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Talking points for Minnewaska Draft Master Plan Hearing
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Very important that climbers show a united front. Comments on style, ethics etc are not helpful.
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Stick to the big picture: Climbing is a legitimate activity that should be allowed in the
state park, much like it is on the vast majority of public land. Why is New York State Park
different, from other State's Parks and Federal land?
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Do NOT thank them for the limited increase. Any positives will be counted against an
increase in climbing within the park, and justification for the preferred
alternative, when they tally up the comments and respond. Continue to press
the point that the climbing community is unhappy with the Park's response to climbers in the plan.
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Do talk about the unique and great experiences that climbing in other areas of the park
has to offer.
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Do talk about climbing history in areas that pre-date the park, both the new
acquisitions and older areas in the park, prior to the existence of the park.
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Do talk about the history of and the future availability of climbing's to do volunteer
work for the park, whether on a resource inventory or rescue.
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Do talk about the fact that the Peterskill with the climbers/state partnership looks
better then it did 20 years ago. How much garbage did climbers haul out and trail work did we do.
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Continue to press the point that the master plan should neither decide on what area should
be open or closed, but should allow for development of a climbing management plan that
allows for the future opening of areas based on true impacts in the park. The Access Fund
has written and been involved with the writing of many and is ready to help.
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Point to the success of the climbing partnership at the Peterskill. And that climbers
are a responsible and legitimate user group, and should not be banned from the majority of
the park.
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The State Park should rely on the GCC and the Access Fund for their expertise, and
representation of the climbing community.
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Continue to push for ice climbing, and ask for clarification on their language
about ice climbing.
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Climbing is even allowed in federally designated wilderness areas.
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Last if you are from New York, let them know that you will be sending written
comments and following up with your elected local state Assemblyperson and Senator,
about your dissatisfaction with the draft plan, and will be asking x number of friends
to do the same.
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If anyone knows any local reporters, alert them to the meeting, and how upset with
the planning process climbers are. It would be nice to get some media coverage.
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Gunks Climbers Coalition - PO Box 325 - Gardiner, NY 12525
Contact us at:
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