Forest Roads Safety Review
Clearwater
National Forest
Summary
In 2009, Idaho Senate Bill 1098 modified the Idaho Code with respect to off-highway vehicle (OHV) licensing requirements. While responsible OHV recreation is welcome on National Forest System roads, this new law exempts underage drivers (less than 16 years old) from licensing requirements. As a result, national forests in Idaho are undertaking a safety review of the current road system, with unlicensed drivers in mind, and identifying sections of road that may require additional safety measures. The identified road segments are referred to as “Roads of Concern” (ROC).
Trails designated for OHV use are unaffected by Senate Bill 1098.
Roads of Concern
On the Clearwater National Forest there are more than 3600 miles of roads and trails currently open for motorized uses. The roads of concern identified on the following map include 453 miles of road being evaluated for safety improvements. Potential safety mitigations for these roads range from reduced speed limits, brush removal for improved visibility, warning signs, speed bumps, or other minor engineering changes. In extreme cases, where risks are unacceptable, OHV use may be restricted. However, for each Road of Concern, restricting OHV use will be considered only as a last resort when no other reasonable safety measures can be implemented.
Clearwater NF Roads of Concern Map - East .pdf, 5.5 mb
Clearwater NF Roads of Concern Map - West .pdf, 3 mb
The Clearwater National Forest wants to hear from you!
From January 21, 2011 until February 22, 2011 the Clearwater National Forest is accepting comments related to the Roads of Concern. Specifically we would like to know:
- Have we identified the correct roads? Are there roads that not listed that you have concerns about?
- What safety concerns do you have about any of the identified roads? (include specific locations)
- What are your suggestions for making these roads safer?
Comments can be emailed to comments-northern-clearwater@fs.fed.us. Please include "Roads of Concern" in the subject line.
What can forest visitors expect on NFS roads in the future?
Throughout the winter and spring of 2011 the Clearwater National Forest will work closely with partners and members of the public to improve public safety on National Forest System roads. Public input will be used to help identify where, and what types of safety improvements will be made for each of the Roads of Concern. By Summer 2011 the first safety mitigation measures will be in place. In situations where the scope and complexity of the needed safety measures is too great, temporary restrictions may be implemented until effective safety measures can be installed. Examples might include stretches of road where additional trail construction or significant road construction is needed to effectively improve safety.
The US Forest Service defers to state law to determine licensing and training requirements for OHV operators on National Forest System lands. Our agency will continue to adapt to changes in state law and ensure that safety measures on National Forest System roads effectively provide a safe experience for all forest visitors.
|
