OHV Trails Harmful to Water Quality Closed For Environmental Review

The U.S. Forest Service documented “unacceptable” erosion at the off-highway vehicle trails at Locust Stake in the Chattahoochee National Forest as far back as 1996. Yet, those trails remained open until January 2012, pouring large amounts of sediment into the North Fork of the Broad River, a designated trout stream. When the Forest Service suggested that half the trails might be reopened, SELC and Georgia ForestWatch pushed for the agency to conduct an environmental assessment of the trails with time for public input. The agency apparently agreed, as the area remains closed, and an environmental assessment is expected to begin in the near future. We will remain involved to ensure that water quality and wildlife in this area are protected.