Flightline Progress Blog

I have heard from Markus and from Mike Grim, both via voice mail, that the major hurdles to overcome with getting the Easement changed will most likely be with the wildlife agencies, Dept. of Fish and Game, and Dept of Fish and Wildlife Services.

I also heard some feedback from other trails advocates I wanted to share with you, about the RideFlightline website, and how the argument seems to be coming across. First-kudos to the webmaster.  Second, the point was made that when this appeal is brought before the public officials, it should come from a broader perspective. Not just from a mtn biker’s perspective. I think Stefan fully grasped this idea and emphasized this at the last meeting. When speaking for the community, it should be just that, the community, not the “mountain biking” community as labeled in Bill Horn’s response letter.  This tactic was used successfully when a new section of trail was proposed in Los Penasquitos Canyon.  They now have a biking only section of singletrack. This was a monumental success considering that equestrians were the majority on the advisory committee.

Remember who the audience will be. They don’t know anything about mtn biking and probably don’t care. However, they must value the “community” input. So, in order to gain public MULTI-USE access, the agencies have to be convinced that it is in the best interest of all people, families, parents and kids, to allow multi-use access to the trail.

Keep in mind these two things:

·        the designated environmental sensitivity of the area and

·        the need for multi-use access

I think there are some things on the website that need to be reconsidered. Someone who is not familiar with the trail will see the photos of things like surfboards in trees and headboards on the trailside, and get the wrong impression. The photos do not do the trail justice, and instead give the impression of detracting from the wilderness. This is not my perception, but this was brought to my attention from someone who is new to the issue, much like the agency people you will be dealing with. They will be completely new to the issue, so I think it best to avoid propagating anything that could leave a poor impression.