Pozo/ La Panza OHV Management Plan
Los Padres National Forest
Santa Lucia Ranger District
Sept 2013
POZO / LA PANZA OHV MANAGEMENT PLAN
PART I – BACKGROUND
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Introduction
Purpose of the Plan
Location and Setting
Vicinity Map
PART II – MANAGEMENT STRATEGY
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Vision
Mission
Existing Conditions
Desired Conditions
Goals
o Trail Maintenance
o Restoration
o Sign Plan
o Volunteerism/ Partnerships
o Education/Interpretation
o Wet Weather Gate Management
o Mixed Use
Management Constraints and Considerations
o Fire Prevention
o Target Shooting
o Enforcement
o Fees
o Environmental Consequences
o NEPA
o
Grants
PART III – IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
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Trail System Program Management
Trail System
Trail System Facilities
Cost Estimates
PART IV – MONITORING PLAN
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Trail Management Objective(TMO)
Trail Assessment and Condition Survey(TRACS)
Habitat Management Program(HMP)
APPENDIX A OHV Trails Programmatic Biological Assessment 2012/ Trail Maintenance Levels and Design Standards
APPENDIX B TRACS Survey Spreadsheet
APPENDIX C Wet Weather Gate Closure Plan
APPENDIX D Sign Inventory
APPENDIX F Additional References
Part I-Background
Introduction
The Pozo / La Panza place is identified in the 2005 Los Padres Land Management Plan (LMP), as a vast rolling chaparral landscape including a
motorized recreation network supporting dispersed recreation activities, grazing areas for wild horses and livestock, and private in holdings in a
remote part San Luis Obispo County.1 Program Emphasis described for the area in the LMP includes OHV use and dispersed recreational
opportunity while resolving conflicts with other important resources.2
The Pozo / La Panza Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area multi-use trail system includes routes designated for motorcycles, All Terrain Vehicles
(ATVs), and 4X4s as well as mountain bike, hiking and horse trails. The views of the coastline and the Sierra Mountains on clear days from the
higher peaks such as Pozo Summit (elevation 2635 ft) and Black Mountain (elevation 3622 ft.) draw locals and visitor from as far as the San
Joaquin Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.
The present trail system developed over time from casual use of the trail system that existed when the National Forest was established at the turn
of the century. The system expanded over time though public use of fire lines, fuel breaks, mining and power line roads, and other paths. The
system was not designed to accommodate the level and type of recreation uses which began to emerge in the 1950’s, particularly off-highway
vehicles.3
In 1962 a study evaluated what restrictions were needed on off-highway vehicle use in Los Padres. After meeting with interest groups and
individuals the Forest recommended, in 1964, that no use restrictions be placed on National Forest Lands within San Luis Obispo County. Eight
years later, in response to an increase in off-highway use nationwide, President Nixon signed executive order 11644 establishing policies and
procedures to ensure controlled use and protection of natural resources. In 1973 the Regional Forester, in response to the President’s direction,
Los Padres National Forest Strategy, Land Management Plan Part 2, USDA Forest Service, September 2005, page 71.
Los Padres National Forest Strategy, Land Management Plan Part 2, USDA Forest Service, September 2005, page 72.
3 National Forest Trail System Plan-Draft Environmental Impact Statement, Santa Lucia Ranger District, Los Padres National Forest, USDA Forest
Service, February 1993, page 4.
1
2
declared a moratorium on cross-country off-highway vehicle use throughout California pending completion of individual National Forest off –
highway vehicle plans. 4
The Santa Lucia Ranger District (SLRD) Off-Highway Vehicle Plan was completed in 1974 by District Ranger W.R. Griffin.5 This SLRD OHV
Plan was developed with extensive input from the Central Coast Trail Riders Association6. The SLRD plan was incorporated into the 1976 Forestwide Off-Highway Vehicle Management Plan. The 1976 Plan was accompanied by an environmental analysis that evaluated past off-highway
vehicle management and discussed effects on forest resources. The plan designated specific areas, roads, and trails available for use by motorized
vehicles.
The A National Forest Trail System Plan Draft was developed in 1993 but was never published. This comprehensive document identified many of
the resources issues, conflict of uses, and the lack of connectivity of the trail system that still exist today.
Although much of the original 1976 route system remains today there have been periodic changes to the system, including closure and
decommissioning of routes with unacceptable impacts, rerouting of problem sections, and limited “designed for” new construction of motorized
trails.
An additional review of the SLRD trail system was conducted by the Forest Service during implementation of the Travel Management Rule in
2007. A complete inventory of all off-highway routes on California’s National Forests was recorded between 2006 and 2008 using GPS
methodology. Funded by the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, the route inventory included all non-system routes such
as user created off-highway vehicle trails. These routes were subsequently analyzed for possible addition to the national Forest Transportation
System. Routes with unacceptable impacts to resources were closed to public use. A Motor Vehicle Use Map was published that shows roads,
areas, and trails that are open to public motor vehicle use by vehicle class and season of use. Because the SLRD had a designated system of
National Forest roads and trails no changes were made to the SLRD transportation system during implementation of Travel Management. The
SLRD transportation system also provides essential access to a wide variety of non-motorized recreation including wilderness trails heads
(Machesna Wilderness, Santa Lucia Wilderness), hiking trails (Wilson Canyon), mountain biking (Fernandez trail and other forest roads and
trails). The transportation system provides access for hunters who use quads for game retrieval and Forest visitors who come for popular activities
such as wildlife viewing, camping, picnicking, and driving for pleasure.
Ibid.
Central Coast Trail Riders Association Newsletter, November 1973.
6 Personal communication, Dennis Law
4
5
The Rock Front, La Brea, and Figueroa Mountain areas of the Santa Lucia Ranger District also provide an important system of Forest roads and
trails designated for OHV use. These areas are managed with the assistance of volunteer groups from Santa Maria and Northern Santa Barbara
County. Because these areas are geographically separate from the Pozo La Panza area they are not specifically addressed by this plan, however
they are no less important and many of the same findings and principles of management apply to these areas. With time, these areas should be
included as part of a comprehensive Santa Lucia Ranger District OHV Plan.
Purpose of the Plan
The purpose of this plan is to establish the baseline and goals for managing the Pozo / La Panza OHV area. Continued availability of the area for
public use is dependent on the presence of organized volunteers working together with the Forest Service and fellow users. Effective
management that includes Resource protection will ensure the area remains available for future generations. This plan will identify those areas
needing improvement and the groups that have the ability to make those changes. This plan will develop management strategies to protect
resources, involve partners, and invest in recreational opportunities.
Location
The Pozo / La Panza area is located on the north side of the Santa Lucia Ranger District. This 18,867-acre area has approximately 43 miles of
routes. It extends from the Machesna Mountain Wilderness area on the southern end to the Black Mountain Wild Horse Territory to the north.
Included in this plan are the Garcia OHV Trail, Hi Mountain Lookout Road, Turkey Flat Staging Area, La Panza and Friis Campgrounds, and the
Navajo Flat Staging Area / Campground that is currently undergoing improvement. .
Visitor Use Statistics:
We estimate that the Navajo Flats staging area receives, at a minimum, 5000 and 7500 visits per year. This is based on traffic counter data
collected by the Forest Service. Trail traffic counter data recorded during 2009 revealed that Burnout trail, which originates from the
Navajo Flats Staging area, received approximately 10,000 trips. Red Hill Road, which provides access to the Navajo Flats staging area,
received over 14,000 trips. 7 14% of “walk in” inquiries at the Forest Service office in Santa Maria were OHV related8.
National Forest Visitor Use (NVUM) data was collected for Los Padres National Forest in 2009. Results are attached and can be verified by
using the interactive web site found here: http://apps.fs.usda.gov/nrm/nvum/results/A05007.aspx/Round2. The Survey reports
7
8
Trail Counter Data, Santa Lucia Ranger District, 2005-2009, Lloyd McWilliams, OHV Program Manager, SLRD.
Walk-in tally 2012, US Forest Service, Santa Maria District Office
approximately 50 vehicles per day at the Turkey Flats staging area on the two days surveyed.9 Turkey Flats is a second staging area for
the Pozo La Panza OHV area. NVUM survey data is not available for Navajo Flats.
OHV recreation is popular in San Luis Obispo County. San Luis Obispo OHV Registrations (green sticker) totaled 7,027 for a population of
253,600 (California Fuel Tax Study, 2006).10 OHV recreation is popular in the Western States. 17.6 % of the population over age 16 has
participated in OHV use. 12% of population is 16 or older. 11 (Cordell et al., 2008.)
9
Non-Proxy Results by Survey Day, National Visitor Use Monitoring, US Forest Service, 2009
http://apps.fs.usda.gov/nrm/nvum/results/A05007.aspx/Round2. Accessed Feb 2013.
Estimating the State Fuel Tax Paid on Gasoline Used in the Off-Highway Operation of Vehicles for Recreation: Survey Results, September 2006, Table
4.1, page 4-6. California State Parks. http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/pages/1140/files/fuel%20tax%20survey%20report.pdf
10
Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in the United States and its Regions and States: A National Report from the National Survey on Recreation and the
Environment (NSRE), February, 2008, H. Ken Cordell Carter J. Betz, Gary T. Green, Becky Stephens. USDA Forest Service, 2008.
http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/ohv/IrisRec1rpt.pdf
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Part II-Management Strategy
Vision
To provide a place for recreation to co-exist with responsible land management by maintaining an OHV trail system that allows riders to enjoy
their experience and challenge themselves while promoting “Tread Lightly” ethics and protecting sensitive resources.
Mission
Improve cooperation between the Forest Service and the users to cultivate alliances for management of the area. Improve OHV trails and facilities
while emphasizing safety and resource protection.
Existing Condition
Many routes on the present system were established through years of mining, range use, utility access and fire line construction that evolved into
an OHV trail system. Ridge and fall-line trails follow dozer lines from past fire line construction. Erosion on some trails left scars several feet deep
on hillsides requiring re-routing or placing bricks to harden the surface. A mix of single track trails, roads, and 4X4 routes make it difficult for
riders to safely and legally connect to certain trails.
Desired Condition
The Pozo / La Panza OHV area is a natural appearing landscape that functions as an open space and motorized recreation area that requires
advanced skill levels. Healthy watersheds are maintained by managing the OHV system. 12 The route system provides access to non-motorized
recreational uses such as hunting, mountain biking, camping, hiking, horseback riding, nature viewing, recreational mining, target shooting, and
the running of hounds. Effective management of the route system minimizes impacts to natural and cultural resources and resolves conflicts.
The management strategy reflected in this plan desires a well maintained system that combines motorized recreation with non-motorized
recreation and preserves and protects resources. As to the motorized recreation, it is desired to improve trail connectivity, trial looping
characteristics and sustainable trail designs.
12Los
Padres National Forest Strategy, Land Management Plan Part 2, USDA Forest Service, September 2005, page 72.
Goals
Trail Maintenance
Trail maintenance of the off-highway vehicle trails system in the Pozo/ La Panza area is presently accomplished through a cooperative
agreement between the Forest Service and the Central Coast Motorcycle Association (CCMA). The CCMA has a large work force of
volunteers who commit significant resources toward maintenance of the trail system. CCMA has recently received state and local grants
and has utilized these funds to accomplish many projects on the Los Padres National Forest.
All trail maintenance tasks will follow standards listed on Trail Management Objectives (TMOs) for each trail. The levels of maintenance
are included in Appendix X.
