In August of 2000, Friends of Yosemite Valley (FoYV) and Mariposans for Environmentally Responsible Growth (MERG) challenged the legal validity of the National Park Service's (NPS) plan for the Wild and Scenic Merced River that flows through Yosemite National Park. We presented a solid case with strong evidence that the plan was not a protective plan for the river and its outstandingly remarkable values, as required by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. The Western Environmental Law Center filed a Friend of the Court legal brief also challenging the legality of the Merced River Plan. Fifty six groups joined that brief in order to protect not only the Merced River, but Wild and Scenic Rivers throughout the country. In March 2002, the judge ruled against us on most counts. We are appealing that ruling to the Ninth District Court of Appeals. The hearing will be scheduled sometime after Oct. 2002.

Meanwhile, the NPS is moving forward with the development projects in the Yosemite Valley Plan (Cost: $441,000,000). FoYV has been tabling in Yosemite Valley with information on these projects. FoYV and other groups held a demonstration in Yosemite Valley in June against the Fee Demonstration program which raised the entrance fees from $5 to $20, and against the Lower Yosemite Falls project, paid for in part by Fee Demo fees and predominantly by the private Yosemite Fund. This project will further develop and manipulate the sensitive 56-acre braided stream/wetland area, spread impacts throughout the area, and disturb or destroy traditional Native American acorn, mushroom and basketry gathering areas.

The public comment period on the Draft Yosemite Fire Management Plan closes August 27. The public comment period for the Yosemite Lodge development project will open soon. For more information, visit the FoYV website, www.yosemitevalley.org, or call or e-mail Joyce Eden (408) 973 1085, .

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