Dear Director Areias:

I'm writing to ask for your assistance in resolving ongoing concerns over the Castle Rock State Park General Plan. These concerns led Sierra Club and Friends of Castle Rock State Park to file a lawsuit challenging the legality of the General Plan. I believe the following key concepts are essential to development of a sound general plan and settlement of the suit:

(1) Regional Planning

Castle Rock is part of a larger context that includes surrounding lands, open space and other parks in the region. To plan successfully, DPR necessarily needs to take a regional approach.

(2) Science-based Planning

DPR apparently lacks sufficient funds to provide thorough scientific assessment of proposed plans. A Technical Advisory Committee to advise on biological resource issues can ensure that we base plans on sufficient data and on proven scientific principles, and that we set meaningful standards to measure whether we're meeting planned objectives.

(3) Protection of Unique Resources

Castle Rock has the last remaining black oak forest in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The General Plan concentrates camping, parking, and a visitor center in and around this precious resource. Firewood and traffic to the campground could easily spread sudden oak death, invasive, noxious species, and other dangers into the black oak forest.

I think these three elements can form the basis for a settlement of the underlying lawsuit that is entirely consistent with DPR's present policies and will protect Castle Rock for future generations.

Because settlement discussions appear to have reached a standstill, your direct intervention in the negotiations could provide the impetus necessary to move this matter toward an appropriate and timely resolution.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Sincerely,