Here's what others had to say about the 2009 SCORP draft

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

Dear Friends, Thanks for your work. I had difficulty identifying if the Grand History Trail was included, especially the Adams County portion. We did a feasibility study for the Hanover to Gettysburg connector, and are currently working on obtaining some rights of way along that alignment. I did see that it was not included as a gap, but I feel it needs to be added as a very important gap to be completed. This will then link in the York Heritage Trail, then continue on to Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington. Eventually it will be a loop. If you include the Hanover to Gettysburg Connector, then at least it recognizes the importance of getting folks to Gettysburg by bicycle. How can we get this important connector gap included? Thanks... Tom Jolin, Secretary Health Adams Bicycle/Pedestrian, Ins.

 

PRPS Local Rec and Park Survey

I would like to attend the Jun 2 meeting well-prepared. In order to be able to intelligently comment on future plans, it would be nice to see the PA Rec Particpation Survey to use it as a needs assessment in comparison to the 2003 survey. How about posting it? Michele L. Barbin Snow Shoe, PA

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

The GAP is, of course, the obvious top priority in trails. Second on my list and the list of many residents and organizations is the Frick Park Trail along Nine Mile Run to the Monongahela river in Pittsburgh. There are tens of thousands of people living within a mile or so of Frick Park that would gain trail access to the river and the Duck Hollow Trail. The completion of this already engineered trail would yield a tremendous per capita return for dollars spent. Please move forward with the construction of this trail. Andrew Munster Swissvale, PA

 

Statewide Trails Network

I once authored a document in which I suggested a Keystone Discovery Trails System that connected foot trails to establish a matrix of interconnected trails in all regions of PA. (I could download this to someone if you would like to read the entire paper). Additionally, a major trail of national significance, the Great Eastern Trail, is not included in the map. It would be naive to think that a trail from Florida to NY State would not some day become the 4th National Scenic Trail in PA; it should be a major part of the Scorp section on foot trials. It includes the Standing Stone Trail, MidState Trail, and Tuscarora Trail in PA. Carl Lorence.

 

Can you tell me what #11 and #13 trail gaps are on the map? There is no map key. I work for a township with a linked trail plan in upper Bucks County--West Rockhill. We support a linked statewide greenway system and so do our residents. Thanks, Judy Decker NOTE: Number 11. Nockamixon State Park to Quakertown in Bucks County to Green Lane Park in Montgomery County Number 12. Bethlehem to Coopersburg to Quakertown. If you click on the number a box pops up with the description of the gap.

 

State Park Visitors Survey

DCNR Bureau of State Parks, As a PA resident with a disability, your recent announcement of the possible or probable closing of Yellow Creek Park in Indiana county is a tragedy, not to mention the waste of tax payers money. I've been camping there for about the last five years, the cabins are fully accessible and with the wheelchair accessible pontoon boats you can't beat it. Every year our group keeps getting bigger, last year we rented three cabins and two pontoon boats over a long weekend. It seems a shame to even think about closing it. You added the the Yurts to it the past three years and this year you are presently building a new bath house next to the cabins. Yellow Creek Park is one of PA's best kept parks, a secret get away. It's close to IUP and the town of Indiana, stores are fifteen minutes away, and not to mention it's a Green Park. If it's not the money maker you want, advertise! I'll probably have a harder time getting a cabin but it won't stop me from traveling from Pittsburgh along with my friends from Tallahassee. But all in all before doing anything drastic, visit the park, talk to the park manager Kenneth Bisbee(a hell of a nice guy), and look to see how much the park has to offer, to the public and especially to us with disabilities. Sincerely, Gary Brunazzi

 

Connecting People to Outdoors

What better way to connect people to the outdoors than by investing in safer bike facilities on streets so that people can safely pedal from their homes to the trails and parks without having to drive there? Millions of people in this country already use our streets to enjoy the outdoors by using them for biking and walking, and millions more would if they were made safer.

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

Has anyone been involved in the Sandcastle Gap in the Great Allegheny Passage negotiations ??...

