Dear Friends of the Ocala National Forest
I am pleased to announce the availability of the Decision Notice and
Environmental Assessment (EA) for Route Designation in the Sand Pine
Scrub Ecosystem of the Ocala National Forest. The documents are
available on the internet at
http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/florida.
Alternative 3 includes:
· 529 miles of road
· 21 miles of mixed-use roads
· 96 miles of motorized trail
· 245 miles of system road will change from maintenance level 2 to
maintenance level 1 (no maintenance and not open to public use)
· Four trailheads and eight Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) corrals to
provide OHV parking
· 81-mile designated four-wheel driveway opportunity for use by highway
legal vehicles with pullouts that provide slow-speed challenges such as
downed log obstacles
· 51 miles of seasonal roads from Alternative 4 open November-January
to improve hunting during general gun season
When compared to the other alternatives, this alternative will meet the
purpose and need for action described in the EA. An essential feature
of the modified-Alternative 3 is it provides an opportunity for visitors
to learn about and explore the forest in harmony with the natural
setting. The designated system in modified-Alternative 3 takes necessary
actions to improve resource conditions by reducing impacts on natural
and cultural resources, improving recreational opportunities, improving
safety, and reducing user conflicts.
Implementation of the modified Alternative 3 will be phased in over
multiple years. Priority work will be established based on funding,
available workforce and other forest work. Priorities will be to direct
use away from sensitive habitats and onto the designated routes.
For further information on this decision, contact Heather Callahan,
Ocala National Forest, 40929 SR 19, Umatilla, Florida 32784 or by phone
at (352) 669-3153.
Sincerely,
John Richard Lint
