202 1 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
For BLM Managed Lands in Idaho
Prepared for:
The US Bureau of Land Management

By
The National Off -Highway Vehicle Conservation Council

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

Table of Contents
Table of Contents ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……….. 2
Executive Summary ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……. 1
Int roduction ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………. 2
Project Purpose ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………….. 2
Demographics of OHV Enthusiasts ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………. 4
Idaho Recreation Statistics ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………. 6
Reporting Process ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………. 6
Community Workshops ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. . 6
Comments and Feedback ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………… 7
Workshop Priorities ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……. 8
US Bureau of Land Management in Idaho OHV Recreation Needs and Opportunities ………………………… 10
NOHVCC Recommendations for the BLM: ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. .. 14
BLM Staff Recommendations: Partnership and Facility Needs: ………………………….. ………………………….. .. 15
Conclusion ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………….. 19
About NOHVCC ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………… 19
Project Team ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………. 20
References ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………. 20
Attachments ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………. 21

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

Executive Summary
Nearly 65% of the acres that make up the State of Idaho are public land. Of this 65%, 22% are managed
by the Bureau of Land Management. While a preponderance of the land managed by BLM is in the
southern part of the state, there are recreation opportunities throughout Idaho. Many of the 14 BLM
Field Offices in Idaho manage areas where OHV recreation opportunities are available.

Nearly 9% of the population in Idaho (1.787 million people in 2019) participates in OHV recreation.
Idaho recorded approximately 160,000 OHV registrations in 2021, which does not include the many non –
residents that purchased OHV registrations. Outdoor recr eation in =daho generates 3% of the State’s
GDP with a total value added of 2.5 billion. A 2012 economic impact study by the University of Idaho
showed that OHV recreation contributes $434 million per year ($186 million in trip expenditures and
$248 millio n in capital expenditures) into the State’s economy. This means that O:V recreation accounts
for 17% of =daho’s outdoor recreation economy.

Many of the OHV recreation opportunities in Idaho have been funded by grant dollars managed by the
Idaho Departmen t of Parks and Recreation. The Department disperses nearly $300,000 per year from
the Motorbike Fund, which is generated by the sale of OHV registrations, nearly $500,000 per year from
the Off -Road Motor Vehicle (ORMV) Account, which is funded by a portion of the State’s total gas tax
revenue, and approximately $500,000 from the Recreation al Trails Program which is a federal program.

The work funded by these grants is often completed by land managers in partnership with local clubs
and enthusiasts. Idaho has a strong history of OHV volunteerism with numerous state associations and
local clubs taking on volunteer projects.

These funding programs and proactive partnerships among land managers and OHV enthusiasts have
been leveraged to create outstanding OHV opportunities across the state. This report was commissioned
by BLM to identify issues and opportunities for improvement in OHV recreation opportunities on lands
managed by the BLM in Idaho.

This process behind the development of this report was based on the National Motorized Recreation
Strategy and the Individual State Action plan created by BLM in partnership with NOHVCC. A series of
community listening sessions were held across Idaho to so licit public feedback on how they would like to
see OHV recreation opportunities improved. NOHVCC received 66 unique comment forms from across
the state expressing needs and opportunities for numerous trail systems and riding areas.

Although participation was limited by the COVID -19 pandemic; comments received were informed and
substantive, which led to a high -quality and detailed report.

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

Introduction
In 2014 NOHVCC and BLM partnered to develop a National Motorized Recreation Ac tion Strategy
designed to help the BLM develop individual state action plans for providing high quality OHV
opportunities and develop partnerships to help maintain those opportunities. This process has created
state specific OHV action plans in 7 other sta tes where BLM manages public land. The strategies will be
used to guide future travel management and resource management decisions; however, the strategies
are NOT part of a specific travel management plan or resource management plan .

To accomplish this objective BLM partnered with NOHVCC in creating action plans through a community
driven process whereby enthusiasts can participate in an open forum. This unique approach provides
a platform for candid discussion allowing the OHV community the abilit y to share ideas on how the BLM
can enhance recreational experiences. The objectives of this process include achieving a greater
understanding of existing and potential OHV opportunities, identifying priorities from enthusiasts,
discussing methods to acco mplish these goals by leveraging resources, and further developing inter –
agency and community relationships through communication and action.

NO:VCC’s role in this partnership is to facilitate a process whereby the O:V community is engaged in a
dialogue that is driven by the public for the benefit of the public. Consequently, the recommended
future management practices are specific to enhancing OHV trail systems and riding opportunities to
include (but not limited to) repairing and developing current an d new infrastructure, the design of new
trail systems, new riding and staging areas, and improved communication between users, grassroots
groups, and agencies.
Project Purpose
The development of an Idaho Motorized Recreation Action Plan will provide nume rous benefits to the
BLM, its partners, and the public at large. It will provide for community efforts to plan for and manage
motorized recreation opportunities, services, and facilities. The strategic planning process will assist
BLM by prioritizing motor ized recreation areas and leveraging resources through community partners to
ensure that high -priority sites, services, and activities are provided.

To achieve consistent motorized recreation management on a national scale NOHVCC believe s that it is
necessary to utilize a step -down approach. This method will reduce expenses and allocate joint funding
directly to projects. The BLM Idaho State Office Mountain Region has been provided an opportunity to
coordinate this effort with NOHVCC and existing State OHV organizations to gather information from
local communities, motorized organizations, and individual motorized recreationists. The information
gathered can then be used to inform planning processes and help create a dialog between motoriz ed
recreationists, local communities, and OHV managers. This will lead to better relationships and
partnerships that will result in lasting solutions that benefit riders, local communities, and the land
management agencies.

NOHVCC worked with BLM and local stakeholders to organize and facilitate a series of community
workshops (i.e., listening sessions) designed to gather information from the motorized recreation

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
community. Workshop sites were located near BLM managed lands i n Idaho. NOHVCC also worked
closely with state motorized recreation associations and clubs to identify key community motorized
organizations and individuals to participate in the workshops.

