32 C.F.R. § 656.5 Policies.
Title 32 - National Defense
(a) As a trustee of public lands, the Army has a responsibility under Pub. L. 91–190 and Pub. L. 88–29 to protect and enhance environmental quality, conserve natural resources, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, it must be recognized that land under Army control was acquired solely for national defense purposes. Other uses are therefore secondary to mission needs. (b) All land and water areas will be closed to off-road recreational use by ORV's except those areas and trails which are determined suitable and specifically designated for such under the procedures established in this regulation. (1) In determining suitability of areas and trails for ORV use, each type of motorized vehicle, ORV, shall be considered separately, taking into account its potential environmental impact, the seasonal nature of its use and opportunities for counterseasonal use with other recreational users. (2) The characteristics of use of one type of motorized recreational vehicle, ORV, shall not affect or govern regulations on the use of an area or trail by another type of ORV use. (c) When ORV use is permitted, the intensity, timing, and distribution will be carefully regulated to protect the environmental values. In designating suitable sites, equitable treatment should be given to all forms of outdoor recreational activity and where possible, nonconflicting use shall be encouraged on existing trails. Prior to designating such areas or trails for ORV use, the environmental consequences must be assessed and environmental statements prepared and processed when such assessments indicate that the proposed use will create a significant environmental impact or be environmentally controversial (Pub. L. 91–190 and AR 200–1). This procedure applies to all areas, including areas under consideration which previously have been used by ORV's. (d) If the installation commander or his designee determines that ORV use is causing or will cause considerable adverse effects on the soil, vegetation, wildlife, wildlife habitat, or cultural or historic resources, he shall immediately prohibit the type of ORV use causing such effects, and if necessary, close such designated sites. Restrictions on ORV use or closure of designated sites shall remain in effect until such adverse effects have been eliminated, including site restoration if necessary, and appropriate measures implemented to prevent any such recurrence. (e) Persons abusing the ORV use privilege shall be barred, with their vehicles, from access to the Army installation for ORV use. Further action, as appropriate, may be taken under 18 U.S.C. section 1382. Violations of Federal or State laws applicable to Army installations under title 18 U.S.C. (Assimilative Crimes) may be referred to a U.S. Magistrate in accordance with AR 27–40 and AR 190–29. (f) The limitations imposed by this regulation on off-road travel by ORV's do not apply to official use. It is Army policy to minimize environmental degradation of sensitive portions of facility sites which play a significant ecosystem support role.
Title 32: National Defense
PART 656—INSTALLATIONS, USE OF OFF-ROAD VEHICLES ON ARMY LAND
§ 656.5 Policies.
