Red Mountain Pass Area
BSA would like to welcome our newest local chapter, the Red Mountain Pass Area Chapter! With a strong base of concerned citizens from western Colorado, the RMPA Chapter is working hard on the issues currently facing winter backcountry users on Red Mountain Pass and adjacent areas. As many of you know, Red Mountain Pass is home to amazing nordic and alpine skiing and breathtaking views. This area has been explored by skiers, snowshoers, and snowboarders for more than fifty years.
The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests (GMUG) are currently revising their forest plan for the region. Additionally, the Bureau of Land Management Uncompahgre Field Office is beginning a revision of the office’s Travel Management Plan in March, 2007. The RMPA Chapter will work closely with local land managers toward a plan that accurately reflects the historical use of the Red Mountain pass area. Additionally, the RMPA Chapter is working cooperatively with motorized groups to educate users on backcountry etiquette and safety, as well as management boundaries for the region.
The RMPA Chapter is also working closely with land managers from the San Juan National Forest in their Travel Management Plan revision. Similar to their work on GMUG, the group hopes to work with managers and other user groups to create and maintain common-sense areas, for non-motorized users to safely enjoy the solitude of the forest.
If you are interested in being involved with the Red Mountain Pass Area Chapter of the Backcountry Snowsports Alliance, please contact Chapter President Debbie Wheeler at Debbie@backcountryalliance.org or 970-626-2466.