County approves OHV grant contract with Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship amid environmental concerns raised by Feather River Action

Plumas County supervisors authorized an off‑highway vehicle (OHV) grant agreement and a services contract with Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship on March 17 to fund trail maintenance and development across Plumas National Forest and county lands.

Grant manager presentations described recent trail maintenance, volunteer engagement, and a proposed maintenance scope covering roughly 100 miles of trails—single‑track and motorized routes—across multiple ranger districts. The contract in front of the board would let the county sign and authorize Sierra Buttes to start work after required environmental reviews and state approval.

During Zoom public comment, Josh Hart of Feather River Action said introducing OHV routes into previously quiet or non‑motorized areas risks erosion, habitat damage and conflicts with hikers, equestrians and non‑motorized bikers. He cited a construction example above Portola where trail builders left slash and fuel on the ground and urged use of existing corridors where possible. County staff and Sierra Buttes representatives responded that environmental and NEPA reviews had been conducted and that the projects include mitigation measures; staff said required reviews are publicly available.

After discussion, the board voted to authorize the agreement (motion and voice vote, ayes). Supervisors asked staff to continue outreach and ensure construction and maintenance follow best practices to minimize habitat impacts.

Ending: Contract awarded; staff to monitor environmental compliance and public feedback as projects proceed.