The Smith River National Recreation Area (NRA) in northern California is famous for its world-class salmon, steelhead and trout fisheries as well as its spectacular kayaking and white-water rafting. The rare and beautiful Port-Orford cedar grows here, and the area is prized for its wildlife habitat, as well.

Now in the process of determining how many roads and trails to leave open on the forest for general access and for ORV use, the Forest Service is coming under fire from ORV-ers over proposed route closures.  Help us support the agency's efforts to protect wilderness and wildlife in the Smith River NRA by amending our letter below as you see fit, then clicking on "Send this Message."

Thank you! 

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

The Smith River National Recreation Area (NRA) is a very special place, providing some of the best outdoor recreational opportunities on the West Coast. The Smith River NRA is also the heart of one of the largest wild and scenic river systems (315 miles) in the U.S. and is home to rich ecological diversity. Over 176 miles of anadromous fish habitat, over 300 species of wildlife, and 7 distinct plant communities contribute to the lush natural environment of the NRA. The few remaining backcountry roadless areas in the NRA are irreplaceable treasures that are part of the wildland heritage of all Americans and they should be protected.

The Smith River Area Road Management and Route Designation Project calls for maintaining 265 miles of logging roads for motorized use and designating another 28 miles for off-road vehicle (ORV) use. Everyone deserves access to the national forest to enjoy the natural world and spend time with family and friends, but there must be a balance that sets limits on uses that cause destruction to the very natural resources that visitors are coming to enjoy. There need to be places in the Recreation Area where the millions of Americans who enjoy more traditional forms of recreation like hiking, hunting, fishing, camping and horseback riding can go to get away from the noise and disruption of motorized uses.

I urge you to protect the botanical and wildland values of Smith River National Recreation Area by keeping the remaining roadless areas and other ecologically sensitive places free from motorized use.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
April 02, 2008