Re: Common Ground

Kat's Nightmare:
Yes, I am very interested. As I've said, the non-confrontational approach does work wonders with many people. Also, my experience bears out what you've said about night use, and that is challenging to deal with. I hope to see any suggestions or ideas on that problem.
On our last visit down, one of the springs' regulars left a couple of water mattresses, saying that other people can use them. Other regulars feel that the hot springs is "theirs;" that they can ignore any rules such as having glass or camping at the site. My partner has good skills with people, and frequently steers newcomers towards good habits, but when talking with a "regular" on our last visit who had glass, the person responded with "I've been coming here for years and I can do what I want."
Of course, I am not trying to say that it is the regulars who are the problem, as it is also the regulars who do the most to keep the area clean and pick up after others. I'm thinking that, in the case of regulars who feel that they have special rights, a group approach of other regulars would be more likely to get results than just one or two people. This is the kind of cooperation I would like to see among those who love DCHS.
As for the forestry service, I have mixed feelings about increased presence or monitering. I spent years living in a cabin in the national forest, and have some familiarity with the USFS. At any rate, there is not much we can do directly if that is what we want, as complaining to the USFS could lead to their deciding to close the place if increased monitering does not fit with their budget or their plan of operation. In general, I prefer the community approach to dealing with problems instead of calling in authorities.
My partner and I will be there for the long weekend and will be looking for anyone who would like to discuss these items further. We're easy to find, but our trails are never lined with trash. Only artwork. Peace.