Joint Idfg/Usfs Ohv Patrols Continue To Focus On Travel Plan Enforcement

IDAHO FALLS - While no major changes have been made to the Targhee National Forest Travel Plan in a number of years, IDFG & USFS continue to work together to educate the public concerning proper use of motorized vehicles. According to Caribou-Targhee National Forest Public Information Officer Lynn Ballard, "Since the start of the year we have completed 315 incident reports in relation to travel plan violations. These 315 incidents resulted in 242 written warnings and 99 citations." For the remainder of the hunting season both agencies will be jointly patrolling to insure that not only is the travel plan followed, but also the newer hunting regulations put in place on certain units to restrict the use of motorized vehicles as an aid to hunting. In order to prevent problems, forest users who wish to hunt need to be sure and obtain a copy of the current forest travel plan and this year's hunting regulations before heading out into the field. A key to staying clear of problems is to remember that on the Targhee portion of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest; all routes are closed unless posted open. Many people mistakenly think that just because a two-track has existed for years, that it is open to travel. It is important to consult the travel plan and be clear of the status of all roads and trails in a given area. For those forest users with OHVs (Off-Highway Vehicles) that are planning to hunt, it is important that they review current hunting regulations to make sure the status of the unit they are planning to hunt. The current motorized vehicle rule pertains not only to those who are hunting big game, but upland game as well. This fall, the agencies will continue to use leased aircraft to serve as spotters for violations during high usage periods of the big game seasons. Officers from both agencies will be teaming up and utilizing trucks, OHVs, and horses to contact individuals that have ventured into restricted areas. If any questions arise regarding the access status of a given route it is important that forest users contact the Forest Service. Individuals with questions about the OHV patrols or the Caribou-Targhee Forest Travel Plan should contact the Forest Supervisors Office in Idaho Falls at 529-1020.