The Record of Decision (ROD) for snowmobile winter use in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks has been reached. The ROD is the final step from which the implementing rule will be developed, and it must happen in the next 30 days for the park to open to snowmobile access Dec. 19, 2007.
The final decision includes the following:
-Reduced daily snowmobile entries to Yellowstone National Park from 720 to 540.
-Requirements for 100% BAT and 100% commercially guided snowmobile access.
-Snowmobile and snowcoach travel over Sylvan Pass will be allowed when full avalanche forecasting indicates travel through the pass is safe.
-Ceasing of maintenance of the Continental Divide Scenic Trail, but allow trailering of snowmobiles between Flagg Ranch and Moran Junction, and travel by non-BAT snowmobiles between Flagg Ranch and West Yellowstone via National Forest System trails.
-Requirements for BAT snowmobiles for fishing access on Jackson Lake.
This upcoming 2007-2008 snowmobile season will be a "transition period" during which none of the new restrictions will be implemented and the 720 snowmobile cap per day will remain.
Jack Welch, President of the BlueRibbon Coalition said, "We have some concerns, but note the news is not all bad. ... We will continue to closely monitor this issue and will continue our efforts to defend reasonable snowmobile access to the Parks."
Plan a trip and enjoy these national treasures this winter. For updates and more info, visit
www.saveyellowstonepark.com.