Environmental ConcernsOff-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfyingrecreation. However, it also raises environmentalconcerns. We recognize these concerns and urge everyoff-roader to follow these basic rules for protecting theenvironment:• Always use established trails, roads, and areasthat have been specially set aside for public off-roadrecreational driving; obey all posted regulations.• Avoid any driving practice that could damage theenvironment — shrubs, flowers, trees, grasses — ordisturb wildlife. This includes wheel-spinning,breaking down trees, or unnecessary driving throughstreams or over soft ground.• Always carry a litter bag — make sure all refuse isremoved from any campsite before leaving.• Take extreme care with open fires where permitted,camp stoves, and lanterns.• Never park your vehicle over dry grass or othercombustible materials that could catch fire from theheat of the vehicle’s exhaust system.Traveling to Remote AreasIt makes sense to plan your trip, especially when goingto a remote area. Know the terrain and plan yourroute. You are much less likely to get bad surprises.Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn ofany blocked or closed roads.It is also a good idea to travel with at least one othervehicle. If something happens to one of them, the othercan help quickly.Getting Familiar with Off-Road DrivingIt is a good idea to practice in an area that is safeand close to home before you go into the wilderness.Off-road driving does require some new and differentdriving skills. Here is what we mean.Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Youreyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrainfor unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listenfor unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms,hands, feet, and body, you will need to respond tovibrations and vehicle bounce.4-15
