Re: Red Tape
Bryan Bates (BRYBATES@coco.cc.az.us)
Thu, 18 Sep 1997 10:06:16 +0000 (AZ)
Well guys,
It has been interesting reading all of the comments. AS a former
commercial guide (21 trips) and an avid private boater (6 trips), I'd
have to agree with Mr. Hiltner that "jerks come in all stripes". As a
commercial boater, I (we) have helped several private boaters with
anything from 1st aid to radio calls to free ice below Havasu. As a
private boater, I have been on the receiveing end. Both have been
good experiences. So I thiunk the question is more about
impact to the ecosystem and distribution of permits than about
personality or occupation.
Persoanlly, I believe that the system needs to be adjusted to
offer a more equitable dispersal of permits where private boaters may
have an increase in percentage. However, I have seen alot of changes
inthe canyon ecosystem from visitor impact, so I would suggest a
redistribution in the number of visitors where more folks go during
the Oct- April time period and less during the summer. In fact, I
would support a modest reduction in numbers over all. I know that a
bunch of you will probably disagree and that is okay. My come from:
we have a responsibility to leave this planet (including the Grand
Canyon) in better ecosystem health than we inherited it. That means
reduce the number of kids you have, walk gently upon the earth and
savor the time that you do get in the cannyons.
Take care, Bryan Batesbrybates@coco.cc.az.us
Bryan Bates 520-527-1222 X273
Coconino Com College
3000 N. 4th Street
Flagstaff, Az 86004