Yesterday the final environmental impact statement (FEIS) on winter use in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks was released. If adopted as the final decision for snowmobiles, the preferred alternative would:
-Reduce the number of snowmobiles in Yellowstone from 720 to 540
-Require 100% BAT and 100% commercially guided access
-Close the East entrance over Sylvan Pass
-Cease maintenance of the Continental Divide Scenic Trail, but allow trailering of snowmobiles, between Flagg Ranch and Moran Junction
-Require BAT snowmobiles for fishing access to Jackson Lake
This is not a final decision, and regardless, the Park Service has announced that a "transition period" will occur in the upcoming 2007-2008 season where none of the new restrictions will be implemented. It is anticipated that the temporary plan, that has been used the last three seasons, will remain in effect for the coming season.
Jack Welch, President of the BlueRibbon Coalition, assures the snowmobiling community of Yellowstone that the BlueRibbon Coalition will continue the fight to regain a satisfactory level and type of snowmobile access.
For more info visit
www.saveyellowstonepark.com.