"Riders have taken their vehicles off the designated trails, damaging the adjacent forest and streams," Gaines said.
"If we continue to have a lot of damage like that, it's (closing the trails to motorized users) is one thing we'll have to look at. Hopefully, the rehab work that we've done and the efforts of a lot of good folks that ride out there can help alleviate the problem."
Gaines said that the trails are clearly marked, and that on-site volunteers who are trying to encourage their proper use can provide useful information.
In addition to the volunteers, Gaines said that he's increased patrols at Flint Creek and in other areas, and that authorities began issuing tickets to lawbreakers.
Illegal riders recently caused $6,000 in damage to a streamside area in Flint Creek.
The Forest Service had to close the trail during the spring of 2000 because of a similar problem that cost about $4,600 to fix.
Full story here
"If we continue to have a lot of damage like that, it's (closing the trails to motorized users) is one thing we'll have to look at. Hopefully, the rehab work that we've done and the efforts of a lot of good folks that ride out there can help alleviate the problem."
Gaines said that the trails are clearly marked, and that on-site volunteers who are trying to encourage their proper use can provide useful information.
In addition to the volunteers, Gaines said that he's increased patrols at Flint Creek and in other areas, and that authorities began issuing tickets to lawbreakers.
Illegal riders recently caused $6,000 in damage to a streamside area in Flint Creek.
The Forest Service had to close the trail during the spring of 2000 because of a similar problem that cost about $4,600 to fix.
Full story here
