I acted on Mohave's suggestion, and sent this " letter to the editor " of the Los Angeles Times. I am glad to see that your article has brought a brighter focus to this problem of illegal OHV travel on trail J1299, in the Juniper Flats area in general, and its surrounding desert lands. I frequently hike in these areas, and know first hand the prevalance of off designated route riding, some in the OHV community insist on doing. In the soft terrains of this semi desert area, errant motorcycle riders leave numerous trails, throughout the whole area. The evidence has shown that Cottonwood Springs was a long standing Indian inhabited site. A BLM sign leading into Juniper Flats tells visitors of the history of the past Indian presence there. Many local residents find the damaging tendencies of motorcycle travel, and thier loud intrusions, not only specifically illegal as related to Cottonwood Springs, but a real show of disrespect to this site of ancient human occupation. The BLM needs to do the right thing, and prevent illegal OHV riding in this critical area. I see these comments from Ty Davis about his view that the trails he " burns " into the lands with his motorcycle, have become " cool " paths, that the local animals some how depend on, or appreciate. The OHV community needs to consider whether Mr Davis, with comments like these, is someone they truly wish to represent them.
