Thought some of you might be interested in the settlement of this lawsuit involving equestrian use of the Lusk Creek Wilderness Area in the Shawnee National Forest (Illinois) - http://www.southernillinoisan.com/articles/2008/11/14/front_page/26674491.txt

I realize that this is an old post,but I recnetly read a good book " The Big Burn" about the beginings of the Forest Service. Teddy Rooseveldt and Gifford Pinchot were 2 key players in preserving our forests and they believed that forests should serve multiple uses which include recreation. Both Rooseveldt and Pinchot hunted and fished on horseback. I don't own a horse,but have gone on rides through concessionares in our National Forests. To me,it's a great way to see our forests. Not everyone is capable of walking long distances over rough terrain. Managing our National Forests is a balancing act.
Don't these environmentalists realize that all their lawsuits take money away from the Forest Service budgets? This money could be used to upgrade campgrounds,maintain trails and waterways.

Suzi also read it. I will do the same, shortly. I suspect you're right about the budget but I expect wildfires take the biggest chunk out of the annual appropriation . . . Fred