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

Looking through the available documents, I see no attention given to the trends in 4x4 (legally registered passenger vehicles) driving for recreation in PA. We use 4x4 recreation as a means to get our children into the forest for fresh air, camping, hiking and education while enjoying the the socializtion of organized 4x4 driving with a club. I'd like to see the state land make some existing (but closed) challenging trails available to attract more enthusiasts to PA. Plus, the more challenging trails that are available, the less illegal activity will occur trying to find it. Sincerely, Dave DeChristopher, Ephrata, PA

 

State Park Visitors Survey

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this piece of work effort. Actually I am using this vehicle to raise a point of view I believe ought to be given serious consideration; that is, whether ‘pets’ have any place in our state parks, trails, recreation areas, etc. I do not have a pet. But I have been to several states which allow pets. Let me be specific; for the most part, my comments will refer to dogs. About 6 years ago, the Commonwealth of PA began a ‘pilot’ of allowing dogs in the camping area. I have been camping in PA’s State Parks for over 40 years. When a dog that ‘got away’ ran into my campsite at Promised Land, that was the last time I visited that park – which was my favorite place to camp. Several years ago, my wife was bitten by a dog who ‘doesn’t bite’. Lastly, look at Jacobsburg State Park here in the Lehigh Valley; it is now known as Dog Park. The dogs run will and their crap is all over the trails. Please, Please do not cave into pressure from the few dog owners. Please use this opportunity to reign-in the policy of allowing ‘pets’ in the recreation areas reserved for humans. Regards! Bill Hart Northampton, PA

 

Improving PA Economy/Health

HEALTHY Armstrong at http://healthyarmstrong.org/ is an active organization that is attempting to do many of the suggestions made in this section. The Armstrong Trail is a participant of this initiative and promotes the health benefits of active lifestyles and connections to nature. Ron Steffey, Armstrong Trail

 

There is a huge opportunity to gain a large amount of revenue from the 4x4 community. There is a huge demand for offroad access to legal places to enjoy our sport. It can help the local economy. Ridgway, for instance, would be greatly impacted by good economic growth if we could have more access to public lands, such as the A.N.F. There could be a trail system just like the ATVs have, but with a greater economic impact due to the lack of places for O.R.V. community to enjoy our sport, they would come from around the country if you had a trail set up to draw them in. Thank you

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

I'll also recommend that the trail along Nine Mile Run in Pittsburgh's Frick Park be completed as a connecter to the Steel Valley Trail system being developed along the Monogahela River. As already noted, the tens of thousands living in this part of the Pittsburgh area would gain easier access from Frick Park to the river trails. Please take a closer look at Nine Mile Run.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I would like to see more 4x4 (jeep) trails opened up. The best way to protect our forests is to provide challenging off road trails. A simple look around while driving down the road will tell you there are a lot of jeeps in Pa. We seek nothing more than the ATVs where given. A legal place to enjoy our sport. Our petition even has more support than theirs did (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/OpenPaJeepTrails/index.html). The illegal trail riding that occurs in our state and national forests will only be stopped by a legal challenging trail system. Craig Groeger President of Rocks-N-Roost Off Road Club Ridgway Pa. (RocksnRoost.com)

 

Connecting People to Outdoors

Hunting needs to be a high profile activity since most who do these other activities are also hunters just enjoying the fruits of their conservationist activities in the off season. There hass been a large disconnect with "city folk" and nature which has grown over the years, and hunting is a great way to keep folks, especially kids, in touch with nature and wildlife. It also seems like this special interest group "scorp" is big on trails. I would venture to say that hunter foot traffic keeps the majority of these trails open and worn.

 

Statewide Trails Network

I would like to see more motorcycle trails opened up. There are many, many miles of snowmobile trails across the state even though research has shown they are the least used vehicle when compared to cycles, 4 wheelers, and 4wd's. Most of these trails could be dual purpose. And among these trails we need ones upon which younger unlicensed youth may ride on as well. This is the age at which you learn these sports, not by waiting till you are 16 or 17 when you can get a license.

 

We have great trails for walking, biking and horses, but we need more trails for motorized vehicles.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I would just like to express my extreme dissatisfaction at the lack of any off highway vehicle access for full sized vehicles in Pennsylvania. In other states throughout the country there are places where owners of Jeeps and other full sized 4x4s can take their vehicles. There are several places in southwestern Pennsylvania that could be opened to full sized off highway vehicles that would not impact nature and at the same time provide this large segment of the tax paying population a place in which they can enjoy their sport. I hope that in the future the complete disregard for this segment of Pennsylvania's outdoor enthusiasts will be remedied.

 

Purpose of SCORP

I would like to take my OHV on trails in the state park. I will not make a mess.

 

Statewide Trails Network

I am interested not only in trail use by walking, biking and equestrian, but also desire to have trails for use by motorized vehicles. Jeff Saal

 

State Park Visitors Survey

We have dogs and don't visit a lot of parks because they can never be off their leashes. I have been in various states out West where they do have leash laws but ALSO a "dog park"- designated areas where the dogs can run around free-to-be. It's really fun, people tend to clean up so they aren't chastised by others, everyone chats, and then the dogs can go back on their leashes at camp; much more relaxing.

