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Dear Editor,

In his letter published December 13, so-called "Desert Ecologist" Daniel Patterson of the Center for Biological Diversity decries the BLM's handling of the Thanksgiving crowd in the Imperial Sand Dunes. Patterson states that "capacity limits" would solve the complex problems that crop up in the dunes during major holiday weekends.

As Patterson should know--in fact as anyone who has been to the ISDRA would know--attempting to impose capacity limits on a wide-open area such as the Imperial Sand Dunes would be pure folly. The dunes are far too easily accessed from a variety of locations, including several miles of the 78 freeway. Furthermore, what would Patterson have the BLM tell a family who has driven hundreds of miles, and for hours or even days--when they arrive at the dunes? Sorry--all full up?

As a desert ecologist, perhaps Patterson's energies would be better spent coordinating the "nature walks" he believes the BLM should be leading in the Algodones Dunes. The CBD has a traveling propaganda/photo exhibit, apparently attempting to drum up support for his ultimate goal of banning off-highway vehicles in the dunes. There are 32,000 acres of OHV-free wilderness in the Algodones Dunes; and so far no hikers seem to be interested in taking advantage of the area.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Perkins

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