|
10 WAYS TO MINIMIZE YOUR IMPACT
ON THE OUTDOORS
 With
the number of all-terrain vehicle riders climbing
past 16 million, the ATV sport is grabbing more
and more attention as land managers try to balance
its popularity with the nation’s natural resources.
“ATV riding can be a blast,” said Patti Klein,
National Stewardship Coordinator for the Bureau
of Land Management. “But it can also be damaging
to public lands if not done responsibly. As land
managers, we encourage people to help protect the
great outdoors by riding responsibly and practicing
outdoor ethics, like those created by Tread Lightly!."
Tread Lightly!, a nonprofit organization that
educates motorized recreationists to recreate responsibly,
has issued some practical tips on minimizing impacts
from ATVs outdoors.
-
 Stay
only on roads, trails or other areas designated
for ATV use.
- Try to stay in the middle of the trail to
avoid widening it.
- Cross streams only at designated fording
points, where the trail crosses the stream.
Approach the stream slowly, crossing at a 90-degree
angle.
- On switchbacks, avoid roosting around the
apex of the turn when climbing or brake-sliding
during descent, both of which gouge the trail.
- On slick trails, moderate the throttle and
use the clutch to gain maximum traction with
minimum wheel-spin.
- Try to avoid muddy trails, save them for
future trips when they are dry.
- Pack out what you pack in. Carry a trash
bag on your vehicle and pick up litter left
by others.
- Following a ride, wash your ATV and support
vehicle to avoid spreading noxious weeds the
next time you ride.
- Observe proper human waste disposal. Bury
your waste at least six inches deep and camouflage
the hole or pack out your waste.
- Always wear a helmet, eye protection and
other safety gear. Take an ATV training course
to maximize safety. Call the ATV Safety Institute
at 1-800-887-2887 for a course near you.
To find places to ride, ATV enthusiasts should
contact local land managers. Tread Lightly! provides
additional tips and materials at
www.treadlightly.org.
Contact: Tread Lightly! Monica Clay
Phone: (801) 699-9429
Email: monica@treadlightly.org
|
