You are correct pgh

by (Login bogwalker)

PMA's are not to be cleared or managed by anyone. Joe and I did not do any clearing other than that which occured by our movement through the area. We took the path of least resistance which meant following, as best we could, the old portages. "Crashing" through when old portage paths exists seems to be more detrimental then using the long used portages. PGH-I am sure if an old portage exists you use that when you can find and follow it.

The USFS also says you should use old campsites as long as you employ LNT principles-and the USFS encourages the use of the old campsites and other already open areas rather than creating new camping areas. By using the already cleared areas for camps it keeps the users from creating more open space on these PMA lakes.

My point is that some (not all) PMA areas and portages are getting so overgrown from lack of use that they are becoming difficult to follow and possibly dangerous for some who do not understand what and why a PMA exists.

I know from experience that many who access PMA's do not even realize what a PMA is or that they are in one. Increased education and understanding along with maps that clearly state where PMA boundaries are, P<A rules and regs and the dangers associated with travelling through them seems to be needed at the very least. The couple from Ely that Joe and I met coming out from Sterling who have been to the BWCAW quite often had no idea they were in a PMA, what it meant and that it was to left untouched. I know they are not the only ones who are now aware as we get questions on the Bulliten boards all the time about them.

Like many-I enjoy travelling into and through PMA's. I am concerned about how dangerous some are becoming to the unaware. It is more about education and understanding then about maintainence, but some volunteer efforts to keep the portages traceable might be needed in the future.

I am going to research Oregoner's thoughts and see what the USFS long term plan is. If it is hands off then I will repsect their decision.

"When a man is part of his canoe, he is part of all that canoes have ever known."
Sigurd F. Olson

Posted on May 13, 2008, 6:54 AM

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you mention.... on May 13, 2008, 10:43 AM

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