Why I Believe Internal-Combustion Motorcycles Should be Banned in the ACFL

Community VoicesLeave a comment

I believe internal‑combustion motorcycles should no longer be allowed in the ACFL because they pose safety risks, create harmful noise levels for wildlife and visitors, and continue to cause significant trail damage even during the limited months they’re permitted. The Forest Plan did not provide best‑available science to justify their use, nor were noise or…

ACFL Forest Plan Security and Efficiency Improvements

Community VoicesLeave a comment

The updated ACFL Forest Plan is an improvement, but it should include cost‑saving and efficiency strategies as follows: Recommend installing permanent security cameras at key parking lots and trailheads, plus expanding portable trail‑camera use. A five‑year priority list with rough cost estimates would help guide investment in security infrastructure. Permanent cameras would reduce theft, vandalism,…

Strengthening ACFL Wildfire Defense

Community VoicesLeave a comment

Climate change and ongoing drought make wildfires in the ACFL and across Fidalgo Island increasingly likely, and limited local firefighting resources mean outside help may not arrive quickly. Because the Anacortes Fire Department is responsible for wildland fire management in the ACFL, it should lead prevention efforts, hazard‑shutdown decisions, and evacuation planning, with the Forest…