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

WE NEED ATV TRAILS LIKE WEST VIRGINIA HAS ! JUST LOOK AT THE MONEY THEY BRING IN FROM PA RESIDENTS ! I WOULD MUCH RATHER SPEND MY MONEY WHERE I LIVE BUT THIS STATE LIKES TO TAKE AWAY AREAS WE HAVE RODE FOR YEARS AND MAKE WALKING TRAILS THAT ARE USED BY NO MORE THAN 10-15 PEOPLE IN A GOOD MONTH ! I LIVE IN FAYETTE COUNTY AND MUST DRIVE TO SOMERSET COUNTY TO RIDE A NICE TRAIL SYSTEM , AND IT IS NOT EVEN A STATE RAN FACILITY BUT A PRIVATE ATV RESORT ! THE TRAILS THE STATE DOES HAVE ARE NOT NEARLY CHALLENGING OR LONG ENOUGH TO JUSTIFY DRIVING AN HOUR AND A HALF ! PA. IS THIRD IN THE NATION IN ATV OWNERSHIP , GIVE US PLACES TO RIDE AND THE MONEY WILL COME ROLLING IN ! CHARGE A YEARLY TRAIL PERMIT FEE OF 100-150 $ FOR EACH ATV MORE FOR NON-RESIDENTS OF COURSE . THIS IS A VIABLE OPTION FOR THIS STATE ! THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME . DAVE CLARK

 

Statewide Resident Survey

I feel that the state should consider and include designated access to state lands by Motorized vehicles. This is a legetimate form of recreation desired by many tax paying residents of Pennsylvania. If the state includes legitimate access there will be fewer instances of inappropriate use. George Geiser Champion Pa.

 

Add a comment...We agree, in general, with the overall survey that access to green space, wooded trails for hiking, biking, dog walking in each of our local communities is crucial for a healthy quality of life. We also need to continue the effort to reclaim river access for the citizenry, particularly from old railways and abandoned industrial sites. We want more land protected with particular attention to riparian areas of waterways and wetlands. We hate motorized vehicles on trails, finding them destructive to the land, streams and wetlands. Their noise destroys the outdoor experience and undoubtedly disturbs wildlife. Our favorite outdoor activity is hiking. We love and appreciate our state parks and would prefer that they be kept in as natural state as possible to preserve the woodland experience. Penn's Woods need on-going protection. Thank you, Joseph & Arlene Mercurio, New Kensington, PA

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

Snowmobile Trail connectors for the following areas: 1)A legal crossing of Rt322 in Centre County connecting Rothrock and Bald Eagle State Forests 2)Penn's Creek Crossing in Bald Eagle State Forest 3)Renova or Hyner connection for Clinton and Potter County Riding areas 4)Black Moshanon connection to Clinton County 5)Laurel Highlands to Ohiopyle connection 6)Parker Dam SP connection to Sinemahoning Area 7)Prince Gallitzin SP trails connected to nearby State Game Land Trails and on to Black Moshanon Trails 8)Gallitzin State Forest connection to Blue Knob Ski Resort 9)Trail Connections to Gas, Food and Lodging especially needed in: Laurel Highlands Black Moshanon SP Parker Dam SP

 

Statewide Trails Network

Snowmobile Trail connectors for the following areas will add greatly to a state wide snowmobile trail system: 1)A legal crossing of Rt322 in Centre County connecting Rothrock and Bald Eagle State Forests 2)Penn's Creek Crossing in Bald Eagle State Forest 3)Renova or Hyner connection for Clinton and Potter County Riding areas 4)Black Moshanon connection to Clinton County 5)Laurel Highlands to Ohiopyle connection 6)Parker Dam SP connection to Sinemahoning Area 7)Prince Gallitzin SP trails connected to nearby State Game Land Trails and on to Black Moshanon Trails 8)Gallitzin State Forest connection to Blue Knob Ski Resort 9)Trail Connections to Gas, Food and Lodging especially needed in: Laurel Highlands Black Moshanon SP Parker Dam SP

 

Connecting People to Outdoors

The DCNR Snowmobile Hotline and Website needs updated on a daily basis to reflect current conditions. This is especially important before, during and after holiday weekends or when conditions are changing.

 

Snowmobiling in PA is such an incredible outdoor winter experience. To better the snowmobile experience in PA: 1)Accurate up to date snowmobile trail maps and signage with GPS for all these areas 2)Quality grooming done on snowmobile trails as needed 3)The Snowmobile Safety Course offering certification for adults as well as youths

 

To better the great snowmobile experience in PA: DCNR's Snowmobile Trail conditon website needs update more frequently. Possible enhancement of the site would be a webcam view of the trais but more important would be daily updates.

