EP 1130-2-550
15 Nov 96
b. Hold appropriate public meetings or workshops; one at the initiation of consideration
of off-road vehicle use for a project and a second, prior to informal designation of areas and trails
and operating conditions. When necessary, additional public meetings or workshops may be held
to obtain public reaction to various proposals under consideration. Under no circumstances will
area and trail designation be made or operating conditions established without such public
participation.
10-7. Enforcement. Action regarding persons who abuse the privilege of using designated areas
and trails and operating conditions prescribed for the project under these regulations will be taken
under the citation authority program and in accordance with Title 36 (CFR) Part 327.
10-8. Environmental Considerations. Prior to designation of areas or trails for use by off-road
vehicles, district commanders will insure that full and careful assessment and consideration is
given to the possible impacts and effects on the environment of the area. Where this
environmental assessment indicates significant environmental impacts will be associated with off-
road vehicle use, an environmental impact statement will be prepared and processed. Such
assessment shall not be limited to the proposed designated areas or trails, but shall also encompass
adjacent areas which may be affected.
a. Air. Air quality which could be affected by dust from the use of off-road vehicles and
internal combustion engines will be considered.
b. Water. Siltation and water quality of streams or other bodies of water due to soil
erosion created by off-road vehicles will be considered.
c. Soils. Soil erodability and compaction as well as desirability for proposed use by off-
road vehicles will be considered.
d. Vegetation. The protection of native and other desirable species of vegetation will be
considered.
e. Fish and Wildlife. Protection of breeding grounds, drumming grounds, winter feeding
and yarding grounds, migration routes and nesting areas is essential. Spawning, migration and
feeding habits of fish and other aquatic organisms will be considered where off-road vehicles will
be used in streams or other bodies of water. Particular attention will be given to off-road vehicle
use which could have adverse effects on rare or endangered species of animals and unique plant
communities in the immediate area or in adjacent areas. This matter requires coordination with
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service per the Endangered Species Act when there is potential impact
to federally listed species. Site selection for ORV use will strive to minimize adverse impacts on
fish and wildlife resources.
f. Noise, Safety, and Accident Prevention. Excessive noise as it affects humans and
wildlife as well as accidental injury, damage or loss to project resources will be considered.
g. Aesthetics. Potential despoilment of visual characteristics will be considered.
10-4
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