Western Oregon Plan Revisions Office
Bureau of Land Management
Portland, Oregon

Re:  WPOR and Southern Oregon

In Brief:
   Johns Peak-Timber Mountain Emphasis Area - I support the position taken by Bob Kingsnorth (Medford Mail Tribune Guest Opinion, 12/30/07) and the recommendations of Jackson County Commissioner David Gilmour.
   I support the recommendations that were adopted by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners.
   From my career as an engineering geologist and knowledge of southern Oregon, I believe it is important to recognize the climatic conditions and the ecologic diversity of southern Oregon.  These factors indicate to me that a preferred plan for the area is not represented in the options presented in the draft.


   Since 1994 I have lived within the boundaries of the Johns Peak-Timber Mountain Emphasis Area.  I am a retired engineering geologist, have served on the Jackson County Planning Commission, and am in my third term on the Public Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Planning Organization.

   A seasonal watercourse through my property originates above a quarry in granite (rock that underlies much of the Johns Peak Emphasis Area).  Inadequate control of runoff at the quarry has caused much sediment to be deposited on downslope properties.  State laws are in place to address stormwater runoff and the quarry operator has an approved operation’s plan.  However, words on paper and limited inspections do not stop erosion and sedimentation.

   The above conditions are an example of how heavily used trails and areas free of ground cover are difficult to manage.  Landowners I know off Johns Peak Road can not prevent unwanted entry onto their property and resulting damage.  A letter to the editor of the Mail Tribune (12/27/07) says it well:  "'Off road riding' doesn't have to be a contact sport with homeowners, picnickers or hikers.  They simply should ride in places that don't impact citizens or the environment so negatively."

    Many responses were submitted during the “scoping” phase. Those suggesting less emphasis on "old growth" and more on thinning second growth do not appear to have been given much consideration. 

   As a person who believes in citizen involvement in public issues, I am impressed with the core group selected by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners.  I understand that all the members of the diverse group signed off on the recommendations that were adopted by the Board of Commissioners.

   Maybe the most important issue is recognizing the distinct climate and ecologic diversity of southern Oregon.  These factors are vital in effective management of the land for all uses.

   Please recognize the significant factual issues that you receive.  An alternative that addresses those issues should be included in the final WOPR.

Sincerely,


Edward Danehy				541-858-0367
4370 Tami Lane, Central Point, OR 97502

cc:	Senator Ron Wyden		fax  858-5126
	Senator Gordon Smith		fax  608-9104
	Rep. Greg Walden		fax  779-0204