Residents weigh in on recreation possibilities

After gathering input from community members for land use improvements for "The Orchard," Sanders County Community Development (SCCD) and Kaniksu Land Trust (KLT) have received results from their survey. The Orchard is a 150-acre parcel of land located north of Thompson Falls Elementary and west of Columbia Street.

The survey was opened for those with a 59873 zip code to give feedback on what opportunities they would like Lolo National Forest to consider. "The hope for the survey results was that we would get 10% of 59873, we also wanted to see a higher percentage from those who live adjacent to The Orchard," said SCCD executive director Ray Brown.

SCCD and KLT saw 187 responses, or 13%, come through. Brown says this was a well participated survey, one of the better that he has seen. "Right now, the Forest Service doesn't have any immediate plans for the area," Brown said. "Whatever it is, they want to make sure the community supports it."

The 187 survey participants were asked a series of questions including age, how many days a week do they participate in outdoor recreation as well as what activities they choose to do while outdoors. Forty-nine participants said they use the Mule Pasture trail system one to three times a week. Participants were also asked what projects they would support at The Orchard. "The number one project they supported was hiking trails," Brown said.

Responses from 103 people were in support of the construction of hiking trails. Biking trails and cross-country trails also received strong support. Responses from 87 participants strongly disagreed with the addition of a skate park, a disc golf course and a visitor center.

Participants were also asked to submit what recreation opportunities they would personally like to see offered at The Orchard. Answers varied from hiking trails or a community garden to more activities for children and youth. Other participants said they don't want anything to happen to the area and to leave it as it is, saying there are plenty of other areas to recreate on and the wildlife shouldn't be disturbed.

Brown says in order for any kind of project to happen, several factors need to be looked at first. "For any project to be put in there, we first have to identify an organization to install, maintain and sustain it," he said. "All plans will be subject to public comment and feedback. The intent is to give an open and transparent process from start to finish."

Brown also says the project would need to be something that aligns with the vision of the Forest Service with the support of the community behind it. "As of right now, not one thing is being planned to be put in there yet," he said. "As things progress, people can follow up on updates."

The Forest Service is currently reviewing the survey results and Brown says a meeting will be scheduled this fall for further discussion. Survey results are posted at http://www.sanderscountycommunity

development.com.