Let me clarify something here as well. I have no problem with ATV use in a manner where a motor vehicle or motorcycle is used. Roads, trails, etc. That is not what I have been talking about. I'm talking about the flagrant disregard for not only the environment and animal habitat, but for others who use public lands as well.
I've said I completely disagree with their use in Wilderness areas. Period. By anybody for any reason. And it is highly illegal, for any reason. Yet it's amazing how many tracks I see in Wilderness areas.
I've said I disagree with their use on public lands on roadless (or trail-less) areas, except for use by disabled persons. It is damaging, and extremely selfish. Again, give me a good reason why a hunter who wants a secluded hunt, or a backpacker who wants a secluded camp, should hike miles into a roadless area, should have that hunt or camp disturbed by someone on a ATV, motorcycle, or any other motorized vehicle? Is it that hard to keep these things on a road or approved trail?
And again, more often than not, these are already areas where there are "road closed to improve animal habitat" posts already up, or areas with obvious attempts by FS and G&F to keep motorized vehicles OUT. I guess because an ATV doesn't have a license plate or windshield, it doesn't apply though, huh? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused1.gif
The number of areas where we can go to get away from everything is decreasing by the day. It is nothing but self centered selfishness that could possibly allow someone to think it is okay to encroach on other people's hard earned seclusion simply because you can physically get an ATV there, and simply because you want to play on your toy, or because you've wolfed down a few thousand too many Big Macs over the years and cannot manage the walk yourself.
So, instead of flames, someone please give me a good legitimate reason, aside from the obvious disabled reasons, why it should be allowed to run across tracts of roadless public lands. Show me where the benefits out weigh the significant disadvantages of this behavior.
I honestly find it hard to believe that this is an argument on a hunting message board, where usually the majority of the people generally seem value all the outdoors has to give, which includes peace, quiet, solitude, and relatively undisturbed lands to explore and appreciate, and who are generally far more protective of those lands than the average guy.
So, let's argue points, and I'll discuss it. If you're looking for a flame fest, or are on a sympathy gathering mission, look elsewhere.
Again, someone asked for an opinion. Shouldn't get all bent out of shape when it's given. And it bears noting, the opinion was given in a non-insulting fashion. That certainly can't be said about the counter-replies which are full of insults, suppositions, and accusations. Seems as though the considerations given to others in the woods are getting carried over onto the message board as well by a certain crowd.