Your Comments Needed on Accessible Trails The U.S. Access Board is asking for comments on their October 2009 "Draft Final Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas" by December 18, 2009. These Guidelines will become final direction for accessibility on trails on Federal land. Once the Guidelines are finalized they will be the basis for future regulations which will apply to ALL new trails on local and State lands as well. It is critical that trail designers, contractors, and managers review these guidelines closely and comment on issues or concerns they see. GET THE FACTS Issues with draft final Accessibility Guidelines for trails and recreation on Federal lands US Forest Service concerns with draft final Accessibility Guideline Complete text of Draft Final Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas How to submit comments to www.regulations.gov

Back County Horsemen of American (BCHA) has worked with the U.S. Forest Service to prepare new regulations for trail riders on US-owned lands.  The proposed rule is now open for comment, and equestrian trail riders are encouraged to contact the USFS and speak out in favor of keeping lands available for trail riding as well as expanding opportunities.  See full details on the BCHA efforts and how to contact the Forest Service.

Equestrian Land Conservation Resource Releases Guide to Equestrian-Friendly Conservation Easements

The Equestrian Land Conservation Resource has released the 2008 edition of the Guide to Equestrian-Friendly Conservation Easements. The 188-page publication provides valuable information on equestrian-friendly conservation easements including sample conservation easements with provisions for equestrian use. The Guide is an invaluable resource for landowners, land use and conservation attorneys, riding, driving and hunt clubs, and land trusts. Cost for the publication is $45 plus shipping. To order your copy, visit www.ELCR.org and click on “Publications.”