 

Statewide Trails Network

Yes, we need "accurate trail maps" with GPS mapping in the Clinton & Potter Co. snowmobile trail system. Keep up the good work and thank you.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

The Trails for off roading should not just be for ATVs and Snowmobiles. The routes though our beloved state should also be open to other 4X4 such as jeeps trucks and other vehicles capable of traverseing our lands

 

Connecting People to Outdoors

Each and every PA state park should have natural surface trails open to mountain bikers. We are normal every day people who enjoy riding our bikes on dirt trails. We also LOVE to volunteer to help improve and maintain these trails to sustainable standards. We use the trails on a daily basis, conditions permitting, and act as an unofficial park patrol. We are the eyes and ears of the public and we cover a lot of ground and can help make sure everyone is safe. We also travel in groups often and have disposable income that we like to spread around to local businesses around the parks. Excluding this user group from state parks is bad policy and management. Kids LOVE riding bikes and more and more of them are discovering this healthy lifestyle, as well as many adults. This is an excellent method of connecting people to the outdoors.

 

I feel very strongly that each and every PA state park should have natural surface trails open to mountain bikers. I am a 33 year old state resident that enjoys being outside, and I hope to share that love of the outdoors with my children. It is imperative to the long-term health of Pennsylvania that we keep our young people interested in the outdoors and aware of the incredible opportunities for adventure in PA! Excluding certain user groups from State Parks, for whatever reason, will not help the state in the long run. Other states, such as Colorado, Utah, Vermont, California, Oregon, North Carolina (should I go on?) promote their states to young people as fun and adventurous destinations. While PA might not have the same big name parks as these other places, we do have great state parks. Keep them open to all user groups! Promote them on the internet, in magazines, or even television. Let all PA residents know that their State Parks are just that - theirs!

 

State Park Visitors Survey

Surveying visitors from only 6 of the 117 State Parks does not provide a large enough sampling to develop accurate conclusions of Park users statewide. Only one State Park survey was conducted in the Pennsylvania Wilds region, which contains 29 State Parks and 12 counties, mostly rural in nature. Next update of the Recreation Plan should contain a broader survey effort.

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

I have looked at the map identifying the trail gaps and to my dismay there are none shown in the northcentral Pa area except for one in Clearfield County. It appears that we have been excluded from this process all together. There are many, many existing trails, both non-motorized and motorized in the counties of McKean, Potter, Elk, Cameron, Jefferson, and Clearfield, but I do not see any of these on any State maps. I checked with some of our local trails organizations and none received a survey concerning trail gaps or priorities to fill out for this Recreation Plan update. We have many local trails organizations, but no regional ones as yet. We need to include the information so that is does not look like there is absolutely nothing for trails in the northcentral area. You can contact me, Deborah Lunden, Director, at McKean County Planning Commission. Thank you.

 

Statewide Trails Network

I would love to get involved with the TEP. This all looks like a step in the right direction. I am going to forward this download to as many people as possible. Hope to see you at the next meeting.

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

On 19 July, 2009 the Paulhamus-Garby Trail Link will be dedicated. This will link the Donut Hole Trail and the Chuck Kieper Trail. This information provided by James Nevins, I&E Coordinator for The Western Clinton Sportsmen's association. For complete details contact State Forester Ted Liginza in DCNR District 10.

 

Hello, We note that the Montoursville to Muncy, and the Muncy to Union County trail segments are not shown on the trail gap map. These trails are identified as a high priority in the adopted Lycoming County Recreation, Parks and Open Space/Greenway Plan, which was funded by DCNR. Lycoming County has invested $50,000 in a feasibility study for the Montoursville to Muncy trail segment. We are also budgeting an additional $50,000 for the Muncy to Union County segment feasibility study. These trails will link to the Muncy Heritage Park and eastern Lycoming County, the Pine Creek Trail, the Jersey Shore connector, and the Williamsport River Walk, which are all shown on the Trail Map. For more detailed information about Lycoming County trails, please contact either me or Mark Murawski, Transportation Planner. Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Kevin McJunkin, Environmental Planner Lycoming County Planning & Community Development

 

Connecting People to Outdoors

Current State Parks programs are first-rate ways to recreate, connect with outdoors and learn. Environmental Ed Specialists make the programs meaningful and fun, particularly summer programs aimed at kids ages 3 and up. The programs are great as they are; attendence is all we need to improve. I suggest resources for Enivron Ed Specialisist to advertise more directly.

