast dry desert. For packrafters, whose inspiration foroutdoorendeavorsisborninadesiretoephemerallyexperienceuniqueandmagnificentlandscapeslikeFossil Creek by paddling or hiking, we not only advocate for the conservation of waterways and theprivilege to paddle them, we also care equally about preserving wildness and biodiversity in thelandscape through which rivers and trails run. The APA Board and staff have therefore collaboratedintensivelywithlocalandregionalpaddlersandhikers,andAmericanWhitewater,tocarefullycraftourcomments below. Bluntly, we strongly favor a combination of alternatives B and C—EnhancedProtections and a Non-Motorized Experience—both to preserve Fossil Creek in amore pristine state,while allowing formanagedpaddling, hiking, biking, swimming, and camping.However,wewill directourcommentstowardthepreferredalternative—Long-termAdaptiveManagement—withtheintentionofsteeringthatplantowardtheconservativeendofthespectrum.In general, we are concerned that Alternative E—Long-term Adaptive Management—would giveauthoritiesthegreenlighttoactandreactinFossilCreekwithoutsufficientlyinvolvingstakeholdersinthe planning/design process, and without committing to a long-range vision for Fossil Creek. If

AmericanPackraftingAssociationPOBox13

Wilson,WY83014907-947-6437

info@packraft.orgwww.packraft.org

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Alternative E has any vision, it is for building up infrastructure to handlemaximum use, rather thanenvisioning how to preserve and highlight the area’s wild, scenic, and recreational attributes. Thepreferredalternativeconjures imagesofacity-park-likeenvironment,withboardwalks,bridges,picnictables, benches, fences, and closed signs instead of the quiet backcountry paradisemany of us desire.Thatsaid,asmuchaswemayromanticizetothecontrary,therealityisthatFossilCreekhasbecometoopopular, and access to this unique area is too easy, to sustain the impossible dream scenariowithoutfurther degradation of area resources. Hence, we suggest a downscaled version of the preferredAlternativeEthatalignswiththefollowingprinciples:LOWVISITORNUMBERSAllof thealternatives,except forAlternativeA,proposeadjustmentstovisitorcapacities,ranging from610 People At One Time (PAOT) in Alternative B to 1705 PAOT in Alternative E. We advocate forpreservingthewildandscenicqualityofFossilCreekbycontinuingthecurrentreservationsystemandcappingvehicleandPAOTnumberstoAlternativeBlevels.CommentsCoconinoNationalForest implementedapermit systematFossilCreek in2016specificallybecauseofoveruse and associated refuse, erosion, and other impacts. Since the implementation of the newreservation system, it has beenwidely hailed as a resounding success. The outstandingly remarkablevalues(ORVs)atFossilCreekhavebeengreatlyenhancedbyscalingbackthenumberofvisitors.Scalingusebackuptomorethandoublethecurrentcapacityhasthepotentialtoreversethepositiveprogressalreadymade,regardlessofnewinfrastructurethatmaybeadded.SuggestedRevisiontoPreferredAlternativeLimit visitation/PAOT initially, and use a thoughtful adaptive management process that instills LNTethics to scale back up capacities to Alternative B levels. Improve existing facilities by grading andresurfacingroadsandparkingareas,andincreasingsignage,fencing,andtrails.Transgressinguserscanbefinedandbannedfromthearea,ratherthanremovingprivilegesfromresponsiblevisitors.DISASSOCIATEPADDLINGfromWATERPLAYNoneof thealternativesspecificallyaddresses the interestsofpaddlers,whoare lumpedunder“waterplay”inthealternatives.Paddlersshouldnotbelumpedassuch,butrathermanagedasaseparateusergroup.Paddlershavedevelopedlongstandingsafetymechanisms,backcountryexperience,andLeaveNoTraceethicsthatarerareamongeverydayinner-tubersandswimmers,etc.CommentsPaddlershavea longhistoryof recreationandstewardship inFossilCreekbothprior toandsince theremoval of the hydroelectric dam. Not only is Fossil Creek an exceptional river resource for paddlersbecause of its extraordinary natural qualities—the only navigable travertine waterway in the UnitedStates—itisalsoofcriticalimportancetothepaddlingcommunitybecauseoflimitedalternativesinthedry State of Arizona. Outside of spring run-off events on the Salt and Verde, or Grand Canyon lotterypermits,FossilCreekistheonlywhitewaterwaterwayinArizonawithyear-roundflowdeepenoughforpaddling.Hikersandmotoristshavethousandsofotheroptions.Paddlersdonot.Withthemiddlestretchof Fossil Creek designated as a “recreational” river under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, paddlersrequestrecognitionasauniquerecreationalstakeholder in themanagementofFossilCreek,and tobe

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addressed separately from hikers, swimmers, bicyclists, equestrians, andmotorized users during anyfutureAdaptiveManagementProcess.Inthebigpicture,paddlersarerepresentedbylocalandnationalorganizations,whichhaveestablishedethicsandcodesofconduct,andcanwieldinfluenceovergroupbehavior.OnFossilCreek,paddlersarelikely the most well-equipped and skilled recreationists to visit the area. Paddlers are ordinarilyequippedwithappropriateclothingandequipmentfortheriverenvironment, includingdrysuits,PFDs,helmets,firstaidsupplies,andhigh-techfootwear,watercraft,andrescueequipment.Moreover,becausepaddlerstypicallytraininswiftwaterandhigh-anglerescuetechniques,theycanbeimportantalliestoForest Rangers inmaking the river environment safe and enjoyable for all visitors.While numbers ofpaddlers should be limited like all other users, paddlers request continuing access, regardless ofswimmeraccidentsandbehavior,alongtheentirelengthofFossilCreek,andespeciallywithintheWildandScenicrecreationalmiddlesectionofFossilCreek.SuggestedRevisiontoPreferredAlternative:Thedistinctmanagement and enforcement objectives that arewarranted forpaddling onFossil CreekcouldbeaccomplishedbydesignatingthestreamasaBlueTrail,similartotheVerdeRiver,butwithonesignificantdifference.Becauseofitssmallsize,FossilCreekissuitableonlyforsmallpaddlecraft,suchaskayaksandpackrafts.Hence,noadditionalinfrastructure,suchasnewtrailheads,trailerparking,orboatramps,wouldberequired.ThepurposeoftheBlueTraildesignationwouldbetorecognizeandmanagepaddling as an existing and independent recreational use of Fossil Creek, and to help ensure thatpaddlershaveaseatatthetableasanindependentstakeholderintheadaptivemanagementprocess.TheBlue Trail designation could include requirements for special paddling permits, standards for paddlecraft,minimumstandardsfortrainingandcertification,equipmentsuchasPFDs,helmets,whistles,andthrowbags,andmandatorysafetypracticessuchasscoutingwaterfalls.Also,becausemanypaddlersembark frommiddleandupperFossilCreek formulti-daypaddling tripsthatend fardownstreamon theVerdeRiver,werequesta specialparkingallotment forpaddlerswhoneed to leave vehicles overnight for several days. For spur-of-the-moment paddling trips when riverflowsarehighduringpermitseason,perhapstherewouldbeaworkableBlueTrailmechanismtosaveapaddlingtrippermitortwoforonlinebookingtwoorthreedayspriortoatripdate.SWIMMINGandWATERPLAYACCESSAlternativesC,D,andEproposeclosing“MiddleFalls”(akatheFossilCreekWaterfall)towaterplay,andbuilding a falls overlook structure instead. Alternatives C and D propose closing access to the FossilSpringsarea,andbuildinganoverlookattheendofashortenedFlumetrail.Weadvocateforpreservingopportunities for swimming and water play throughout Fossil Creek. Utilize your most innovativeplanningprofessionalstodeviseanadaptivemanagementstrategythatlimitsvisitationinitially,andthenscales back up to Alternative B levels, while retraining visitor behavior and instilling Leave No Traceethics.CommentsTheproposedclosurestoswimmingandwaterplayatMiddleFallsandFossilSpringsarenotsupportedby analysis or complete information.We understand that certain areasmay have “cultural or naturalresourceissues,”butanyclosurewouldneedtocomplywithCFRsonclosuresandpublicuselimits(36CFR1.5).Wehave not found any information about user impactswith regard to these resources.Anyclosurewouldbehighlycontroversial.Ifpaddlerswerelumpedwithwaterplay,aclosureatMiddleFallswouldbeatremendousloss.ThelargepoolatthebaseofthisclassIVrapidhasbeenusedforyearsasa