Restoration
Restoration is a critical activity that protects sensitive resources such as riparian areas, cultural areas, sensitive habitats, and watersheds.
Restoration will be accomplished on trail sections that have been re-routed and where trespass has occurred on and off the trail system.
Restoration of OHV areas can be difficult because of the remote locations and continued use of closed routes. The keys to effective
restoration efforts include: 1. Making the route invisible; 2. Effectively barricade the site; 3. Make it obvious that restoration is taking
place; 4. Make the site impossible or highly undesirable to ride.13
The Red Hill Pipe Fence restoration project was completed in 2012 to protect cultural sites and the Camatta Canyon Amole. Continued
monitoring is necessary to ensure that sensitive resources are being protected and barriers are working as effective tools in the restoration
process.
The Friis Meadow restoration project is in its final year of completion. Vehicle traffic around the camping area has reduced vegetation
adjacent to the creek. A horse step and gate have been installed to restrict motorized access to the Black Mountain Roadless Area, where
unauthorized use still occasionally occurs on the the decommissioned Black Widow Mine trail.
An open area north of Turkey Flat Staging Area, also referred to as “Turkey Flat II,” will need action taken to prevent resource damage
from continuing in the area. This has long been a popular staging and dispersed camping area that has recently experienced increased use.
13
Poff, R.A. Restoration of OHV-Damaged Areas: A Ten-Step Checklist. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region, May 2006.
This location is a place where a designated system trail crosses the paved road. Installing fencing and other measures to control traffic
and designate camping and parking areas will reduce continued damage and help protect the riparian area.
The narrowing of Red Hill Road is a proposal that will be coordinated with the Ecosystems and Engineering Department of the Forest
Service. This road accesses Pozo / La Panza from the north off Highway 58 by users and landowners. An approximately one eighth mile
section of the road bed has been widened to nearly 100 feet to limits established by existing pipe fence by users attempting to avoid
potholes and ruts. The topography of the area does not allow adequate drainage of the roadbed during the wet season. Puddling and
unfavorable soil type along this section of Red Hill Road needs to be addressed with corrective measures. Widening of the road has the
potential to disturb adjacent, Camatta Canyon Amole habitat. Constructing a solid road surface with adequate drainage will provide users
and residences with improved access. This project will have the added benefit of providing additional habitat for Camatta Canyon Amole
Sign Plan
Signs on OHV trails follow the engineering guidelines in EM-7100-15—Standards for Forest Service Signs and Posters. Trail and road
signs provide a clear and concise guide for users to navigate to trails that accommodate their level of skill. Common trail names and
difficulty levels are used to allow for easy navigation. Mixed used sections on roads identify areas that are open for vehicles and OHVs
which state, “Share the Road.” Signs also indicate which roads are limited to highway licensed vehicles only. Temporary signs for
closures identify the areas closed for access and explain the reason for the closure. Closure signs should be removed as soon as possible
when conditions allow. If any closures are in effect, the forest website will provide additional information for the public to view. A sign
inventory is included in Appendix X.
Volunteerism/ Partnerships
With a declining federal budget recreational activities on National Forests have become increasingly difficult to provide. Vacant Forest
Service staff positions can be difficult to fill and funding for supplies is becoming scarce. Volunteers are a key component of any plan to
maintain and improve areas on the Forest. Strong partnerships need to be built with user groups to ensure the future of the Forest
Developed Recreation programs and OHV trail systems. The Los Padres National Forest has multiple volunteer agreements with
individuals and groups that assist with maintaining areas that may not receive as much attention as needed. Volunteer groups that
presently have volunteer agreements with the District include the CCMA, the Santa Maria Four Wheelers, the SLO Four Wheelers and the
Cal Poly Penguins Motorcycle Club.
Education/Interpretation
The Forest has applied for and received funds to promote safe and smart riding and ethical responsibilities of OHV users. This included
offering “Orientation Rides” which were part of permitted special use recreation events where booths of educational information was
handed out to kids and adults. Community events, such as fairs, parades, and schools events were attended by Forest Service staff and
volunteers. Funding was used to update and print the Motorized Vehicle Opportunity Guide (MVOG), which includes all the OHV trails
that are designated to ride, as well as other recreation features in the area. Interpretive signs have also been purchased for Navajo Flat and
Turkey Flat Staging Areas which will include information about the ecosystem, Tread Lightly and Leave No Trace ethics, as well as an
OHV trail map of the area. The “One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire” campaign seeks to educate forest visitors on hazards like parking in
deep grass, dragging chains, and the use of spark arrestors to reduce the number of forest fires. Forest Service staff and volunteers
continue to make public contact on the forest to educate as many users as possible of proper riding and their role in keeping this area open
to everyone to use.
Wet Weather Management
Trail and road closures occur annually during the rainy season. When ground is wet the soil is soft and impressionable. Ruts are easily
developed by tire tracks and repeated vehicle use deepens the ruts. . As the soil dries and hardens, the ruts remain and become channels for
future rain water runoff, creating erosion. Another major consideration for seasonal closure is public safety. Closures are implemented
when conditions on Forest roads and trails become hazardous to the public and staff.
A Wet Weather Plan identifies who is responsible for closing areas and the conditions that require closure. Volunteers are used
whenever possible to assist with closures, especially during the holiday season when staffing is limited. Volunteers also assist with soil
sampling to determine the amount of precipitation that may adversely affect soil trafficability and make the tread surface susceptible to
damage. Volunteer participation in wet weather closures allows trail users to see the conditions that warrant closures and the damage
caused by improper motorized use. The Wet Weather Plan is included in Appendix X.
Motorized Mixed Use
Motorized mixed use is defined as designation of a NFS road for use by both highway-legal and non-highway-legal motor vehicles.14
Mixed use may be allowed following analysis by a qualified Forest engineer and documentation of engineering judgment. The Pacific
Southwest Region of the USFS has issued several communications regarding motorized mixed use. In January, 2005, the Regional
14
EM-7700-30, “Guidelines for Engineering Analysis of Motorized Mixed Use on National Forest System Roads”. USDA Forest Service, December 2005.
Forester requested an opinion from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) as to whether ML 3 roads were considered “Highways” under
Section 38001 of the California Vehicle Code and if combined-use regulations (CVC 38026) applied. The response to this letter
precipitated a joint meeting in August, 2007, and an additional response from the CHP on December 19, 2007 which indicated that ML 3
Forest roads that are gravel, dirt, or unpaved surface roads that have been operating as mixed use roadways fall under the “roughly graded
trails and roads upon which vehicular travel by the public is permitted” under CVC section 38001 and are therefore eligible for mixed-use.
In addition to an engineering analysis changes in these mixed use designations require CHP consultation and NEPA analysis such as an
Environmental Assessment. Changes in maintenance level may be made by an administrative decision.
Several Forest roads intersect with OHV trails in the Pozo / La Panza area including Navajo, Fernandez, Black Mountain, Queen Bee,
Frasier Canyon, and Red Hill Roads. Navajo Road, a Maintenance Level 3 road allows highway licensed vehicles only to travel between
Navajo Bypass and McGinnis Creek trails. Friis Road is a Level 2 road which allows for OHV travel from the Five Points intersection to
the Navajo Bypass trailhead. Travel beyond the trailhead to Friis Camp is limited to highway licensed vehicles.
Two locations have been proposed for mixed use. The first, Fernandez Road, between Navajo Flat Staging Area and Benchmark OHV
Trail, has been reviewed by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) who concurred and allow for mixed use on this section of road.
Black Mountain Road is a Level 4 paved surface road that serves as a critical connecting route between Howard’s Bypass trail 15E05 and
the trail system. Black Mountain Road, as a Level 4 road, is presently ineligible for use by non-highway licensed vehicles. Past proposals
to the Regional Forest Engineer for reclassification of Black Mountain road to allow mixed use have not been approved. This proposal
will continue to be brought forward. Trail re-routes surrounding Black Mountain Road were reviewed by Trails Unlimited and it was
determined that an alternative route would require trail construction in an area of poor quality soil that could be costly and labor intensive
to maintain.
Trail Improvements
Improvement in the existing OHV trail system is needed in regards to connectivity, looping characteristics and sustainable trail design.
Because some of the existing trails were not initially designed as OHV trails, these features are sometimes not optimized. Input from
specialists in trail design, such as Trails Unlimited, will be sought to identify and implement improvements to the trail system that will
address these issues. Improvement are essential to not only enhance the recreational experience for OHV users, but also to enhance safety,
minimize conflicts with other uses, preserve resources and sustain balance.
Management Constraints and Considerations
Fire Prevention
Fire prevention in the area is a concern with the hot dry conditions that exist 9 months out of the years. USDA approved spark arrestors are
required on all off -highway vehicles used on National Forests year round.
During fire season ( add dates) wood and charcoal fires are sometimes prohibited in all areas of Los Padres National Forest including designated
Campfire Use sites; however, the use of portable stoves and lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel is allowed within
designated Campfire Use Sites .You must clear all flammable material for a distance of five feet in all directions from your camp stove, have a
shovel available, and ensure that a responsible person attends the stove at all times when it is in use.
Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the national forest except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or designated Campfire Use Site.
Fireworks are prohibited at all times and in all locations within Los Padres National Forest.
Fire danger rating is a broad scale assessment that describes conditions that reflect the potential, over a large area, for a fire to ignite, spread and
requires suppression action; “adjective ratings” are a public information description of the relative severity of the current fire danger situation in a
general area. Adjective ratings are generally posted on signs as visitors enter public lands or at agency offices. Five color coded levels are used to
help the public understand fire potential and help mitigate their actions to prevent human caused wildfires.
When the fire danger is "low" (Level 1) it means that fuels do not ignite easily from small embers, but a more intense heat source, such as
lightning, may start fires in duff or dry rotten wood. Control of fires is generally easy.
When the fire danger is "moderate" (Level II) it means that fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fire starts is usually
pretty low. Fires are still not likely to become serious and are often easy to control.
When the fire danger is "high" (Level III), fires can start easily from most causes and small fuels (such as grasses and needles) will ignite readily.
Unattended campfires and brush fires are likely to escape. Fires can become serious and difficult to control unless they are put out while they are
still small.
When the fire danger is "very high" (Level IV) or higher, fires will start easily from most causes. The fires will spread rapidly and have a quick
increase in intensity, right after ignition. These fires can be difficult to control and will often become much larger and longer-lasting fires. During
Level IV or higher fire restrictions wood and charcoal fires are prohibited in all areas of Los Padres National Forest including designated Campfire
Use sites; however, the use of portable stoves and lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel is allowed within designated
Campfire Use Sites. A list of Campfire Use sites is available at. (http://www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf). You must clear all flammable material for a
distance of five feet in all directions from your camp stove, have a shovel available, and ensure that a responsible person attends the stove at all
times when it is in use.
When the fire danger is "extreme" (Level V), fires of all types start quickly and burn intensely. All fires are potentially serious and can spread very
quickly with intense burning. These fires are very difficult to fight and may become very dangerous and often last for several days.
Target Shooting
Although not prohibited in the area, no safe location has been identified for target shooting within the Pozo / La Panza area. USFS regulations
prohibit:
1. Discharging of a firearm within 150 yards of dwelling or other building, campground, recreation site or other occupied area.
2. Discharging of a firearm on or across a National Forest System Road or a body of water adjacent thereto, or in any manner or place
whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge.