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

ATV trails are not consistent with the major needs expressed by the people surveyed: physical and mental health. Nor are they consistent with nature experiences and green spaces enjoyed through all the senses. Finally, they are not friendly to our environment. Trails should foster healthful recreation that does not interfere with other users through noise and other pollution.

 

Aligning State Planning

Increasing access for pets creates conflicts that impose one segments preferences on another's. Barking dogs are a nuisance to users who like to camp, picnic and hike in peace; those who choose to not have pets and the attendant distractions are imposed upon by others, reducing the quality of their outdoor experience. State parks are polluted with animal feces, which ends up on childrens' shoes. Defecating dogs in public places are unsavory. The niche that prefers pets in all state parks, particularly in expanded campground sections, are a loud minority that negatively affects the other's experience.

 

Statewide Trails Network

Please focus on multi-use trails so that horseback riding is allowed. Thank you.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

There must be a concerted effort to provide owners of off road vehicles (4x4) areas where they can drive. Access road, logging roads, etc. To have total restriction from such activites only encourages those who disregard the laws to do so more. Many responsible offroad groups would volunteer to help clean and keep clean areas where they would be allowed to drive. Brian Davis bdavi

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

Edwin K. Charles Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania -- July 2009 In the early morning of April 23, 1917, six men started up Mahanoy Mountain. This climb led to the beginning of the Alpine Club, the first environmental club in Pennsylvania. The original members of the Pennsylvania Alpine Club were; Colonel Henry Shoemaker, G. W. Wagenseller, Henry F. Charles, W. M. Schnure, F.G. Bettis, and Edwin F. Charles. This new organization’s goal “Was to explore the Pennsylvania mountains and climb the high peaks of the state, to study the flora and fauna, and to obtain such data as would help in creating a greater love for the beauties of the state and inculcate a desire for conservation of the states natural resources.”* By the mid 1920s the Alpine Club had up to 2,500 members and 17 chapters, including many prominent men such as Governor William Sproul, Gifford Pinchot, Dr. J.T. Rothrock, and many others. In 1924 they climbed 53 of Pennsylvania’s peaks. “No one can estimate accurately the value of the work of the Alpine Club because it deals largely with spiritual values. But so much is certain; no one ever ascends a Pennsylvania mountain or visits a Pennsylvania forest park without coming away resolved that the hand of greed shall be stayed and that the wonderful handiwork of God as seen in the woods shall be preserved.”** Proposal: • Let us renew the goals and ideas of the Alpine Club and start a new chapter for men, women, children, and organizations in Pennsylvania. • Let’s get back to nature, physical fitness, family time, club activities, spiritual reflection, and community outreach. • Environmental education, tourism, economic development, along with preservation and conservation will enrich the individual as well as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. • Individual journals and fact sheets including lists of view fields, mountains, and scenic overlooks. (An example is the National Parks’ stamp passport.) • Susquehanna Water Gap’s should be saved. These are the best view fields in Pennsylvania and trails should be created to their summits. • Ownership of the land, liability, and access for trails must be verified. Some prominent mountains in Pennsylvania to climb are: 1. Mahanoy in Northumberland County 2. Mt. Logan in Clinton County 3. Blue Knob in Bedford County 4. Negro in Somerset County (Mt. Davis is the highest point in Pennsylvania) 5. Parrnell in Franklin County 6. Red Top in Center County 7. High Top in Snyder County 8. Hyner 9. Hawk 10. Grand Canyon Vista 11. Jacks Narrows 12. Mt. Nittany in Centre County 13. Delaware Water Gap 14. Susquehanna Water Gaps (5 Gaps) 15. Doubling Gap 16. Pole Steeple 17. Waggoners Gap 18. Hemlock 19. Shikellamy *Lewis Edwin Theiss, “Pennsylvania Alpine Club”, American Forestry, January 1923, page 47.

 

Statewide Trails Network

If I was given the opportunity to establish a priority for foot trails I would state the following: The Great Eastern Trail consists of the Tuscarora, Standing Stone and MidState trails in PA. It would be naive to think that a trail from Florida to Lake Champlain, NY would not someday be designated a National Scenic Trail, the 4th in PA. Some of the containing states have already established policies/procedures for establishing the trail in their area. Within PA, there are small gaps in the MidState and Standing Stone Trails but "club" action will eventually clear these up. Unfortunately, the closures will be with a handshake, not an easement. It is clear to me that lacking a statewide "coordinator" for foot trails, legislatiion, similar to the 1978 AT Act, should be enacted for the Great Eastern Trail to ensure the GET has "protected" status and that public resources are provided for land acquisition. It will overcome local zoning deficiencies and the like. I would also suggest that the President of the GET Association be given a seat at the table. Carl Lorence Projects Manager Standing Stone Trail Club, Inc www.hike-sst.org for links to the GET and free trail maps.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I wanna wheel!

