Forest service plans trail and road project in Davis County

BOUNTIFUL — The U.S. Forest Service is embarking on a three-year plan in Davis County to manage the overgrowth of vegetation along nearly 19 miles of trails and roads popular with hikers, mountain bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

The Davis Front Project will require the use of hand tools to combat overgrown oak and maple trees along 12 miles of trails — such as the Mueller Park Trail — and 6.6 miles of roads, including Ward Canyon.

Public comment is being solicited until Sept. 17 on the plan, which entails removal of surface and middle-height vegetation while at the same time preserving the overhead forest canopy.

The overgrowth presents a fire hazard and also contributes to "blind corners," which can lead to surprise collisions among recreationers.

Although no new trails are planned as part of the project, Forest Service officials say recreationers over time should notice improved access in and out of the areas, which have become increasingly popular over the years.

As part of the plan, officials will consult with forest landscape architects to maintain shade along the trails and also improve soil moisture.

To avoid disturbing winter game, the project will be suspended when there is deep snow or stressful weather conditions.

Areas to be treated include the Bountiful Gun Club spur trail, the North Canyon trailhead access, the 2-mile North Canyon Trail and Kenny Creek trail.

Written comments on the plan should be mailed to Catherine Kahlow, district ranger, 6944 S. 3000 East, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84121, or comments may be called into 801-733-2660. Electronic comments may be submitted in rich text format (.rtf) or Word (.doc) to comments-intermtn-wasatch-cache-saltlake@fs.fed.us

e-mail: amyjoi@desnews.com