Feds reach out to off-roaders

Federal land managers in Nevada have launched a publicity campaign designed to persuade off-highway vehicle riders to stick to designated trails and protect a delicate landscape. And if a recent report by congressional investigators is correct, asking nicely may be one of the best ways to control problems posed by some OHV riders. The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management often lack adequate strategies, money and resources to control off-highway activity, the Government Accountability Office concluded. Both developments come as the government strives to control impacts from a fast-growing recreational activity — an issue that has environmentalists insisting too little has been done to protect the land and many riders arguing they are being improperly restricted from public property. Early this month, the Forest Service and BLM launched a “stay on trails” advertising campaign with highway billboards in Reno, Carson City, near Fernley, Lake Tahoe and Wells. The effort will continue with radio spots commencing in mid-September to coincide with hunting season...RenoGJ