Our Voice: Rattlesnake Mountain access on the horizon

Figuring out a plan to provide public access to Rattlesnake Mountain is going to be a daunting task, and those excited for a trek to the summit will have to be patient.

A request for public comment on the issue received 152 written responses by the Nov. 13 deadline, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

That’s actually a terrific indication of the enthusiasm for this project.

Now begins the long process of compiling citizen feedback and putting a proposal together. The big question federal officials will have to decide is how open Rattlesnake Mountain will be to the public, and how often.

The public comments ranged from people who believe access should be restricted to ensure the mountain’s pristine landscape is not damaged, to people who see the potential for tourism. Some people think bikers and hikers should be allowed on the mountain all the time. Others want more protection.

Some restrictions are already required because of laws and regulations that apply to the mountain. For instance, off-road driving, off-road biking and off-road horseback riding are all prohibited. Dogs also are not permitted on the site, leashed or unleashed.

But other than these specific limitations, the scope for public access is open for debate. It will be up to officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make a proposal that strikes the right balance.

They also will have to make a plan that is acceptable to the tribes, which may be difficult.

Rattlesnake Mountain is considered sacred by members of the Yakama Nation and they historically have wanted no public access whatsoever. The more restrictive the access plan, the more likely they will favor it.

Compromise will be key.

At 3,600 feet, Rattlesnake Mountain is the tallest point in the Mid-Columbia, providing vast views of the Hanford Reach Monument and the Columbia River. Access has been restricted since 1943 when much of the mountain, including the top, was made part of the security perimeter of the Hanford nuclear reservation.

In addition, in recognition of its spiritual significance to the Yakamas, the Department of Energy designated it a Traditional Cultural Property in 2007. The Yakama Nation used that designation to fight public access in the past. But now, thanks to retired Congressman Doc Hastings, legislation allowing limited public access to the mountain was approved before he finished his term last December.

But the legislation came with no money for improvements or plans for access. Many people said restrooms would be needed, and some want an improved trail to the top. Without financial resources, however, any kind of development is unlikely to happen in the near future.

It won’t be easy for federal officials to find that middle ground between conservationists and developers — between the tribes and politicians.

But at least we have a start. Eventually, Rattlesnake Mountain will be open to everyone, even if it is on a limited basis. And it will have been worth the wait.

This story was originally published November 17, 2015 at 5:24 PM with the headline "Our Voice: Rattlesnake Mountain access on the horizon."