3. Recreational target shooting is prohibited in all areas of the National Forest during fire season unless specifically authorized by a special
use permit with the Forest; however, hunting with a valid State of California hunting license during open hunting season is exempt from
this restriction.
Most shooters are unaware of the many locations of OHV trails and often shoot into canyons with trails running along the ridge or behind a trail.
The dry conditions also raise the fire restrictions quickly in the area and mandate closures to target shooting early in the year.
Enforcement
The availability of Law Enforcement can be difficult over large geographically separated areas. Law enforcement serves a critical function
by enforcing laws that apply to public use of federal lands as well as providing first responder emergency services to Forest visitors.
Forest law enforcement officers (LEOs) and Forest protection officers (FPOs) serve in complementary roles. Both LEOs and FPOs
enforce off-highway vehicle regulations and may issue citations for operation of motor vehicles in prohibited areas, for causing damage to
natural and cultural resources, or for violations of fire and shooting restrictions.
Off- highway vehicle equipment requirements:
The California Air Resources Board has removed the requirement for separate periods for green and red stickers in the Pozo La Panza
area; however, off-highway vehicle “green sticker” registration is still required. A USDA approved spark arrestor is required at all times.
The California Motor Vehicle Code (CVC) includes a legal limit on sound produced by off-highway vehicles. Vehicles manufactured
prior to Jan. 1986 have a noise limit of 101 dbA; those manufactured on or after Jan. 1986 have a noise limit of 96 dbA. Spark arrestor,
registration checks, and sound checks must be performed by qualified personnel, such as Forest Protection Officers (FPOs).
California law Allows officer to cite the parent or guardian of a child less than 14 years of age for allowing the child to operate an ATV
without proper supervision or if the child is unable to reach the controls necessary to operate the vehicle safely. ATV riders under age 18
must have an ATV safety certificate or be supervised by a parent, guardian, or authorized adult with an approved safety certificate.
FPOs that is qualified to write citations and make public contacts with those who are not following regulations. A lack of FPOs and an
absence of law enforcement allows for illegal activities.
Fees
The OHV area falls within the Adventure Pass Program, under the Recreation Enhancement Act (REA), which requires a daily or annual
pass to park or camp. Funds collected from the program support patrols and maintenance activities. The Pozo La Panza area is considered
a Special Permit Area (SPA) which requires users to pay a nominal fee for events that range from those that require a higher level of
management support to simply spending the day riding on the trails.
When users do not have an Adventure Pass, a Notice of Required Fee is given to the user and an incident report is written. Most personnel
working in the area are not qualified to issue a Notice of Required Fee and can only encourage users to make sure they come prepared next
time with an Adventure Pass. The closest location where passes are sold is in Santa Margarita south on Highway 58.
Environmental Consequences
The list of environmental regulations that apply to National Forests is very lengthy and complex and will not be reviewed in detail in this
plan. References that describe how USFS National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations apply to the area are available upon
request. An excellent primer is the Citizens Guide to NEPA published by the Council on Environmental Quality. 15 The main objective of
the NEPA is to protect the habitat of threatened, endangered and sensitive species such as the peregrine falcon, the California condor, the
A Citizen’s Guide to NEPA: Having your voice heard. Council on Environmental Quality, Office of the President, December 2007.
http://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/nepapub/nepa_documents/RedDont/G-CEQ-CitizensGuide.pdf
15
Western pond turtle, red legged frog, and sensitive plants such as the Santa Margarita manzanita, the Camatta Canyon amole, and
Palmer’s mariposa lily. Studies must be done by qualified specialists to ensure that viable populations of plants and animals are not
adversely affected by ground disturbing activities on the Forest.. Environmental studies must also be conducted to evaluate potential
impacts to water quality, air quality, visual impacts, cultural sites and effects on adjacent land owners. A proper timeline will be
developed for all projects to allow for the completion of required environmental studies followed by the required posting of public notice,
public comment periods, announcement of a decision, and resolution of protests prior to conducting ground disturbing activities.
NEPA
As mentioned in the previous section, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process is required for all federal projects. Routine
maintenance (level 1 and 2) usually falls into the lowest required NEPA category, a Categorical Exclusion. New construction and re-routes
fall into level 3 maintenance and require higher levels of NEPA actions such as an Environmental Assessment (EA) or an Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS). The Los Padres National Forest will follow the Forest Land and Resource Management Plan to guide future
projects.
Grants
The California State Parks Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program offers grants from funds collected through OHV registration
(green stickers). Grants support the planning, acquisition, development, maintenance, administration, operation, law enforcement,
restoration, and conservation of trails, trailheads, areas, and other facilities associated with the use of OHVs and programs involving OHV
safety or education. To be eligible for grant funding applicants must maintain a wildlife habitat management program, an environmental
monitoring program with annual reporting requirements and must adhere to soil conservation standards. Requests for grants are submitted
through the states On Line Grant Application (OLGA) system at http://ohv.parks.ca.gov .
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funds to the States to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities
for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. The RTP is an assistance program of the Department of Transportation's
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The RTP funds come from the Federal Highway Trust Fund and represent a portion of the
motor fuel excise tax collected from OHV fuel use. Information can be found in the park management section of the state parks website.
http://www.parks.ca.gov
The Recreation Enhancement Act (REA) program offers internal grant applications for forest that have projects within the Adventure Pass
areas related to ecological restoration. The forest has been successful in the past at acquiring funding to perform trail work in Pozo / La
Panza where erosion issues needed to be resolved.
The forest has also been successful in applying for and receiving grant funding for fire restoration projects in areas were fires have
damaged trails, recreation facilities, and watersheds. It is very important that trail surveys and monitoring are completed so those
documents can be provided when requested after a wildfire
Part III-Implementation Plan
Trail System Program Management
Forest Service staff will provide guidance to implement the management strategy of this plan. Staff should have a presence in the forest to ensure
the plan is being followed through. Personnel accomplish annual reporting of trail conditions, monitoring of sensitive areas and training on
government owned equipment.
Partnerships with user groups will promote the feeling of ownership for those who work and ride the trail system. Outreach to new riders,
recruitment of veteran riders and reunion of past riders will help grow organizations and improve the knowledge base.
Environmental consciousness does not mean a roadblock to progress but a calculated, unbiased view of what is best for the forest. The NEPA
process is the way of documenting that all steps have been completed. Education in the process can benefit all concerned parties and shared
knowledge and workload can make the system easier for all.
Trail System
The following is a list of the trails with difficulty grading, use designation, and a brief description of the trail location and use.
POWERLINE
Easy- for all trail
2 Miles
Starting at the Turkey Flat Staging Area, this trail follows a
vehicle types
HOWARD’S
BYPASS
Most Difficult- for
motorcycles
3 Miles
LA CANADA
Easy- for all trail
vehicle types
0.7 Miles
TOWER
More Difficult to
Most Difficult- for
trail vehicles 50”or
less in width
2 Miles
LAS
CHICHES
More Difficult to
Most Difficult- one
section for
motorcycles only
and most of the trail
for all trail vehicle
types
Easy to More
difficult - for all trail
vehicle types
6.0 Miles
More Difficult to
Most Difficult- for
all trail vehicle types
7 Miles
LAS
CHICHES
CUTOFF
PINE
MOUNTAIN
0.5 Miles
sandy river bed and La Canada for the first mile. The last
section climbs gradually up to an intersection with the
Howard’s Bypass, a motorcycle trail.
This trail connects with the Powerline route and Black
Mountain Road. This trail is designed for motorcycles only. It
is narrow and steep and should be ridden by intermediate to
advanced riders. The trail dead-ends at the Black Mountain
Road for all riders, with the exception of street legal
motorcycles. All OHV licensed motorcycles are prohibited on
Black Mountain Road.
This creek bottom trail is a pleasurable ride located in a small
canyon and is relatively flat. It connects Turkey Flat and
Powerline trail to Turkey Flat II and Tower trail.
This trail begins at the Turkey Flat II Staging Area, parallels
Navajo Road and intersects with the Las Chiches trail. The
trail is suited for intermediate to advanced riders and provides
the rider with some challenging sections. Riders must use this
trail, since OHV green sticker licensed vehicles are prohibited
on this section of Navajo Road.
From the intersection of Five Points, the first section is open
to all trail vehicle types, which has several steep sections that
are best suited for intermediate to advanced riders. This route
follows ridge tops and provides the rider with some
outstanding vistas of the valleys below. The last mile which
connects to Fernandez Road is open for motorcycle only and
ties in with the Burnout trail.
This is a connector trail from Pozo Summit Road at the
intersection with Pine Mountain route where the trail begins
at an easy level to more difficult. It connects to the Las
Chiches trail.
This trail is open to all OHV riders, but is best suited for the
intermediate and advanced skill levels. The trail borders the
Machesna Wilderness and contains one black diamond
section called the Stair Steps. The route offers some
More Difficult- for
trail vehicles 50”or
less in width
More Difficult to
Most Difficult- for
motorcycles
1.5 Miles
More Difficult- for
trail vehicles 50”or
less in width
Easy- for all trail
vehicle types
Easy- for all trail
vehicle types
1.5 Miles
NAVAJO
BYPASS
More Difficult- for
motorcycles
1.5 Miles
McGINNIS
CREEK
Easy- for trail
vehicles 50”or less
in width
1.2 Mile
QUEEN BEE
BURNOUT
LA PANZA
BYPASS
BENCHMARK
QUAIL
10 Miles
1 Mile
1 Miles
outstanding vistas of the valley below and distant Machesna
Mountain Wilderness.
This trail begins and ends at Queen Bee Road and is best
suited for intermediate riders.
This lengthy trail offers a wide variety of trail experience for
the intermediate and advanced rider. It traverses over ridge
tops with nice vistas as well as oak and grass covered valleys.
It also connects with Mare Springs motorcycle trail, La
Panza Bypass, Red Hill Road, and Fernandez Road. Navajo
Flat Staging Area can be accessed across this trail where
restrooms and picnic tables are available. Only street legal
vehicles are allowed on Red Hill, Fernandez and Navajo
Roads.
This trail is an easy ride for intermediate and advanced riders
and goes from La Panza Summit to the Burnout trail.
This trail is a level easy-going route. It dead-ends for 4x4s
where it intersects with the Mare Springs and Burnout trails.
Quail Road can only be accessed from Fernandez Road. Only
street legal vehicles can access this route. This short route
begins off Fernandez Road and dead-ends at a power line
tower.
Navajo Bypass starts at Friis Road and ends at Navajo Road.
This trail is best suited for intermediate riders due to two
steep brick sections in the middle of the trail. Since this trail
ends on Navajo Road, the section of the road that connects to
the McGinnis Creek trail is legal for all motorcycles and
ATVs. The remainder of the Navajo Road is for street legal
vehicles only.
This trail runs parallel to the creek and is level making it ideal
for beginners. This trail can be accessed through Navajo Flat
Staging Area where picnic tables and restrooms are available.
Since this trail ends on Navajo Road, the section of the road
GARCIA
RIDGE
MARE
SPRINGS
HI
MOUNTAIN
LOOKOUT
More Difficult to
Most Difficult- for
all trail vehicle types
Most Difficult- for
motorcycles
Easy- for all trail
vehicle types
4 Miles
3.5 Miles
that connects to Navajo Bypass trail is legal for all
motorcycles and ATVs. The remainder of the Navajo Road is
for street legal vehicles only.
