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USDA Forest Service
Daniel Boone
National Forest
1700 Bypass Road
Winchester, KY 40391
Phone: 859-745-3100
FAX: 859-744-1568
Forest Service conducts feasibility study for extended ATV use on trails
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kimberly Morgan
859-745-3100
WINCHESTER, Ky., Oct. 14, 2011 – The Stearns Ranger District is conducting a preliminary analysis to determine if roads and trails in the Barren Fork area can be managed to include motorized all-terrain vehicle use.
The Daniel Boone National Forest recently entered into an agreement with Trails Unlimited, an enterprise team that specializes in recreational trail projects. The team is expected to complete a feasibility study by spring 2012.
“The Stearns district is looking at the possibility of adding ATV use to some of our existing trails and roads to provide loop routes for riders that would be in the 20 to 25 mile range,” said District Ranger Tim Reed.
“The Barren Fork area contains numerous trails and roads currently open to hiking and horseback riding. Some of these may represent our best opportunity to provide multiple-use trails, including ATVs, in a sustainable fashion.”
The study is the first step needed to gather information and determine the feasibility of allowing ATVs on roads and trails in the Barren Fork area. The study will consider public safety needs, potential environmental impacts, trail sustainability and compatibility, and the financial requirements of managing and maintaining roads and trails that include ATV use.
“It is important to note that no decisions have been made regarding the Barren Fork area,” added Reed. “This is just the first step to look at the possibility of some changes to the current uses allowed on some of these trails.
“If the study indicates that a proposal for ATV use in this area may be feasible, we will follow our usual project-level analysis process, which will include opportunities for the public to comment on any proposal that is put forth.”
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