 

Please consider more opportunities for the 4x4 enthusiasts! Look at the revenue that states like West Virginia and Kentucky have raked in by providing challenging trail systems for road legal Jeeps and trucks. The western part of PA is thick with 4x4 clubs willing to volunteer their time and energy if only the state would consider their sporting desires. rocksnroost.com/index.html www.hrja.org www.bigrubbers4x4.org www.trcr.org www.blwa.org www.eriejeeppeople.com Brett Skinner - Erie, PA

 

Statewide Trails Network

Trail networks for not only ATVs, but also, SUV type vehicles should be set up. There are many responsible wheelers out there, most belong to organized clubs that promote safe,legal, and fun trails rides. The state of Pa. does not know of the vast, untapped wealth of free labor just waiting to be used to do such a network. Ask State Rep. Gary Haluska, as the Rock Run atv park spent over 6 million to create a trail network for the ATV riding. The cost of putting in SUV type trails? ZERO, as many clubs donated their time and resources to create the SUV trail network at Rock Run. ADDITIONALLY, once you have such a network in place, you will see a substantial increase in both use and revenue generated by tapping this resource.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I live in the southeastern part of the state. We have a couple of pay-to-play parks within a couple hours drive, but not everyone can afford to go to these places. We have state game lands, with fire trails, why not allow us to access these for extended enjoyment of our natural resources? I think that if these areas were opened up, the state would benefit from it. We have so many tourists coming into this area to see the Amish and visit all the strip malls, why not let them see another side of our state? You could post signs to remind folks to "pack out what you pack in". Most of us are responsible hobbiests, it's the rare few who give us a black eye. I've seen plenty of hikers leaving their trash behind on trails, yet they seem to be the ones pointing fingers at us. All we are asking for, is an oppertunity to further enjoy or hobby/sport.

 

I would love to see more "Driveable Trails" opened. My family and I greatly enjoy traveling open trails in our Jeeps.

 

Please make more vehicle trails available to those of us that responsibly want to travel recreationally on the back roads of PA. We practice the 'Tread Lightly' rules & often leave the space cleaner than when we arrived. Thank you!

 

Statewide Trails Network

I am an Off road Journalist, and have had the pleasure of taking part in, or writing about Charity events that SUV off roaders host, for over 15 years. They are continually donating their time and energy to legal areas for them to exercise their hobby. In Pa. there were 2 " pay to play" Offroad Parks. One was shut down because of a proposed cargo airport, the other is thriving. With the current lapse of a State budget because of the economy, wouldn't the State enjoy another avenue for revenue? Some people might say that it would cost too much and the State would have to make a large investment to make this happen. I beg to differ. As the DCNR already has a "case study" at the Rock Run ATV park in Cambria County. The park and others spent nearly 6 million dollars to develop the ATV trail system. When State Rep. Gary Haluska contacted a couple of organized 4x4 clubs, he was taken aback with the amount replies he received. The Western Pa. 4x4 Trails Advisory committee was form, with members of several 4x4 clubs. At the first meeting, the clubs were asked " what would the costs be to create a SUV trail system? Those in attendance looked at each other and simply stated " nothing". And that is exactly what it cost, zero dollars, as the clubs donated their time, and resources to complete the system, and have been maintaining those trails, along with providing trail guides to lead people when they visited the park. I wrote an article for JRations magazine about Rock Run and the efforts of State Rep. Haluska and the 4x4 clubs. The day of the very first SUV trail ride was a Toys for Tots charity trail run. However, on this day the Patton area was besieged by a winter ice storm, carpeting the area with a half inch of ice. That did not dissuade the those who had planned to attend, as nearly 40 vehicles and 70 people braved the bad weather to enjoy a ride, and fill 2 pick trucks of toys for the Marines. The Rock Run park took in a thousand dollars that nasty winter day, otherwise it would have had no revenue at all. There is a vast wealth of organized, responsible 4x4 clubs, with many carrying their own insurance, that would gladly donate time and resources to have "Legal" places to enjoy their hobby. Additionally, the parks system would have a huge increase in park fees, not only for the people of Pa., but it would reach out to adjoining States and the 4x4 clubs they contain. With an increase of visitors brought on by a SUV trail system, the communities that surround these parks with trails, would enjoy an increase in sale as well, from hotels to super markets to restaurants and auto parts stores, just to name a few. In Pa. we have the oldest mountain range in the States, let's promote that and use an untapped Pa. resource to the States advantage. Thank you, Respectfully, Doug " Bear" Updyke Windber,Pa. area

