As previously discussed, the USFS just officially posted it's current position regarding ATV access to the Florida National Forests.  In contrast to their previous Scoping Letters, please note that this is not a letter about a Proposed Rule, but is a formal notification of a FOREST SUPERVISOR ORDER!


Get with it people, get organized and get active now!!


File Code: 1500/2350-5
Date: November 25, 2003
Dear Forest Friend:

Recently you received notification of two versions of a proposal
regarding riding motorized vehicles at night in the National Forests in
Florida.  We received many comments on these proposals with very
passionate arguments, both pro and con, on night riding.  

Our main concerns continue to be safety and vehicle noise.  Neighbors and
visitors of the National Forests have long complained of vehicle noise
disturbing them at night.  Off-highway riding is inherently dangerous and
riding at night adds additional hazards for all forest visitors. Many
National Forests do not allow riding at night since riding during
daylight hours is safer.  

Beginning January 5, 2004, operating unlicensed motorized vehicles will
be limited to the hours of 1 ½ hours before sunrise to 1 ½ after sunset.
Anyone violating this policy will be subject to citation from law
enforcement personnel.  Vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and
unlicensed dirt bikes riding trails in the three National Forests in
Florida will be affected.  Bicycles are not affected by this policy.

Since many seem to enjoy riding in the cooler evening hours, our desire
is to continue to offer this opportunity.  The 1 ½ hour grace period
before and after sunset should allow adequate time for riders to enjoy
the forest.  

This policy in no way affects public roads within the National Forests.
You may still drive to or through your National Forests when traveling on
public roads at night.  Unlicensed vehicles, however, cannot legally
travel on public roads according to state law.  Licensed vehicles will
also have continued access to trails at night.

Separate from this decision is the ongoing Access Designation process
that seeks to designate a system of roads and trails for OHV users in
certain areas of the three National Forests in Florida.   The Forest
Service expects to have a Draft Environmental Analysis complete for the
Osceola National Forest by January 2004.   Draft Environmental Impact
Statements for both the Apalachicola and the Ocala National Forests
should follow later in the year.  Those interested will be able to
provide comments on each draft document before a final decision is
issued.

Thank you for your interest in the National Forests in Florida.

Sincerely,

/s/ Marsha Kearney

MARSHA KEARNEY
Forest Supervisor