Bitterroot ban needed

Living an air mile from ground zero for the Bitterroot climbing controversy (Mill Creek Canyon), I read with interest your article on the fixed hardware prohibition instituted by forest officials (“Bitterroot bolting ban puts Spokane climbers on edge, spurs national backlash,” Feb. 23).

Climbing’s a legitimate forest activity. But let’s be clear: When locals and Bitterroot forest officials see and experience the recent years’ climbing-related impacts on natural resources, wildlife and other users, they’re not anti-climbing zealots as Damian Mast from the Western Montana Climbers Coalition (WMCC) suggests. We are local residents, hikers, birders, climbers, skiers, conservationists, hunters AND public land managers who see the Bitterroot’s exploding popularity of climbing over the last decade and recognize action must be taken.

As WMCC and the Access Fund know well, the Forest Service has the authority to manage climbing when resources or users are affected, or when regulations/laws are violated. Climbing restrictions, guidelines and management plans are common across the country, spanning all land management agencies.

For decades, climbing on the Bitterroot was sustainable and conflict-free. Now it’s not. The prohibition is a needed pause while all stakeholders develop a climbing management plan, sharing similar goals: Long-term sustainable climbing, protection of resources and wildlife, and quality visitor experiences for all. It’ll be a win-win-win.

Van Keele

Hamilton, Mont.