The Inyo National Forest is extending the public review and feedback for the Forest Plan Revision Assessment “topic papers” through Sept. 1.

It was previously announced that the topic papers were available for public review and feedback through June 30 (Click here to see story).

As part of Forest Plan Revision process, the forest is in the Assessment Phase and 15 topic papers have been posted to the Living Assessment Wiki page and the forest’s webpage for review. Input received will be used to revise and finalize the topic papers and the assessment later this year.

The Inyo National Forest is one of three National Forests in California revising its Forest Plan using the 2012 National Forest System Planning Rule. The forest expects to complete plan revision over a three-year time period, starting in the winter of 2013.

The current assessment phase defines forest resource conditions and trends, including social and economic conditions; terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems; and recreation opportunities and access. The assessment will help frame the “Need for Change” as the forest develops a revised plan and evaluates the environmental effects of the proposed plan as required by the National Environmental Policy Act.

The Wiki page is an interactive method to provide feedback. Comments and changes can be tracked on the Wiki and relevant documents can even be loaded through this method. Visit http://livingassessment.wikispaces.com to provide feedback on the Wiki.

Input can also be provided via hardcopy or email (comments-pacificsouthwest-inyo@fs.fed.us).

More information about Forest Plan Revision is available at http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/inyo/landmanagement/planning

–Press Release

(Photo: allmammoth.com)