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DOUGLAS COUNTY FOREST ACCESS MANAGEMENT PLAN CHAPTER 9 Accommodations for Persons with Disabilities Section Page 9.0 Accommodations for Persons with 9 - 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER 9 ACCOMMODATIONS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 9.0 ACCOMMODATIONS FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES Consistent with applicable State and Federal laws, the DCFD recognizes the desire of persons with permanent or long-term disabilities to operate a HV and/or OHV on the County Forest. In response to a citizen request during a regular meeting of the FPRC on June 26, 2006 an application and permit were developed that allow persons with disabilities to use a motorized vehicle in closed areas of the Forest. On August 28, 2006 an Application for Disability Permit to Use a Motor Vehicle in a Closed Area (see Appendix - B for a template) was approved by the FPRC. Currently, persons holding a valid Class A, B (issued for more than one season), or C disability permit issued by the State can request and apply for a County permit, which allows the permittee to operate a motorized vehicle on a specified segment of closed road in the Forest. Applicants and valid permit holders must meet all permit requirements and applications are approved and permits issued on a case- by-case basis. No permit will be issued for use in a Low Motorized Area or on any road that is highly susceptible to environmental damage. Access is restricted to established routes and cross-country travel is prohibited for any purpose, including game retrieval. Use of a HV or OHV also is subject to all State licensing and County requirements and restrictions, and must be operated in such a way that does not degrade the environment. This privilege may extend to one companion or assistant of the disabled person. The assistant may operate the disabled person's vehicle but cannot participate in the intended recreational activity, unless approved by the Director of Forestry and Natural Resources. He or she also must aid the permittee in meeting permit requirements.