CODY, Wyo. (AP) - Sen. Mike Enzi and Rep. Barbara Cubin praised National Park Service officials' willingness to consider allowing some snowmobiling to continue in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.
Meeting with state and county representatives from Wyoming, Montana and Idaho on Tuesday, Park Service officials said they are willing to allow snowmobiles that are equipped with the best available technology to limit air pollution and noise.
"Based on the information I have now, it looks like the park officials are headed in the right direction," said Enzi, R-Wyo.
"Allowing a limited number of snowmobiles in our national parks is preferable to barring the gates and cutting off access. I have always maintained that there can be room for a reasonable solution that protects not only the parks but the ability of those who enjoy the parks on snowmobiles."
Cubin, R-Wyo., said the debate appears headed toward "a solution acceptable to the people of Wyoming.
"From the surrounding counties to the gateway communities that depend heavily on the continued winter recreational opportunities afforded at the park, the alternatives discussed at today's meeting will ensure the continued viability of snowmobiles in Yellowstone and Grand Teton," she said.
During the final days of the Clinton administration, the Park Service proposed phasing out snowmobiles from the two parks by the winter of 2003-04. The snowmobile industry sued and the Bush administration agreed to order a new study of snowmobiling in the parks.
The Park Service's latest proposal would allow cleaner-burning and quieter snowmachines, including snowcoaches. The proposal also favors guided snowmobile tours.
