As co-race director of the Roots Rock Trail Running Series, I am writing to say “thank you” to Pope Resources.

In the midst of all the negative reactions they are receiving right now regarding the impasse with the Department of Ecology, I know they could use a “thank you.”

Thank you for allowing us to use your tree farm property for the last 15 years. When I first ventured beyond the orange gate on Stottlemeyer Road, I was afraid I was trespassing. I later found out I was welcome there.

The trails were too good to be true. I found miles and miles of quiet forest to run through right near my house. I told all my friends about it. I saw bikers, walkers, horseback riders, and families picking blackberries there in the summer. My husband and I took our young son on his first nature hike there. He later learned to ride his bike there. I have too many fond memories of the trails to list.

Six years ago when we asked Pope Resources for permission to hold trail running races on their property, they not only said yes, but were excited about it. Since then there have been adventure races, mountain bike races, and all sorts of other events on the property.

I can’t imagine losing access to the trails, and I know that Pope ultimately wants the trails to remain open to the public as well. Please, trail lovers, let’s not take their generosity for granted.

Brooke Hammett
Poulsbo