Public input needed
Vernal may not be the first place you think of when it comes to mountain biking, but it is gaining increasing popularity with riders who have “done” Moab and Fruita, and are looking for more peace and quiet. McCoy Flats is possibly the best known of the Vernal trail areas, lying west of the town on BLM land. The area is surprisingly devoid of mining activities, and offers a wide range of trails set in a beautiful and peaceful location.
However this local treasure is under threat from a planned truck bypass route that would cut through the heart of the trail system. The proposed Ashley Valley Energy Route is the brainchild of the Uintah Transportation Special Service District, who apparently are not interested in public input. However the BLM has to seek input. Comments can be made via the BLM NEPA Process up until June 12, 2014, which is coming right up.
To support the trails, local bike shop owner, trail builder and advocate Troy Lupcho set up a McCoy Flats facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/McCoyFlats). Check the page for updates and information on how to submit comments and to show your support. These trails are a great asset to both Vernal locals and visitors and are a unique recreation resource in an area already heavily modified by the energy industry.
-John Higgins