This ridge top route starts at Hi Mountain Road and dead ends
at the Garcia Wilderness boundary. This intermediate route is
open to all OHV riders.
This is an excellent trail for the intermediate to advanced
rider. The trail connects to the Burnout trail on both ends and
provides for a challenging and scenic ride.
This route starts at Hi Mountain Road and ends at the Santa
Lucia Wilderness. Just a mile up the Road is Hi Mountain
Campground. Continuing up the route bring you to a vista
with access to Hi Mountain Lookout. The route continues
across the ridge past hiking trail heads for Little Falls and
Rinconada then down to Big Falls.
Trail System Facilities
TURKEY FLAT STAGING AREA
TURKEY FLAT II STAGING AREA
NAVAJO FLAT CAMPGROUND
This area is on Navajo Road, a quarter of a mile off Parkhill Road. There
is a bathroom and several picnic tables in a flat area under large oak trees
for shade. Powerline and La Canada trails leave from the northwest edge
of the area and split beyond the wide sandy stretch of trail. There is a
small warm-up/kids track that can be entered from just beyond the
bathroom.
This area is where Navajo Road, La Canada and Tower trail meet. This
area has several dispersed camping sites and has been the site of
trespassing and target shooting in the past and needs restoration to prevent
further resource damage.
This staging area is in an open field at the intersection of Fernandez and
Navajo Roads. There are bathrooms and picnic table under several large
oak and sycamore trees. McGinnis Creek enters from the west and
FRIIS CAMPGROUND
LA PANZA CAMGROUND
HI MOUNTAIN CAMPGROUND
Cost Estimates
Burnout is just across the road to the east. This area is under contract to
become a stage area and campground with shade structures, fire rings and
a kid’s track.
Located at the end of Friis Road, the campground had picnic tables and
fire rings shaded by oak trees. This quiet spot at the end of the road
overlooks a meadow and provides access to the Fernandez trail for hikers
and horses.
This large campground is on the Pozo/ La Panza road near the eastern
edge of the OHV area. With 15 camp sites and 3 bathrooms, this
campground can accommodate larger groups that want access to the
forest.
Located 4 miles south of the Pozo Station then 1 mile up Hi Mountain
Lookout is a paved loop and campsites under large oak trees. A bathroom
in centered in the campground. Picnic tables and fire rings are available in
sites.
Part IV-Monitoring Plan
Trail Management Objective
The Trail Management Objective (TMO) for each trail has the design parameters that have been approved by the District Ranger. The TMO
assigns the designated use, location, trail width, and frequency of maintenance. The TMO is the basis for all work that will be done on a trail.
Trail Assessment and Condition Survey
Trail Assessment and Condition Survey (TRACS) is an organized approach for collecting and updating field data entered into INFRA Trails on
trail conditions and the work needed to meet Forest standards. A TRACS survey consists of three basic components: Inventory, Assessment, and
Prescription. By methodically incorporating inventory, assessment, and trail prescription in each survey, TRACS surveyors leave the field with an
accurate, useful, and consistently collected set of data that can be used for a wide variety of purposes. By incorporating a common set of
terminology, business rules, data fields, and standard trail specifications and drawings, TRACS and
INFRA Trail databases help maximize
efficiency and consistency in trails data management
Habitat Management Program
A Habitat Management Program (HMP) is required for applicants to maintain eligibility for the California State Parks OHV grant system. All
grant projects involving ground disturbing activities are subject to HMP requirements. If recreation activities pose no risk factors to special-status
species and/or sensitive habitats completion of minimal documentation, HMP Part 1, is required. If the risks to special-status species and/or
sensitive habitats posed by recreation activities cannot be determined, more complete documentation, including HMP Parts 1 and 2, must be
submitted.
HMP Part 2 has several sections. The first is a Summary of Changes that describes any changes made from the last HMP submitted. Section 2 is
a table of all species that fall into 17 Special Status Species categories with their habitat and the time they were last seen in the area. HMP Section
3 is composed of maps of the project area with the locations of all species identified that could be affected. Section 4 is the management
/monitoring program requirement for each species. Section 5 is documentation of the past years monitoring including biological assessments and
stream crossing surveys to monitor erosion and habitat where water crosses trails.
Appendix A
Los Padres National Forest
OHV Trails Programmatic Biological Assessment 2012 (Edited)
IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ON-GOING ACTIVITY
The on-going activity addressed in this BA includes both the use and maintenance of designated OHV routes within the LPNF OHV
Program. Unauthorized OHV use outside of the designated trail system is not included because it is not part of the OHV Program.
However, unauthorized use (“trespass” or off-trail travel) is recognized as an associated impact and discussed.
Some OHV routes are jointly part of the Forest Roads Program, and the maintenance of these routes is performed by the Forest
Service Roads Department. These routes are not included in this BA because they are covered under the Programmatic Biological
Assessment for Federally Listed Wildlife Species That May Be Affected by the Transportation Facilities Maintenance and Use
Program (2012 – 2022) on the Los Padres National Forest (in preparation).
The Santa Lucia Ranger District (SLRD) has 102 miles of designated roads and trails within the program, which fall within four areas:
Pozo/La Panza, Rockfront, Buckhorn Ridge, and Catway. There are two staging areas within the Pozo/La Panza OHV area that have
campsites, restrooms and picnic tables.
The 2009 National Visitor Use Monitoring survey determined that approximately 106,000 visitors use the OHV system on the forest
each year. This total includes specific areas of heavy use such as the Pozo/La Panza area, which receives 25 to 35 OHV users per day
on weekends. In addition to dispersed OHV use, private OHV groups are permitted to use the designated OHV areas to host special
events. In the Pozo/La Panza area, at least four motorized and one non-motorized trail races and poker runs are held each year. These
events draw between 100 to 350 participants, plus support staff, 100+ spectators, families and Forest Service law enforcement
personnel. Nearby designated campgrounds, undesignated camping areas, and staging areas receive a substantially higher rate of use
for multiple days during each event. Portable toilets are brought in for most of the events. Follow-up work is conducted by the groups
after the events, and includes trail repairs, site cleanup, and trash removal.
Specifications for maintenance activities conducted within the Forest Service Trail System are described in USDA Forest Service
(1996) Standard Specifications for Construction and Maintenance of Trails, EM-7720-103. Maintenance conducted on OHV routes is
similar to work conducted on hiking trails with some differences, such as a higher incidence of using mechanized trail equipment and
the installation of short sections of concrete pavers as erosion control material. OHV route maintenance is categorized into three
separate levels based upon the extent of ground and vegetation disturbance.
Levels 1 and 2 are considered routine maintenance, and consist of activities within the existing trail way and clearing limit, which do
not expand the route outside its current location. Level 3 maintenance is defined as reconstructing the trail way (as described in
Section 915, EM-7720-103), and includes working outside the trail way in previously undisturbed areas. Level 3 work may include a
partial trail re-route, or when excavation of fill (borrow) material is needed from outside the trail way in order to fill ruts or washouts
within the trail way. Levels 1 and 2 OHV route maintenance are conducted on an on-going basis are included within this
programmatic BA. Separate BA/BEs is prepared by the LPNF for each Level 3 maintenance project; therefore, Level 3 maintenance
activities are not included within this programmatic BA.
• The trail way is defined in Section 902 of EM-7720-103 as “the portion of the trail within the limits of the excavation and
embankment”.
• The trail tread is defined in Section 902 of EM-7720-103 as “the surface portion of the trail upon which traffic moves”.
• Clearing limits for trimming vegetation are defined in Section 911.02 of EM-7720-103, and include provisions for vertical
clearance, upslope and down slope limits based upon the steepness of slope, and are generally areas within 1 foot of the fill and
back-slope catch points.
Level 1 Trail Maintenance
Level 1 is considered Light Trail Maintenance, and is defined as “no disturbance to the existing trail surface”. This work is generally
conducted by hand crews, but small mechanized equipment may be used. It consists of activities such as:
• Slide and slough removal;
• Clearing and grubbing;
• Brushing and logging out; and,
• Clearing debris from water bars.
These activities are conducted within the established trail way and clearing limits as defined in the trail guide. Work consists of
clearing, grubbing, trimming, removing, and treating trees, logs, limbs, branches, and other vegetation within the clearing limits. Work
can be performed along all sections of trails as long as the work does not result in any new ground disturbance outside the established
trail way. Slough, berm and slide material removed from the trail way can be used as fill for gully and rill repair within the trail bed.
Level 2 Trail and Staging Area/Trailhead Maintenance
This is considered Tread Maintenance, and is defined as “the re-establishment of the trail way within previously established routes”
(Earthwork, Section 910, 911 and 912 of EM-77-103). Routine maintenance of OHV staging areas and trailheads is also included.
Ground-disturbing activities are limited to the existing trail way. Work is performed by hand crews or mechanized equipment. Hand
crews are used when possible in areas adjacent to known cultural or TEPCS species resources that may be impacted. Use of
mechanized equipment is also limited to the time period having adequate soil moisture, which is needed to provide proper compaction
of soils after blading and to minimize dust. All equipment operators are certified as trail operators in accordance with Forest Service
policy.
Level 2 work includes:
• Construction and repair of water bars (referred to as Excavation and Embankment Section 912 of EM-7720-103);
• Repair of shallow creek fords and rock retaining walls;
• Cleaning draining dips and other drainage structures;
• Shaping trail tread, trail bed repair, and filling gullies and rills in the trail bed with minimal barrow from the trail way;
• Shaping berms and drainage dips, and repair of whoops and/or stutter bumps;
• Removal of obstacles/debris from the trail tread;
• Installation of pavers or other tread armoring material to reduce erosion of the trail tread;
• Embankment work that may consist of extending the trail way into the existing back-slope where necessary to achieve a full
bench trail bed; and
• Maintenance performed on OHV staging areas and trailheads, including grading of entry roads and parking areas, fence and
barrier repair, and sign replacement.
Motorized Trail Design Standards – 2008 Forest Service Handbook
FSH 2309.18 – TRAILS MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK
CHAPTER 20 – TRAIL DEVELOPMENT 23.2 – STANDARD TERRA TRAILS - MOTORIZED
23.21 – MOTORCYCLE DESIGN PARAMETERS
23.21 – Exhibit 01
MOTORCYCLE DESIGN PARAMETERS
Design Parameters are technical guidelines for the survey, design, construction, maintenance, and assessment of National Forest System trails,
based on their Designed Use and Trail Class and consistent with their management intent 1. Local deviations from any Design Parameter may be
established based on trail-specific conditions, topography, or other factors, provided that the deviations are consistent with the general intent of the
applicable Trail Class.