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traininggroundforlocalpaddlerstopracticetheirswiftwaterrescueskills,eskimorolls,andwaterfallpaddling.Sucha closurewouldnotbeconsistentwith themanagementof thecentral sectionofFossilCreekasarecreationalWildandScenicRiver.Trailoverlooksplacedatthesesitesorfardownstreamareaninadequatesubstituteforbeingabletoactuallyexperiencethecreekanditsexceptionalanduniquetravertinewaterfalls,whetherasaswimmerorpaddler.SuggestedRevisiontoPreferredAlternativeSincenocomparativeanalysisordeterminationhasbeencompletedwithregard toopeningorclosingMiddleFallsandFossilSpringsswimmingareas,allofFossilCreekshouldremainopentoswimmingandwaterplay.Initially,swimmingandwaterplayshouldbereduceddramaticallybeforescalingbackuptoAlternative B levels in a thoughtful adaptivemanagement process that engages directlywith users toincreasebackcountryskillsandLNTbehaviors.Ifunforeseenchallengesarise(atFossilSprings’“ToiletBowl”forexample),newregulationscanbeputinplaceinanadaptivemanagementprocess,whichmightincludethefollowing:

• Require the use of safety equipment such as PFD, helmet, whistle, and throw-bags in theswimmingareas,withfinesfornon-compliance.

• Restrictorbanspecificpracticessuchas“cliffjumping,”withfinesfornon-compliance.• Addsignagewithrulesandguidelinesforswimmingandwaterplayinthefallsareatopromote

safetyandskillsforindividual/groupimpactminimization.Inanycase,paddlingshouldbedisassociatedfromthemanagementofswimmingandwaterplay,sothatifclosurestothelatterarewarranted,paddlingwouldstillcontinueundertheBlueTrailsmanagementscheme.MINIMIZEPARKINGandINFRASTRUCTUREatRECSITESAvarietyofinfrastructureprojectsareproposedinAlternativeE,includingthefollowing:

• apermanentvisitorcontactbooth,vaulttoiletandtemporaryparkingatJunction• installationofbikeracksandvaulttoiletsatotherkeylocations• constructionofavehicleandpedestrianbridgeattheIrvingsite,withinstallationofpicnictables,

parking,boardwalks,andotherinfrastructureonthenorthsideofthecreek• constructionofparking,vaulttoilet,trashreceptacles,andtrailheadatCactusFlat• construction of a welcome center with interpretive displays, interpretive trail, parking, vault

toilet,trashreceptacles,andahost-adminsitewithitsownadministrativevaulttoiletatHeinrichCommentsIngeneral,wesupportthefollowing:

• construction of permanent visitor contact booths, toilets, and temporary parking at entrancestations

• installationofsmallfacilitiessuchastoilets,picnictables,andbikerackstoreduceuserimpact• constructionofparking,vaulttoilets,trashreceptacles,andatrailheadatCactusFlat• improvementofparkingatHomesteadandTontoBench• keepingnewdevelopmentoutoftheIrvingarea• eliminationofthe“waterfalloverlook”idea• ensuringthatvisitorfeeswillnotincreasetofundproposeddevelopments• reclamationofoldhydroplantsite

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Wegenerallysupport the ideaofexpanding infrastructureasneededtosustainablyabsorbanticipateduseforthepurposeofreducingimpacts,butdonotsupportaddedinfrastructurethatwoulddetractfromthenatural spectacle,or the requirement thatvisitorsuse skill andgood judgment towalk, climb,andpaddlethroughtheterrain.WedonotbelievethatcreatingacityparkatmosphereisinthespiritoftheWildandScenicRiversAct.Certainimprovements,suchasinstallationofvaulttoilets,wouldbevaluable,andbikerackswouldservetomakeshuttlingbetweentrailheadseasier.However,someoftheproposalstoexpandinfrastructureareconcerning.“PowerhouseFalls”(aka“DoubleDropFalls”)neartheIrvingparkingareaisoneofthemostscenicsitesandbestwhitewaterrapidsontheentirecreek.ThisareaexhibitsoutstandinglyremarkablevaluesthathavethepotentialtobesignificantlydegradedbytheconstructionofabridgeoverthecreekattheIrvingsite, expanded parking access, and installation of picnic tables, kiosks, boardwalks, and otherinfrastructureinthevicinity.PowerhouseFallsisaClassIII-IVrapidthatisfrequentlyrunbykayakersandpackrafters,andtheareaalsoispopularwithswimmers.Therefore,thepotentialexistsforcollisionsbetweenpaddlersandswimmers.Diligentscoutingbypaddlersandswimmers,andgoodcommunicationbetweenthesegroupsarecritical foraccidentprevention.Thesehabitsare instilled througheducationandmentorship.Accidentpotentialwouldbeexacerbatedbyincreasingthenumberofpeopleintheareawith increased parking and facilities. Also, people viewing the scene from the bridge would be adistractionforswimmersandpaddlerswhoarefocusingonsafety,especiallyifcamerasandvideoswereinciting“Kodakcourage.”ParkingshouldbestrictlylimitedatIrvingwithstifffinesforviolations.Currently,visitorstendtocongregateontheeastsideoftheupperfallswherethereissomeshade,quickaccesstocoolingcreekwater,andmostlydurablesurfaces.Ingeneral,visitorsdonotusetheareaaroundthehydroplantbecauseithaslittleshade,anditdoesnotprovideagoodvieworaccesstothefallsandpool.Ifplannerswouldliketoattractvisitorstothesiteoftheoldhydroplant,considerableworkwouldbe required to improve this area enough to pull visitors off the east bank. Removal of old concretefoundations,additionofshadetrees,plantingofdust-reducinglowvegetation,andinstallationofpicnictablesandtoiletswouldbeanexpensiveprospectrequiringavehiclebridgeforheavyequipmentoverFossilCreek.Pullingpeoplefromtheeast-siderockybankstotheoldhydrositewouldnecessitatewhatwouldbeaveryunpopularclosureoftheeastsideofthecreektorevelers.SuggestedRevisiontoPreferredAlternativeTo preserve the wild and scenic feel of Fossil Creek’s coveted pools and waterfalls, we advocate forminimizing vehicular intrusions into the Irving and Lewis (Waterfall) Trailhead areas. Instead, werecommend developing and improving parking at Cactus Flat, Homestead, and Tonto Bench toaccommodate the majority of parked vehicles. Rather than developing the undisturbed area aroundHeinrich for an entrance station, perhaps that development would be better placed near Homestead.Then,wesuggestenhancingthevisitorexperiencebyimprovingtrailaccessfromremoteparkingtotheIrving area. Preserve the tranquility of the Irving area, and assist paddler and swimmer safety andcoexistenceeffortsbymaintainingcurrentparkingcapacitiesatIrvingandLewisTrailhead,andrejectingthebridgeideaacrosstotheoldhydroplant.Ifplannersfeelitisimportanttodevelopsomenewfacilitiesattheoldhydroplantsite,wedonotexpectthat this area would be used without considerable investment, and without closing the east side topicnicking. In this case, we would advocate for the construction of a pedestrian/horse bridge acrossFossil Creek about 320 yards downstreamof the falls andpool, alongwith the development of a trailalongthewestsideofthecreek.Reclamationofthehydrositeandinfrastructureimprovementswouldthenbecarriedoutbyhandandhorse,ratherthanbyheavymachinery,whichwouldbemuchcheaperandboththeprocessandresultwouldbemoreinlinewithWildandScenicvalues.Iftheeastsidenear