This report is the outcome of the workshops and will be share d with BLM and the public. The information
contained in this report will be used to help land managers, NOHVCC, and the public achieve the following
objectives:

• Provide high -quality OHV opportunities and experiences that meet the needs of motorized
user s and result in enhanced resource protection
• Develop riding opportunities within the urban interface (i.e., close -to-town settings)
• Identify current motorized recreation opportunities on BLM managed lands and develop
ideas on how to improve these opportun ities
• Identify potential opportunities on BLM managed lands
• Identify methods to inform the public on responsible use
• Inform the public on the decision -making process regarding motorized recreation
• Inform the public how they can best become effective par ticipants in planning processes
• Help p rovide for seamless management between agencies
• Gain a better understanding of motorized recreationists’ needs
• Develop partnerships that result in high -quality recreational opportunities
• Develop a report and spreadsheet and/or GIS data to indicate this information
• Gain better information to integrate into agency planning documents
• Create and enhance partnerships to better manage motorized recreation opportunities and
experiences
• Enhance motorized recreation opportunities to help local economies

To enhance user experience, it is imperative to understand the needs of riders. Riding areas and trails
should be designed to meet the riders’ needs, provide desired opportunities, and offer quality
experiences. Riding areas that do not meet riders’ needs will not be used or supported. Riders desire
trails that include some or all the following: fun, varying degrees of challenge, signing, trai l maps, trail
loops, distance, scenery, destinations, points of interest, open areas, camping, parking, and
amenities. Once specific desires are recognized, land managers can make informed decisions on the
types of motorized recreation needs of local user s. User needs and desires can vary, so riding
opportunities must be managed accordingly to ensure resource protection and sustainability for many
years to come. Motorized recreation enthusiasts can desire activities as diverse as recreational trail
riding , non -competitive organized trail riding, competitive activities, observed trials, motocross tracks
for practice and competition, hill climbs for practice and competition, obstacle courses, open areas and
more. To learn more about these types of uses plea se refer to “ Great Trails: Providing Quality OHV
Trails and Experiences ” written by Dick Dufourd in association with NO:VCC in 2015.

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

Demographics of OHV Enthusiasts
Note: These figures represent the most recently available figures and do not accurately capture the
increase in outdoor and OHV recreation witnessed in 2020.

To better understand what OHV enthusiasts, want, you must first know who these enthusiasts are. The
findings of a 2014 Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC) survey of motorcycle and ATV owners are
below . Since the side -by -side industry is still relatively new, statistics are not available for this type of
OHV recreation.

Demographics Motorcycle ATV
Mean Age 44.8 Years 40.3 Years
Median Age 47 Years 39 Years
Male 86% 82%
Female 14% 18%
Single 38% 40%
Married 61% 59%
Some College 29% 27%
College Graduate 20% 19%
Postgraduate 23% 17%
Employed 71% 67%
Students 5% 10%
Retired 15% 11%
Median Household Income $62,200 $63,400
Owners Have Children Under 16 31% 38%

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

ATV and motorcycle riders are similar in many ways. The average rider is in his or her forties, married
with a family, and is employed with disposable income. ATV and motorcycle owners earned about
$10,000 more than the US national median income of $52,500 in 2014. ATV and motorcycle riders
generally start young and are surrounded by people who have a positive view of OHV recreation. Some
other quick facts about ATV and motorcycle riders in the US include:
• Most motorcycle riders begin riding off -highway in their preteens around the age of 12
• 66% of motorcycle owners indicated their family/friends had a positive attitude towards
their interest in motorcycling; only 5% had a negative attitude
• 83% of ATV owners indicated their family/friends had a positive attitude toward their
interest in ATV’s; only 10% had a negative attitude
• 39% of motorcycle owners participate in hiking and camping; 34% partic ipate in hunting and
fishing
• 50% of ATV owners participate in hiking and camping; 58% participate in hunting and
fishing
• 53% of off -highway motorcycle operation is on public land in the Western United States

Powersports dealers indicate the average OHV owner uses ATVs and side -by -sides for more than
recreational use. These machines are versatile and provide users with the option to use the equipment
for both work and play. OHVs (ATVS and side -by -sides in particular) ar e highly capable machines in
both work and recreation settings. Finally, a thriving aftermarket provides myriad accessories that allow
for extensive customization to an individual owner’s priorities.

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

Idaho Recreation Statistics
Between 2010 and 202 0 the population of Idaho grew 14% from 1,567,482 people to 1,839,106 people.
A study conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association found that 79% of Idaho residents participated
in some form of outdoor recreation. This places them third for outdoor recrea tion participation in the
country, behind only Alaska and Montana. The 2018 Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) found
that ATV riding and UTV/Jeep riding are among the top five increasing outdoor recreation use types in
the State. Over 50% of partici pants in a survey conducted as part of the SCORP identified UTV riding as
the most trending outdoor recreation activity in their region of Idaho.
A 2012 economic impact study found that Idahoans took 959,000 OHV trips per year and spent $186
million of ho usehold expenditures on these trips. On top of this the study found that there were $284
million of capital expenditures in the same period. Idaho residents purchased approximately 18,000 new
powersports units in 2021.
Reporting Process
To develop a Motorized Recreation Report for Idaho this project was divided into several phases:
• Phase I: Interview land managers in each Field Office across the state . Conduct research and
compile information regarding current OHV riding areas, facilities, trail in frastructure, and
any other relevant information.
• Phase II: Facilitate five public listening sessions across Idaho
o Engage OHV enthusiasts in an open dialogue to address five specific questions on
riding location, types of OHVs used to participate in activity, identify potential/new
locations, improvements that need to be made to enhance rider experience. Gather
all comments and feedback from participants then have the group prioritize their
top three recommendations.
• Phase III: Compi le comments and feedback , and develop tables to display acreages, OHV
riding areas and current infrastructure.
• Phase IV: Develop final report to convey the priorities as outlined by the enthusiasts that
recreate in Idaho, summarize priorities, and make fi nal recommendations for the Action
Plan.

Community Workshops
NOHVCC reached out to partnering organizations, NOHVCC State Partners, the Idaho Department of
Parks and Recreation OHV Program, the BLM Idaho Travel Management Lead, and state and regional
OHV clubs notifying them of the Idaho OHV Recreation Action Plan and to garner support for the
initiative. The intent was to invite the OHV community to participate in the workshops and share their
thoughts on how land managers can enhance recreational experience on public lands. 66 participants
took part in the NOHVCC -facilitated listening sessions. Listening sessions were held in Challis, Idaho
Falls, Pocatello, Boise, and Coeur d’Alene . Two additional virtual sessions were held to capture

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
additional comments . Those who wished to do so could also provide e -mail comments through
November 17, 2021. Participants represented a broad array of OHV users, County Commissioners,
Federal, State, and Municipal representatives, and the public.

