IMPORTANT*
February, 1, 2008
We received this today from the BLM Barstow Field Office.
"Unfortunately the permit for the Calico Poker Run has been denied. The BLM resource staff said that the poker run course is in a limited use area and runs through critical tortoise habitat. In order to permit this type of use they are going to require a complete environmental assessment rather than a categorical exclusion (CX). The CX means that there is no affect. They cannot sign off and say there is no affect without further consultation with the US Dept. of Fish and Wildlife Services. This is a lengthy process that takes a minimum of six months."
The clean up will go on as scheduled. The poker run on Sunday has been canceled as of today’s date. The Calico Clean Up committee wants to encourage a trail run after the raffle on Saturday afternoon or perhaps on Sunday for those wishing to explore the beautiful Calico Mountains.
This is a minor setback but our goal is to remain focused on the clean up and work closely with BLM to maintain and keep the Calico area open for access to all recreationalists. We appreciate your volunteer efforts and sincere cooperation to make this a successful event.
Should you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please direct them to the calico clean up committee at
www.calicocleanup.com
Mark Watkins
Event Organizer