Designed Use
MOTORCYCLE
Design
Tread
Width
Single Lane
Double Lane
Structures
(Minimum Width)
Trail Class 1
Typically not designed
or actively managed for
motorcycles, although
use may be allowed
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
Trail Class 5
8” – 24”
18” – 36”
24” – 48”
48”
48 ” – 60”
60” – 72”
Typically not designed
or actively managed for
motorcycles, although
use may be allowed
36”
48”
48”
Designed Use
MOTORCYCLE
Design
Surface2
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Native, with limited
grading
Type
May be continuously
rough
Sections of soft or
unstable tread on grades
< 5% may be common
and continuous
≤ 6”
Protrusions
May be common and
continuous
18”
Obstacles
May be common or
placed for increased
challenge
(Maximum Height)
Trail Class 3
Native, with some onsite borrow or imported
material where needed
for stabilization and
occasional grading
Intermittently rough
Sections of soft or
unstable tread on
grades < 5% may be
present
≤ 3”
May be common, but not
continuous
12”
Common and left for
increased challenge
Trail Class 4
Trail Class 5
Native, with imported
materials for tread
stabilization likely and
routine grading
Minor roughness
Sections of soft tread not
common
≤ 3”
Uncommon and not
continuous
3”
Uncommon
Designed Use
MOTORCYCLE
Design
Grade 2
Target Grade
Short Pitch Maximum
Maximum Pitch Density
Design
Cross
Target Cross Slope
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
10% – 25%
5% – 20%
3% – 10%
40%
25%
15%
20% – 40% of trail
15% – 30% of trail
10% – 20% of trail
5% – 10%
5% – 8%
3% – 5%
Trail Class 5
Designed Use
MOTORCYCLE
Slope
Maximum Cross Slope
Design
Clearing
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
15%
10%
10%
6’ – 7’
6’ - 8’
8’ - 10’
36” – 48”
48” – 60”
60” - 72”
6” – 12”
12” – 18”
12” – 24”
3’ – 4’
4’ – 6’
5’ – 8’
Height
Width
(On steep side hills,
increase clearing on uphill
side by 6” – 12”)
Some light vegetation
may encroach into
clearing area
Shoulder Clearance
Design
Turn
Trail Class 5
Radius
1
For definitions of Design Parameter attributes (e.g., Design Tread Width and Short Pitch Maximum), see FSH 2309.18, section 05.
2
The determination of the trail-specific Design Grades, Design Surface, and other Design Parameters should be based upon soils, hydrological conditions, use
levels, erosion potential, and other factors contributing to surface stability and overall trail sustainability.
Application considerations for Motorcycle Design Parameters:
1. NFS trails that allow motorcycle use must be designated for that vehicle class pursuant to 36 CFR 212.51 and displayed on a motor
vehicle use map (FSM 7703.1).
2. For NFS trails that have been designated for motorcycle use and that have a Designed Use of Motorcycle, apply the Motorcycle Design
Parameters and the following guidance.
a. A variety of distances and recreation experiences may be provided by designing cutoffs for less experienced riders within a system
of loop trails. An experienced rider can ride approximately 50 miles in an average day. Some riders can cover over 100 miles in a
day.
b. Trail alignment should exhibit decreasing randomness between Trail Class 2 and Trail Class 4.
c. Favor drainage dips over water bars.
d. On trails in Trail Class 4, the alignment is generally moderate, with no sharp curves combined with steep grades. Novice riders
may be subjected to sharp curves, but generally not in combination with rough surfaces or steep grades (see sec. 23.21, ex. 01).
e. Favor climbing turns over switchbacks, within the applicable Design Parameter grade tolerances, as deemed appropriate,
considering the use and direction of travel. Modify the level of challenge of a curve by increasing or decreasing its turning radius.
f. For trails in Trail Class 4, locate turns on level ground or on slopes of less than
6 percent. On trails designed for novice and intermediate riders, consider providing a 4-to-6-foot barrier on the downhill side of a
switchback.
g. The speed of a motorcycle entering a turn varies depending on the radius of the turn. A trail designer can slow the speed of a
motorcycle entering a turn by decreasing its turning radius. A trail designer may increase the length of a trail in a limited area by
increasing the number of turns.
h. Hardening of switchbacks and climbing turns in sensitive soils is recommended. Suggested hardening materials include concrete
blocks, soil, and cement.
I. For minimum bridge widths and railing heights, refer to FSH 7709.56b, section 7.69, exhibit 01, Trail Bridge Design Criteria.
Bridges should have a straight approach and should not change directions. Special decking may be necessary to accommodate
wheeled vehicles.
j. To minimize confusion, consider locating trail junctions so that no more than two trails intersect at one point.
23.22 - ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE (ATV) DESIGN PARAMETERS
The next page displays the All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Design Parameters, followed by considerations regarding their application.3.22 –
Exhibit 01
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE DESIGN PARAMETERS
Design Parameters are technical guidelines for the survey, design, construction, maintenance, and assessment of National Forest System trails,
based on their Designed Use and Trail Class and consistent with their management intent 1. Local deviations from any Design Parameter may be
established based on trail-specific conditions, topography, or other factors, provided that the deviations are consistent with the general intent of the
applicable Trail Class.
Designed Use
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
Design
Tread
Single Lane
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
Trail Class 5
Typically not designed
or actively managed
for ATVs, although use
48” – 60”
60”
60” – 72”
Typically not designed
or actively managed for
ATVs, although use
Designed Use
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
Width
Double Lane
Trail Class 1
may be allowed
Structures
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
96”
96” – 108”
96” – 120”
60”
60”
60”
Trail Class 5
may be allowed
(Minimum Width)
Design
Surface2
Native, with limited
grading
Type
May be continuously
rough
Sections of soft or
unstable tread on grades
< 5% may be common
and continuous
≤ 6”
Protrusions
May be common and
continuous
Native, with some onsite borrow or imported
material where needed
for stabilization and
occasional grading
Intermittently rough
Sections of soft or
unstable tread on
grades < 5% may be
present
≤ 3”
May be common, but not
continuous
12”
Obstacles
May be common or
placed for increased
challenge
(Maximum Height)
6”
May be common and left
for increased challenge
Native, with imported
materials for tread
stabilization likely and
routine grading
Minor roughness
Sections of soft tread
uncommon
≤ 3”
Uncommon and not
continuous
3”
Uncommon
23.22 – Exhibit 01--Continued
Designed Use
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
Design
Grade 2
Target Grade
Short Pitch Maximum
Maximum Pitch Density
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
10% – 25%
5% – 15%
3% – 10%
35%
25%
15%
20% – 40% of trail
15% – 30% of trail
10% – 20% of trail
Trail Class 5
Designed Use
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
5% – 10%
3% – 8%
3% – 5%
15%
10%
8%
Design
Cross
Slope
Target Cross Slope
Design
Clearing
Height
6’ – 7’
6’ – 8’
8’ – 10’
Width
60”
60” – 72”
72” - 96”
Maximum Cross Slope
(On steep side hills,
increase clearing on uphill
side by 6” – 12”)
Design
Turn
Trail Class 5
Some light vegetation
may encroach into
clearing area
Shoulder Clearance
0” – 6”
6” – 12”
12” – 18”
Radius
6’ – 8’
8’ – 10’
8’ – 12’
1
For definitions of Design Parameter attributes (e.g., Design Tread Width and Short Pitch Maximum), see FSH 2309.18, section 05.
2
The determination of the trail-specific Design Grade, Design Surface, and other Design Parameters should be based upon soils, hydrological conditions, use
levels, erosion potential, and other factors contributing to surface stability and overall sustainability of the trail.
Application considerations for All-Terrain Vehicle Design Parameters:
1. NFS trails that allow ATV use must be designated for that vehicle class pursuant to
36 CFR 212.51 and displayed on a motor vehicle use map (FSM 7703.1).
2. For NFS trails designated for ATV use and that have a Designed Use of ATV, apply the ATV Design Parameters and the following
guidance.
a. A variety of distances and recreation experiences may be provided by designing cutoffs for less experienced riders within a system
of loop trails.
b. Trail alignment should exhibit decreasing randomness between Trail Class 2 and Trail Class 4.
c. Include frequent elevation changes and turns appropriate for each skill level. These design features can be incorporated as
appropriate to slow vehicle speeds, increase safety, and provide more riding time per mile (see sec. 23.22, ex. 01).
d. Favor drainage dips over water bars.
e. Favor climbing turns over switchbacks, within the applicable Design Parameter grade tolerances, as deemed appropriate,
considering the use and direction of travel. Modify the level of challenge of a curve by increasing or decreasing its turning radius.
f. On trails in Trail Class 4, the alignment generally should be moderate, with no sharp curves combined with steep grades. Novice
riders may be subjected to sharp curves, but generally not in combination with rough surfaces or steep grades. If possible, incorporate
climbing turns with a wide radius for ascending hills. Use switchbacks on steep slopes only for more challenging trails.
g. Hardening of switchbacks and climbing turns in areas with sensitive soils is recommended. Suggested hardening materials include
concrete blocks, soil, and cement.
h. For minimum bridge widths and railing heights, refer to FSH 7709.56b, section 7.69, exhibit 01, Trail Bridge Design Criteria.
Bridges should have a straight approach and should not change directions. Special decking may be necessary to accommodate
wheeled vehicles.
I. To minimize confusion, consider locating trail junctions so that no more than two trails intersect at one point.
23.23 – DESIGN PARAMETERS FOR FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES GREATER THAN 50 INCHES IN WIDTH
23.23 – Exhibit 01
DESIGN PARAMETERS FOR FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES
GREATER THAN 50 INCHES IN WIDTH
Design Parameters are technical guidelines for the survey, design, construction, maintenance, and assessment of National Forest System trails,
based on their Designed Use and Trail Class and consistent with their management intent1. Local deviations from any Design Parameter may be
established based on trail-specific conditions, topography, or other factors, provided that the deviations are consistent with the general intent of the
applicable Trail Class.
Designed Use
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE > 50"
Design
Tread
Single Lane
Trail Class 1
Typically not designed
or actively managed for
4WD Vehicles > 50”,
although use may be
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
Trail Class 5
72” – 84”
72” – 96”
96” – 120”
Typically not designed
or actively managed for
4WD Vehicles > 50”,
although use may be
Designed Use
FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE > 50"
Width
Double Lane
Structures
Trail Class 1
allowed
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
16’
16’
16’
96”
96”
96”
(Minimum Width)
Type
Design
2
Surface
Native, with limited
grading
May be continuously
rough
Native, with some on-site
borrow or imported
material where needed
for stabilization and
occasional grading
Native, with imported
materials for tread
stabilization likely and
routine grading
Minor roughness
Sections of soft or
unstable tread on grades
< 5% may be common
and continuous
Protrusions
≤ 12”
May be common and
continuous
Obstacles
(Maximum Height)
36”
May be common or
placed for increased
challenge
Intermittently rough
Sections of soft or
unstable tread on grades
< 5% may be present
≤ 8”
May be common and
continuous
24”
Common and left for
increased challenge
Sections of soft tread
uncommon
≤ 4”
May be common and
continuous
12”
Uncommon
Trail Class 5
allowed
23.23 – Exhibit 01--Continued
Designed Use
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE < 50"
Design
Grade2
Target Grade
Short Pitch Maximum
Maximum Pitch Density
Design
Cross
Slope
Target Cross Slope
Maximum Cross Slope
Design
Clearing
Height
Width
Trail Class 1
Trail Class 2
Trail Class 3
Trail Class 4
10% – 21%
5% – 18%
5% – 12%
25%
20%
15%
20% – 30% of trail
10% – 20% of trail
5% – 10% of trail
8% – 15%
5% – 12%
5% – 8%
15%
12%
8%
6’ – 8’
6’ – 8’
8’ – 10’
72” – 84”
72” – 96”
96” - 144”
0” – 6”
6” – 12”
12” – 18”
10’ – 15’
15’ – 20’
20’ – 30’
Trail Class 5
Some light vegetation
may encroach into
clearing area
Shoulder Clearance
Design
Turn
Radius
1
For definitions of Design Parameter attributes (e.g., Design Tread Width and Short Pitch Maximum), see FSH 2309.18, section 05.