6

the falls was not closed to picnicking, we would support improving and maintaining the picnic areaimmediatelynorthof Irvingparking lot,butdonotsupport theconstructionofunnaturaloverlooksordecks.We also advise selecting a preferred alternative that develops a boardwalk, increased parking, picnicareas, and other infrastructure at the Tonto Bench area. Tonto Bench includes scenic cliffs and poolssimilar to the Irving site, and a boardwalk and picnic tables in this areawould serve to highlight theoutstanding recreational values of the Fossil Creek area for less mobile or disabled visitors. Parkingcapacity can be increased on the south side of the road at Tonto Bench, at much less expense andintrusion than constructing a bridge at Irving. Moreover, the creek at Tonto Bench is a placid non-whitewatersectionofcreek,whichwouldmakeincreasedvisitationmuchlessofanissueforaccidentsandconflictsbetweenusergroupscomparedtoincreasedvisitationatIrving.Beyond specific concerns about Irving, APA also requests more transparency about the capitalexpendituresrequiredtodevelopandmaintainsomanynewfacilities20milesfromthenearestpavedroad.Acost/benefitanalysisforthisinfrastructuredevelopment,operation,andmaintenanceshouldbeundertaken,andproposedsourcesofdevelopmentcapitalshouldbeexpressed.ThereisconcernthattheproposedinfrastructureatFossilCreekmightnecessitateincreasingpermitcoststolevelsthatsomeofourmembersmightnotbeabletoaffordpaying.MINIMIZEOHVACCESSWe support Alternative C—the Non-Motorized Experience—because the speed, whine, and dust ofpassing vehicles greatlydetracts fromvaluesdelineated inFossil Creek’sWild andScenicdesignation.The allowance of off-highway vehicles on area roads poses great problems for pedestrian safety andenjoyment,andcouldnecessitatealternativeparalleltrailbuildingwithassociatedimpacts.However,weunderstand that the localmotorized community is passionate aboutmaintaining theprivilege to crossFossil Creek on FR 708. Firstly, the road already exists, so no new road building would be required.Secondly,impactsontherivercorridorwouldbesmallifaccesswaslimited.Thirdly,thereishistoricalprecedent of people enjoying their motorized experience in Fossil Creek. For these reasons, we arewillingtocompromise,andsupportlimitedpermittedmotorizedaccessalongtheentirelengthofFR708across Fossil Creek canyon, as well as regular road maintenance as needed for motorist safety andpassageforadministrativevehicles.Ifpossible,wewouldsuggestsomehowsegregatingtheroadcorridorbetweenHomesteadandLewisTrailheadintomotorizedandpedestrianlanes.MAINTAINFR502WesupportmaintainingaccessandroadqualityonFR502toChilds,aswellascontrollingerosionandimprovingparkingwithoutincreasingparkingareasizesatSallyMay,PurpleMountain,andMazatzal.CommentsFR 502 has served as an important takeout point for paddlers running thewhitewater section of theVerdeRiverfromBeasleyFlat,aswellasaput-inlocationforgroupspaddlingdowntoSheepBridge.FR502 also acts as an access route for groups paddling Fossil Creek below Mazatzal trailhead to theconfluencewiththeVerde.Althoughvehicleaccessislessimportantforpackrafters,whocanwalktoandfromtheVerdeRiver,restrictedaccessalongthisroadwouldbeaconsiderableinconvenienceforotherboaters.ThereislittleevidencethatFossilCreekbelowMazatzaltrailheadhasanyoftheoveruseissues

7

that led to thepermit requirements for the central sectionofFossilCreek. InstallingagateonFR502wouldaddadministrativeburdenforforestrangerstomonitorandmanage,withquestionablebenefit.SuggestedRevisiontoPreferredAlternativeKeep FR 502 open to all travel from FR 708 junction to Childs. Improve the road, parking areas, andtrailheadswithoutincreasingcapacity.

IMPROVEHIKINGOPPORTUNITIESAs packrafters, we look for opportunities to combine paddling with hiking. We advocate for thedevelopment, improvement, and maintenance of trails as necessary to minimize the need for roadwalking, and to enhance the experience of “human-powered approach” to popular areas along FossilCreek.Hence,wewouldnotsupportcompleteorpartial closuresof trails fromthesouthrim toFossilSprings,orontheFlumeTrailfromtheIrvingarea.WedonotsupporttheconstructionofanoverlookattheendofashortenedFlumetrail.WesupporttheconstructionofatrailfromCactusFlattoIrving,withtheRiverConnector and IrvingConnector spur trails.Wealso support limitedandpermitted campingopportunitiesatappropriateplacesalongFossilCreek.COMMERCIALGUIDEDOUTFITTINGANDHIKINGAlternativesBandEproposetoextendprivilegestooutfitters/guides,includingdesignatingonecampingsite, regular user-day allotments, as well as reserved parking at Sally Mae, Purple Mountain, andpotentiallytheLewis/Waterfalltrailheadaswell.CommentsWeunderstandthatcommercialoutfitterswouldneedaguaranteedlevelofaccess inordertoconductbusiness in Fossil Creek. However, we are concerned that there is simply too much non-commercialpublic interest inFossilCreekto justifyblockingoutanyuser-days forcommercialuses.Moreover,wequestionwhatthepurpose,need,andinterestmightbeforcommercialoutfittinginFossilCreek.Guidesforhorsebackridingandpaddlingmightbevaluableandwarranted,but itseemsunlikely thatvisitorswould need or want to hire guides for hiking and camping in Fossil Creek. On a positive note, weunderstandandappreciatethattheregularpresenceofgoodguidescouldimprovepublicsafetyinFossilCreek,bothasapreventativeinfluenceforaccidents,aswellasprovidingon-sitefirstresponse.Guidesalso couldprovide someeducationand interpretationabout thearea’snaturalhistory,humanhistory,andhowtobehave insuchaway thatprotects resources.However, inourexperience,guidesmustbefocusedontheirclients,andtendtoavoidthecrowdedareaswhereaccidentprevention isneeded.Allconsidered,wefeelthatthebenefitsofallowingcommercialoutfittingdonotoutweighthecostinaccesstothegeneralpublic.SuggestedRevisiontoPreferredAlternativeRemoveanyallotmentforcommercialoutfittinginFossilCreek.APAagainthankstheCoconinoNationalForestforyoureffortsonbehalfofFossilCreekandthepaddlingcommunity.Wehopeyouwillconsiderourcommentsandincorporatethemintoaredraftedpreferredalternative.APAintendstostepupoureffortsatFossilCreektoeducatepackraftersaboutsafety,LeaveNoTraceprinciples,andcoexistencewithothervisitors.

