Wisconsin DNR Western Coulees and Ridges draft master plan

The WDNR has published a draft master plan for the Western Coulees and Ridges region.  This includes Governor Dodge, Wyalusing, Blackhawk Lake, Fishin' Crag, and Abelman's Gorge.  We have until July 10 to submit public comments.

I've only scanned this document briefly, but I think there is good news and bad news.  First, it is clear that the planners, Yoyi Steele and DNR staff took the time to read the comments submitted a couple of years ago.  They propose working with the WCA to develop a Climbing Management Plan for Governor Dodge, so perhaps we can finally address some of the erosion issues, bolt maintenance, and a user trail to Backbone that doesn't encourage people to cut through group campsite B.

The don't feel there is much they can do at Wyalsuing or Fishin' Crag.

They propose a seasonal public closure on one small crag at Blackhawk where bats roost.

And the bad news:  they have totally punted on even examining Abelman's Gorge.

How many folks would be interested in having WCA host a meeting where we can discuss the details in this plan, and how people might want to respond?

I think it is important to tell the DNR what we enthusiastically support - a CMP of Gov Dodge, and actually working cooperatively with the WCA - as well as where we feel they have simply ignored the commitments they made decades ago to review and justify the closure of places like Abelman's Gorge.

I.e. comment on both the Good and the Bad.

Please let us know if you'd participate in a virtual forum to discuss this plan and contribute to WCA's response!

I'd certainly be interested in some guidance from the WCA on responding as a member of the public!

I'm interested in participating

I am interested in participating. 

I believe the WCA access committee will be meeting with DNR central office staff on Tuesday.  There should be more to say after this meeting.  On the agenda

- Devil's Lake and Rib Mountain recap (new openings and closures at DL)

- this property Master Plan (clarifications, I assume)

- Memorandum of Understanding discussion? (if time allows)

Thanks for your patience, everyone! Comments are due to the DNR by July 10. You can submit comments here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GHW99SW

We are still finalizing our comment letter, but to echo Doug's original comments:

• We are appreciative that climbing is addressed throughout this plan, and are especially supportive of developing a climbing management plan for Governor Dodge State Park. Great progress here.
• We can help spread the word about seasonal closures at crags for species protection.
• We need to push for science-based evaluation of climbing at Ableman's Gorge specifically. Broadly, we need to continue the push for science-based evaluation of climbing in State Natural Areas to warrant a prohibition. They claim that climbing will cause "sloughing off" of the rock at Ableman's and follow the "precautionary principle" that says: "Under this principle, it is appropriate to take action to protect the environment if a reasonable threat of serious or irreversible harm exists based on the best available science, even if abundant scientific evidence is not available to quantify the exact nature and extent of risk." They say this while disregarding the exact same rock exists just a few miles away at Devil's Lake State Park, where people have been climbing for decades.
• Continue to advocate for more recognition of all types of climbing (bouldering, ice, with/without ropes, etc.) on DNR-managed lands. This is a growing activity and the Wisconsin Climbers Association wants to work with the DNR on issues of stewardship, access, and safety.

Thanks WCA!!

https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/strategicplan

Don't know if anyone has seen this. WSPS has a survey out for a strategic plan over the next 10 years. Could be good to take it and give input. (Although it's limited to 40 characters)