OHV Use on National Forest Lands

Background From 1982 to 2000, the number of people driving motor vehicles off road in the United States increased over 109 Percent From 1997 to 2001, the number of ATVs in use increased by almost 40 percent OHV users accounted for between 11 and 12 million visits to national forests and grasslands.

Background From 1982 to 2000, the number of people driving motor vehicles off road in the United States increased over 109 Percent From 1997 to 2001, the number of ATVs in use increased by almost 40 percent OHV users accounted for between 11 and 12 million visits to national forests and grasslands.

Background OHV = Off Highway vehicle (ATV, ORV, motorcycles, dirtbikes) 1982 – % increase in # people driving OHV 1997 to % increase in ATVs use ver 11 million OHV visits to National Forests Number OHV registered Year

Issues: 1)Environmental damage - Current regulations prohibit: trail construction operation in manner damaging to the land, wildlife, or vegetation BUT Have not controlled proliferation of routes or environmental damage

2) Inconsistency - One National Forest restricts motor vehicles to roads/trails, adjoining National Forest or other lands allows unrestricted cross-country travel

USDA National Forest OHV Policy 2005 “We believe that off-highway vehicles are a legitimate use of the National Forest System. But it’s a use that should be managed carefully.” 1) Each national forest and grassland designates roads, trails, and areas open to motor vehicle use with public input, specifying type of vehicle. 2) Exceptions: fire, military, emergency, and law enforcement existing right of ways (landowners, permitees) May designate roads open for dispersed camping or retrieval of a downed big game animal Wilderness areas are closed to motor vehicles by statute.

Responsible official shall consider with the objective of minimizing effects: (1) Damage to soil, watershed, vegetation, and other forest resources; (2) Harassment of wildlife and significant disruption of wildlife habitats; Must also consider: (1)Conflicts among different classes of motor vehicle use of National Forest or neighboring federal lands. (2) Compatibility of motor vehicle use with existing conditions in populated areas, taking into account sound, emissions, and other factors. Designating Roads:

Conflicts and Opposing User Views Americans have unrestricted right to unlimited access to National Forests with motor vehicles. USFS: The Department disagrees National Forests belong to all Americans, but Americans do not have a right to unrestricted use. Congress established USFS so that future generations can continue to enjoy them. OHVs should not be allowed. National Forests should be managed for preservation of natural values, water quality, wildlife habitat, endangered species, biological diversity, quiet, and spiritual renewal. USFS: The Department disagrees. National Forests are managed by law for multiple use.

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