Don’t Travel Off Existing Roads On Wyoming BLM-Administered Lands
American poet Robert Frost wrote in his famous poem "The Road Not Taken" that taking the road less traveled made all the difference.
But if you take your own road less traveled with an ATV off an existing road in land administered by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the only difference you may see is a thinner wallet after paying a fine
"Off-road driving can cause significant damage anytime, but moist spring soils are especially susceptible," according to a BLM news release.
The damage can cause erosion and serious impacts to important wildlife habitat and personal safety if you're stranded on a muddy or washed out roads. You may be fined if a BLM ranger issues you a citation for riding a motorized vehicle off existing roads or in a closed area.
Likewise, harassing wildlife may result in fines.
This spring, rangers will patrol popular shed hunting areas in southern Wyoming to ensure compliance with travel management rules.
The BLM also reminds outdoor enthusiasts that Wyoming’s shed antler law prohibits collecting shed antlers and horns from Jan. 1 through April 30 on public lands west of the Continental Divide, excluding the Great Divide Basin watershed. The law also prohibits collecting to May 15 on some habitat management areas.
"Many people responsibly search for antlers on foot or horseback,” said Tim Wakefield, High Desert District Manager. “However, those that leave roads on ATVs or other motorized vehicles cause tremendous damage every spring.”
You can report people driving off existing roads by contacting a BLM ranger at (307) 352-0214. Be ready to give details about the vehicle description, license plate number, time and location.
You can report road damage or impassable roads to the High Desert District Office, (307) 352-0256.