YOSEMITE - This week, a coalition of natural resource, recreation and forestry groups filed an administrative appeal of the Sierra Nevada Forest Plan (Framework) which was signed by Regional Forester Brad Powell on January 12.
     The appeal claims that the decision was arbitrary and capricious & requests that the Record of Decision be withdrawn, to complete and correct the analysis as needed, reevaluate the alternatives and select an alternative that meets the multiple use mandate of the Forest Service.
     The appeal bottom-line is that the Framework plan fails to develop a cohesive strategy to address the increasing risk of catastrophic wildfire and the many socio-economic consequences. The agency has 160 days to respond to the appeal.