Recreation User Group

The RUG heard a presentation from Westland Resources about consolidating and categorizing the proposed trails to be included in the plan.

The RUG worked on finalizing a map of the collaborative recreation plan.

The RUG continued its work in developing a comprehensive trail plan, and agreed on actions needed to finalize the proposal.

The RUG reviewed and modified their draft recreation plan and made decisions on future direction for finalizing the plan.

The RUG heard presentations on recent recreation user surveys in the Copper Corridor and on requirements for Environmental Assessments under the National Environmental Policy Act. They also adopted Operating Policies.

The RUG heard a presentation by Forest Service representatives on the proposed Apache Leap Special Management Area Plan, and discussed trail proposals from Tonto Recreation Alliance.

The RUG reviewed maps of proposed trails submitted by group members and further refined their approach to preparing a comprehensive recreational trail proposal. They are now evaluating a larger area from the Resolution Copper Project tailings vicinity to east of the mine site.

The RUG reviewed a draft comprehensive recreation plan map and agreed to a modified proposal centering on the Apache Leap area.

The RUG discussed coordination of proposed recreation plans with Tonto National Forest representatives. They agreed to review any potential conflicts among the proposals before the next meeting, which is scheduled for April 13, 2016.

The Recreation and Access Task Force met with Tonto National Forest representatives to follow up on questions and suggestions they had about the Travel Management planning and implementation process.