A pivotal entity meant to safeguard this natural gem, the Youghiogheny Scenic and Wild River Advisory Board, finds itself sidelined and dismissed by local authorities. Recently, Garrett County Commissioner Larry Tichnell delivered a disheartening message to the advisory board, claiming it “has no functions to perform” for the county, effectively relegating its role to insignificance.
This dismissal raises pertinent questions about the fate of the Wild Yough and the decision-making processes governing it. Stakeholders, including members of the advisory board, express deep apprehension regarding decisions made by county and state leaders that appear to flout established laws, regulations, and management plans aimed at preserving the river’s pristine environment.
One glaring instance of this disregard was the advisory board’s recommendation regarding the alignment of a new bridge on Swallow Falls Road. Despite the board’s diligent evaluation and suggestion mirroring the current structure’s alignment, the county, backed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), opted for a divergent course of action. This decision, contrary to the board’s counsel, is now mired in legal contention, underscoring the widening chasm between stakeholders and authorities.
Moreover, the advisory board laments the lack of transparency in decision-making processes concerning the Wild Yough corridor. Requests for advance notice of plans from county and state officials fall on deaf ears, leaving stakeholders feeling marginalized and uninformed. The board’s plea for inclusivity and openness underscores the necessity of citizen engagement in shaping the river’s future.
The significance of the advisory board cannot be overstated. Envisioned as a conduit for public involvement, it represents a vital link between the community and governing bodies responsible for safeguarding the Wild Yough. Established protocols mandate the board’s role in advising both local authorities and the state’s Scenic and Wild Rivers Review Board, ensuring holistic decision-making aligned with conservation principles.
Former state senator and advocate for environmental protection, John Bambacus, underscores the pivotal role of the advisory board in preserving the Wild Yough. With private properties dotting significant stretches of the river’s corridor, Bambacus emphasizes the imperative of protecting landowners’ interests while upholding conservation efforts. The board serves as a beacon of citizen oversight, a vital counterbalance to bureaucratic decision-making processes.
Paul Durham, with years of experience overseeing the management of the Youghiogheny Wild River, echoes the sentiment of the importance of citizen oversight. Highlighting the invaluable expertise and dedication of board members, Durham stresses that without their presence, a critical facet of governance – citizen oversight – is lost.
In essence, the plight of the Wild Yough epitomizes a broader struggle for environmental stewardship and democratic governance. It underscores the indispensable role of citizen engagement in preserving natural wonders for future generations. As stakeholders rally for the reinstatement of meaningful citizen oversight, the Wild Yough stands as both a testament to nature’s splendor and a reminder of the collective responsibility to protect it.
