VCT News:

JEMEZ SPRINGS─The Valles Caldera Trust is asking for public input as the staff continues its efforts to establish a comprehensive strategy for future public access on the Valles Caldera National Preserve.

The trust is preparing a Transportation Recreation and Suitability Study (TRSS) to develop the permanent transportation and recreation infrastructure beyond the future visitor center. A critical piece of that study is to acquire public feedback on several topics related to transportation, recreation and infrastructure development.

“Ever since we began the public access and use planning process fouryears ago one thing has remained constant,” said Marie Rodriguez, director of the trust’s Planning and Natural Resources Division. “That is the passion people have for the preserve and their desire to be part of its future. Public participation has played an important role in shaping the management of the preserve; providing their input at this time is the first of many planned opportunities to continue their influence.”

The public can provide input July 23 through Sept. 23 using a simple online comment form. Input at this time will help the Trust to focus the TRSS on topics most important to the public.

For information on the TRSS and access to the online comment form, go to the Valles Caldera Trust website: www.vallescaldera.gov. Select “Get Involved” and “Stewardship” or contact Recreation Planner and Project Leader Dave Davis at 505-661-3333 or stewardship@vallescaldera.gov.