Dear Off-Highway Vehicle Enthusiasts,

The United States Forest Service is conducting a study to determine the impacts of ATVs on National Forest lands and Grasslands.

The objective of the study is to determine, through a set of scientific experiments, what on-the-ground impact if any are caused by mechanical components and or equipment on ATVs. The results of the study will identify what designs if any make a difference, the ability of the natural environment to absorb impacts, and effective management strategies, such as design and maintenance, that will reduce impacts.

Tests will be conducted in designated OHV open areas in the Kisatchie National Forest (LA), Land Between the Lakes OHV area (KY), Beaverhead-Dearlodge National Forest (MT), Mark Twain National Forest (MO), and Wenatchee National Forest (WA). Additional tests may be conducted in Bureau of Land Management area in Arizona, California, Idaho or Utah. Identical tests will be conducted at each site on undisturbed terrain, existing trails, and on designed trails. Testing will begin on a site-by-site basis in April and conclude by November 2004. Testing at each site is expected to take approximately one to two weeks.

The National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council and ATV manufacturers have been asked to assist with the study. The manufacturers will provide and maintain a set of ATV models and equipment for the testing. NOHVCC has been asked to help identify a representative sampling of ATVs typically ridden in the test areas to determine what ATV models will be used.

If you ride in any of the listed test areas and would like to assist with the survey please fill out the attached form and return it as directed.

Local volunteer riders may also be asked to assist with the tests. If you would like to be considered as a test rider please submit your name, state of residence, phone number, and email address to trailhead@nohvcc.org.

We appreciate you assistance with this study effort.

Sincerely,
Russ Ehnes



Russ Ehnes
Executive Director
National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council<!--QuoteEnd-->