Ochoco Trails
$7,500

Funding is requested for facilitator time, hiring a biological contractor, and logistical support for members and partners of Ochoco Trails. Ochoco Trails seeks to create sustainable trails networks in the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland that make the nearby small towns more attractive places to live and work, allow local residents to reap the health benefits of outdoor recreation, encourage visitors to come to enjoy our beautiful area, connect locals and visitors to public lands and reduce trail conflicts while protecting wildlife habitat and our natural resources for generations to come.

The Crooked River National Grassland Sustainable Trails Project is seeking funding for Phase 1 of a three phase project aimed at protecting the wildlife habitat provided by the Grassland while creating healthy recreational opportunities for residents of and visitors to the rural communities nearby.

The Ochoco Trails community group is working on developing a sustainable trails system for the Crooked River National Grassland. This will be a three phase project. The project proponents are currently seeking funding to assist us in accomplishing Phase 1 of this project. Ochoco Trails has a successful track record in planning and developing sustainable trail systems for the Ochoco National Forest and seeks to replicate this success for the Crooked River Grassland, leading to a sustainable and broadly supported trails proposal that avoids impacts to wildlife and wildlife habitat, minimizes user conflict, supports the local economy and communities, and provides educational and recreational opportunities in this unique Oregon landscape.

The Committee recommends funding this project for $7,500 with $2,000 less than requested to reduce the amount for facilitation/coordination.