Short Term / Long Term

Good discussion down below.  Unless I'm missing something, I don't see how that proposed timber sales affects Turtle - certainly not significantly.  It depends on how deep they run that single tree selection (#8).  Where Turtle is at that point is largely populated with very young trees.  It would have a very small impact on Lower buckets.  However, it will likely destroy most of Upper Buckets and all of Charcoal Hearth (clearcut sections 13-17).  Hermit?  Do we really care?
Since it is probably not feasible to inventory the entire trail system, walk it, and get it all set aside safely before this sale perhaps a short-term strategy would make sense. 

Our former IMBA rep, Frank Maguire, now works full-time for IMBA he was successful preserving trail corridors in Rothrock State Forest (Longberer Path) when they faced a similar timber sale.  He may be of some assistance to us in his new role at IMBA.  Turtle and Charcoal Hearth are significant connector trails that open up many loop opportunities - either would be a significant loss.

It is clear that there are more recreational user days in the Michaux State Forest than ever and this trend is likely to continue.  It is equally clear that if we don't speak up for our user group it is likely that no one else will.  So the long-term strategy is also important.  Ironically, due to the work of hikers years ago some of the trails we enjoy like Raccoon Run and Secret trail will never be logged.  With fewer and fewer hikers out there these days - it's our turn to get things done.