Letter from congressman MacArthur regarding the proposed Wharton State Forest Motorized Access Plan
Dear Commissioner Martin,
I write today to express concern over the proposed Wharton State Forest Motorized Access Plan (M.A.P.). I have been contacted by constituents who have outlined how this plan would restrict access for on-road vehicles in the Forest on roads that have been open, and used responsibly, in the past.
The Wharton State Forest and the entire Pinelands National Reserve is a national treasure and we are fortunate to have such a beautiful natural resource right in our own backyard. It is my understanding that the State Park Service is implementing this plan to ensure access and to protect and preserve the Forest. While these are positive goals, I am not convinced that the proposed M.A.P. ensures access, particularly for on-road vehicles.
I remain committed to ensuring public access in the Forest and I genuinely value input from those most affected by the proposed road closures. I am pleased that your office will be holding open meetings with the public on this proposal. It is clear that there are legitimate questions being raised by the proposed M.A.P. and I know that your office will handle them in a manner that is productive for all interested parties. Once your schedule is set for these public hearings, I ask that you share it with me so that I may help to publicize them to those constituents who have contacted my office about this.
Additionally, it is a welcome development that your office has announced that the proposed M.A.P. is not finalized. I am convinced that you will be able to work with the public and local leaders to maximize access while conducting any maintenance necessary to improve this important road system. Preserving the Pinelands is a laudable goal that I share with you. Keeping that in mind, I believe that residents must be able to responsibly enjoy the recreational benefits the Forest provides by preventing any unnecessary road closures.
I thank you for taking the time to listen to the concerns of so many constituents, and look forward to working with you to preserve the Pinelands for the enjoyment of generations to come.
Sincerely,
Tom MacArthur
Member of Congress
