March 23, 2005
BLM Evicts Green Bridge Base Camp 2
First the Forest Service closed the Green Bridge camp and issued an unconstitutional blanket closure of Fiddler Mountain, extending miles beyond the logging units, and now, at this very moment, the Bureau of Land Management is evicting the new Biscuit base camp.
BLM has visited the camp asking everyone to show ID, photographing license plates, and informing those present of the 14 day camping limit. They threatened to come in at night and photgraph people sleeping if campers would not give their names (they cannot force people to provide ID). The camp is nowhere near the 14 day limit, yet the BLM is busting the camp. BLM officials could provide no written rationale for the closure, but stated, "It's health and safety, just like the Federal closure." This is beyond unconstitutional, this is harrassment. When I spoke with Max Yeager, acting Field Director of the BLM, I asked him if he was aware that the federal closure is unconstitutional and being challeneged on consitutional grounds. He replied, "Yes." The BLM is choosing to violate citizen rights. Please call the BLM and demand an explanation. Make it clear that you support this educational camp and important community gathering place and that the public should not be kicked out of public lands.
Max Yeager is the Acting Field Director
His direct line is 471-6749
While you're at it, give Senator Wyden a call and ask him where he stands on citizens being locked out of public lands. Ask him for a written response on his position on the Biscuit as well as the closure of public lands.
Senator Ron Wyden
Washington, DC
(202) 224-5244