 

I would like to see some trails built to accommodate Off Highway Vehicles. Right now, there are no state administered public OHV trails in Pennsylvania. Many State Parks and National Forests have trails that could be used by OHVs, were they opened up to such use. I am a member of the Erie Jeep People, and we have to lease land to drive on. We would welcome the opportunity to help build trails on State or National Forest land, for all to use. Most of our members are young parents, and take every opportunity to show their children the outdoors, and nurture respect for the environment. I know that an OHV trail system in Pennsylvania would get more people outdoors to see what recreational opportunities are available to them. Some physically impaired people have no other way to view wildlife up close. Thank you, Robert Anderson Cochranton, PA

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

i would love to be able to explore pa through legal 4x4 trails not only for 4 wheeler or dirtbikes but by off road vehicle. i see it as a great way to introduce people from pa and tourist to the great out doors and pa amazing landscape. it would greatly decrease illegal off roading and hugely increase tourist and locals to see the forest as enthusiast.

 

Please consider the opportunity for trails for the 4x4 enthusiasts like myself and others. I'm a memeber of a local Offroad club (Erie Jeep People), Like so many others I would like to have offroad trails locally. I live in NW Pa. and we have several legal ATV trails but nothing legal for 4x4 OHV. Please consider this as it would be a great way to boost the loacl economy. Thanks Ronald E. Ruzich Warren,Pa.

 

i own a jeep and enjoy visiting the parks for drive thru oportunities. i would like to see more trails opened for use as there are with the atv crowd. i am a wounded vet and therefore i cannot ride an atv/motorcycle. thank you for your consideration. ssgt usmc lewis

 

Statewide Trails Network

Hello, My family and I would love more 4x4 opportunities in PA. Unlike ATV's and Motorcycles, we can put our family in one (quiet)vehicle and visit the backwoods and trails together in our great state. Unfortunately, there is not much out there for us to visit. We believe we need much more here in Pennsylvania. We would rather spend our money (food,lodging,fuel) here at home, then go to another state, which is what we do very often. Thank you, Wayne & Billie Jeanne Fish.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I'm a resident of PA and an avid outdoor enthusiasts. We use our 4x4 passenger vehicle (legally registered passenger vehicle) to get us to the great outdoors for family fun camping, hiking, biking, boating, and a host of other outdoor activities. It would be great if our 4x4 passenger vehicle community had the access to some closed state land for some great offroad family recreation and social club rides. If some of this allocated land had a variety of terrain, especially some challenging trails, I believe it would greatly reduce some of the illegal activity taking place today.Thank you for the opportunity to voice our opinion as we hope the state will take a serious look at our request. Sincerely, Scott Drawbaugh...York, PA

 

Purpose of SCORP

Greetings, I want Public Lands to remain open for 4x4 Recreational use. Myself, and many members of PA Jeeps, Inc. have worked hard cleaning up (public) roadways, maintaining trails (at Rausch Creek Offroad Park) and being responsible stewards of our forests. We are also willing to help, in cooperation with DCNR, to keep our state lands beautiful, and accessible, so that present and future generations can get out there and enjoy this great State. Thank You. Regards, Don “Jack” Utter

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

Add Newville to Carlisle link as trail gap in Cumberland Valley Rail Trail. For more information contact myself Stephanie Williams, Cumberland County Planning Department.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I feel that the time has come for 4x4 recreation to be treated as the sport that it is. For years we as a community have been denied access due to environmental impact. If legal trails were opened with proper erosion controls, illegal wheeling in more sensitive areas would definitely reduce. With the proper planning of a challenging trail system I think everyone could be happy. Tread Lightly. Jim Neidrich President Eagle Valley Off Roaders

 

Choose a Topic

I would like to see more land areas open to public off pavement recreation, especially for use by Jeep owners like myself.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I would like to see more land areas open to public off pavement recreation, especially for use by Jeep owners like myself. Norman Eckard Hanover PA

 