2
The determination of the trail-specific Design Grade, Design Surface, and other Design Parameters should be based upon soils, hydrological conditions, use
levels, erosion potential, and other factors contributing to surface stability and overall sustainability of the trail.
37
Application considerations for Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles > 50” In Width Design Parameters:
1. NFS trails that allow four-wheel drive vehicle use must be designated for that vehicle class
pursuant to 36 CFR 212.51 and displayed on a motor vehicle use map (FSM 7703.1).
2. For NFS trails designated for four-wheel drive vehicles over 50 inches in width and that have
a Designed Use for that type of vehicle, apply the appropriate Design Parameters and the
guidance below, as applicable.
a. The level of challenge provided by a trail increases with the size of the vehicle. For
example, a trail that is challenging for a vehicle with a short wheelbase (less than 100 inches)
is likely to be even more challenging for a vehicle with a long wheelbase (greater than 100
inches).
b. Trails designed for four-wheel drive vehicles greater than 50 inches in width have varying
degrees of horizontal and vertical alignments, with safe tread for an average speed of 2 to 4
miles per hour.
c. A variety of distances and recreation experiences may be provided for less experienced
riders by designing cutoffs within a system of loop trails.
d. Favor drainage dips over water bars.
e. Favor climbing turns over switchbacks, within the applicable Design Parameter grade
tolerances, as deemed appropriate, considering the use and direction of travel. Modify the
level of challenge of a curve by increasing or decreasing its turning radius.
f. Alignment on trails with grades of 4 percent or less should provide 5 lock-to-lock turns
(five changes of direction of the steering wheel, from far right to far left) in the first 150 feet
of the trail to restrict use of the trail to smaller vehicles. The rest of the trail should have 2 to
5 lock-to-lock turns, depending on vegetation, topography, and planned challenge level (see
sec. 23.23, ex. 01).
g. Trails with grades of 4 to 10 percent should have wider turning radii and dips and bumps, as
topography allows. Depending on topography, locate 10 percent or more of the trail on a relatively
straight alignment, with a maximum side slope of 30 percent.
Appendix B
38
Trail Assessment and Condition Survey (TRACS)
TRACS Trail Condition Surveys.
Trail Name
Las Chiches
Tower
Buckhorn Ridge
Mare Springs
Navajo Bypass
Garcia Ridge
Paradise
Benchmark
Madre
La Panza Bypass
Queen Bee
Las Chiches Cut-off
Kerry Canyon
Bear Canyon Loop
Horseshoe Springs
Burnout
Mcginnis Creek
Powerline
La Canda
Howards Bypass
Catway
Twin Rocks
Quail
Shaw Ridge
Big Rocks
Upper 35 Canyon
Los Machos
Branch Creek
Jack Springs
Pine Mountain
Logan Ridge
Gifford
Appendix C
Trail Number
16E08
16E24
31W14
16E16
16E23
15E11
17E08
15E09
12N05
18E05
16E04
16E02
30W02
31W13
31W12
16E21
16E22
15E07
18E02
15E05
29W02
17E12
15E10
17E06
17E10
17E13
17E07
17E09
17E11
16E09
17E05
18E12
Date of TRACS Survey
4/10/2012
9/22/2010
7/30/2011
6/13/2011
12/5/2012
6/23/2013
4/2/2011
3/8/2011
12/10/2011
10/2/2010
10/17/2010
3/22/2011
5/3/2009
8/15/2011
9/2/2012
11/2/2010
3/5/2011
11/8/2012
3/28/2011
10/17/2011
10/12/2011
6/5/2012
2/16/2011
11/5/2012
2/12/2012
3/19/2012
11/30/2011
4/22/2012
6/20/2011
3/2/2013
7/2/2013
7/29/2012
Total Miles
6.0
2.0
6.5
3.5
1.5
4.8
2.0
1.0
1.2
1.5
1.5
0.50
8.3
6.2
1.3
6.80
1.2
2.0
0.70
3.0
3.5
3.5
1.35
4.0
4.0
3.3
2.8
5.5
1.8
7.0
1.4
1.5
Geographic Area
Pozo
Pozo
La Brea
Pozo
Pozo
Pozo
Rockfront
Pozo
La Brea
Pozo
Pozo
Pozo
La Brea
Trail Closed
La Brea
La Brea
Pozo
Pozo
Pozo
Pozo
Pozo
Figueroa
Rockfront
Pozo
Rockfront
Rockfront
Rockfront
Rockfront
Rockfront
Rockfront
Pozo
Rockfront
Hwy#166
39
2012/13 Santa Lucia Ranger District Wet Weather Road Closure Plan
Wet weather gates are closed in order to protect Level 2 roads and trails from rut damage and resource
damage or destruction in the Los Padres National Forest.
A. Who is in Charge:
The overall program manager for the District gate closure plan is Tom Plymale. The Duty Officer
will take responsibility for the implementation of the plan as needed and coordinate with
Recreation when doing so. Each area has a Fire Prevention Technician and a Recreation
Technician assigned to it – these are the Patrollers that are assigned leadership roles for closing
and opening the gates. They will be communicating with local area resources to coordinate these
efforts. If one of the Patrols are not here or have other commitments, they are responsible to make
sure someone else can cover for them to insure the closure take place following the proper
procedure. The local Fire Stations and District Employees are expected to help when asked and
available.
Santa Lucia Ranger District Wet Weather Road Closures
Road Closure Priority (high to low)
Responsible Patrollers
Arroyo Grande-Pozo Rd./Hi Mountain Area
Pozo Station & Lloyd McWilliams
La Brea/Colson
Curt Schwarm & Helen Tarbet
Rockfront
Curt Schwarm & Helen Tarbet
Pozo Area
Pozo Station & Lloyd McWilliams
Figueroa
Figueroa Station & Joe Duran/Helen Tarbet
West Cuesta
Pozo Station & Lloyd McWilliams
When gate closures are necessary, many aspects are considered: the severity of the upcoming storm
event and amount of previous rainfall, the availability of staff to close gates, time associated with
surveying the area for visitors and informing them of the closure, and time associated with re-opening
gates. Due to the potential for staffing or work force availability issues associated with the wet
weather gate closures, leaders may consider longer closures periods during times of potential
inclement weather. Communication is key to making sure:
1. The duty officers and Patrollers will work together to keep each other aware of storm
conditions, the amount of rain predicted, the amount of rain that has fallen, local road
conditions, and know who is going to do what to get the roads closed.
2. Patrollers keep the front desk and the Duty Officer informed of conditions requiring closing
and prior to re-opening the gates.
3. Patrollers communicate schedules in order to ensure coverage for their closure areas.
40
B. Problems and solutions related to gate closures:
1. Inconsistent application of closures by staff. Have a yearly meeting before November to
coordinate!
2. Public notifications. Issue a press release at the beginning of the season explaining the forest
policy on wet weather closures. Do a separate press release when threatened and endangered
species gates are closed. Channel 22 can help with community service announcements.
3. Public not obeying road closures. Inform them of the forest policy and that they are
responsible for any road or resource damage if they remain behind the gate. A Notice
4. Accidentally locking a visitor behind a closed gate-check for people first.
5. Getting stuck or hurt - be informed of the weather and let dispatch know where you are.
6. Missing or unusable locks – carry extra locks, chains and lubricant. Pre-rainy season,
Patrollers need to complete a gate inventory (form is attached) to make sure the gates are
properly signed and have correct locks and chains.
7. Wrong key – carry all keys needed for wet weather gates on the District.
8. Drive area roads on ATV. Personnel must be certified before operating ATV. Set up ATV
training with qualified instructor on Forest or at State OHV area. Follow all safety procedures
when operating ATVs.
9. Gate signs missing. Gates should be signed per Regional standard (see attached diagram).
Notify the District Engineer of missing signs.
10. Employees or private landowners drive closed roads. When roads are closed to prevent road
damage, they are closed to everyone. If a private landowner wants to drive on a closed road,
they need to take on making the road an all-season road and the subsequent maintenance. This
needs to be done by permit prior to the wet season.
C. Procedure for closing gates:
1. In general, after 2 inches of rain, roads are closed before large storms. An exception to this is
when an earlier storm is predicted to be major, dropping 2+ inches of rain, or if long dry spells
occur between storms, etc. Soil conditions & predicted rain should drive closure needs.
2. Lock the gate behind you when going to check for visitors. Note the cars that need to leave.
After your sweep, wait at the gate until everyone has left.
3. If someone refuses to leave, explain they will be locked in for days until the road dries, and
that they are responsible for any resource damage if they drive around. Call Law Enforcement,
if they still refuse to leave.
4. Change the area closed signs on the main road or highway when the gates are closed.
5. Inform the Front Desk of closed roads, or upcoming closures, as soon as possible.
6. Front Desk needs to notify the SO of closures.
D. Procedure for opening gates:
1. Coordinate with District Engineer about road conditions.
2. Typically wait 2-3 days after storm and check road for dryness. Drive the 2-WD roads to
check for obstacles (fallen trees/rocks, washouts, slides).
3. Remove obstacles you can remove. Notify your supervisor/District Engineer of obstacles
that can’t be moved and arrange for removal (ex: get a qualified feller to cut out trees).
41
4. Lock the gates in the open position. Open gates if the road can be traveled safely. If there
is a slide and people can turn around safely, leave the gate open; if not – the road should
remain closed and arrange for fixing.
5. Change the area closed signs on the main road or highway when the gates are opened.
6. Inform the Front Desk of road status of opened gates as soon as possible.
7. The Front Desk needs to notify the SO of road status.
E. Specific Road Closure Instructions:
Hi- Mountain – 8 gates, wet weather and walk through
 Pozo-Arroyo Grande Road closures will be coordinated with the SLO County Roads
Department. The County will maintain and close the gates at the north (Pozo Station)
and south end of the Pozo-Arroyo Grande Road. The FS will help the county by
contacting them when we need the road closed to protect the road from resource
damage and by sweeping the road and helping with any closure. Contact with SLO
County is Tim Kate (805) 801-4738. An email message sent to one of them would be
good to document coordination. The FS needs to get our lock added or a key to each
gate if it is possible.
 3- Gates located at Pozo Station. Three gates are at this location: two large gates and one
walk-through. All gates must be locked during wet weather closures. The County is in
charge of closing these gates.
 1- Gate on the Arroyo-Grande side where the paved road ends. The County is in charge of
closing this gate.
 On the Pozo side, a flip sign is located in Santa Margarita informing public that the PozoArroyo Grande road is closed (FS road 30S05).
 On the Arroyo Grande side, two signs are in place to inform visitors of gate closures. One
sign is located at the turn-off at Lopez Lake, and one sign approximately eight miles from the
turn-off to Ranchita Estates where the paved road meets the gravel.
 2- There is a gate located eight miles from Pozo Station where San Luis Obispo County and
Forest Service boundaries meet. Two gates are at this location: one large gate and one walkthrough. If the County closure works, these gates will not need to be closed.
 Garcia Ridge 4WD road gate is rarely closed.
 1- Gate is located on Hi Mountain Ridge Road that should be closed after Hi Mountain Ridge
and Hi Mountain Campground is swept.
La Brea/Colson - 5 gates – wet weather and T&E species.
 Install a flip sign at the entrance to Colson Canyon informing the public of a gate closure 4.5
miles ahead.