Listening Session
Location
Date Number of
Participants
Participating Organizations and
Representatives
Challis 9/13/21 4 IDPR, BLM
Idaho Falls 9/14/21 12 Eagle Rock Off -Roaders, Snake River Off –
Road, IDPR, BLM
Pocatello 9/15/21 3 IDPR, BLM
Boise 9/16/21 12
ID State ATV Assoc, IDPR, Idaho Rec Council,
Boise ATV, Treasure Valley Trail Machine
Assoc, Southern Idaho Desert Riders Assoc,
Idaho Off -Road 4×4 Club, BLM
Coeur d’Alene 9/17/21 22 N. Idaho Jeep, N. Idaho Trail Blazers,
Backcountry ATV, Rough Riders, PANTRA,
IDPR, BLM
Virtual Sessions 10/6 & 10/13 7 Various Organizations
E-mail Comments 9/13 -10/17 6 Various Organizations
Total 66

Comments and Feedback
The workshops opened with an overview of the OHV Action Plan process for Idaho, including the
objectives and outcomes of the community workshop process. It was emphasized during this time that
this process was not a substitute for participating in agency planning. Participants were encouraged to
stay engaged in their local processes.

The second part of the workshops focused on engaging participants in a group discussion pertaining to
how the land managers could enhance user experience on public lands. The participants were divided
into groups and each participant w as given an opportunity to fill out a comment form. The following
questions were asked of workshop participants:
• Where do you ride on BLM managed lands in Idaho? (Area and/or Trail)
• What OHVs do you ride in this area/trail?
o Location: (Area/Trail)
o Type of OHV:
• What are your favorite features in this area/trail?
• What improvements/experiences are you looking for in this area?
• Where might these improvements/experiences fit on public land in
Idaho?
• What could the BLM do better to enhance your OHV recreation experience?

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
After each participant answered the above questions, they were asked to discuss with their group how
they felt the BLM could best enhance their OHV recreation experience. The groups were then instructed
to look for common themes in their answers and to pri oritize the three most important answers as
determined by the group. A detailed record of individual comments may be found in the Appendix .

Once group activities were completed, the facilitators reconvened all participants and asked each small
group to s hare their top three answers with the entire group. The facilitators recorded the answers from
each group on a flip chart. Once every group had a chance to share their answers, each participant was
asked to vote on their top three recommendations. The wo rkshop priorities are listed below.
Workshop Priorities
The tables below list priorities indicated by the groups during each workshop and are separated by
workshop location.

Challis, ID Priorities -NOHVCC Listening Sessions
Priority Description
1 Better communication with Forest Service
2 Improved connectivity of routes between land managers
3 Increased and improved access
4 Increased and improved signage
5 Cooperative management of Grouse Peak/Development of OHV
opportunities at Grouse Peak
6 Streamline NEPA/approval process
7 Focus on erosion control and maintenance
8 Install beginner/training areas
9 Establish designated/safe OHV crossing of the Salmon River
10 Utilize momentum of plans and issues, don’t let local engagement
and enthusiasm die off
11 Conduct route inventory
12 Perform scaled down NEPA, focus on project area not whole field
office
13 Install designated trailhead, facilities, and bathrooms

Idaho Falls, ID Priorities -NOHVCC Listening Sessions
Priority Description
1 Improve/maintain communication with user groups
2 Keep historical 4×4 routes open to such use
3 Recognize use at :ell’s :alf Acre
4 Expansion of 4×4 opportunities
5 Increase in difficulty of 4×4 trails
6 =mprove/install signage at :ell’s :alf Acre
7 =mprove/create maps for :ell’s :alf Acre
8 Trash cans at OHV facilities

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
9 Restrooms at OHV facilities
10 Increased trail maintenance
11 Increased educational efforts

Pocatello, ID Priorities -NOHVCC Listening Sessions
Priority Description
1 Secure Access to public lands
2 Pursue easements with private landowners to improve access

Boise, ID Priorities -NOHVCC Listening Sessions
Priority Description
1 Education of OHV renters and new users
2 Plan for garbage removal from OHV areas
3 Land manager communication (consistent boundaries, improved
signage, consistent trail width management between managers, etc .)
4 Install shelter and tot -lot at Hemmingway Butte
5 Increased enforcement/land manager presence at OHV areas
(education first focus of enforcement)
6 Utilize natural features in single -track trails
7 Dispers al of users, trails, and trailheads (don’t focus all use in one
place)
8 Allow adaptive management, manage wider machines
9 Install open challenge areas, play areas, and hill climbs
10 Increase education (stewardship, mapping, width limiters, dealer
education )
11 Increase opportunities for larger machines
12 Catalog and inventory BLM trails
13 Adopt cow trials and social trails where appropriate

Coeur d’Alene, ID Priorites -NOHVCC Listening Sessions
Priority Description
1 Designate/create 4×4 and UTV trails opportunities that compete with
other states
2 Maintain current access and increase where possible
3 Increase camping, trailheads, and facilities for OHV
4 Replicate Wild Bill OHV Area
5 Stop closing trails
6 Install training area/challenge area
7 Follow and utilize existing RMP/TMP documents
8 Improve signage and maps
9 Better communication between agencies and public

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
10 Provide opportunities for influx of new users
11 Disperse users for safety
12 Utiliz e partnerships and adopt -a-trail programs
13 Utilize funding to help maintain trails (ID OHV sticker program)
14 Sponsor trash pickups
15 Increased education and enforcement
16 Widen 50” trails when appropriate
17 Install new trail systems and loop opportunities
18 Maintain existing trails
19 Adopt a designated CB radio channel for OHV trails

Virtual Session Priorities, ID -NOHVCC Listening Sessions
Priority Description
1 Create database of landowners that border BLM managed lands
2 Adopt an official adopt -a-trail program
3 OnX type reporting system for trail conditions/issues
4 Coordination of seasonal closures between land managers
5 Eliminate inconsistency of vehicle types allowed on trails
6 Consistent signing (BLM and other l and managers)
7 Widen trails and open to full size vehicles where appropriate
8 Maintain and improve access
9 Provide heavy traffic notifications
US Bureau of Land Management in Idaho OHV Recreation Needs and
Opportunities

The BLM manages nearly 12 million acres of land in =daho, nearly ¼ of the state’s total land area, for
multiple uses. The lands managed fall into four different district offices: the Boise District, The Coeur
d’Alene District, the =daho Falls District, and the Twin Falls District. Each district is broken up into 14
different field offices.
• Boise: Bruneau Field Office, Four Rivers Field Office, Morley Nelson Birds of Prey NCA, Owyhee
Field Office
• Coeur d’Alene: Coeur d’Alene Field Office, Cottonwood Field O ffice
• Idaho Falls: Challis Field Office, Pocatello Field Office, Salmon Field Office, Upper Snake Field
Office
• Twin Falls: Burley Field Office, Craters of the Moon National Monument, Jarbridge Field Office,
Shoshone Field Office
Specific BLM comments provi ded by listening session participants include:
Idaho Falls District:
• Salmon Field Office:

