Opinion ID: 159185
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Consideration of the Public Interest

Text: HCCA also argues that the Forest Service erred in failing to consider the public interest, thereby violating a regulation that required it to do so. See 36 C.F.R. § 251.54(i)(2) (1996). That argument is not supported by the record. The record does indicate that citizens submitted comments regarding the adverse impact of snowplowing on various winter activities and the environment. However, the Forest Service did consider those comments. As Mr. Storch explained, he believed these adverse effects could be controlled by mitigating measures. See id. at 173. Also, 20 “plowing was tested twice. No adverse effects were identified which would preclude plowing.” Id at 169. We acknowledge that reasonable citizens could readily conclude that, given its effects on winter recreational activities and the wilderness environment, snowplowing of Cement Creek Road to the Paulys’ property was unwarranted. However, given the Paulys’ right of reasonable access to their residence, the treatment of similarly situated properties, and efforts to mitigate potentially adverse effects, the Forest Service did not act arbitrarily or capriciously or contrary to law when it disagreed with those citizens in assessing the public interest involved in the Paulys’ request.