NFS Proposes ORV Restrictions In Ocala National Forest (FL)

[hatrack]

OCALA NATIONAL FOREST -- New rules in the state's largest wooded playground will severely restrict its fastest-growing and most controversial group of users -- riders of rugged, off-road vehicles. But the Ocala National Forest still will offer more miles for riders than any other public land in Florida, which could irritate environmental groups that had hoped for a complete ban. "We can still ride -- and that's good," said Dan George of DeBary, executive director of the Florida Trail Riders, a 2,800-member association of thrill-riding enthusiasts.

The proposed restrictions, unveiled Friday, could go into effect as early as March, limiting riders to 42 miles of trail in the forest that sprawls over parts of Lake, Volusia, Marion and Putnam counties. Today riders can roar over nearly every inch of the 383,000-acre forest without regard for endangered species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker because there are no designated trails. Many riders prefer to carve their own way.

"We know this is not going to be popular," said Heather Callahan, speaking for the U.S. Forest Service, which drafted the rules. "But our job is to protect the resource."

EDIT

But riders argue they have a right to public lands, too. They say their legions are often unfairly criticized for forest damage. The Florida Four-Wheel Drive Association, for instance, coordinated a cleanup effort in Ocala in November, collecting nearly nine tons of trash that had been dumped in the forest. The garbage included used tires, junk refrigerators and abandoned appliances. Hundreds of off-road riders descend on the forest every week, lured from all over the East by the opportunity to ride for free and make their own trails.

EDIT

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/orl-offroad1406jan14,0,2618767.story?track=rss

Yeah, I'm sure they'll really enforce these proposed tougher rules, which will pass in no time at all. :eyes:

[jody]

1. "right to public lands", YES but "to enjoy not to destroy". I've walked

over most of the Ocala National Forest and it is beautiful.

While cruising timber on adjoining private land, I had a Florida panther follow me. At the end of the day, I walked back to my jeep along the same sandy trail I had entered at daybreak. I saw her/his tracks clearly on top of mine, a memorable experience.

:hi:

[Dudley_DUright]

2. I have never seen a Florida panther

since they are highly endangered and there are thought to be only about 30-50 left. You are very lucky to have seen even just a panther's tracks. I think the best way to see the Ocala National Forest is by canoe on either the Alexander or Juniper springs runs. I have been on both and saw lots and lots of wildlife (but alas no panthers).

http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/florida/recreation/index_oca.shtml#canoe