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
o Allison Creek does not connect to main trials, Cow Creek trail dead ends, connecting
trails in this area to create more cohesive loops would be beneficial
o Work with the Forest Service to develop a trail system in the Grouse Peak area (see
attachments)
o Assess feasibility of widening OHV trails to expand access
• Upper Snake Field Office:
o Forks of Moody was a 4×4 road that a creek crossing was blocked and a 50” bridg e
installed. Reopen to full size access
o :ell’s :alf Acre could be developed into a world class rock crawling area bringing
tourism to the area
o =nstall designated parking area and facilities at :ell’s :alf Acre
o Signing, mapping, and establishment of desig nated routes at :ell’s :alf Acre
o Follow up on the Stinking Springs -Spring Creek bypass proposal submitted by the Snake
River Trails Alliance (see attachments)
• Pocatello Field Office
o Pursue easements to provide access to the Deep Creek Area and develop and designate
a trail system there (see attachments)
Boise District:
• Owyhee Field Office:
o Install group shelter at Hemingway Butte
o Improve mapping and signage
o Manage for trail user diversity: UTV, motorcycle, ATV, and 4×4
o Designate play areas/open areas
o Accura tely inventory travel routes including how they move through non -managed
lands
o Have a presence on the ground to educate/enforce when needed
o Develop/build trails and maintain them
o SW Idaho can be developed to become a destination for trail -based recreation;
motorized and no n-motorized . Develop trails/play areas for mountain bikes and OHVs in
a way they can coexist and share the land.
o Provide better opportunities to host events
o Allow for more single -track trails as many of the trails have been taken over by ATVs ,
side -by -sides, and jeeps
o Eliminate checkerboard access
o Recognize trail designations for larger vehicles
o More vault toilets, picnic tables and shade structures for campi ng. (think car camping
area/day use)
o A 4×4 practice area to include a “sluice box course ,” “Stairstep Boulder Climb” and other
rock -filled bo ulder tracks for testing vehicles and drivers without obstructing an existing
trail. (think newly upgraded vehic le shakedowns and new drivers needing practice near
support vehicles or parking lot rescue ~100 -200 yards long, multiple lanes).

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
o A large shade structure for club meetings with cooking facilities nearby. (think pavilion
with picnic tables and charcoal gril l stands for ~100 people)
Coeur d’Alene District:
• Coeur d’Alene Field Office
o Designate more trails for full size vehicles.
o Specify what constitutes high clearance trails
o Mark trailheads with name and difficulty ratings
o We need an outlet for extreme experie nces without constant conflict
o Support health & responsible recreation
o Reopen historical use trails
o More trail experience, less roads
o Increase trail difficulty (add or utilize more obstacles) allow for use of mechanized
equipment to construct obstacles
o Bet ter maps
o Improved trail connectivity
o Make 4×4 trails more accessible and not just 50” trail
o Increase trail maintenance
o Increase trail diversity
o Increase camping opportunities
o Designate trailheads for 4×4 access
o Implement an a dopt -a-trail program
o Improved communication
o Officially recognize Denver and Red Cloud Trails
o Provide r estrooms at trailheads
o Stop closing trails to 4×4 access
o Use gatekeepers/filters to keep incapable vehicles from accessing 4×4 trails
o “Rollercoaster trail is an awesome trail with lots of great obstacles. I would like to have
more trails like this to play on.”
o Improve signage/replace damaged signs
o Install 4×4 trail system such as those found in MT, WA, and Oregon
o “So far the Coeur d’Alene District has only reduced access. = wou ld like to see them
secure easements so a trail system could be developed. A loop between Pine Creek to
Denver Creek would be great.” -Anonymous
o “We need the land managers to follow the current RMP/TMP. They have taken actions
that are in complete conflict with those documents.” -Anonymous
o NITB has years of work invested in this trail (Rollercoaster) . With the new management
in the CDA District it is as if all the time and money invested means nothing.
o We need more locations like the Rollercoaster Trail th at create more access to disperse d
use.
General BLM Public Comments :

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
• As the safety training coordinator for OHV use, the idea of ATV training areas and obstacle
courses is very appealing. This would be a great thing to see in many different areas.
• Ins tall more restrooms at OHV facilities
• Ensure that changes take all groups into consideration
• Foster open, continuous communication and partnerships with local groups for continuous
feedback
• Open more trails to full -sized vehicle access
• Maintain existing 4×4 ac cess rather than limiting routes to smaller vehicles
• Increase obstacles and difficulty of trails
• Share responsibility and upkeep of trails with clubs
• Improve mapping
• Improve signing
• Planning/management continuity between land managers and user groups
• Insta ll bypasses on challenge areas to increase trail sustainability
• “= feel there is a better place to install windmills on land that isn’t being used for recreational
use, wild animals and history of the trails. We have lots of rock area land where the windmi lls
companies can build roads. Windmill companies need to support their own construction of
maintenance roads and not close the trails and roads. They can do this in both areas of out
south and north.” -Anonymous
• Improve trail maintenance
• Improve education and enforcement
• All trails should be open unless restricted; restrictions must be signed on the ground
• Provide flexibility to local land managers that allows them to be flexible according to new use
type and trends
• Expand >50” trail availability statewide
• Increase stewardship and ethics messaging
• Provide ongoing trail maintenance
• Post trail limiters at the head of all 50” trails
• Inventory what is on the ground
• Utilize management options other than trail closure
• Over the last several years the BLM has limited and, in some areas, removed trailheads. In
south -central Idaho the BLM removed vaulted toilets at the old snowmobile parking area near
West Magic Reservoir in Blaine County and from the snow play area near Johnson Hill on State
Highway 46 alon g the Gooding and Camas County boundaries. Both locations feature large,
graveled parking lots used by both winter recreationalist (less not with less snowfall) and
wheeled motorized users.
• “=t would be great if the BLM would develop designated trailheads for users. I want to be a
good steward of the land and not infringe upon private landowners and public land range users.
Developing trailheads instead of eliminating them will benefit ALL public land users. The bulk of
BLM developed areas center around fishing and rafting. Very little for O:V.” -Anonymous
• “=daho is vastly spotted with Federal Lands, State Lands, and Private Lands. Development of
recreational sites for off -highway users is greatly needed. We have several sites being used until