8

Sincerely,

BradMeiklejohnPresident,AmericanPackraftingAssociationAPABoardofDirectorsBradMeiklejohn,President,EagleRiver,AKThomasTuriano,VicePresident,Wilson,WYMoeWitschard,Treasurer,Bozeman,MTTheresaLundquist,Jackson,WYForrestMcCarthy,Jackson,WYDavidNix,SaltLakeCity,UTRomanDial,Anchorage,AKSarahTingey,Mancos,COAPAExecutiveCouncilDavidChenault,Missoula,MTMikeCuriak,GrandJunction,COJohnDavis,Adirondacks,NYChrisErickson,Portland,ORJimHarris,ParkCity,UTBretwoodHigman,Seldovia,AKRyanJordan,Bozeman,MTWendyLoya,EagleRiver,AKLucMehl,Anchorage,AKEricRiley,Jackson,WYWyattRoscoe,Jackson,WYRichRudow,Phoenix,AZJaredSteyaert,McCarthy,AKRichardStout,Jackson,WY

From: christina brooksTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil CreekDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 2:14:28 PM

To the Coconino Forest District:

I recently read an article in the Arizona Wilderness Coalition about plans to increasemotorized vehicle access to Fossil Creek. Right now, I think the access is perfect as the accessis not easy for all to get to. One really needs to want to get there and make this a very specialouting. I felt fortunate that I could go with a friend in an AWD vehicle. The day was so serene,the water such an amazing cause for celebration and enjoyment. The wildlife and trees andplants were made for one of the best days ever. I think these areas need to be protected fromtoo many visitors. When we went we filled up two bags of garbage because even with thecurrent public access, people do not take care of the land. I fear that by opening up the area tomotorized vehicles would increase the damage that we saw just on that one day, with moretrash, more pollution to the area, and more damage to the serenity of the beautiful creeksidesetting.

From, Christina Brookschristinabrooks.2004@gmail.com

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:christinabrooks.2004@gmail.com

From: Roybal, Marcos A -FSTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: FW: Fossil Creek Public Comment PeriodDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 4:19:36 PMAttachments: image001.png

20170125124843436.pdf

 

From: Branton, Nicole -FS Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 4:04 PMTo: Roybal, Marcos A -FS ; Munding, Elizabeth A -FS

Subject: FW: Fossil Creek Public Comment Period   

From: Terry Keller [mailto:TKeller@CC-FMA.org] Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 2:43 PMTo: Branton, Nicole -FS Cc: 'Gary Morris' (garymorris@psfdaz.com) Subject: Fossil Creek Public Comment Period Ms. Branton, Please accept the attached comments regarding Fossil Creek. I hard copy of this letter is also being mailed to you if this format is not acceptable. Thank you! Terry Terry KellerFire ChiefCopper Canyon Fire and Medical Authority(928) 567-9401  Office(928) 300-1263  Cell(928) 567-3919  Fax tkeller@cc-fma.orgwww.cc-fma.org  

mailto:maroybal@fs.fed.usmailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:TKeller@CC-FMA.orgmailto:nbranton@fs.fed.usmailto:garymorris@psfdaz.commailto:garymorris@psfdaz.commailto:tkeller@cc-fma.orghttp://www.cc-fma.org/

       All messages created in this system belong to either Camp Verde Fire Dsitrict, Montezuma RimrockFire District, or Copper Canyon Fire and Medical Authority and should be considered a public recordsubject to disclosure under the Arizona Public Records Law (A.R.S. 39-121).  District employees,District public officials, and those who generate email to them, should have no expectation ofprivacy related to the use of this technology.  To ensure compliance with the open meeting law,CCFMA, CVFD  or  MRFD Board Members who received this message should not forward it to otherMembers of their respective  Board. Board members may reply to this message, but they should notsend a copy of their reply to other members of their Board. CONFIDENTIAL - The information contained in this email message is confidential, and intended forthe use of the individual or entity named above. If the reader of this message is not the intendedrecipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this informationis strictly prohibited. If you received this email in error, please notify me immediately at (928) 567-9401. 

Copper Canyon Fire & Medical Authority

January 25, 2017

Ms. Nicole Branton, District Ranger Coconino National Forest 8375 State Route 179 Sedona,AZ

Dear Ms. Branton,

268 Salt Mine Road, Camp Verde, AZ 86322 www.cc-fma.org Phone (928) 567-9401

I am responding to the Coconino National Forest's public comment period regarding the proposed master plan for Fossil Creek.

The Copper Canyon Fire and Medical Authority (CCFMA) serves the communities of Camp Verde, Rimrock, and Lake Montezuma, but also provides ambulance and rescue services to over 500 square miles of primitive country surrounding these communities. Every year, the Authority responds to a significant number of rescues in the downstream areas of Fossil Creek and along the road leading into this area from State Route 260. However, the greatest number of the annual rescue activity in this area is along the first three miles below the headwaters of the creek and these rescues are primarily handled the Pine Strawberry Fire District and other rescue agencies in Gila County.

This correspondence is meant to express my concern about the additional burden that could be imposed on CCFMA if some of the options proposed in the master plan results in the closure of Forest Service Road 708. As you are probably aware, a large number of rescue events occur at the water fall area on Fossil Creek. As noted above, the Pine Strawberry Fire District is the closest available emergency medical service agency to that location. Closing the 708 road not only shifts the potential rescue burden to CCFMA, it also creates an unacceptable and extended response time due to the 14 miles of rough dirt road to reach this area from Camp Verde. Rapid responses to emergencies on this rough road frequently results in damage to our ambulances or other apparatus. Closing the 708 road will also take our very limited paramedic staffing out of our primary response area for extended periods of time, resulting in delays to emergencies within our taxing district. These delays will surely not sit well with our taxpayers, and also shift the burden of covering these local responses to even other jurisdictions since our crews will be committed in Fossil Creek. Furthermore, CCFMA does not currently have legal jurisdiction to respond to medical emergencies along the trail to Fossil Creek. If we become the closest responders to this area by closing FS Road 7081 we would need to seek permission from Pine Strawberry Fire District in order to operate within their legal response area, resulting in even additional delays.

As you can see the proposal to close FS Road 708 results in a cascade of events with respect to rescue for victims of accidents or illness in Fossil Creek Canyon. None of these events serves public safety at all. Therefore, / urge the Forest Service to keep FS Road 708 open and maintained. As you may know, the

power companies which operated the two power plants for nearly a century were able to keep the road open and maintained. The public also routinely used that road for travel between Strawberry and Camp Verde during that long period of time.

From a public safety perspective, it was also unwise for the Forest Service to close the service road from the old Irving Power Plant to the dam. That action now prevents any convenient access for rescue vehicles for emergencies at the Upper Springs area and adds hours to any rescue at that location.

I'm aware of the comments submitted by Chief Gary Morris of the Pine Strawberry Fire District and I strongly support the need for a "public safety impact study", regarding the rescue crisis in Fossil Creek. This additional "public safety" chapter should be inserted in the planning process. Additionally, I fully support all five of Chief Morris' recommendations for improving public safety at Fossil Creek.

Note: A hard copy of this letter is being sent via US Mail in addition to the electronic version that has been emailed.

Respectfully submitted,

Terry Keller Fire Chief

From: Clare McCormickTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 5:32:46 PM

Dear US Forest Service,

While I would love to have unimpeded access to all our national lands and forests Irealize that they need to be managed so that we, the people, do not love them todeath. As literally an oasis in a desert landscape, Fossil Creek of course draws allliving things to it—including sun-scorched Arizonans. We rely on unique places likeFossil Creek to rejuvenate our sense of belonging in the natural world. However, theCreek’s ecosystem—plants and animals—rely on Fossil Creek for their ability tosurvive. Without a healthy, unpolluted watershed there would be no sanctuary forthem, as well as for humans.

I am in favor of use restrictions, including quota access, that balances the naturalsystem with appropriate recreational uses for people. I do not favor any increasingmotor vehicle access as that disproportionately would adversely effect this specialand very fragile ecosystem.

Thank you for all the work you do to provide healthy ecosystems and usemanagement so that we have a vibrant natural world for ourselves and for ourchildren.

