Rex Trail Update - July 1, 2008

Summary of Public Meetings:
On May 13th and 14th, the Division held public meetings in Anderson and Fairbanks to present the Rex Trail administrative decision, provide information about long-term goals and potential future management options, and provide an opportunity for questions and comments.

In Anderson, 16 people attended the meeting.  Questions and comments included the extent and nature of DNR's trail research/assessment methods and conclusions, the relative impacts of different vehicles on the trail and surrounding lands, the relevance of existing access management statutes and regulations, implications of this decision for other state lands, and DNR's public notice process for this decision.  Many attendees stated that they believed large tracked vehicles should not be restricted, and did not agree with the Division's May 12th decision.  Some stated the trail has been in the same condition for years and is not getting worse.  Some attendees requested that the decision to restrict be postponed while DNR works with the public on long-term management options.

In Fairbanks, 26 people attended the meeting, and many of the same comments were voiced.  A number of attendees noted that they have observed increasing trail degradation, worsening access, unsafe winter travel conditions, and expressed agreement with DNR's decision to seasonally restrict some motorized uses of the Rex Trail.  Some people recommended that large tracked vehicles be given permits to operate on the Rex Trail during summer and fall, as long as they stay to the trail and do not travel cross-country.

In addition to comments voiced during the two public meetings, many people have sent written comments to the Division.  To date, 37 written comments have been received.  Of these, 23 support the Division's decision to seasonally restrict some motorized use of the Rex Trail; 14 commenters oppose the decision.  Some of those who oppose the decision have submitted formal appeals.

A more complete description of the comments received during the public meetings is being compiled and will be posted to the website once complete.

Recent Management Action - June 2008:

Previous Announcement:
The Division has issued a pending management decision on the Rex Trail under the authority of AS 38.04.058 to restrict travel on the Rex Trail from April 15 to October 31 annually to off-road vehicles under 1,500 pounds based upon manufacture specifications (not loaded).  This weight limit still allows four wheel ATVs, many 6 wheelers, and the lower weight Argos.  The AS 38.04.058 Decision will be signed on May 12 and followed by two public information meetings.  The restrictions implemented on June 13, 2008.

The public has the right to appeal the AS 38.04.058 Decision to the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources.  To do so, a written appeal must be submitted to the Commissioner as outlined in the Appeal section of the Decision.  An appeal may be submitted via mail, fax or email.  Any appeal must be received no earlier than May 13, 2008 and no later than June 2, 2008.

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Public Meetings - May 13-14, 2008:

Previous Announcement:
We strongly encourage you to get involved by attending a public meeting or sending in your comments to us by email or letter.  The Division will be holding two public meetings for the purposes of:

• informing you on the decision under AS 38.04.058;
• informing you on the appeal process for the decision;
• discussing and seeking input on long term management options;
• updating you regarding future plans to review and/or revise Generally Allowed Use regulations as they pertain to motorized access on state land.

The dates, locations, and times of the open house meetings are:

• May 13th   Anderson   Anderson School Multipurpose Room   7:00-10:00pm
• May 14th   Fairbanks  Noel Wien Public Library Auditorium     7:00-10:00pm