 1- At the Forest Boundary (if you can, notify Paul Antolini at 925-4464).
 2- On the top of Rattlesnake & Colson Canyon (FS road 11N04) there is a new pipe gate and
a Powder River gate. Both gates should be closed.
 Close the gate at Sierra Madre Road and Highway 166.
 1- Gate located below Miranda Pines Campground, approximately five miles off the
pavement on Sierra Madre Ridge road, FS Road 11N03.
42

1- Threatened and endangered species gate located two miles from Wagon Flat Campground.
This gate is closed only upon the advice of the wildlife biologist if it is needed during the
red-legged frog-breeding season, approximately February through April.
Rockfront - 2 gates – wet weather and T&E species
 1- Gate located approximately ½ mile off Highway 166 on FS Road 30S02.
 1- Gate on Shaw Ridge that is closed during red-legged frog-breeding season, approximately
February through April. Make sure a sign is posted on the gate explaining this.
 A sign is located five miles off Highway 101 on Highway 166 next to the Bull Canyon turnoff that must be updated when gate is opened and closed.
Pozo - 8 gates
 3- Three gates located at Five-Points. Gate closures for Friis Road (FS road 15E04),
Navajo Road (FS road 29S02), and Las Chiches OHV Trail 29S16.
 1- Large gate and motorcycle gate at the bottom of Navajo Road 29S02.
 2- Gates located at the entrance to Queen Bee Trail at Queen Bee Road (FS road 30S18)
and exit at Pozo Summit.
 2- Powder River gate for Powerline OHV trail located at Turkey Flats trail (FS trail
29S27) and one gate on Black Mountain road.
 2- Gates located at Pozo Summit Road (29S01). One on Pine Mtn Trail (30S17) and one
on Las Chiches Cutoff OHV Trail, 16E05A.
 Pine Mtn Trail (30S17) at Pozo Summit.
**When closed/opened, change the Pozo OHV Area sign at Santa Margarita & Red Hill
Road to match.
Figueroa Mountain
1. Figueroa dirt roads – 6 closed for wet weather
 1- Lookout
1 gate
 1- East Pinery
1 gate
 2- Zaca Ridge Rd. & 2- Catway OHV Trail
4 gates
Close the north gate on the Zaca Ridge Road & leave closed for the wet season.
2. Figueroa paved roads – 4 gates.
 1- Happy Canyon – do not close unless there is a resource damage concern (such as a
slide). Coordinate with SBRD.
 1- Sunset Valley – normally, do not close unless there is a damage concern (such as a
slide, flood or people start ripping up the areas off road to play in the mud).
 2- Figueroa – do not close unless we are expecting snow, and then close the Ranger Peak
area (two gates) to prevent motorist- pedestrian conflicts. Coordinate with SBRD.
 “Icy Road” signs need to be flipped before winter icy conditions begin and then closed
once icy conditions are over for the season.
43
West Cuesta
 Gate located where pavement turns to dirt, pass the 2nd tower. Keep it closed all year
round.
 Gate located near the 1st tower is not normally closed. The road is all-season up to the 2nd
towers.
Bates Canyon - 2 gates
 1 - Gate located past Bates Canyon Campground, approximately six miles from Highway
166. The turn-off is at Cottonwood Canyon, FS Road 11N01.
 1- Gate located four miles up dirt road at intersection of Sierra Madre Ridge Road, FS 32S13.
This gate is rarely closed & can remain open if the gate at the beginning of Sierra Madre Rd
& Hwy 166 is closed.
Recommended by:
______________________________ Date:____________________________
Tom Plymale
District Fire Management Officer
Approved By:
_____________________________ Date:______________________________
KATHLEEN PHELPS
District Ranger
APPENDIX D
44
POZO SIGN INVENTORY
STREET LEGAL VEHICLES BEYOND THIS POINT ONLY. SIGNS. INVENTORY
ROAD # 31S06 UPPER LOPEZ AT FOREST BOUNDARY. 35. 14' 00" - 120. 27' 40"
ROAD # 31S06 UPPER LOPEZ GOING TO PRIVATE PROPERTY. 35. 14' 03" - 120. 28' 15"
BLACK MTN. ROAD AT TOWER TRAIL. 35. 21' 20" - 120. 20' 43"
HWY # 58 AND REDHILL ROAD. 35. 24' 12" - 120. 16' 43"
POZO SUMMIT ROAD EAST OF QUEEN BEE ROAD. 35. 21' 27" - 120. 14' 30"
WEST CUESTA ROAD AT FOREST SERVICE GATE. 35. 23' 40" - 120. 42' 36"
BLACK MTN ROAD. FIVE POINTS. AND OHV INFORMATION BOARD 35. 22' 04" - 120. 19' 31"
POZO/ARROYO GRANDE ROAD AT FIRE STATION, AND OHV INFORMATION BOARD 35. 18' 09" - 120. 22' 32"
NAVAJO ROAD. NAVAJO BYPASS TRAIL 35. 22' 18" - 120. 18' 55"
BLACK MTN. ROAD AT TURKEY FLATS. 35. 20' 53" - 120. 21' 01"
NAVAJO ROAD EAST OF FIVE POINTS. 35. 22' 02" - 120. 19' 23"
BLACK MTN ROAD. TURKEY FLATS #2. 35. 21' 17" - 120. 20' 43"
NAVAJO ROAD WEST OF NAVAJO BYPASS TRAIL. 35. 22' 18" - 120. 18' 55"
BLACK MTN ROAD AT TOWER TRAIL. 35. 21' 20" - 120. 20' 43"
START OF WEST CUESTA ROAD.AND OHV INFORMATION BOARD 35. 20' 52" - 120. 37' 49"
NAVAJO ROAD SOUTHWEST OF NAVAJO STAGING AREA. 35. 22' 37" - 120. 17' 11"
NAVAJO ROAD AT SOUTH END OF MCGINNIS CR.TRAIL. 35. 22' 19" - 120. 18' 08"
ARROYO GRANDE / POZO ROAD.LOPEZ CANYON SIDE 35. 12' 29" - 120. 22' 09"
REDHILL ROAD. #29S02 NEAR INTERSECTION WITH POZO SUMMIT 35. 21' 25" - 120. 16' 28"
REDHILL ROAD. #29S02 NEAR INTERSECTION WITH BURNOUT AND LAS CHICHES TRAIL 35. 21' 34" - 120. 16' 28"
POZO OHV TRAIL SIGN INVENTORY
BURNOUT TRAIL #10. ON REDHILL ROAD AT NAVAJO STAGING. 35. 22' 48" - 120. 18' 54"
QUAIL TRAIL #12 ON REDHILL ROAD. 35. 22' 56" - 120. 17' 11"
BENCHMARK TRAIL # 11. ON REDHILL ROAD. 35. 23' 07" - 120. 17' 13"
BURNOUT TRAIL #10. ON REDHILL ROAD. 35. 23' 27" - 120. 17' 07"
BURNOUT TRAIL #10. ON REDHILL ROAD. 35. 23' 27" - 120. 17' 07"
BURNOUT TRAIL #10. REDHILL ROAD. 35. 22' 45" - 120. 16' 52"
GARCIA TRAIL # 18. 0N POZO/AG ROAD. 35. 15' 58" - 120. 24' 24"
HOWARDS BYPASS TRAIL # 2. ON BLACK MTN. ROAD. 35. 22' 52" - 120. 20' 49"
LAS CHICHES TRAIL # 5. REDHILL ROAD. 35. 21' 33" - 120. 16' 29"
LAS CHICHES TRAIL # 5. FIVE POINTS 35. 22' 04" - 120. 19' 29"
MCGINNIS CREEK TRAIL # 17. NAVAJO STAGING AREA. 35. 22' 40" - 120. 17' 07"
MCGINNIS CREEK TRAIL # 17. NAVAJO ROAD. 35. 22' 19" - 120. 18' 08"
NAVAJO BYPASS TRAIL # 15. NAVAJO ROAD. 35. 22' 18" - 120. 18' 16"
NAVAJO BYPASS TRAIL # 15. FRIIS ROAD. 35. 22' 23" - 120. 19' 14"
POWERLINE TRAIL # 1. TURKEY FLATS. 35. 20' 56" - 120. 21' 03"
QUEEN BEE TRAIL # 9. SOUTH OF C.G. 35. 20' 42" - 120. 13' 54"
QUEEN BEE TRAIL # 9. NORTH OF C.G. 35. 21' 09" - 120. 14' 49"
TOWER TRAIL # 4. BLACK MTN. ROAD. 35. 21' 19" - 120. 20' 42"
PINE MTN TRAIL # 8. QUEEN BEE ROAD. 35. 20' 11" - 120. 13' 32"
BENCHMARK TRAIL # 11. BURNOUT TRAIL. 35. 23' 18" - 120. 16' 56"
PINE MTN TRAIL # 8. OBSERVATION POINT. 35. 19' 37" - 120. 16' 21"
MARE SPRINGS CONECTOR AT INTERSECTION WITH BURNOUT. 35. 22' 58" - 120. 16' 48"
45
MARE SPRINGS CONECTOR AT INTERSECTION WITH BURNOUT. 35. 22' 58" - 120. 16' 48"
BURNOUT TRAIL #10. AT MARE CONECTOR. 35. 22' 58" - 120. 16' 48"
BURNOUT TRAIL #10. AT LA PANZA BYPASS TR. 35. 21' 28" - 120. 16' 05"
LA-PANZA BYPASS TRAIL #10A. AT BURNOUT TR. 35. 21' 28" - 120. 16' 05"
LAS CHICHES CUT-OFF TRAIL #6. POZO SUMMIT R.D. 35. 20' 50" - 120. 17' 40"
PINE MTN TRAIL # 8. POZO SUMMIT R.D.. 35. 20' 50" - 120. 17' 40"
QUAIL TRAIL #12 INTERSECTION WITH P,G& E. R.D.. 35. 22' 43" - 120. 17' 30"
LA- PANZA BYPASS TRAIL # 10A.ON POZO SUMMIT R.D. 35. 21' 18" - 120. 15' 05"
MCGINNIS CREEK TRAIL # 17.ACROSS FROM WILDLIFE GUZZLER 35. 22' 26" - 120. 12' 38"
MARE SPRINGS # 36 INTERSECTION WITH BURNOUT. 35. 23' 32" - 120. 16' 39"
MARE SPRINGS.UPPER.
POZO OHV BULLETIN BOARD: INVENTORY
PINE MTN OHV BULLETIN BOARD AT QUEEN BEE ROAD. 35. 19' 49" - 120. 16' 10"
WEST CUESTA ROAD AT FS. GATE. 35. 23' 40" - 120. 42' 36"
POZO STATION. 35. 18' 12" - 120. 22' 33"
TURKEY FLATS. 35.20' 54" - 120. 21' 00"
PINE MTN OBSERVATION POINT WITH OHV MAP. 35. 20' 07" - 120. 13' 53"
FRIIS CAMPGROUND 35. 22' 50" - 120. 19' 33"
NAVAJO CAMPGROUND. 35. 22' 06" - 120. 18' 42"
REDHILL ROAD. 35. 24' 11" - 120. 16' 43"
POZO ROAD AT QUEEN BEE ROAD. 35. 21' 18" - 120. 15' 02"
HI-MTN CAMPGROUND 35. 15' 40" - 120. 24' 46"
WEST CUESTA ROAD AT HWY # 101. 35. 20' 50" - 120. 37' 45"
OTHER POZO OHV SIGNS: INVENTORY
POZO LA-PANZA OHV ROADS AND TRAILS.FLIP SIGN BLACK MTN. ROAD. 35. 20' 53" - 120. 21' 01"
POZO LA-PANZA OHV ROADS AND TRAILS.FLIP SIGN REDHILL. ROAD. 35. 24' 12" - 120. 16' 43"
POZO LA-PANZA OHV ROADS AND TRAILS.FLIP SIGN SANTA MARGARITA. 35. 23' 27" - 120. 36' 03"
46
Appendix F Additional References
Selected References on OHV Trail Management1
Introduction
The literature on off-highway motorized recreation is extensive. Many bibliographies and
searchable libraries of information on OHV management are already available on the
www. Why is another necessary?
