Organizers seek to 'lock in' motorized access with proposed Elkhorn multiple‑use area near Sumpter

Organizers and residents met in Sumpter to discuss a proposal to designate a large area of the Elkhorn range as a permanent multiple‑use motorized area aimed at preserving existing motorized access while allowing other multiple uses such as logging and grazing. The presentation described the proposal as preliminary and negotiable: "This is not etched in stone," said Paterson, the principal presenter.

The readout presented to the group described the area as a multiple‑use designation under U.S. Forest Service principles, listing recreation, timber, watershed protection and habitat management as permitted activities. The prepared text reported an approximate footprint of "1,200,000 acres" and noted the proposal would include lands in Baker and Grant counties and a wide elevation range. Organizers said public input, letters of support and petitions will be central to advancing the plan with Forest Service leadership.

Residents at the meeting raised practical concerns about maintenance, enforcement and the impact of increased visitation on Sumpter's small‑town character. Council representatives urged organizers to document community sentiment before making formal representations to the Forest Service: "We as council…represent the city of Sumpter," one council member said, emphasizing the need for clear local direction before the council takes an official position.

Next steps described at the meeting include collecting signatures from local businesses and residents, circulating letters to federal officials and organizing public outreach events. Organizers said they already have an online petition and encouraged attendees to sign a physical support sheet to be forwarded with other documents when meeting Forest Service and congressional staff.