trails symposium

[Sally Spangler <stepnout@swva.net>]

Betsy,

Our local newspaper just published a bomb we trail riders sort of expected
but couldn't prove until now:  the Nature Conservancy and the State of
Virginia intend to close one of the best riding areas in this end of the
state to all use except hiking.  Folks have been riding horses on this
mountain for centuries, certainly since the 19th. Now the top 1000 acres has
been secured as a preserve.  I think perhaps a savvy group of equestrians
could bargain for some space, but don't know how to begin.  Was hoping you
could suggest a few approaches and resources.  I'm thinking we could suggest
restricting horse traffic to the existing roads, which would still allow us
to ride to the 4000' summit. We could help mark areas off limits to horses
and maintain trails.  I do agree there is terrain that horses can damage,
but we don't have to ride in those areas...there's plenty of space aside
from that.  I just want to continue to do that great climb and view the
scenery--which is all most of us do anyway.

Best,

Sally Spangler in Floyd, VA