BLM seeks public ideas on off-highway vehicle use

RENO - The Bureau of Land Management is seeking ideas from the public on how to manage off-high vehicle use on public lands while protecting the environment.

Bob Abbey, BLM director in Nevada, said agency's goal is to update guidelines first established by Executive Order in 1972.

But back then, there were only about 5 million off-road machines such as all-terrain vehicles in use nationwide. The number has since jumped dramatically.

Abbey said public input will be used to address issues such as off-highway vehicle designations, regulations, resources, management of sensitive areas, education and law enforcement.

Abbey said the BLM doesn't have all the answers to manage for increased use of off-highway vehicles.

''With the public's help, reasonable guidance and direction can be developed through on-the-ground solutions,'' he said.

The BLM will hold meetings on July 13 in Elko; July 28 in Yerington; and Aug. 9 in Carson City and Las Vegas.

Comments will be accepted through the end of August. The BLM hopes to have new guidelines by November.