​Comments Sought for Proposed Projects, Including Trails Out of Ghost Ranch

Taos, N.M., Oct. 15, 2024— Carson National Forest planners opened a scoping period for two proposed projects related to recreation and special uses today. The projects, as currently proposed, are considered categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act, and comments are sought to help daylight any unknown issues.
 
The scoping period closes at 11:59 p.m., Oct. 30, 2024.
 
Ghost Ranch Trails
 
Forest staff are proposing to officially incorporate three popular, but informal, trails that begin on Ghost Ranch, an education and retreat center in Abiquiu, and continue onto national forest land. Additionally, the following adjustments are proposed:

• Both the Chimney Rock and Kitchen Mesa trails would include minor reroutes out of erosive drainages to increase the sustainability of the trail over the long-term.
• Natural drainage features would be added to a section of the Matrimonial Point Trail to reduce flooding impacts.

 
The proposal only covers portions of the trails on public land, not on Ghost Ranch property. A map is attached.
 
For questions and to submit a comment, contact Jennifer Sublett at 575-581-4554 or jennifer.sublett@usda.gov.
 
Snyder Paleontological Quarry Permit
 
The Carson National Forest has received a Special Use Permit application from a researcher to continue excavation of vertebrate fossils from a previously disturbed quarry site and other areas of geologic sampling. The location is known as the Snyder Quarry that is located within the Canjilon Ranger District and is a site of previous paleontological excavation. The purpose and need of this proposal are to extend the term of the special use permit for continued research.
 
For questions and to submit a comment, contact Carmen John at 575-758-6272 or carmen.john@usda.gov.