By Randy Moore - Special to The Bee
Published Monday, April 7, 2008

Off-highway vehicle use is one of the fastest growing forms of outdoor recreation in California's national forests. More Americans are enjoying access and recreational opportunities in their national forests than ever before. But as motor vehicle use has expanded, the impacts have also expanded. The use of motor vehicles, particularly off-highway vehicles, and their impacts have largely gone unmanaged until now.

The process of designating roads, trails and other areas for motor vehicle use is one of the top issues in managing the national forests today. As the new regional forester for the national forests in California, I have been welcomed by many partners who are passionate and willing to help us carry out the U.S. Forest Service mission.

Motor vehicle use needs to be balanced with the many different uses of our national forests, while ensuring the protection of the land, wildlife and other recreational visitors. The key to protecting resources while providing recreational opportunities is through appropriate management.

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