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
some fo rm of conflict happens. When there is conflict, BLM seems to limit access and not work
with user groups to resolve the issue. By building designated OHV trailheads can be a step at
resolving the conflict instead of exasperating it. We have had great working relations with most
Forest Service Ranger Districts. =t just seems unorganized with dealing with the BLM.” –
Anonymous
• “=daho is a unique and beautiful place to recreate. We have a true four -season year where
many wheeled OHV u sers transition to snowmobiles in the winter. But we still have vast areas
of wheeled OHV opportunities. When the snow gets too deep and temperatures drop, lots of
wheeled OHVs head to the deserts. This makes Idaho unique, but the BLM uses this as lack of
use. During the spring, summer, and fall most OHV users prefer to ride the upper elevations
where temperatures are cooler and scenic colors are awe inspiring. In late fall to early spring,
many wheeled OHV users will head to the deserts and enjoy the wonderful scenic vistas and
historic features when the temperatures are cooler. Understanding these seasonal transitions
would behoove the BLM to recognize and form developed trailheads for users.” -Anonymous
• “= would like BLM, NO:VCC or =daho State 4×4 A ssociation to act as an information source for
the clubs to communicate with the private landowners who are adjacent to the designated trails
and vice versa. Being able to communicate back and forth will help the clubs be good stewards
with trail manageme nt and foster good relations to alleviate landowners’ complaints. The scale
of landowners and club members is too big for any single club, central data compilation is
necessary. I feel it would be best for NOHVCC or Idaho State 4×4 Association to handle the
direct advertisement and communication between the groups. BLM should handle the funding
& data management administration for access to the information. Simply put, most off -road
enthusiast wants to be good stewards of the land and maintaining access requires all parties to
communicate effectively.” – Anonymous
NOHVCC Recommendations for the BLM:
1. Increase communication and transparency: There is a perception that OHV user voices are not
heard, and their needs are not being met. There also seems to be a lack of shared understanding
of TMP and RMP documents and decision making. Consider creating a stakeholder group that
meets regularly to properly inform users of upcoming management decisions and actions. This
could be done statewide, by District, or by Field Office.
2. Look for opportunities for expansion of trail opportunities for vehicles greater than > 50” in
width . This is the fastest growing user group in the country. If land managers give riders the
opportunities they want on trails and in open areas, they won’t create their own opportunities.
This will reduce user conflict and resource damage. Connectivity, variety of experiences, and
multiple challenge levels are vital components of any trail system.
3. Improved mapping: Mapping is a major concern of OHV users in Idaho. Help educate users
about the availability of the Idaho Trails Mapping App (trails.idaho.gov) and other applications.
Ensure that local user maps are available on Avenza or equivalent apps. Encourage partner
groups to seek funding throu gh grants and sponsorships to create and distribute trail maps.
4. Improved signage: Signage is also a concern for OHV users in Idaho. Proper signage is a valuable
enforcement tool for keeping riders on the trails/areas where they should be riding. Consider
pursuing grant funds from the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation to improve signage.

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
Utilize partner groups to install and maintain signs to help alleviate staffing and funding
shortages.
5. Increase enforcement activities: This could simply mean having agency presence at trailheads
and on the trails. An education first focused program is favored by users, but citations are
welcomed for bad actors. Peer enforcement can be a valuable tool; consider utilizing local clubs
as ambassadors who can educate user s on proper use and ethics. Idaho OHV sticker funds are
available to local County Sherriff’s Offices that conduct O:V patrols.
6. Increased trail maintenance: Trail maintenance is a well -known need across the nation. Ensure
that local recreation planners are aware of the maintenance programs offered by the Idaho
Department of Parks and Recreation. Train and certify volunteers to conduct tread
maintenance. The resources given to the agency are not sufficient to meet the trail maintenance
needs, so contribution s from volunteers and partners are invaluable.
7. Expand trail opportunities: NOHVCC understands that developing new trails is a massive
undertaking. With the long history of mineral and resource extraction as well as grazing in Idaho
there are many routes t hat could be converted to OHV routes. Please refer to the Great Trails
Guidebook, which can be found at www.nohvcc.org, for recommendations on how to create
high quality road to trail conversions.
8. Increase trail di fficulty: Users seeking challenge often create their own if it can’t be found on the
trail. Utilizing natural challenge features or creating challenge features like those found on the
Rollercoaster Trail in the Coeur d’Alene Field Office are both good stra tegies for providing
quality recreation experiences. Make sure that challenging trails/trail segments are signed
appropriately and provide alternate lines to increase accessibility to the trail and reduce
resource damage. Please refer to the Great Trails G uidebook, which can be found at
www.nohvcc.org , for recommendations on how to create trail challenges.
BLM Staff Recommendations: Partnership and Facility Needs:
As part of the research for this report, NOHVCC dist ributed a questionnaire to BLM staff in Idaho. Each
Field Office was asked to provide some basic information and any specific notes for the OHV
opportunities that they manage. This feedback can be found below.
Boise District:
• Bruneau Field Office
o No comments provided
• Four Rivers Field Office
o Checkerboard management nature of some areas makes mapping difficult for
BLM to make unilateral decisions – Have good map for some areas, particularly
close to urban areas.
o 8th Street area has digital maps. City of Boise takes the lead.
o Areas are well -signed but may not always meet expectations of urban visitors.
o Have robust volunteer community – State Parks primarily manages OHV
volunteer activity.

