Natural History Wanderings

from the Center for Biological Diversity

Defend Sierras: Don’t Let ORVs Run Roughshod

California’s Inyo County is currently considering an ill-conceived, dangerous proposal that could allow off-road vehicles to reshape rural and public areas.

The plan proposes extending the reach of ORVs onto more than 180 miles of county roads so riders can go between trailheads in public lands and towns in Inyo County. This reaches far beyond the limited “pilot project” laid out by California’s legislature in 2011.

It’s very bad news for imperiled wildlife and could destroy land, water and air quality in the region. More ORVs mean more people recklessly damaging California’s natural heritage — these vehicles could damage our wilderness, erode and fragment wildlife habitats, hurt wildlife and dirty our rivers and streams.

It also raises a public-safety concern: ORVs are not required to comply with emissions, noise or safety standards. They often lack lights, turn signals, rearview mirrors and other safety features required for street-legal vehicles.

If you wish to take action expressing your concern click the link below to easily send an email to the Inyo County Planning Department at Defend Sierras: Don’t Let ORVs Run Roughshod.