Stay On The Trail!

[J.C.]

Ride 4 Keeps, http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/ride4keeps/ , is a USFS initiative to try to educate ATV riders about proper conduct while riding off road.

I am posting this in hopes that it will reach some ATV riders who might not know, and might want to recreate in a proper and legal manner in our national forests!

Yesterday, 10-23-2010, at Uwharrie more than half of the ATV/UTV/motorcycles I saw were riding off of designated trails.

For those that care, the Forest Service publishes a "travel map" of roads and trails that are designated for travel. Here is the map for Uwharrie National Forest: http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/roads/road_maps/nc_uwharrie_d.pdf

It lists in print and shows on the map where you can legally and ethically "travel" while in Uwharrie National Forest. If is not listed or shown on the map you are in violation of my rights!

For your convenience the OHV trails are well marked with orange diamonds on trees. Follow the orange diamonds! If you find yourself on a "trail", "path", "road" that is not marked with an orange diamond you should GET BACK ON THE TRAIL!

In order to protect yourself from possible legal difficulties and to respect the rights and privileges of other forest users, PLEASE, STAY ON MARKED, DESIGNATED TRAILS while riding your ATV/UTV/whatever on the OHV system at Uwharrie National Forest! This pertains to full size OHVs such as Jeeps as well.

 

[J.C.]

http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/roads/road_maps/nc_uwharrie_d.pdf

PURPOSE AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAP

This map dated 08/31/2007 shows the National Forest
System roads, National Forest System trails, and the areas
on National Forest System lands in the Uwharie National
Forest that are designated for motor vehicle use pursuant to
36 CFR 212.51. The map also contains a list of those
designated roads, trails, and areas that enumerate the types
of vehicles that are allowed on each route and in each area
and any seasonal restrictions that apply on those routes and
in those areas.

Designation of a road, trail, or area for motor vehicle use
by a particular class of vehicle under 36 CFR 212.51 should
not be interpreted as encouraging or inviting use, or to imply
that the road, trail, or area is passable, actively maintained, or
safe for travel. Motor vehicle designations include parking
along designated routes and at facilities associated with
designated routes when it is safe to do so and when not
causing damage to National Forest System resources.
Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render
designated roads and trails impassable for extended periods.
Designated areas may contain dangerous or impassable
terrain. Many designated roads and trails may be passable
only by high-clearance vehicles or four-wheel drive vehicles.
Maintenance of designated roads and trails will depend on
available resources, and many may receive little
maintenance.

This motor vehicle use map identifies those roads, trails,
and areas designated for the motor vehicle use under 36
CFR 212.51 for the purpose of enforcing the prohibition at 36
CFR 261.13. This is a limited purpose. The other public
roads are shown for information and navigation purposes
only and are not subject to designation under the Forest
Service travel management regulation.

These designations apply only to National Forest System roads, National Forest System trails, and areason National Forest System lands.

PROHIBITIONS

It Is prohibited to possess or operate a motor vehicle on
National Forest System lands on the Uwharrie National
Forest other than in accordance with these designations
(36 CFR 261.13).

Violations of 36 CFR 261.13 are subject to a fine of up to
$5,000 or imprisonment for up to 6 months or both (18
U.S.C. 3571(e)). This prohibition applies regardless of the
presence or absence of signs.

This map does not display nonmotorized uses, over-snow
uses, or other facilities and attractions on the Uwharrie
National Forest. Obtain a forest visitor map for more
complete information.

Designated roads, trails, and areas may also be subject
to temporary, emergency closures, and visitors must comply
with signs notifying them of such restrictions. A national
forest may issue an order to close a road, trail, or area on a
temporary basis to protect the life, health or safety of forest
visitors or the natural or cultural resources in these areas.
Such a temporary and/or emergency closures are consistent
with the Travel Management Rule (36 CFR 212.52 (b); 36
CFR 261 subpart B).

The designation "road or trail open to all motor vehicles"
does not supersede vehicle size or weight limits imposed
through State traffic law.

OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Operating a motor vehicle on National Forest System
roads, National Forest System trails, and in areas on National
Forest System lands carries a greater responsibility than
operating that vehicle in a city or other developed setting. Not
only must the motor vehicle operators know and follow all
applicable traffic laws, but they need to show concern for the
environment as well as other forest users. The misuse of
motor vehicles can lead to the temporary or permanent
closure of any designated road, trail, or area. Operators of
motor vehicles are subject to State traffic law, including State
requirements for licensing, registration, and operation of the
vehicle in question.

Motor vehicle use, especially off-highway vehicle use,
involves inherent risks that may cause property damage,
serious injury, and possibly death to participants. Riders
should drive cautiously and anticipate rough surfaces and
features, such as snow, mud, vegetation, and water crossings
common to remote driving conditions. Participants voluntarily
assume full responsibility for these damages, risks, and
dangers. Motor vehicle operators should take care at all times
to protect themselves and those under their responsibility.
Much of the Uwharrie National Forest is remote, and
medical assistance may not be readily available. Cellular
telephones do not work in many areas of the Uwharrie
National Forest. Operators should take adequate food, water,
first aid supplies, and other equipment appropriate for the
conditions and expected weather.

ALWAYS REMEMBER TO RESPECT PRIVATE LAND!
PROTECT YOUR PRIVILEGE. STAY ON DESIGNATED
ROADS AND TRAILS AND IN DESIGNATED AREAS.

Read and understand this map in its entirety. If you have
questions please contact the Uwharrie National Forest for
clarification.

Road, trail, and area users must comply with this map, as
well as all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations.
Compliance with these rules is the responsibility of the user.

 

[biggoofy]

I see that all the time as well!