Sincerely,Clare McCormickPrescott, AZ

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: michael mililloTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP CommentsDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 4:40:26 PM

I am a relatively frequent user of the Fossil Creek Wilderness and Scenic River area. It is such a special andbeautiful area. Use needs to be controlled and managed to keep it special. It is a shame to see people abusing thearea with trash, human and pet excrement in close proximity to the stream. Camping streamside has createdproblems. The easier access is made, the greater the potential for abuse. I am in favor of Alternatives B or C,which would manage access and provide enhanced protection of the resource. Thank you.

Sent from my iPadMike Milillo

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: Roybal, Marcos A -FSTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: FW: WWW Mail: Fossil CreekDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 10:35:05 AM

-----Original Message-----From: Avila, Federico - FS On Behalf Of FS-Coconino WebmailSent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 10:34 AMTo: Roybal, Marcos A -FS Subject: FW: WWW Mail: Fossil Creek

Marcos,

This is from our webmail.

Thank you.

Freddie AvilaVisitor Services Information AssistantForest ServiceCoconino National Forest, Supervisor's Officep: 928-527-3602favila@fs.fed.us1824 S. Thompson St.Flagstaff, AZ 86001www.fs.fed.us

Caring for the land and serving people

-----Original Message-----From: Jpsenka@gmail.com [mailto:Jpsenka@gmail.com]Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2017 8:11 AMTo: FS-Coconino Webmail Subject: WWW Mail: Fossil Creek

Hello, I couldnt find a specific place to make a comment regarding the future of a Fossil Creek. The only way thatthis fantastic river will survive is if option c, the roadless option, is adopted. The roadless option will minimize thenegative impact that visitors have. Those visitors who have to put forth an effort to access the river are not typicallythose who leave garbage, cut down trees for firewood, or spray graffiti on the rocks. More accebility willundoubtedly bring more of those who have no interest in preserving natural beauty. Every time access is increasedand made easier the quality and natural health of the environment declines. The Forset Service does not have thetime nor the money to patrol and protect all the places it is charged with protecting. Please dont facilitate the end offossil creek. Not every beautiful place in the state needs a parking lot. Sincerely,Jonathan PsenkaArizona Resident

mailto:maroybal@fs.fed.usmailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:Jpsenka@gmail.com

From: Munding, Elizabeth A -FSTo: revolveron44@yahoo.comCc: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock; Roybal, Marcos A -FSSubject: RE: concerns/suggestions for fossil springsDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:42:45 PMAttachments: image002.png

image003.png

Thank you Mr. Smith for your input—verbal and written. I will immediately add these comments toour comment inbox—shown in the “cc” line. Have a wonderful day in beautiful Strawberry. --Elizabeth

Elizabeth A. Munding NEPA PlannerForest ServiceCoconino National Forest, Red Rock Ranger Districtp: 928-203-2914 f: 928-203-7539 elizabethamunding@fs.fed.usPhysical Address: 8375 State Rt. 179 or Mailing Address: P.O. Box 20429 Sedona, AZ 86341www.fs.fed.us

Caring for the land and serving people

From: ron smith [mailto:revolveron44@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:37 PMTo: Munding, Elizabeth A -FSSubject: concerns/suggestions for fossil springs Hi Elizabeth-Enjoyed speaking with you on the phone. Thank you for answering my questions. At the risk of stating the obvious - there appears to be a conflict between a "wild and scenic river" and a"recreational area". We have several concerns, among them are: 1) Habitat degradation/destruction with resulting impacts to fish, wildlife and plant populations. Allowingoff-road vehicles of any type is inappropriate and disruptive due to noise, exhaust fumes, trail rutting andresultant erosion. 2) The resource should be managed to mitigate accidents/deaths. Unprecedented numbers of rescuesnegatively impact the Pine/Strawberry Fire Department and EMT personnel; and Pine/Strawberry taxpayers. 3) None of the proposals seems to address the potential impact of increased vehicular traffic and resultantnoise which threatens and disrupts the rural character, charm, tranquility and quiet of the Strawberry ValleyCommunity. All access from the Strawberry side is unnecessary and should be permanently closed. Accessfrom the Camp Verde side via Highway 260 is safer and does not disturb any residential area. Suggestions:

mailto:elizabethamunding@fs.fed.usmailto:revolveron44@yahoo.commailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:maroybal@fs.fed.usmailto:elizabethamunding@fs.fed.ushttp://www.fs.fed.us/https://twitter.com/forestservicehttp://facebook.com/USDA

1) Consider "resting" the entire area for an extended period to allow habitats, plant and wildlife populationsto recover. This would also give you time to prepare the area for the public. 2) Consider seasonal specific area closures to allow for nesting/breeding of certain species. 3) Designate specific trails/areas for bird watching/wildlife viewing only. Not accessible for any otheractivity. 4) Confine swimming and water play to a specific supervised area. 5) Schedule specific recreational activities for specific times or seasons to avoid conflicting activitiescompeting for the same space at the same time. would also allow for a higher quality outdoor experience. 6) We saved the most radical for last. Extend the wilderness area boundary to enclose the entire corridor and put the area under wilderness area rules. OK - thanks for the opportunity to comment.Regards,Ron and Virginia SmithPermanent full-time Strawberry Residents

From: ron smithTo: Munding, Elizabeth A -FSSubject: concerns/suggestions for fossil springsDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 12:40:28 PM

Hi Elizabeth-Enjoyed speaking with you on the phone. Thank you for answering my questions.

At the risk of stating the obvious - there appears to be a conflict between a "wild and scenic river"and a "recreational area". We have several concerns, among them are:

1) Habitat degradation/destruction with resulting impacts to fish, wildlife and plant populations. Allowing off-road vehicles of any type is inappropriate and disruptive due to noise, exhaustfumes, trail rutting and resultant erosion.

2) The resource should be managed to mitigate accidents/deaths. Unprecedented numbers ofrescues negatively impact the Pine/Strawberry Fire Department and EMT personnel; andPine/Strawberry tax payers.

3) None of the proposals seems to address the potential impact of increased vehicular traffic andresultant noise which threatens and disrupts the rural character, charm, tranquility and quiet of theStrawberry Valley Community. All access from the Strawberry side is unnecessary and should bepermanently closed. Access from the Camp Verde side via Highway 260 is safer and does notdisturb any residential area.

Suggestions:

1) Consider "resting" the entire area for an extended period to allow habitats, plant and wildlifepopulations to recover. This would also give you time to prepare the area for the public.

2) Consider seasonal specific area closures to allow for nesting/breeding of certain species.

3) Designate specific trails/areas for bird watching/wildlife viewing only. Not accessible for anyother activity.

4) Confine swimming and water play to a specific supervised area.

5) Schedule specific recreational activities for specific times or seasons to avoid conflictingactivities competing for the same space at the same time. would also allow for a higher qualityoutdoor experience.

6) We saved the most radical for last. Extend the wilderness area boundary to enclose the entirecorridor and put the area under wilderness area rules.

OK - thanks for the opportunity to comment.Regards,Ron and Virginia SmithPermanent full-time Strawberry Residents

mailto:elizabethamunding@fs.fed.us

From: William PitterleTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP CommentsDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 6:22:39 PMAttachments: Comment_Jan2017.doc

I am Commander of Tonto Rim Search and Rescue in Gila County.Please accept my attached comments regarding plans for Fossil Creek.Thank you,

William J PitterleCommander - Tonto Rim Search and Rescue404 N Whitetail DrPayson, AZ 85541928-978-9105

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

January 25, 2017

Fossil Creek Public Comment Period 2016/2017

I am Commander of Tonto Rim Search and Rescue Squad, and my SAR unit is the one most frequently called into Fossil Creek for rescues.

I would like to state that I am in agreement with the points made by Pine-Strawberry Fire Chief Gary Morris. We work together on most of the rescue missions in Fossil Creek.