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
o Will eventually need to develop additional structures to accommodate increased
use in dispersed areas and for resource protection.
o Lots of developed and dispersed opportunities near Boise. Need to consider
maintenance costs for existing opportunities before moving on to new
cons truction.
• Morley Nelson Birds of Prey NCA
o No comments provided
• Owyhee Field Office
o No comments provided
Coeur d’Alene District:
• Coeur d’Alene Field Office
o Only in the Rochat/ Pine Creek SRMA are there specific facility infrastructure established
for moto rized recreation in the FO. There are informal parking staging areas on BLM for
the East Fork of Pine Creek (Lynch Gulch, Highland Creek, Nabob -Burma, and Hunter –
Trapper) Dispersed camping opportunities exist. No formal designated OHV
campgrounds and relat ed OHV facility amenities exist in the CdA FO
o Revisions to the TMP maps needs to occur in -house by BLM staff first. Then open
opportunities can be discussed for third party creation of BLM maps in addition to
mapping apps
o “Friends Groups ” need to be in alliance with BLM missions, reg ulations , and
management direction for responsible , sustainable OHV access and uses. Must be
willing to provide accurate public interpretation for staying on designated roads and
trails, route restrictions, cle aning and maintaining facilities, respecting private property
rights within BLM’s direction under a formal agreement
o Organize Volunteers: Promotion of Leave No Trace and pack it in – pack it out ethics.
Garbage, dispersed camping, and abandon vehicle clea n-ups are always welcomed.
o Plan for facilities and restrooms: Collaboration and idea gathering for where these
facilities would be best located to serve public visitors. NEPA then would need to be
performed.
o Ongoing – responsible collaboration efforts c an be discussed. Buy in from gateway
communities and adjacent private land owns is a must. Securing public easements and
ROWs is key in this FO.
• Cottonwood Field Office
o No significant OHV recreation
Idaho Falls District:
• Challis Field Office
o Install trailheads and facilities for OHV trailheads
o Update sign inventory
o Create “Friends Group” for O:V area(s)
o Complete TMP revision

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
• Pocatello Field Office
o Create “Friends Group ” for the area
o Design new OHV area
o Design & install trails for new OHV area
o Install campground
o Install kiosks
o Install fire rings
o Install vault toilets (change single vaults to double vaults)
o Install picnic tables
o Install shade structure
o Install loading ramp
o Install barriers for undesignated routes
o Install bollards for size restriction
o Install heavy duty gates at the trailheads
o =nstall signing at the “No Shooting Area” to prevent target practice and hunting
o Install route markers for designated routes
o =nstall “Entering Travel Management Area” signs at the main entrance
o Maintai n dog cleanup stations
o Install route difficulty markers
• Salmon Field Office
o Digital map completed in 2021
o Digital map on BLM page, may be added to apps with agency approval
o Need updated/replace d signs, Open road/trail markers for South half, develop sign plan
for North half
o Toole Trails Group current partnership, increased volunteer support would be good but
opportunity to recruit in Salmon/Challis is limited
o Maintenance capacity may limit expansion of facilities
• Upper Snake Field Office
o Create TMP fo r Mountain Valleys, Sand Creek, Big Desert, Upper Snake East, and Snake
River Corridor.
Twin Falls District:
• Burley Field Office:
o No information provided
• Craters of the Moon National Monument:
o Digital map is available on the BLM site, as well as paper ma ps.
o Map is downloadable to Avenza
o Signing at key entrance points indicating stay on roads and trails. Desert roads get used
primarily in the spring and fall – signs remind people to not use them when they are
muddy or in other bad conditions.
o Not enough d emand for facilities
• Jarbridge Field Office

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
o Undeveloped OHV area near Glenns Ferry, ID. Historically, it has mostly been a
motorcycle destination but over the last several years it has been utilized more by UTVs.
Area management objective is to provide op portunities for visitors to engage in OHV
riding so they realize a “moderate” level of exhilaration and excitement, testing and
improving riding skills, being with friends and family, enjoying preferred activities in an
appropriate setting, and risk taking .
o Undeveloped OHV area that connects the Yahoo SRMA to the Deadman SRMA.
Historically, there were trails that connected these two OHV areas but were lost due to
wildfires and fence construction. Management objective is to provide opportunities on a
series of designated routes so they realize a “moderate” level of the targeted
experience and benefit outcomes. Improvements should be geared toward facilitating
access and accommodating users and to develop a designated trail system that links the
Yahoo and Dead man OHV areas.
o Undeveloped OHV area near Hagerman, ID. Historically, it has mostly been a motorcycle
destination but over the last several years it has been utilized more by UTVs. Area
management objective is to provide opportunities for visitors to engage in OHV riding so
they realize a “moderate” level of exhilaration and excitement, testing and improving
riding skills, being with friends and family, enjoying preferred activities in an appropriate
setting, and risk taking.
o New trail systems need to be des igned that connect the Yahoo and Deadman trail
systems
o Create digital and paper maps for OHV areas
o Add area map to appropriate mapping apps
o Create “Friends Group” for O:V area(s)
o Organize Volunteer Efforts
o Create sign plan and install comprehensive signing
o Perform needed trail design work in the Deadman SRMA
o Design and install trails for new or existing OHV area
o Finalize route/trail system
o Develop trail maintenance program
o Delineate parking areas
o Install 1 -2 kiosks
o Install 1 vault toilet
o Install loading ramp
• Shoshone Field Office
o Have an inventory, but it is dated (10 -15 years old). Fairly confident there aren’t a lot of
new routes. Ground isn’t conducive to proliferation of user -created routes. Not getting
requests for maps.
o Sig ning at key entrance points indicating stay on roads and trails. Desert roads get used
primarily in the spring and fall – signs remind people to not use them when they are
muddy or in other bad conditions.
o Used to work with the Idaho Mountain Dirt Riders in the Wood River Valley but they are
no longer an organized group.

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT
o Occasional involvement by volunteers to maintain one mile motocross track at Croy
Creek. Riders not organized. Light use of motocross track (maybe 15 -20 people on a
very limited numbe r of days when wet enough to allow riding).
o Low OHV use across the entire FO. Most riding is concentrated on just a few days a year
in the Spring and Fall.
o Magic Valley ATV Riders – Most active club on the FO – Host 1 -2 group rides in Shoshone
each year t hat draw about 15 -20 riders.
o Motocross track – near an existing trailhead, has restrooms, designated parking area.
o EA just finished that allows for 80 miles of new recreational trails to be built. Most will
be designated as Class 1, 2 or 3 e -bikes. EA identified area for 21 miles of motorized
single -track. The yet -to-be constructed single -track will connect to an adjoining robust
trail system on USFS land.
o No need for new trails in FO – a lot of the use there is ROV, and while use is increasing it
only occurs on a few select days during Spring and Fall.
Conclusion
The passion and knowledge of the OHV users in Idaho is palpable . There is a strong desire to volunteer
and support activities that promote sustainable and fun OHV activities. The BLM and non -governmental
entities and individuals should work together to provide quality mapping, signing, and educational
programs to enth usiasts in the State. Continue to utilize these partnerships to expand and improve the
vast amount of OHV opportunities that the BLM manages in Idaho.
About NOHVCC
The National Off -Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC) , as a national body of OHV recreation
enthusiasts, develops and provides a wide spectrum of programs, materials and information, or “tools”,
to individuals, clubs, associations, and agencies to further a positive future for responsible OHV
recreation. NOHVCC is a 501(c)3 education non -profit organization. The organization is not a
membership organization, but a partnership organization with volunteer State Partners in nearly every
State. The organization partners with the Canadian Off -Highway Vehicle Distributors Council,
the Cana dian Quad Council, and the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada. In addition to these
enthusiast partnerships, NOHVCC has partnerships with government agencies such as the USDA Forest
Service, the USDI Bureau of Land Management, the Federal Highway Admin istration, plus state and local
agencies. NO:VCC’s goal is simply to provide “A Positive Future for O:V Recreation. ”

