Dear DPS Chairperson:
I just finished co-leading two DPS peaks in Riverside County on a typical DPS weekend. Upon my return I noted that I had logged just under 500 miles for the round trip. It is with this in mind that I must protest recent and proposed additions to the DPS list. We are supposed to be a conservation organization. A reasonable person might deem our substantial use of resources to complete a list of peaks quite frivolous. And it is also very likely that an energy tax in the near future will add to our transportation costs.
To inject a note of rationality into our peak selection process I propose that no more than one peak per year be voted on for list addition. Peaks previously voted down should have a five year waiting period before resubmission. And, most importantly, I strongly urge a two-thirds vote of approval for any addition. It is not only my opinion that some of the recent additions are definitely without merit and a larger consensus would make for a more reasonable selection process. Peaks requiring extensive four-wheel driving to the trailhead and those located great distances from the Los Angeles area should be avoided as well as those with governmental or private property access restrictions.
I submit these considerations after listening to much talk around campfires and from conversations among friends. For those who have finished the list and are looking for new challenges the informal Explorer's List might be an appropriate outlet. I sincerely hope the DPS will avoid the peak inflation that has occurred in the HPS.
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Sincerely Ron Young 12529902 |
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