Dave Keck presented summaries of the January Public Hearings.
Notable are the large number of responses indicating a preference for
preservation, protection and restoration. Another document, a
"justification for the creation of the Preserve" contains much
satisfying language about endangered species and the implications of
human intrusion, esp in indirect ways as people displace a species
that, in turn may displace and impact other species. Language and
concepts that may have implications for usage decisions outside the
proposed Preserve.
That’s the good news. The Plan continues to recommend for the
development of Partridge Farm. Dave Keck presented a document calling
for up to 180 parking spaces with 30 walk in campsites (depending on
how you read the material), and a "Park Headquarters".
The Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC), a concept that will guide
development of the Park was discussed. First, a "baseline" of existing
conditions must be established, then the Limits of Acceptable Change
are determined, then (the area) is opened to public access, and the
"Changes" monitored, and compared to the "set Limits". Access is
increased or decreased as appropiate. I asked who/what/how are the
Limits of Acceptable Change are determined. Dave Keck’s response was
"That’s a good question", but had no better answer. I think we need to
monitor the Gen Plan process to be sure that this question is
adequately addressed.
When asked if the LAC process will be subject to public review, his
answer was NO. My concern is that, without public awareness, the LAC
process will be diluted to suit accomodate the pressure to develop.
Dave Keck is promising the rough Preliminary Draft of the General
Plan in "May+-", in time for the Adcom to review and make comments
before the final Prelimianary Draft is "published" and the clock starts
on the period for "public comment". He also agreed to get another
Newsletter (edition #4) out in "2 weeks", with another draft for the
Purpose of the Park, to include the term "Wildlands..." with
"definitions.
Final Park Commission approval is set for late Fall. This will be a
Public Hearing; the last chance to get changes made.
BRUCE BETTENCOURT, Friends Of CRSP
(408) 354-5661
BABETTENCO@AOL.COM
