FEDERATION OF WESTERN OUTDOOR CLUBS

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LIMIT OFF-ROAD VEHICLE USE ON PUBLIC LANDS

Because of the huge proliferation of off-road vehicles (ORVs), especially all-terrain vehicles, our public lands in the west are being overrun by unwise use of these machines. Such use has resulted in massive erosion on steep slopes and in precious meadows. Scars on our arid western public lands remain for decades.

These vehicles also have a deleterious effect on wildlife, fragmenting their habitat and causing stress because of their noise. Recreationists such as horseback riders, hikers, and hunters find these vehicles to be extremely annoying (when they are not used correctly). The situation is getting worse every year and will continue to deteriorate until restrictions are put on these vehicles by land managing agencies.

The Federation of Western Outdoor Clubs strongly supports limiting off-road vehicle use to designated roads, routes, and areas on all public lands where they are allowed. Land managing agencies should immediately develop travel plans, maps, and regulations to govern ORV use and provide adequate enforcement to see that the regulations are followed by all ORV users.


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