Forest Service updates timber sales, Cottonwood Road repairs and hauling plans for Dolores County

Mister Musko, introduced at the meeting as a Forest Service representative, told county officials that Grand Island timber sales will continue for “three or five more years” and that a sale east of Cottonwood will be sold once Cottonwood Road is fixed. “Planning on selling this year after the Cottonwood Road gets fixed up,” he said, but added he did not yet have firm dates and would share them when available.

Musko described logistical consequences if Cottonwood opens: hauling routes that now cross Bradford Bridge could shift to Cottonwood and then onto West Fork roads, which could increase heavy‑truck traffic near rural curves and residential areas. He said the Forest Service will continue to avoid broad reservation systems for campgrounds and prefer minimal public restrictions while protecting resources, and that seasonal staff increases (about three to four staff in the recreation program) will help patrols and trail maintenance.

Residents raised safety concerns about log trucks using West Fork Road, including a report of a pickup striking a bicyclist and complaints that some drivers are “going way too fast.” A resident asked whether signage or other mitigations could be required. Musko said he would pass safety concerns to the contractor and noted winter closures at the Cottonwood gate reduce winter cycling exposure on haul routes.

County participants pressed whether the county can charge hauling companies more than the current one‑time $250 fee when companies make thousands of loads. “I think something we need to look at is a fee per load instead of just the one‑time $250 for the 1,200 loads,” said Rose Bath. County staff said they could consider bonds or per‑load fees and planned an executive session to explore legal options and a possible load‑study requirement.

The Forest Service also previewed planned road work tied to timber sale viability, including some widening and a bridge replacement near Westport that must be completed to support heavy hauling. Musko said some sales’ hauling may shift in the fall as other repairs finish and acknowledged that exact timelines depend on repair schedules and contractor plans.

The discussion closed with agreement to share dates and maps when available and to continue coordination on signage, patrols and haul‑fee policy. The county did not adopt a new fee or policy at the meeting; staff said further legal and financial analysis will be scheduled.