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Sooner rather than later federal and state land managers have got to get a better handle on Off Highway Vehicle use throughout Utah. The machines are proliferating, it seems, exponentially. And with their popularity come perplexing issues.
On one hand, OHV's offer relatively easy access to backwoods places many people would otherwise never see and enjoy. They have brought economic prosperity to depressed towns and counties, and created an entire culture of motorized recreation through organized and informal events.
On the other hand, the machines, especially when operated by a few irresponsible drivers, can irreparably damage sensitive ecosystems. And they often conflict with other outdoor enthusiasts who prefer more aesthetic experiences in the wild.
Somehow agencies such as the Forest Service and the BLM have got to follow through with their responsibility to find the balance between these competing interests. Foremost, in KSL's view, is the need to designate specific trails and establish workable rules that are well-publicized, unambiguous and enforceable.
At the same time, KSL encourages those who enjoy seeing the backcountry via OHV's to use their machines responsibly. Mostly, we think they do! The debate would not be nearly as intense if the renegade few who ride willy-nilly in pristine settings would recognize the harm they're doing and start exercising greater restraint in their off road escapades.
