Proposed Amendment on Off-Road Vehicle Use on Public Lands Sparks Controversy, 1977-05-26

The memo discusses a proposed amendment by the Council on Environmental Quality to regulate off-road vehicle use on public lands. Manufacturers and enthusiasts are opposed to a potential ban on ORV use. The Secretary of the Interior clarifies that the amendment does not mean a blanket closure of public lands to ORV use and plans to implement regulations with public input. A letter urges Senator Bartlett to recommend reconsideration of a potential ban on ORV use. A news release from the Department of the Interior states that off-road vehicle use will continue on federal lands, with restrictions in place to protect fragile areas from damage. The Secretary emphasizes the need for voluntary actions by ORV users to prevent harm to land and resources. The Executive Order allows for closures of specific areas where ORV use is causing adverse effects, but does not constitute a general ban. The Department will continue to protect land resources and engage with user organizations in planning land use.