Committee agrees to study ATV/recreation options for Ash Creek Forest, hears farmer objections

The committee discussed whether to explore ATV access and other recreation options in Ash Creek Forest and agreed to collect more information before any decision. Chair framed the item as exploratory and suggested talking with local stakeholders and potential donors; several committee members and staff emphasized the need for usage statistics, environmental review and coordination with relevant agencies before proceeding.

Multiple public participants voiced opposition during the discussion. Matt Schmidt, a local dairy farmer, said the 350-acre Ash Creek Forest contains steep, erodible trails used by hunters, horseback riders and others and that opening it to ATVs would cause harm and safety risks. "There's about 2 miles of very steep, unmaintained, dangerous trails that are highly erodible," he said. Committee members said they would pursue more data and environmental review, and no formal decision was made at the meeting.