I would like to add one additional point from my perspective as Commander of a group of Search and Rescue volunteers. Northern Gila County simply does not have much population to draw from for volunteer rescuers. Unlike Phoenix, Tucson, or even Flagstaff, the pool of potential rescuers is small, and many of my squad members are retired. They are tough, there is no doubt, and we do many extremely difficult rescues every year, but a difficult rescue in Fossil Creek can drain my squad resources for a couple of days. Fossil Creek missions frequently come in multiples, and often during the hottest days of the summer. It has occasionally been difficult to pull a functional team together for a difficult mission in the peak of our season.

It is for these reasons that I support the points that Fire Chief Gary Morris has made.

Thank you,

William J Pitterle

Commander - Tonto Rim Search and Rescue

� HYPERLINK "mailto:wjpitte@gmail.com" �wjpitte@gmail.com�

928-978-9105

�

Tonto Rim Search & Rescue Squad, Inc.

P.O.Box 357

Pine AZ, 85544

www.trsar.org

Tonto Rim Search & Rescue Squad, Inc. P.O.Box 357

Pine AZ, 85544

www.trsar.org

January 25, 2017

Fossil Creek Public Comment Period 2016/2017

I am Commander of Tonto Rim Search and Rescue Squad, and my SAR unit is the one most frequently called

into Fossil Creek for rescues.

I would like to state that I am in agreement with the points made by Pine-Strawberry Fire Chief Gary Morris. We

work together on most of the rescue missions in Fossil Creek.

I would like to add one additional point from my perspective as Commander of a group of Search and Rescue

volunteers. Northern Gila County simply does not have much population to draw from for volunteer rescuers.

Unlike Phoenix, Tucson, or even Flagstaff, the pool of potential rescuers is small, and many of my squad

members are retired. They are tough, there is no doubt, and we do many extremely difficult rescues every year,

but a difficult rescue in Fossil Creek can drain my squad resources for a couple of days. Fossil Creek missions

frequently come in multiples, and often during the hottest days of the summer. It has occasionally been difficult

to pull a functional team together for a difficult mission in the peak of our season.

It is for these reasons that I support the points that Fire Chief Gary Morris has made.

Thank you,

William J Pitterle

Commander - Tonto Rim Search and Rescue

wjpitte@gmail.com

928-978-9105

mailto:wjpitte@gmail.com

From: JM TrudeauTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock; Amber FieldsSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Wednesday, January 25, 2017 11:08:42 AM

To the US Forest Service, Coconino and Tonto Forests,

We would like to comment on the Fossil Creek CRMP. We are Joe Trudeau and Amber Fields,of Prescott, Arizona. The first time we camped together was at Fossil Creek in 2002, whilestudying Forestry and Parks and Recreation Management at NAU. A couple years later webegan dating, and then soon graduated from NAU, thus beginning our careers in naturalresources management and conservation. Fifteen years later, we are now a happily marriedcouple, and still work in the conservation field, being co-owners of Hassayampa Forestry &Ecological. Our relationship, and the fifteen years of working for the land, began at FossilCreek. We hope that the public can retain good access to the great recreation experiencesfound at Fossil Creek, but we also feel that because of the incredible increase in use over thelast decade or two, that some resources demand increased protection.

We value wilderness protection, clean watersheds, good wildlife habitat, abundant quietrecreation experiences, and opportunities for educational and transformative experiences inNature. Based on our values, we feel that a mix of Alternatives 2 and 3 is the best option forproviding a broad range of visitor services and recreational opportunities while protecting themost important aspects of this truly remarkable Wild, Scenic, and Recreational River. We alsosupport protecting the botanical area and Fossil Springs to the fullest extent.

Motorized access should by no means be increased in and around Fossil Creek. ATV’s, UTV’sand trucks are vectors for invasive species; they increase fire risk; they cause erosion, siltationand other resource damage; they disturb and sometimes run over wildlife; they are noisy andsmelly and disrupt primitive recreational activities; and overall degrade the OutstandingResource Values of the Fossil Creek area. Per Alternative 3, we believe that FR 708 betweenthe Waterfall trailhead and the gate west of FR 591 should be closed to motor vehicles andremain open to non-motorized use. There is no reason that we should be allowing any type ofmotorized recreation to cross this remarkable canyon (per FR 708).

People should be encouraged to hike, bike, or ride a horse in areas like Fossil Creek. Oldroadbeds make great trails when closed to motor vehicles and maintained for trail use. Wealso encourage and support the building of new trails for primitive, quiet recreation, like thoseincluded in Alternative 3. Our hope is that trails would be built to International Mountain BikeAssociation specs so they could handle the heavy mountain bike and horse use that I wouldexpect.

Overall we like Alternative 3 just a bit more than Alternative 2, but an aspect of Alternative 3that we disagree with is closing designated recreation sites along roads to remain open(Mazatzal, Purple Mtn, Sally Mae). Why curtail access points along open roads? Was this put in

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there to make Alternative 3 less appealing to most users? Also, if the road to Childs is toremain open, then don’t implement a permit system, because under this Alternative,motorized users are asked to give up enough already. We like the camping in Alternative 2more than Alt. 3. We think that there should be abundant designated sites to give folks thechance to camp out in Nature, as in Alternative 2.

Thank you for your good work as stewards of our National Forest. We understand thedifficulties inherent in managing such a beautiful and popular site. We’re glad to have theopportunity to comment on this important plan revision.

Sincerely,

Joe Trudeau & Amber Fields

PO Box 1013

Prescott, AZ

86302

(603) 562-6226

From: Bennett, LeeAnnTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockCc: Bennett, LeeAnnSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 5:26:03 PM

Dear Forest Service,The most important thing to me is the protection of the natural resources found in the FossilCreek Wild and Scenic River corridor. I think that opportunities for recreation can also beconsidered as resources that need management and protection. I have seen pictures of thisarea and I can see why there are so visitors. It really is a pretty special place. But specialplaces like this need protection and sometimes, restoration. I would hope that localsappreciate this place as much as visitors and are involved in helping to maintain the area (i.e.,volunteering to clean up trash).Alternative B w/Enhanced protections is the closest to what I think would accommodate mostvisitor recreation. But, I would modify this alternative by closing off the waterfall to swimmingfor visitor safety and its cultural significance to Native Americans. Additionally, the closedsection of FR708 should be made into a bike trail or a trail for exhaust-muffled models of atvs.

Further, I agree that a permit system should continue to be used to cut down on trash andoveruse , but the forest service still needs to determine visitor carrying capacity (how manyvisitors can come into the forest at any one time and not degrade forest resources?). I don’tbelieve that making more parking is going to do anything more than increase trafficcongestion in the area. Maybe some arrangements should be made for local visitor shuttles. That way huge parking areas don’t have to be constructed within the forest itself and thecongestion due to the presence of so many vehicles would not occur.Thank you for this opportunity to express my views.Sincerely,LeeAnn Bennett

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:lbennett@ku.edu

From: Bettina BickelTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP CommentsDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 4:13:16 PM

Dear Fossil Creek Project Coordinator and Team,

Wild and Scenic designation mandates preservation of FossilCreek's “Outstandingly Remarkable Values”, including water quality and free-flowing nature, wildlife including native fish, and riparian vegetation. Unfortunately, excessive human visitation is the greatest threat to these values,as mounds of trash are left, riparian vegetation is trampled and killed, wildlifehabitat is damaged, and quiet recreational opportunities are ruined. The uniqueand special values of this river call for greater preservation efforts as reflectedin Alternatives C (Non-motorized Experience) and B (Enhanced Protections). Theproposed expansion of motorized use and recreational access, as reflected in theAlternative E (Proposed Action – Long-term Adaptive Management) is not in thebest interest of this river, and threatens the values for which this wasdesignated a Wild and Scenic River. The Service should emphasize protection ofORVs, not on maximizing recreational opportunities. Maximizing humanvisitation would effectively turn the area into an urban water park, andincreased development (such as huge parking lots and an overlook at thewaterfall) would permanently damage the wild character of Fossil Creek.

