Over the last year I’ve discovered the beauty of our state forest from cycling along the trails that weave through the ever-changing scenery. In these strange times that challenge our physical and mental well-being, I am so grateful for the calmness and uplifting serenity of this lovely environment. But now, with many of these trails being closed down by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, it is deeply saddening that such recreational activity will be considerably reduced for all. Instead of opening up the forest to responsible enjoyment, the DCR’s action lessens the ability for the public to engage with, and treasure, this special countryside.

The impact of the targeted unapproved trails is minimal: 25 miles of an eight-foot-wide trail is less than half a per cent of the forest’s total area, and a fraction of the footprint of the fire roads, essential as they are. From reading the coverage in the papers, the decision seems rash and rushed — if recent mistakes were made in the permitting process, why not rectify them with a measured and strategic approach that fosters increased public appreciation of the forest and its ecology? I respectfully ask the Department of Conservation and Recreation to permit and restore the affected bike trails in line with their mission to “promote and enhance our common wealth recreational resources for the well-being of all.”

David Rhoderick

West Tisbury