Decision Notice and Finding of No Significant Impact South Fowl ...

I will also mention that during this comment period, I led a field trip that was open to all
people interested in the project. While the request for the trip came from a member of the
public, my objective was to help folks clearly see what was proposed, what the potential
impacts were and to understand the various views on the issues. The make up of the
group that participated was nearly 50% on each side of this proposal. We primarily
looked at the north route because that’s what generated the interest. Our discussion was
cordial and focused on the issues. There was a fairly good exchange of thoughts between
people on either side, with me and with each other. Unfortunately I believe, and
comments received afterward support this conclusion, that each side only became firmer
in their position.
Although following 36 CFR 215.6 (b) (1) and CEQ 1503.4, all comments were read and
fully considered, there was no weight given to the number of comments supporting or
opposing a particular alternative. Similarly there was no weight given to the number of
signatures on a petition supporting or opposing a particular alternative. There are some
interesting occurrences to note during this project assessment. As mentioned above, there
is extensive debate and disagreement over management of the Superior National Forest.
Along with that debate, there is an underlying mistrust for Government and for each
other.
Many folks offered their opinion on which alternative I should choose:
“Please accept this letter in support of Alternative 4 for the proposed snowmobile
trail near the BWCAW in Superior National Forest.”
“Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the South Fowl Lake Snowmobile
Access project. I support "Alternative 2: Modified North Route." I want to see this
trail used because it is most like the historic Tilbury Trail that it is replacing.”
“As a Native American, I care deeply about the land. If I felt this trail (Alt. 2)
would harm the land, I would not support it.”
“I've been going to the Boundary Waters since I was old enough to paddle a
canoe. For me, the draw of the BWCAW is that the majority of it is free from
motorized vehicles. As you paddle through the crystal clear water, the only
sounds you hear is the lapping of waves and the occasional call of a bird (support
for Alt. 4).”
“I have also explored most of the routes of the BWCA and Quetico Parks in the
past thirty years and deeply value these experiences in natural settings… I
support the Alternative 2”
21