PCEC Comments on the South Crazy Mountain Land Exchange

In November 2019, PCEC submitted comments to the U.S. Forest Service on the proposed South Crazy Mountains Land Exchange. Throughout the 45-day public comment period we took a hard look at the details of the exchange and had dozens of conversations with community members. Thank you to everyone who participated in the process—it’s clear that our members care tremendously about the future of the Crazy Mountains. 

PCEC is taking the long view in the Crazies. This island mountain range is unique, and an important refugia for wildlife, including endangered and threatened species like the Canada lynx and wolverine. We believe the best way to protect wildlife habitat in the Crazies is through the consolidation of public lands in the interior of the range. While a portion of the South Crazies Land Exchange was consistent with these goals, we could not support the full proposal. 

Perfecting public access on Robinson Bench Road was one of the key aspects of the exchange with the Crazy Mountain Ranch. Our research of county records revealed that Park County already holds an easement -- or permanent public access -- for the portion of the road that the Forest Service was actively negotiating an easement for in the exchange. Trading important public lands for access the public already possesses was a fundamental oversight by the Forest Service, and one we think necessitates a return to the drawing board.

For an in depth analysis of the EA, you can read our full comments HERE.