VD, even the Forest Service Officials couldn't deny what they were trying to do.
Lots of the factual information has dropped off the internet now, but U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce's office would probably be glad to provide further facts for you if interested.
It wasn't a "rancher vs USFS" issue. It was the general public that decried the proposed action. The ranchers could have accessed their permits in any event. It was everyday people and hunters, sportsmen and people that just enjoyed the forest that rallied to the cause.
They wanted to shut it down. As much as they legally could.
They lost.
Mr. Skinner brings up a good point about BHA even accepting money from donors like that. If you find yourself taking that money, you are kinda tied to their agenda.