Choose a Topic

Thank you for the opportunity to give feedback and input to your plan. Hopefully, they will be reviewed and given serious consideration. I am currently the VP of the Eagle Valley Off Roaders 4x4 club and we are constantly looking for new areas to use legally. A new trail system/ land use areas would stimulate local economies and promote travel and tourism to our state, that otherwise would be overlooked. There are many other states that have similar systems and areas in place that many 4x4 enthusiasts travel to from great distances. Why not try to promote our state and all its opportunities to the rest of the country? Outdoor activities are a way to reconnect with nature, family and friends, not to mention get away from hectic schedules. There are many individuals and clubs willing to help cut, clean and maintain trails; ours included. We are just waiting for an opportunity. Any consideration would be greatly appreciated. Kurt Ketchum Vice President Eagle Valley Off Roaders

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

I have to admit up front that I have not had time to read this document through. I will try to get to it this weekend, but I want to make sure my voice is heard. I am an avid user of the local and state lands. I would visit more state lands if there were more access to land nearby. In the past month I have visited Sproul and Cordorous SF. I have visited 4 York county parks in the past 6 weeks. Some of these parks were visited multiple times. I routinely visit the State Parks/ State Forest on the eastern side of the Appalachians. I think I have visited 4 SP/SF this calendar year alone. I am a member of Hawk Mountain. I take my Jeep off highway at Rausch Creek Off Road Park as part of PA Jeeps club. I have purchased a hunting license the last 3 or 4 years. I have a wife, 2 kids and multiple dogs. My son has both Down Syndrome and Autism. My wife has needed surgery on her knees this year. We mostly enjoy the land in our Jeep and we would like to explore more. I have visions of building canoes / kayaks this year to use in the local waterways. I hope to add that to our list next year, but that require several things to fall into place. We need more access to the land via trials in order to continue to explore. Our trip to Sproul was part of a PA Jeeps club ride. The ride is one of my favorites of the year. I have explored this area 4 different times since I moved back to PA 5 years ago. It is a shame that more trails are not open to the public. I have tried to find these types of trails in every SF/SP I get to, but usually find them gated. I don’t see the difference between snow mobiles and Jeeps as far as the land use goes. I understand funding is an issue and I offered in the comments section to pay for a permit to help the park system. I missed any reference to permits for use in the draft. My quick glance through the document did not recognize the Jeep style of exploration of the parks. I hope the final document changes that. Our family would also like to stay overnight at the parks, but we have not felt comfortable keeping Jake safe. We are afraid of him getting out at night and losing him. Both Down Syndrome and Autism make a child want to wander. We looked at renting a yurt this year, but the 1 week time frame is too long. We hope to stay a weekend at Cordorous later in the fall when we can rent it for a couple of days. Inexpensive overnight areas that are secure are needed for my family and families with young kids. Thank you for your time, Joe Giglio York County PA resident

 

Statewide Trails Network

Please maintain or ENHANCE opportunities for MOTORIZED RECREATION in Pennsylvania. There is A LOT of room for A LOT of trails throughout our beautiful Commonwealth. If some people are offended by motorized recreation, they can go to an area where it is not allowed. WE NEED to continue an organized motorized recreational trail program.

 

Aligning State Planning

See Recommendation 4.4; please refine the second Action Step entry by deleting 'three-five' (thus not specifying the exact number of projects or locations); also, please insert additional examples, such as scenic overlooks and interpretive signage at water trail trail-heads.

 

Statewide Resident Survey

The statewide survey is skewed for input from urban areas.

 

Overview PA issues/trends in 2009

This trail gap analysis does not address the areas of the northern tier. Please contact the North Central Regional Planning to obtain a copy of the greenway plan. As currently presented, draft one is not acceptable for a state wide plan as it does not identify existing trails and trail gaps in the northern tier counties.

 

Trail Gap Priorities Survey

As the tourism director for McKean County, I am requeseting that the information submitted at the SAAC committee in Harrisburg, that contained a detailed list of trails within the region be immediately added to this list along with the trail gaps identified by the greenway plan for the North Central Region. Linda Devlin, ANF Vacation Bureau, 800-473-9370

 

I have taken the time to review the existing trails map. As a member of the Tuna Valley Trails Assoc. in Bradford PA, I am aware of a number of trails in McKean COunty that do not appear on the maps. There are also a number of other trail groups and trails in the area not represented as well. Most of these trails have used state and federal fund for development and construction. We recently participated in meetings with the County and LDD regarding greenways planning. Hopefully some of the information discussed and provided will be added to the state documents and resources. Thank You

 

Connecting People to Outdoors

I think a Frisbee-golf course on Pennsylvania's Presque Isle would be a great way to connect people with the outdoors. Using the trails already established, it would be a great way to get the younger crowd interacting with the outdoors but will also be a new activity for those regulars to the park and trails.