ATV Damage to the Environment
Every time you or I step into a forest or visit a wetland, we run the risk of changing the environment we feel entitled to enjoy. Paths are built for various forms of recreational interests people enjoy, and for the most part this cohabitation with nature is a wonderful expression of our respect for its wonder and beauty. We are inspired by it, and we certainly wish to protect and preserve it, for this is what makes us feel at peace with ourselves and with our world.
However, not everyone shares these values to uphold the integrity of our environment. ATV users, and particularly ATV clubs that meet in large group outings, devastate many of the resources that need protecting the most. Renegade trails crisscross through state forests and wetlands from ATV users who feel compelled to conquer the next hill or stream they come to.
Trails that have not been groomed for ATV use quickly fragment a forest’s ecosystem. Paths are forged and ground is laid bare from ATV’s knobby tires. Ruts form easily, which in turn causes erosion. This further widens illegal trails, and sediments wash into wetlands. Water temperatures can easily change, which in turn can threaten water habitat.
Invasive species take root much easier along trails, many times choking out native species. This problem is further magnified by renegade trails rampant from illegal ATV use on public lands. Also, additional trails create more opportunities for predation.
Noise pollution is another ATV factor that can cause species to change eating habits, affect reproduction, and even force some species to move to new locations.
But what is the answer? It does not take much abuse to level severe consequences on our environment. Part of the answer lies in our willingness to become better stewards of our environment. That means taking personal ownership in doing whatever we need to do to protect our forests and wetlands against ATV use. It may mean educating people, and that includes those who own and use ATVs. It may mean political involvement such as volunteering for advocacy work, or running for public office. It could mean volunteering our time to help the DNR patrol state forests and wetlands. Maybe it will take you to start an Adopt-a-Forest-Trail, such as in place for our Adopt-a-Highway program. It may even mean giving financially to promote efforts to protect environmental interests.
But whatever we do, we cannot afford to stand on the sideline and do nothing. We owe it to our children.