Please do not increase motorized use. Motorized access expands humanimpacts, serves as a vector for invasive species, can contribute to increasederosion and siltation, and is contrary to preservation of the “ORVs” of Fish andAquatic Resources, Wildlife, Water, and Quiet Recreation.

Please include educational opportunities to help increase public awareness andrespect for Fossil Creek's wild ORVs.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this important project.

Bettina Bickel

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From: Marianne DavisTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP - CommentsDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 1:20:53 PM

Hello,Thank you for allowing more time for the public to comment on the FossilCreek Comprehensive River Management Plan options. I grew up in Arizona, currently reside inSedona, and care deeply about our public lands and watersheds. I have been to Fossil Creekfor hiking many times over the years.

I have done much traveling throughout Southwest's natural areas - mainly hiking andcamping, and also backpacking, boating, and mountain biking. I personally see Fossil Creek asa unique treasure, especially in the context of the US Southwest, and recognize its outstandingbiological value for wildlife species that are riparian habitat users, riparian obligates, and ofcourse semi-aquatic and aquatic species, as well as the impressive diversity of flora. I also seethe important geological, hydrological, and cultural value of the springs, the creek, and itswatershed. I commend all those, including the USFS, that have restored this area and helpedconserve it.

Here is what I feel is the most important about the new management options:

In general, I am strongly against allowing more motorized use, so against alternatives Dand E. There should be some excellent natural areas that can provide the non-motorizedexperience to outdoor recreationists, especially those pristine places by water in a statewhere that access is very rare.That said, I worry about law enforcement, stewardship/etiquette enforcement, fire crewresponse, and search and rescue response...so I really think on-site "ambassadors" toeducate the public during day-use and enforcement personnel should be stationed thereon site. I don't think just a visitor contact booth is enough. If it's important to restore 708 for fire and safety motorized reasons, please keep itcompletely closed to the public. In this instance, perhaps a permit system for guidecompanies to bring people down from the Strawberry/Pine area in vans could beinitiated - still closed to all personal vehicles, especially ATVs which have ruined manybeautiful places with awful noise pollution and unfortunately too many riders notabiding by travel restrictions. This would help bring some business back to the Payson,Pine, and Strawberry communities.I feel alternate D and most especially E are unacceptable also because they both increasethe PAOT. Alternate E proposes a quite ridiculous amount of users (even if this is aslow increase over time, we are still getting to that identified PAOT.) The place alreadyhas too many users, even with the current permit system (which has helped immensely!)to feel like it's actually wilderness or even to offer its permitted users connection tonature in general. Why would E be the proposed action? Flexible is not the importantadjective in describing this; this plan is the most unacceptable to me and others I know.I don't want to see this gem become a splash-park playground.I know that Alternate A is not actually an option the FS can select, which is goodbecause I strongly support some development improvements in B and C, especiallythose helping with toilets and trash for water quality, and those improvements for publicsafety at use areas.I see alternates B and C as shifting use types around to different areas. I see benefits toboth. Some elements I like in B as opposed to C, is that it provides some more

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recreation options along 502 and gives the tribal nations back some private use. I dohowever like the concept of C better, but uncertain of the complete details.

Thank you for doing your part in including the public in your process. With population andinterest in outdoor recreation increasing in Arizona, our public lands will require moreattention such as increased educational outreach in basic tenants of stewardship, law andetiquette enforcement, and of course the funding to accomplish those. I think most people,when they really think about it, want our natural areas - especially those offering the true giftof surface water - preserved so that generations to come can enjoy them as we have.

If any of my comments are unclear or if you launch any follow-up planning discussions, Iwould like to be notified.

Can you please notify me that you received my comments?

Best regards,Marianne Davismarianne.davis@gmail.comSedona, AZ

mailto:marianne.davis@gmail.com

From: Jacqueline DrenthTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP CommentsDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 8:21:17 PM

Dear Forest Service,

I understand the need to protect this land and cherish it. I am one who picks up trash along myhikes. The current permit system has allowed my friend s and I to have life changingexperiences and is one of my favorite places to visit in the state. Enforcing a tougher permitsystem to check for glass and ensure proper trash pick up is key. Plan A or Plan B still allowsavid hikers and Arizonans to experience fossil with less people and more respect for the land.

Thank you for understanding and protecting,Jacqueline Drenth

Sent from my iPhone

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From: MICHAEL C NEALTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 8:59:10 AM

To whom this may concern,

As a fourth generation Arizona native, I have significant changes to the Fossil Creekwatershed and its' management over the years; having gone from single-use(resource extraction) to multiple-use, to heavily restricted use just within my lifetime. To be honest, these days, the USFS seems to be way too reactionary in the directionof it's policies. I worked many years for the USFS and the agency has changeddramatically during this period, mostly not for the positive, but I do recognize that alack of funding for non-fire activities is a big driver in this.

Sometime during my childhood (mid to late 1970s) I started to see a significantchange in the level of recreational impacts to Fossil Creek. The only saving grace atthat juncture was the inclusion of the upper watershed in the designated Wildernesssystem. By the early 1980s all the accessible areas of the creek, downstream of thewilderness boundary were being trashed by "casual" recreational; by this I meanthose that are not engaged in a specific sport of activity, such as fishing, backpacking,kayaking, etc.. (I don't consider hiking a specific sport because it is an inherent aspectof all the others). I recognize that dealing with casual recreationist is the biggestchallenge throughout public lands, because they are the majority use group, tend tohave the lesser knowledge base, lack a public lands ethic, cross all demographiclines, are not engaged with the agencies as a unified group, and frankly are the mostapathetic overall.

For this reason, I feel strongly that the casual recreation group is the one that needsto be targeted with restrictions, whether this takes the form of outright restrictions orincreased use fees. I suppose you can guess that I am an avid backpacker,fisherman, kayaker, but also a biologist and former wilderness/recreation guide. While this might suggest a bias, I have also worked for the USFS, BLM, NPS, andstate agencies responsible for administering public lands; so, I really do see bothsides of the coin and share in the challenges land managers face.

For instance, I understand that Preferred Alternative E proposes a prohibition on"water play" at the main waterfall. While I don't mind the idea of limiting or restrictingwading and/or swimming in certain areas, the term "water play" is a bit vague andwould seem to restrict a sporting group (kayakers) that has demonstrated very littleimpact to this or other systems, including all the Wild and Scenic Rivers it'smembership organization seek to protect. For this sporting group, Fossil Creekrepresents a precious resource, in that there are almost no places in the Southwestwhere sustained flows can be found, much less year-round.

Regarding access, toll booths, and facilities - it is just a travesty that the USFS is soengaged these days in saving people from themselves, long the sole purview of theNPS. If you want to close roads and restrict access during wet periods, build all the

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

facilities mentioned in preferred alternatives, etc. just push for designation as aNational Park or Recreation Area and turn it over to the Department of Interior andthe NPS. Wet periods in Arizona are the best for boating, it's fine if you need toprotect Fossil Creek from sedimentation during these periods, but don't restrictaccess to the Verde.

If access and recreation numbers are going to be restricted or limited under all thealternatives, I highly recommend a permitting system similar to that utilized by theWhite Mountain Apache Tribe, where individual activities are permitted at differentrates or for free. For instance, activity categories could include: general day use(including ATV, 4x4 and hunting use = fee and restricted number of vehicles orpersons per day), overnight camping (separate from all other categories = fee andrestriction on the number of vehicles), fishing (non fee, but restricted number perday), kayaking/.boating (no fee, but restricted number per day), etc. I suggest no feefor the later two groups, because they are user groups that are comprised of far fewerparticipants and generally have less impact on resources overall.

