Although I understand the need to expedite this rule, I do not believe that there is
a significant reason given to reduce the number of snowmobiles allowed per day
while giving both visitors and guides so little time to adjust for these reductions or
to respond to this change which will be in effect for three years and serve as the
template for the long-term ruling that will follow. It is stated repeatedly that the
proposed reduction to 318 snowmobiles is well below the legal limit and below any
limit which would impair the resources of the Park. I believe that the number
should remain at 540 until further consideration and notice can be given for such a
change. If that means that the number would remain at 540 for three years, so be
it.
It is stated in the final analysis that there are numerous reasons that the public
comment has been reduced to 15 days. These same reasons apply as to why
these reductions may not be implemented at such a late date since they will
greatly impact both visitors and guides that have already made decisions
regarding vacations, equipment purchase, employment offers, etc. If this
reduction is implemented, there will be less than 45 days before the opening of
this years season. Is it really fair to reduce an operator's daily bookings by
roughly 1/3 with that short of notice? I believe that this would drive many
businesses out of business within a year. How are they supposed to make or
follow a business plan when the parameters under which they are forced to
operate are changed at a whim?
Many bookings have already been completed for the upcoming season and those
bookings were based on higher numbers. If this reduction occurs many potential
park visitors will be forced to cancel their vacations. Yet, the rule states that there
will not be a significant impact on businesses or visitors. I challenge that
statement as being grossly inaccurate and hope common sense will prevail. For
these reasons, I strongly propose that this ruling be changed to state that the
maximum number of snowmobiles allowed per day is 540.
Comment on FR Doc # E8-26447
This is comment on Proposed Rule
Special Regulations; Areas of the National Park System
View Comment
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