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

Project Team
Contact Information:
Organization Contact Address City, State, Zip Phone Email
BLM Brad Colin 106
N Parkmont
Butte, MT 59701 406 -533 -7638 bcolin@blm.gov
BLM Shannon Bassista 1387 S
Vinnell Way
Boise, ID 83709 208 -373 -3845 Sbassista@blm.gov
NOHVCC Marc Hildesheim PO Box 229 Great Falls, MT
59403
208 -416 -3557 marc@nohvcc.org
NOHVCC Geoff Chain PO Box 229 Great Falls, MT
59403
928 -533 -2979 geoff@nohvcc.org
NOHVCC Duane Taylor PO Box 229 Great Falls, MT
59403
703 -582 -1202 duane@nohvcc.org

References

BLM National Management Strategy for Motorized Off Highway Vehicle Use on Public Lands (2001)

BLM National Recreation Strategy: Connecting with Communities (2014 -2019)

BLM National Motorized Recreation Action Plan (2014)

2020 MOTORIZED RECREATION REPORT

BLM Special Recreation Permits: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits -and –
passes/special -recreation -permits

BLM Idaho: https://www.blm.gov/idaho

Great Trails: A Guide to Providing Quality OHV Trail Experiences (2015)

Management Guidelines for OHV Recreation by Tom Crimmins in Association with NOHVCC (2006)

Motorcycle Industry Council 2014 Motorcycle/ATV Owner Survey

Idaho SCORP: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/scorp/

Attachments

Page 1 of 2

May 26 , 2021

Monica Zimmerman
Outdoor Recreation Planner
Upper Snake Field Office, BLM
1405 Hollipark Drive
Idaho Falls, ID 83401

Re: Spring Creek Trail Proposal

Ms. Zimmerman ,

The Snake River Trail s Alliance (SRTA ). SRTA is a partnership between, Idaho Single Track
Alliance, Idaho Falls Trail Machine Association, Snake River Mountain Bike Club, Upper Valley
Atv/UTV club, Backcountry Horsemen, and several local outdoor sports businesses in the Idaho
Falls area. We advocate for the protection and maintenance of existing trails as well proposals
to add new trails. Our mission is to serve as a ambassadors for the public to coordinate with all
government entities to provide input on limited resources for recreational trail programs. The
group is a broad representation of trail users in the area.
With the rapidly expanding growth of all user groups on Public Land, we are proposing to work
in conjunction with the Bureau of Land Mana gement (BLM) to put in a motorized single -track
trail from the Stinking Springs Trail Head to Spring Creek , connecting to the Leaning Fir ATV
trail on National Forest Land. The trail would be open to all Single -track two -wheeled motorized
use as well as hi king and horse traffic . A small portion of the proposed trail would also need
Forest Service approval. If approved this trail would help to alleviate the congestion in the Kelly
Canyon/Heise area and on other trails in the area as well.
The proposal would have two phases:
Phase 1 – Phase 1 – The motorized trail would start utilizing the current Stinking Springs ATV
track for about 3/4 of a mile. A non -motorized trail would also be established off the existing
Sidewinder trail (about a 100 yards from the start of Sidewinder) using the old roadbed going up
to the Stinking Springs ATV trail. We would connect there to start the new trail we are proposing
on the South side of the ATV track. From the South side of the current ATV track the trail would
be motorized single track. We would use the old roadbed that goes over to Spring Creek which

Page 2 of 2

is about 1.8 miles to Fosters land. It would take very little work to get the trail cleared to that
point.
Ph ase 2 – Foster Land and Cattle has decided not to allow access through their property. W e
propose going around their property . Due the steepness of the terrain to go around the private
land , a route w ill need to be established. See the approximant route in the map below .
This would require the use of a trail cat and/or hand digging the trail in. Brian DiLenge will
provide feedback on wha t it would take to do this.
If approved the SRTA would organize volunteer work as well work with Idaho State Parks and
Recreation to help with the building and maintenance of the trail.

Thank you,

The partners of SRTA

RE Grand View TMP at http://bit.ly/2lRqDGO
Inventory Document https://eplanning.blm.gov/epl‐front‐
office/projects/nepa/73197/98207/118529/GV_Combined_Rte_Rpt_2017_web.pdf
Routes  37B800A through GVX1379

I am an avid motorcycle trail rider living in the Treasure Valley. I greatly value the public lands
available to me in Owyhee County for the outstanding natural and recreational resources I
enjoy on a regular basis. My preference of trail type is single‐track, which limits speeds and
increase technical challenge.
  Given no other choices, Alternative “D” would be my election; but I note that regardless of
which Alternative proposed to the public, the process has not provided a result that is desirable
to my user community.
  Mainly I am very concerned that even the most motorized‐friendly route designation
Alternative D, if implemented, will still diminish my access by slashing the number of trail miles
available and negatively affect my enjoyment by changing the character of the land units
counterproductively as to my conservation values.

Based on my review of the online maps and the document
GV_Combined_Rte_Rpt_2017_web.pdf:
  In particular, I am very concerned that where routes have been identified by inventory as
“single track” and when not outright closed and thus potentially designated as OHV‐legal, in
many cases the text suggests that they will be converted to ATV width.
  I cite route 37GV114 as an example of many where the Width is stated as single‐track, the
Uses section states motorcycle and no mention of ATV use, but the Designation section states
“vehicles under 50 inches wide and smaller including ATVs…” a de‐facto conversion of the trail
type.
  Conversion to ATV‐width when a trail has historically been single‐track is very undesirable, first
from a resource management standpoint (trail tread widening), and then from a user‐
satisfaction standpoint due to the character of the trail being irrevocably changed from a
narrow trace to a less‐challenging wide‐track.

