In the winter of '95 there was a lot of damage done to the road. It became impassable for a passenger car, although some 4 wheel drives were still enjoying it, as well as people and equestrians.

State Parks and Recreation gated the road at the top and sent a letter to all property owners that they would be given a key.

Jill Dampier of State Parks said at a Foresthill Forum Meeting that they are going to keep it gated during the winter and nights during the summer weekends and holidays. She said that they have trouble with juveniles going down there lighting bon fires and partying.

As you can see from this picture, one of our members, Al Richardson, is swimming a horse down there. Thankfully, "Cindra" the horse may be able to swim again sometime soon.

Two of our other members, Larry Jordan and Larry Clarke, are working with State Parks to design a gate that would allow access for people and equestrians.

Ponderosa Way is also an emergency way out for our small community in the event of an disaster.

It was mentioned that our other alternate routes in and out of Foresthill are nearly ALL blocked off (Mammoth Bar, too), with Yankee Jim's being the only one left open, and that one is reportedly impassable with a passenger car.

The response was that the Sheriff's and Fire Departments have keys to the Ponderosa Gate and will open it in the event of an emergency. Now that Ponderosa Way has opened up, this will no longer be a concern.

We are also looking forward to renewed access for ALL people, even those who want to or must drive. None of us are getting any younger and we do not want to be locked out of river access because of our health. Some of us would also like to take our grandchildren down to the water. It surely is one of the most scenic, beautiful places we have left.

Thank you to all the people that were instrumental in allowing us the opportunity to continue to enjoy our public lands.

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