Yes. And even if WMC simply got what they asked for and never wanted snowmobiles eliminated from more areas, it sets a precedence for other groups....if the FS and sledders bow to one group, they have to bend over for every group....pretty soon there is nothing left.
That is one common idea, indeed. And probably not an unreasonable concern.
Another discussion here was what if the different user groups came up with a plan that both could live with? And therefore, if that reasonable user-groups agreed, USFS approved plan was implemented, would it stabilize that area for the future- meaning protect snowmobile use areas? By that meaning stop further attempts to have other areas made non-motorized in the Wenatchee Mountains, since a reasonable plan was agreed by user groups and USFS approved and implemented the plan. And as far as other areas, if that worked in the Wenatchee Mtns, could it work elsewhere? Negotiate, compromise, share, rather than all-or-nothing.
Is is not better to work with the other users and then go to USFS rather than to have Organizations and lobbyists and lawyers and courts force-manage USFS lands? If WMC is the tip of the iceberg, if more and more skiers and snowshoe hikers and winter campers feel left with fewer accessible places in winter untracked by snowmobiles, what kind of backlash may occur? That is an honest comment, WMC does not want to see snowmobiling on USFS land prohibited on the large scale, we ride snowmobiles also. WMC believes that snowmobile riding on and off-road is a legitimate use of the Forest.
A question, sir: does USFS favor snowmobile riding as a result of lobbying and constant contact by organized snowmobile folks? If so, is the snowmobile lobby strong enough to withstand a potentially larger motivated human-powered winter Forest users drive that could curtail snowmobiling? WMC does not wish for this, just pointing out the reality that could evolve if non-motorized users feel shut out. It is better for users to recognize others' legitimate uses of the Forest in winter.
Good discussion, thank you very much!