EP 1130-2-550
15 Nov 96
APPENDIX S
OUTLINE OF MONITORING PLAN FOR OFF-ROAD VEHICLE AREAS
S-1. Executive Order 11644 requires that each agency monitor the effects of the use of off-road
vehicles on lands under its jurisdiction. Data regarding the impact of off-road vehicles on soils,
vegetation, water, air wildlife and other recreation activities is very limited. To provide for this
recreation activity in harmony with other recreation activities and avoid despoilment of the
resource base monitoring of the effects of ORV use will be accomplished as effectively as
possible.
S-2. The following outline encompasses significant features which should be monitored in ORV
areas within the capability of the District Engineer. It is recognized that a scientific evaluation of
the impact or ORV's would encompass a great deal more data collection and analysis. The
following encompasses a rather limited approach to guide the District Engineer within his
budgetary constraints and manpower ceilings.
S-3. Outline.
a. Estimate of use of area or trail by both ORV users and non-users.
b. Impact of ORV use on vegetation, soil and water.
(1) Map existing trails in designated ORV area.
(2) Record mileage and average width of existing trails.
(3) Rate existing trails according to light, medium or heavy use.
(4) Select random sample plots on existing trails covering a variety of terrain, vegative
and soil conditions.
(a) Photograph sample plots.
(b) Record width of trail and depth of ruts at selected intervals.
(c) Record inventory of vegetative community within the sample plot. Inventory should
include species composition and size of woody vegetation.
(d) Record general condition of vegetation in sample plot.
(5) Record, at intervals of 0, 1, 3, and 5 years, those items included in (4) above.
(6) Define control plots near test plots to determine impact with and without ORV use.
(7) All control plots and test plots should be permanently but inconspicuously marked so
that photographs and data collection can be accomplished on the same area in subsequent years.
(8) The following can be determined from test sections:
S-1
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