ATV's and Hunting: Reducing Conflicts

For the avid hunter, the last days of summer can seem unbearable. Each day that passes becomes shorter and the morning air crisper and cooler, signifying the most anticipated time of year, hunting season! On the whole, hunters are a passionate bunch expecting their time out hunting to be a rewarding experience. Regardless of harvest success, most hunters usually go home with a grin on their face and a story to tell. Unfortunately, for more and more hunters, their smile turns into a frown because of an encounter with an ATV. Or not so much just the ATV, but how other hunters are using them. Viewpoints on the subject range from tolerance to outright opposition. Most hunters agree that if used responsibly, ATVs cause few problems. More and more frequently, however, ATVs are being used for the wrong reasons. Instead of staying on designated roads, hunters are taking their ATVs off-road, using them to get into hunting locations where other people are hiking or riding horses. These more remote areas are closed to motorized vehicles for a reason and to blatantly ignore these closures angers many hunters and rightfully so. Too many hunters have had their hunt ruined because another hunter driving an ATV has entered an area closed to such activity and spooked the game. So where does the real problem with ATVs arise? Is it a matter of ever-growing numbers of ATVs being used by hunters? Or is it the misuse of ATVs? Actually, it is probably a little of both. Advancements in technology have made today's ATV a powerful machine capable of going wherever the rider chooses to take it. Essentially, the only limitations on where one can go are those imposed by the person behind the controls. The question is no longer, "Can my ATV make it to the top of that ridge?" but rather, "Am I willing to take my ATV to the top of that ridge?" Unfortunately, plenty of people are willing to try and this is where the problem begins. All it takes is one person heading toward a ridgetop to create a trail. Other irresponsible riders follow not considering the impact their actions may have on the land, the wildlife, or another hunter. So, how can these problems be resolved? In response to concern expressed by many sportsmen about off-road travel, the Idaho Fish and Game Commission implemented a new restriction in 2003 aimed specifically at motor vehicle use while hunting. Hunter support of the rule has been strong and the rule has been expanded to apply to more species of wildlife and more big game units. It is important to realize that this rule does not prevent the use of motorized vehicles such as ATVs in these areas. Instead, the rule restricts ATV use as an "aid to hunting" by requiring ATV users to stay on established roads while hunting in certain big game management units. The rule states that "Hunters may only use motorized vehicles on established roadways open to motorized traffic capable of being traveled by full-sized automobiles. Any other use by hunters is prohibited. All off-road use by hunters is prohibited." A person is considered to be engaged in the activity of hunting if he or she is in possession of a valid license and tag for an open area or unit and has a weapon with ammunition or arrows easily accessible, or otherwise meets the definition of hunting as set forth by Idaho Code. Basically, if a hunter possessing the appropriate tags and permits is using a motorized vehicle to transport themselves during shooting hours in order to fulfill the definition of hunting, then the use of that vehicle is considered an aid to hunting. It is also important to keep in mind that there are certain exceptions to which this restriction does not apply. Hunters should refer to page 13 of the 2005 Big Game Regulations for a list of permissible activities. To put it simply, if a person is not hunting, the rule does not apply. Land Management agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service have travel plans in place on their lands indicating certain routes as designated for certain types of travel. A common misconception by hunters is that if a trail is designated as open to travel for ATVs by the Forest Service, it is also open to hunting. This is not the case, however, and hunters are reminded to read the definition of an established roadway as it applies to this rule for an explanation. There is little doubt that ATVs provide both advantages and disadvantages as they relate to hunting. The real issue is one of responsibility and ethics. Responsible ATV users do not cause conflict. Irresponsible ATV use, on the other hand, reflects poorly on all ATV users whether or not they are hunting. So as we prepare to enjoy another hunting season, remember that the tradition of hunting is far too valuable to be spoiled by irresponsible actions. Whatever your preferred mode of transportation may be remember that you share the forest with others and be courteous and responsible. Do not let your actions tarnish the hunting experience of another hunter. Remember, wherever you're going to hunt and however you're planning to get there, please do so by TREADING LIGHTLY! This article was written by Matt Sheppard, Senior Conservation Officer