Road 18 Caves revised EA preferred action

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Road 18 Caves revised EA preferred action C

Alternative C, the preferred action of the EA, is a series of measures that reduce impacts to cave resources while maintaining some diversity of recreational experiences. The first draft of the plan would have banned climbing and removed all fixed an anchors from the climbing sites. Thanks to the work of the AF, local climbers, and the Oregon section of the AAC, the revised EA allows continued climbing and bouldering at the entrances of Hidden Forest and Skeleton Caves. However, there would be permanent restrictions on the use of chalk and other hand drying alternatives.

Presently, the Access Fund has only done a preliminary review of the EA, and it appears the climbing community’s suggestions regarding alternative management approaches to the chalk issue were not accepted. The AF and local groups made special efforts to work with the Forest Service on these unique climbing and cave management issues and will continue to work towards a solution regarding chalk use.

The Road 18 Caves EA can be viewed at: http://ors.alpineclub.org/AAC/road18ea-060601.html
along with a wealth of background information. The closing date for public comments on the Caves EA either by e-mail or in writing is July 5th, 2001. Climbers are encouraged to review the draft plan and submit comments to the Deschutes National Forest.