Trump Aims to Open Nearly All National Forest Trails to Dirt Bikes and ATVs

The United States Forest Service is proposing to revise its rule regarding motorized recreation in national forests. Currently, trails are only open to non-motorized activities unless explicitly designated as open to off-highway vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs. The proposed change would shift this policy so that trails are open unless specifically prohibited from motorized use.

This move is expected to increase recreational opportunities but has drawn criticism from conservation groups, backcountry horsemen, and sportsmen who fear it could harm delicate ecosystems and wildlife. Hillary Eisen, federal policy director for Wild Montana, expressed concern that the vague and poorly written proposal could lead to motorized vehicles accessing even the most sensitive areas.

She fears that without clear guidelines, the rule could allow motorized use on any trail or road, potentially causing significant environmental damage. Montana Trout Unlimited's Chris Edgington recounted the environmental degradation he witnessed along the Middle Fork of the Judith River due to off-highway vehicle use. The river, once teeming with fish, now has a drastically reduced population, and the riverbank suffered severe erosion.

To address the issue, Edgington and a coalition of stakeholders rebuilt riverbanks, reduced stream crossings, and constructed a new off-highway vehicle trail, which has since led to improved fish numbers and water quality. Edgington emphasized that while he supports appropriate motorized use, certain areas are too sensitive for such access.

He expressed concern that a full repeal of the travel management rule could create more problems than it solves, leading to conflict and confusion among users and potentially harming river health and restoration efforts.