June 2004 Community Article

By Jim Ricker

The North Fork American River Alliance (NFARA) is a local, grass roots organization dedicated to preserving the wild, scenic and cultural heritage within the watershed of the North Fork. The Board of Directors consist of: Rena Ferreira, Ron Gould, Heidi Johnson, Catherine O'Riley, Jim Ricker, and Judy Suter.

In March 2003, a group of local residents met in Dutch Flat to discuss proposals being considered for the North Fork region. The biggest issue was a plan to construct a trail from Sacramento to Carson City - the Capital to Capital Trail. Promotional material circulated by proponents of the project showed the trail running right next to the river. Many in attendance were outraged that a multi-use trail was proposed within the Wild and Scenic River corridor and that construction would require blasting through solid rock. Others felt the cost of such a project was prohibitive and money would be better spent maintaining and interconnecting existing trails in the area. Everyone expressed concern that the proposed project had no local input. Meeting attendees decided a non-profit, public benefit corporation should be formed.

The group held several more meetings in the spring of 2003. They agreed upon a name, a mission statement, a board of directors, and established group objectives and strategies. The group would be proactive, have broad local support, establish partnerships with governmental agencies and private property owners, and protect and enhance public access. The group would create a volunteer force to aid with trail work, resource inventory and in developing a North Fork information network. Essentially, the group wanted to create a local voice for the river and its canyons.

The NFARA held several informational/introductory meetings during the summer and fall. Representatives from the US Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and Placer County Parks Department gave wonderful presentations, answered many questions and alleviated some concerns about the Capital to Capital Trail. These meetings were not only educational but gave the group an opportunity to present its views and establish NFARA as a serious player deserving "a seat at the table ."

During the winter months the group worked on the NFARA's articles of incorporation, bylaws, and other organizational matters. In addition, they sent letters to various government agencies. Letters to the Forest Service urged them to acquire two parcels of land; the Rawhide Mine and the Lost Camp town site. These properties contain significant cultural resources (buildings, trails, ditches), riparian habitat, and access to public lands. Another letter urged the BLM to keep the existing trailhead and parking area for the Stevens Trail. The letter sent to Placer County applauded the acquisition of easements for the Green Valley Trail and supported the plan for a small trailhead parking area, on county land, along Moody Ridge Road.

This past spring the NFARA finalized its bylaws and articles of incorporation. The group has been reluctant to ask for donations or set up membership levels until the tax deductible status is achieved; this should happen within several months.

The Alliance is also in the process of developing a web site. In addition to general information, photos, descriptions and other writings will be posted. All contributions are welcome. Contact Susan Prince at 389-8344 or by email: sdprince@stanfordalumni.org.

In April, NFARA hosted a wonderful presentation by Matt Bailey. Matt described what Green Valley was like in the 1950s and spoke about the successful efforts to stop the Giant Gap Dam and get the North Fork American designated as a Wild and Scenic River. Guest speakers are planned for the June, August and October meetings.

NFARA meets the third Tuesday of the month, 7:00 p.m. at the Dutch Flat Community Center. Volunteers are always needed; if you have some time the Alliance can use your help. For more information contact Jim Ricker, 530-389-8344.