Environmentalists end talks on off-road vehicles in forests
Copyright 2000 Associated Press
December 6, 2000
OCALA, Fla.- Four environmental organizations pulled out of talks on off-road vehicle use in three Florida forests Wednesday, claiming the U.S. Forest Service and recreational groups ignored their concerns.
The Defenders of Wildlife, Sierra Club, Marion Audubon and Putnam County Environmental Council claimed the negotiation process was "flawed and works against the best interests of the National Forests in Florida."
The U.S. Forest Service set up working groups to enable environmental and recreational organizations to develop policy for off-road vehicle use in the Apalachicola, Osceola and Ocala national forests in central and north Florida.
Environmental organizations argue that off-road driving threatens endangered species, harms wetlands, and ruins paths for hikers. Off-road clubs argue they have a right to enjoy the public forests.
In a letter to Forest Supervisor Marsha Kearney, the environmental groups said they were frustrated by the participation of the Forest Service staff in the talks and the lack of use of scientific information.
They also disputed the high number of off-road participants, who represent various clubs, including motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and jeeps.