In closing, I would like to say that while public lands are here for all tax-payingAmericans I do understand the need to restrict activity in high use and/or areas ofspecial conservation concern. That said, management should target the problem -numbers and type of recreation and especially the "bad apples". To prohibit orrestrict all user groups just for the sake of appearing fair, is not striking a goodbalance and makes public land agencies appear incapable of true dynamicmanagement.

Thanks for your time,

MCN

From: Garrett, LaRonTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek OptionsDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 11:40:09 AMAttachments: Fossil Creek Public Comment Submitted Jan 2017.pdf

The Town of Payson appreciates the U.S. Forest Service exploring the options for improving thesituation at the Fossil Creek area near Strawberry. Tourism is one of Payson’s main industries. Visitors to the Fossil Creek area are part of that industry that helps the retail establishments inPayson continue to operate. Therefore, we urge the Forest Service to adopt a plan that will continueto support the tourism aspect of this beautiful area. Another concern is the public safety aspect of the Fossil Creek area. With it open to the public, itneeds to be in such a way that area first responders can have adequate access to assist any one thatmay need help. The Town of Payson supports the ideas of the Pine-Strawberry Fire Chief, GaryMorris, which is attached to this email. I understand he has also submitted this directly to you as acomment. Again, thank you for exploring options to make better use of the public lands. LaRon G. Garrett, P.E.Town ManagerTown of Payson928-472-5041

______________________________________________________________________This email has been scanned by the Symantec Email Security.cloud service.For more information please visit http://www.symanteccloud.com______________________________________________________________________

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From: Christopher RussellTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 2:15:11 PM

Please do not eliminate the hiking, swimming, camping in the fossil springs area. It's favoriteswimming area for our family. Many great memories. I think the current permit method is workingwell.

Christopher M. RussellGilbert resident CMRDon't blame the alfalfa.

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: Lacey Jo SchusterTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP CommentsDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 8:31:12 PM

Dear Forest Service,

The current permit system for Fossil Creek created for the best experience I have ever had. It promoted protection ofthe forest and drastically decreased the amount of litter. I was able to go two different times and thoroughly enjoyedmy experience without crowds. Please continue using the current permit system and consider increased protection ofthe current plan. Plan A and B will effectively protect the ecosystem while allowing for use of our beautiful land. Ifyou adjust the parking lot and amount of vehicles by making the hike further to the Waterfall it will continue tomonitor the pollution. In addition you can increase the cost of permit to at least $6/person, if not $10/person topromote protection of our lands.

Thank you for all that you do to protect our forest and for taking into consideration the public's opinion.

Sincerely,

Lacey Schuster, MS

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: Greg WattsTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP CommentsDate: Thursday, January 26, 2017 9:18:35 AM

User comments of the Fossil Creek area. I have recreated and camped along Fossil Creek forover 35 years before the U.S. Forest Service began restricting access by putting up fencing100 feet from the tree lined area's along Fossil Creek. It totally ruined my experience as Ialways enjoyed parking under the tree's for shade and to camp, plus hear and see the creeknear my camp. What a blessing it was for me and all the responsible users to camp so closeand hear the creek. When the Forest Service put up the fence it also came with new rules asthe creek area was only for day use and no camping overnight was permitted. Also afterfencing off the area the Forest Service did not make alternative places to park forcing users topark along the road in certain area's and also there is no shade 100 feet away from the creek topark under or next to and you can not hear the creek from this distance. In my opinion the U.S.Forest Service totally ruined my experience keeping me from camping in the area and onlyday use, plus no shade to park near and no alternative parking made to make up for what theForest Service took away by fencing off the area. There is also in the management plan onweekends to force people to park near the entrance dirt road FR708 and Highway 260 and takeshuttle buses to recreate the area which I am against, and who is going to police the parking lotto make sure vehicles are not broken into as the thief's will know the vehicle owners will befar away for hours before getting shuttled back. I made comments to the U.S. Forest Service afew years back when A.P.S. was decommissioning both the power plants to leave the bridgeover Fossil Creek going to Irving Power plant and to leave the housing to be used as a placefor Forest Service staff or volunteers to live at to help police the area and give them satellightphones to call emergency services when needed, but my concerns/requests were not acted onand A.P.S. demolished the housing and removed the bridge, plus stopped maintaining the dirtroad from Highway 260, FR708 back to the former power plants. Since Fossil Creek boarders2 National Forests is there an agreement between both Federal Agency's to maintain the dirtroad for user safety? I like the J-Johns put at key access area's but trash cans would be helpfuland more signs like "Pack it in, pack it out" would be helpful from those who are notresponsible or have no room to hall back there trash on the shuttle bus on weekends.Installation of shade Ramada's and additional parking area's is greatly needed along FossilCreek. I hope my comments will not be going to deaf ears. Thanks for your consideration.Greg Watts 1/26/17 address: P.O. Box 1788 Black Canyon City, Arizona 85324

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us

From: Terra SpruceTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMPDate: Friday, January 27, 2017 11:18:17 AM

Hello,

My name is Terra Welch. I have read all proposed action plans, and familiarized myself with the plans. I am votingfor Alternative A, and to not make any changes to the current plan. I have been here several times, hiked in, hikedout, picked up garbage, and even brought my kids to enjoy this special place for an unforgettable campingexperience there. It is such a magical place, and would hate to see it be closed to the public for recreational use.Although I know there are many people who don't take care and appreciate the land, I am not one of them. I am anavid hiker, and know how special this place is to our state, and to those who of us that are nature lovers. Please keepthis beautiful places open for those of us who truly appreciate the unique beauty and experience this wonderful placehas to offer!

Thank you for you time and consideration.

Sincerely,Terra Welch

Sent from my iPhone

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From: Thomas O"KeefeTo: FS-comments-southwestern-coconino-redrockSubject: Fossil Creek CRMP Comments of American WhitewaterDate: Friday, January 27, 2017 7:47:52 AMAttachments: 20160226_fossil_creek_wild_and_scenic_crmp_scoping_comments.pdf

Please find attached comments of American Whitewater.

Thomas O’Keefe, PhDPacific Northwest Stewardship DirectorAmerican Whitewater3537 NE 87th St.Seattle, WA 98115425-417-9012okeefe@americanwhitewater.org@AmerWhitewater

mailto:comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.usmailto:okeefe@americanwhitewater.org

Thomas O’Keefe, PhD Pacific Northwest Stewardship Director 3537 NE 87th St. Seattle, WA 98115 okeefe@americanwhitewater.org

January 26th, 2017 Laura Jo West, Forest Supervisor Coconino National Forest P.O. Box 20429 Sedona, AZ 86341 Electronically submitted to: comments-southwestern-coconino-redrock@fs.fed.us RE: Comments of American Whitewater on Comprehensive River Management Plan (CRMP) for the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River Dear Ms. West: Thank you for the opportunity to provide comment on the Comprehensive River Management Plan (CRMP) for the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River. We believe that the development and implementation of a CRMP is critical to ensuring that the values that caused a stream to be designated as a Wild and Scenic River are protected and enhanced. At the same time the CRMP should ensure that the public’s connection to Fossil Creek remains intact and strengthened through designation. American Whitewater is a national non-profit 501(c)(3) river conservation organization founded in 1954 with approximately 6000 individual members and 100 local-based affiliate clubs, representing whitewater paddlers across the nation. American Whitewater’s mission is to conserve and restore America’s whitewater resources and to enhance opportunities to enjoy them safely. As a conservation-oriented paddling organization, American Whitewater and our local members have been active stakeholders in the effort to designate Fossil Creek as a Wild and Scenic River and develop a CRMP. American Whitewater has a significant percentage