The proposed Motocross Track complex along the Mountain Loop Highway has begun to stir debate, which is important toward the community making the best decision. The proposal can also generate arguments not based in reason and cloud the facts. Here are a few facts.
The proposal involves clearing 75-85 acres of forest. That amount of forest removes approximately 400,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually. Carbon dioxide is the primary cause of global warming. Approximately 75 riders per day would use the tracks resulting in approximately 600,000 pounds of CO2 (and other harmful gases) being introduced into the atmosphere annually. Net result? A carbon footprint of over 1,000,000 pounds of CO2 annually.
Its also a long distance from emergency services. This means slow response from fire and medical services. The area can become extremely dry during summer months. Virtually all the private forested land in the region is closed to access during those times the risk is too great.
Over 4,000 motocross riders are injured seriously enough to require hospitalization annually while riding on motocross tracks. A rider who is injured on the proposed track would have to hang on for over an hour while, first, paramedics are called to the site, second, determine the injuries are life-threatening, third, call for a helicopter and finally, fourth, transport the victim to the hospital.
Any person, plant or animal within at least a three-mile radius would be impacted by the noise and dust. These are facts that are usually not fully weighed until its too late.
The issue is where to best locate a motocross facility. The promoter has made a poor choice and the County Planners need to know. Contact Erik Olson at Project Manager, Snohomish County PDS, 3000 Rockefeller, Everett, WA 98201 or Erik.olsen@co.snohomish.wa.us.
Jeff Van Datta, President
Stillaguamish Citizens Alliance
Granite Falls