JOHNSON VALLEY BASE EXPANSION

Dec 14, 2009

Duncan Hunter.jpg

                                                   December 11, 2009

Mr.Jeff Forrest                                                                                                                        11321 Ironwood Rd                                                                                            San Diego, CA 92131

Thank you for contacting me with your concern over the proposed expansion of the Marine Corps Base at Twentynine Palms.  It is good to hear from you and I welcome the opportunity to respond to you on this important issue.

I share your concern with the proposed expansion of the Twentynine Palms base onto public lands in the Johnson Valley.  As an outdoor enthusiast and avid proponent of off roading I firmly believe there needs to be a balance between ensuring that our military forces have adequate training facilities with the ability to operate without restrictions and the preservation of public land for people to use for off roading or other various outdoor activities.  In addition, we must not forget the impact this could have to the local economy if the ability to use those public lands for off roading is taken away. 

As you are probably aware, the Marines must follow the National Environmental Policy Act to analyze the impacts and possible alternatives to their expansion.  This will be done through an Environmental Impact Statement.  During this process there will be an evaluation of the environmental impact, possible eastward expansion or if an expansion is even necessary.  A draft of this statement is expected in the spring of 2010 where there will be a 90 day public comment period.  A final statement is expected in 2011 with a possible official proposal for a land withdrawal.  Like you, I will be following this process very closely. 

 Rest assured I will continue to monitor this situation and work with my colleagues here in Congress to ensure that we protect the interests of the off roading community.  Again, thank you for contacting me.  If you have any further questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me. 

  
                                                                    Sincerely,
                                                               
                                                                    Duncan Hunter
                                                                    Member of Congress

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