Comments about ‘Off-roading may be restricted near Moab’

Off-roading near Moab may be cut back "sharply" but not nearly sharply enough. If BLM's preferred alt. goes through, all semblance of "multiple use" on public lands in the region will be completely lost. This is singular use: motorized use. Ok, maybe double use: motorized, and extractive industry.

We have been visiting Moab once or twice a year for over twenty years. During that time we have mainly done off-roading to the remote arches and other geological phenomenon. We have always taken care to stay on the marked routes and otherwise leave no trace of our having been there.The land is public and maintained by taxpayer money, including the BLM staff, and should be available for use by everyone who will not vandalize or destroy the natural features. These natural wonders should not be exclusively available to backpackers, hikers and bikers but should also be accessible to older and handicapped persons incapable of strenuous activity...and, who have likely paid the most taxes for its maintainence. It appears to us that the greatest impact on the area has been by bikers (perhaps because of the large numbers)rather than off-road vehicles. We strongly object to restricting access to the area to an elite group of individuals, and question the BLM's motives in even suggesting such a plan. The loss of jobs and businesses in Moab should also be considered. Perhaps a reduction in BLM staff would be more appropriate.