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2 <br /> Washington, that provides more background about this important topic. Given the damage that <br /> compaction will cause at this riverside site, the decision to allow yet another car show at Rasor Park <br /> seems difficult to reconcile with the City's concerns about protecting and restoring native salmon <br /> runs in the Willamette River. <br /> • It takes years for natural processes to restore compacted soils to health. Allowing cars and trucks <br /> to drive in Rasor Park again will further compact and damage the soils and delay the day when these <br /> natural restorative processes can begin on this site. This will also delay and hamper habitat restora- <br /> tion efforts in the park, as damaged soils will not allow new plantings to thrive. Disturbed ground, <br /> such as is left in the aftermath of each car show (see photos #2 and #3), is also prone to "weed" <br /> infestations. <br /> We had hoped that Rasor Park would be permanently rested from such destructive activities, and that <br /> the soils and whole ecosystem could begin to repair themselves. We are confused as to why the City <br /> has apparently reversed its earlier decision to not allow any more car shows in the park until a <br /> Master Plan for the site is developed, and look forward to receiving an explanation for this action. <br /> Frankly, we also think that the City ought to reconsider its policy of allowing cars to drive and park <br /> on grasses and soils anywhere in our City park system, but especially on high quality Class 1 soils <br /> such as at Rasor Park and in other parks that are located within the Willamette Greenway. Given all <br /> that we know about soils, compaction, and water quality, it just doesn't make sense that we would <br /> continue to permit this, especially when alternate paved sites are available for most events (or at <br /> least shuttle service from paved lots)! <br /> Sincerely, <br /> E <br /> Becky Riley <br /> P.S. In addition to the photos documenting cars parked under the drip line of mature trees, and the <br /> damage to grass, I have included a few other photos of the "Cruise In 2000" event held at Rasor Park <br /> this past June. Note that at least one other condition of the City's permit was violated once again- - <br /> spectator cars were parked near the river and well within the buffer zone that was supposed to be off - <br /> limits (see photo #5). <br /> cc: Eugene City Council <br /> Enclosures <br />