[Geysers] Vista enhancements need help

[Udo Freund]

Oh, to be able to see the Inn as clearly as in that 1912 photo again.

Undoubtedly the Inn and its parking areas greatly contributed to the 
growth of the current forest surrounding them.  The additional moisture 
and nutrients from runoff off of the roof and pavement are most 
certainly an artificial source that helped those trees germinate and 
grow.  I've noticed that today the largest trees are near roof driplines 
and next to pavement.  The same can be said for the Great Fountain 
parking lot.  I doubt those trees would have grown as fast or perhaps 
even at all without manmade influences.  I am in total favor of 
restoring the views that have changed because of artificial 
environments, both from an historical perspective and to improve the 
modern visitor's experience.

Fire safety is also important with regard to the Inn. The homes lost 
recently in Malibu showed that 100 foot fire defense perimeters are 
woefully insufficient.  The Inn, which has many large trees growing in 
its shadows, dodged a bullet in 1988 due to tremendous efforts and 
cost.  Next time it may not be so lucky.  Let's hope we don't wait until 
it's too late.

I believe it will take a letter writing / comment card campaign to 
implement changes.  From what I've read regarding the snowmobile issues, 
form letters carry less weight than unique letters.  Please take the 
time to write about it in your own words.  I did.

Thanks,
Udo Freund