The route document contains 343 cases of the term “single track” mostly associated with the
“Width:” heading of individual route analyses. 233 Alternative cases propose ATV designation
by specifying “Limit to vehicles 50[inches]” (multiple Alternatives per individual trail inventory
means one to three hits on this search term per trail analysis).
  However, I count only 21 cases of proposed designation “single track vehicles…including
motorcycles” for a total of only 13 routes (one or more Alternatives per route). The total
maximum mileage if Alternative D is elected for the Grandview unit, is only 38.6 miles by my
count, a small fraction of single‐track inventoried and known to riders who have been travelling
the historic trails of the unit for decades. (Map “GV_AltD_revised” states 42 miles will be
restricted to motorcycles, with another 359 miles designated to include ATV access.)
[See 37GV 1025.300; 304.100, .110, & .120; 526; 530.110, .200, & 300; 6015.200, .300, & .400;
6016; and 606.300.]

To the extent that the process allows for the possibility of future route review that could re‐
open or re‐designate routes to/ back‐to single track, in the case of trail that was historically
single track but has been user‐widened by ATV use, there is little chance of turning back the
character of the trail without expensive and time‐consuming remediation.
Thank you for the opportunity to add my comments to the record regarding the Grand View
Draft TMP.
Alex Ernst
Boise, Idaho
TVTMA Member
AMA Charter Life Member
BRC Life Member

Part 2

RE  Canyonlands West TMP at http://bit.ly/2kqMvwh
Inventory document https://eplanning.blm.gov/epl‐front‐
office/projects/nepa/73196/98208/118530/CW_Combined_Rte_Rpt_2017_web.pdf

My interest in commenting on this TMP is as a trail motorcycle rider interested in seeing as
much trail of single‐track character retained and managed going forward in the subject TMP.
The that end I would support Alternative D.
However, I am concerned that the actual available single‐track is much greater than the
Alternative D map suggests: I believe that some trails to be designated for ATV access (<50”) in many cases may be inappropriately being designated as such because they do not currently have the wider track character of an ATV trail. Converting a single track trail to an ATV trail simply by designation is not a considerate management method both from a resource management standpoint nor from a use satisfaction standpoint. I had wished to give specifics to support my assertions. However, there are apparent defects in how the route analysis PDF was created, so it is quite difficult to parse some of the content for my purposes. Notably, the term “NOT READY FOR DESIGNATION” is interspersed throughout the document, leading me to believe this was not ready for release. An example screen shot of one of the defects follows, and several defects appear much the same on many pages with multiple route numbers cited at once in the same header leading to not being sure what route the information following the header information actually refers to: For this reason, I am asking that BLM to investigate the defects in the document, fix and re‐ release the document, and extend the comment period to give the pubic an opportunity to review accurately‐presented information. Without documentary clarification, the maps alone are insufficient for the public to meaningfully comment in an informed manner. At this late day during the comment period I am left to comment in a contingent and hopefully not valueless manner. What I can count by document search are only 13 cases of Alternatives where “Single Track Vehicle” (motorcycle) cited, and 26 cases of “Width: single track” both cases belie what riders know to be on the ground. Based on the generalization that there are hundreds of miles of trails interspersed in the land unit known to the motorcycling user community, the miles of single track cited on the map (36) and the number of proposed single‐ track designations (which I cannot verify due to document defects) seems entirely incongruous with the reality on the ground, and also relative to the number of miles cited to be closed on the map (174). There is a big gap in the middle between these facts that leads me to question the completeness of the inventory.   I hope the door is open to further inventory review in the future to identify single track routes that the public has used that have inadvertently been excluded. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Canyonlands West TMP Alex Ernst Boise, Idaho TVTMA Member AMA Charter Life Member BRC Life Member April 18, 2017 TJ Clifford, Assistant Manager Bruneau Field Office, BLM 3948 Development Ave Boise, ID 83705-5339 RE: Grandview Travel Plan EA Dear TJ: The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR) staff appreciates the time and effort the BLM staff took in meeting with us, the Congressional Staff, and interested groups and individuals on our field trip on April 12, 2017. The IDPR staff heard a few takeaways from our discussion on this field trip. The first item we’d like to see addressed is the level of NEPA Analysis for the Grandview Travel Plan. All parties from the OHV community, the Environmental Community, IDPR, and congressional staff agree an environmental impact statement (EIS) is appropriate for this project. The preliminary draft alternatives for this Travel Plan reduces OHV Opportunities by 41% in Alternative D, 50% in Alternative C, and 66% in Alternative B. These figures are “significant” by almost any definition, and warrant an EIS level of scoping, as agreed by all interested parties. The second item that needs to be addressed is mistakenly designating single-track trails as ATV Trails. Most of the ATV trails proposed for designation can’t currently accommodate ATVs without significant construction, which requires another analysis under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). We suggest that the single-track trails identified in the route evaluation report should be considered for motorcycle use, not ATV use. C. L. “Butch” Otter Governor David R. Langhorst Director …………..…………… IDAHO PARK AND RECREATION BOARD …………..…………… Tom Crimmins District One Randy Doman District Two Michael Boren District Three Gordon Hansen District Four Pete J. Black Board Chair District Five Robert Hansen District Six …………..…………… DIRECTOR’S OFFICE …………..…………… 5657 Warm Springs Avenue P.O. Box 83720 Boise, Idaho 83720-0065 Phone (208) 334-4199 www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov IDPR Grandview Travel Plan EA Comments April 18, 2017 Page 2 The third item we’d like to see addressed in this Travel Planning Process is the numerous errors contained on the route evaluation inventory and online mapping application. The route evaluation inventory bunched several routes together in couple of places we saw on the Field Strip – Stop 1 Sand Pit and Stop 3 Poison Gulch cutoff road. At Stop 2, we saw where the map showed routes that simply did not exist on the ground. These errors are not unique, a fact generally agreed to by all parties during the April 12 meeting. The deficit of on the ground knowledge clearly reflects the need for additional route evaluation and associated ground-truthing to ensure good decisions can be made for this area. We feel strongly this is just one more reason re-approaching this effort with an EIS is the only reasonable path forward. The large change in opportunity, the trail conversions from single track to ATV, and errors in the route evaluation inventory show that an EIS should be prepared for these travel planning project. The IDPR staff is willing and able to help the Bruneau Field Office with this travel planning process. Our on the ground knowledge, previous involvement in numerous travel plans, and expertise in the GIS environment can help BLM make this Travel Plan a success and we’d very much like to help you accomplish that. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this travel plan and willingness of BLM staff to meet with us on this project. If you have any questions about our comments, please contact, Jeff Cook, Outdoor Recreation Analyst at 208-514-2483. Sincerely, David W. Claycomb, Bureau Chief Recreation Bureau

BLM_Idaho OHV Rec Report Final

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