This bibliography was developed specifically for managers of native-surfaced OHV trails
used mainly by motorcycles and ATVs, and maintained with mechanized equipment. It is
an eclectic set of references intended to provide an introduction to the OHV literature for
the on-the-ground manager with limited time to keep up with the literature. The focus is
on management practices that promote sustainable use with minimal impacts to water
quality.
The published literature on OHVs is dominated by research on the impacts of OHV use,
especially from open riding. Research on sustainable management of OHV traffic
restricted to designated routes is more limited.
Although this bibliography is intended for those new to OHV management, experienced
OHV managers will also find it valuable. Several annotated bibliographies and additional
resource sites are included for those who want to delve deeper into the OHV literature.
References are grouped by management activities with a direct effect on water quality
and sustainability. Other OHV management activities that indirectly affect water quality
and sustainability have not been included in order to keep the list short.
A major effort was made to provide a url link to a pdf file for every reference. However,
the list does include a few books that must be purchased; these books have been
carefully selected and are well worth the cost. The url links were active and accurate as
of July 13, 2012.
Basic References
The following four books provide a solid foundation for understanding the references
included in sections that follow. Parker’s Natural Surface Trails by Design provides a
conceptual framework for trail design, and Chapters 5 and 7 clearly explain the
processes involved in tread wear and trail drainage. The Minnesota book is
comprehensive, and Chapter 6 clearly explains the processes of tread wear. Crimmins
and Wernex explain OHV trails from the rider’s perspective.
1 Prepared
by Roger Poff, R. J. Poff & Associates, Nevada City, CA for San Dimas Technology &
Development Center, USDA-Forest Service, under contract with NorthStar Technology Corp.
(AG-9A72-K-11-0009, NST 8501-045). June 30, 2012.
47
Parker, T.S., 2004. Natural Surface Trails by Design. Natureshape, LLC, Boulder, CO.
http://www.natureshape.com
State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 2007. Trail Planning, Design, and
Development Guidelines. St. Paul, MN.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/publications/trails_waterways/index.html
Crimmins, T.M., 2006. Management Guidelines for OHV Recreation. National OffHighway Vehicle Conservation Council, Great Falls, MT.
http://www.nohvcc.org/materials/ManageGuide.aspx
Wernex, J., 1994. Off-Highway Motorcycle and ATV Trails: Guidelines for Design,
Maintenance and User Satisfaction, 2nd Ed. American Motorcyclist Association,
Pickerington, Ohio. http://www.americantrails.org/resources/motors/index.html
OHV BMPs for Water Quality
The Forest Service Water Quality Management Handbook provides a set of BMPs for
OHV management at the Regional level (BMPs 4.7.1 through 4.7.9, pages 145-170); this
set of BMPs also includes a good discussion on hydrologic connectivity. The report by
McCullah provides a set of BMPs for management of State SVRAs, and the Trails
Unlimited report provides a set of BMPs for a specific area; both are written in the
traditional BMP format. The New Hampshire report is an example of BMPs at the State
level. The tech tip by Barrow provides specifications for arch culverts, a cost-effective
alternative to crossing watercourses with fords. Although not written specifically for OHV
trails, the publication by Furniss provides a good explanation of hydrologic connectivity.
Although written for roads, the Clarkin publication on low-water crossings provides many
concepts that can be applied to watercourse crossings on OHV trails.
U. S. Forest Service, 2011. Soil and Water Conservation Handbook, Chapt. 10 Water
Quality Management Handbook. R5 FSH 2509.22. USDA-Forest Service, Pacific SW
Region, Vallejo, CA, p. 237. http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/field/r5/fsh/2509.22/r52509-22-10-2011-1.docx
McCullah, J.A., 2007. OHV BMP Manual for Erosion and Sediment Control. State of
California Department of Parks and Recreation, Sacramento, CA, p. 317.
http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=26656
Trails Unlimited, 2012. Technical Specifications for Erosion and Sediment Control for
OHV Trails in Wolf Pen Gap, Ouachita National Forest. p. 80.
New Hampshire Bureau of Trails, 1994. Best management practices for erosion control
during trail maintenance and construction. (Updated 2004). Hampshire Department of
Resources and Economic Development, Division of Parks and Recreation, Bureau of
Trails, Concord, NH.
http://www.americantrails.org/resources/trailbuilding/NHerosioncontrol.html
Barrow, J.D., Groenier, J.S., 2012. Plastic Bottomless Arch Culverts for Trails.
Recreation Tech Tips, 1223–2315–MTDC. USDA-Forest Service, Technology &
Development Program, Missoula, MT, p. 4. http://www.fs.fed.us/eng/pubs
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Furniss, M.J., Flanagan, S.A., McFadin, B.A., 2000. Hydrologicallly-connected roads: An
indicator of the influence of roads on chronic sedimentation, surface water hydrology,
and exposure to toxic chemicals. Stream Notes, Stream Systems Technology Center.
USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fort Collins, CO.
www.fs.fed.us/news/roads/DOCSroad-analysis.shtml
Clarkin, K., Keller, G., Warhol, T., Hixson, S., 2006. Low-Water Crossings: Geomorphic,
Biological, and Engineering Design Considerations. 0625 1808—SDTDC, National
Technology and Development Program. U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service,
San Dimas, CA, p. 366. www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/pdf/LowWaterCrossings/
Trail Layout and Design
Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 6 of the Minnesota guidelines provide a framework and principles
for designing sustainable trails. The Forest Service training reference package provides
in-depth coverage of trail management objectives. Crimmins and Wernex (listed earlier)
provide an in-depth view from the rider’s perspective. Collectively, these four basic
references provide the background needed for designing a sustainable trail system.
State of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 2007. Trail Planning, Design, and
Development Guidelines. St. Paul, MN.
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/publications/trails_waterways/index.html
USDA-Forest Service, 2011. Trail Fundamentals and Trail Management Objectives:
Training Reference Package. USDA-Forest Service, Washington, D. C., p. 81.
www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5341754.pdf
Crimmins, T.M., 2006. Management Guidelines for OHV Recreation. National OffHighway Vehicle Conservation Council, Great Falls, MT.
http://www.nohvcc.org/materials/ManageGuide.aspx
Wernex, J., 1994. Off-Highway Motorcycle and ATV Trails: Guidelines for Design,
Maintenance and User Satisfaction, 2nd Ed. American Motorcyclist Association,
Pickerington, Ohio. http://www.americantrails.org/resources/motors/index.html
Trail Construction and Maintenance
The publications by Gonzales and Vachowski provide an introduction to some of the
mechanized equipment available for OHV trail construction and maintenance. Trails
2010 explains why mechanized equipment is needed to keep up with OHV trail
maintenance. The Forest Service web site on equipment is also included for more up-todate
information on mechanized equipment. A checklist to assist operators maintaining
trails with mechanized equipment is included in Poff and Ryan (2001). The trail notebook
by Hesselbarth provides useful information for all trail builders, even though it is written
for non-mechanized trail construction and maintenance. Poff (2006a) provides detailed
specifications for construction and maintenance of rolling dips, and Hamilton provides
some background on why this type of drainage structure is so important. Although the
field guide by Guenther was written for maintenance of low volume roads, it does include
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some ideas that can be adapted to OHV trails. The Meyer, Steinholtz, and Groenier
publications provide techniques for constructing trails in wet areas. The Ten-Step
checklist by Poff (2006b) provides a simple framework for restoring OHV-damaged
areas.
Gonzales, R., 1996. Mechanized Trail Equipment. 9623 1207—SDTDC. USDA Forest
Service, San Dimas Technology and Development Center, San Dimas, CA, p. 94.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/download/hep/fspubs/pdf96231207.pdf
Vachowski, B., Maier, N., 1998. Off-Highway Vehicle Trail and Road Grading Equipment.
9823-2837-MTDC. USDA-Forest Service Technology and Development Program,
Missoula, MT. http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/fspubs/98232837/index.htm
Lockwood, Cam, 2010. Trails 2010: A Trail Construction and Maintenance Update.
USDA-Forest Service, Mechanized Trail Building Equipment Web site. USDA-Forest
Service, Missoula Technology & Development Center.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/rectrails/equip/
Poff, R.J., Ryan, T., 2001. A Field Evaluation of the Use of Small Trail Tractors to
Maintain and Construct OHV Trails on National Forests in California. USDA-Forest
Service, Pacific SW Region, Vallejo, CA, p. 34.
Hesselbarth, W., Vachowski, B., Davies, M.A., 2007. Trail Construction and
Maintenance Notebook, 2007 Edition. Tech. Rep. 0723–2806–MTDC. USDA Forest
Service, Missoula Technology and Development Center, Missoula, MT, p. 166.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/recreational_trails/publications/fs_publications/072
32806/lc07232806.cfm
Poff, R.J., 2006a. Rolling grade dips for drainage of OHV trails. USDA-Forest Service,
Pacific SW Region, Vallejo, CA, p. 16.
Hamilton, N., 1991. Off-highway vehicle trail maintenance: Tractor techniques for trail
bed preservation. USDA-Forest Service, Upper Lake Ranger District, Mendocino
National Forest, p. 7.
http://nohvcclibrary.forestry.uga.edu/mgt%20ops%20and%20maintenance.html
Guenther, K., 1999. Low maintenance roads for ranch, fire and utilities access: A
practical field guide. Wildland Solutions, Clyde, CA.
http://nohvcclibrary.forestry.uga.edu/mgt%20ops%20and%20maintenance%20low%20m
aintenance%20roads%20abs.htm
Meyer, K.G., 2002. Managing Degraded Off-Highway Vehicle Trails in Wet, Unstable,
and Sensitive Environments. 0223-2821-MTDC. USDA-Forest Service, Technology and
Development Program, Missoula, MT.
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/recreational_trails/publications/fs_publications/022
32821/index.cfm
Steinholtz, R.T., Vachowski, B., 2007. Wetland Trail Design and Construction. 8E82A3—
Trail Treatment for Wet Areas. USDA Forest Service, Technology and Development
Program, Missoula, MT, p. 90. http://www.fs.fed.us/td/
php/library_card.php?p_num=0723%202804P
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Groenier, J.S., Monlux, S., Vachowski, B., 2008. Geosynthetics for Trails in Wet Areas:
2008 Edition. 0823–2813–MTDC. USDA-Forest Service, Technology & Development
Center, Missoula, MT, p. 27.
http://www.fs.fed.us/eng/php/library_card.php?p_num=0823%202813P
Poff, R.J., 2006b. Restoration of OHV-Damaged Areas - A Ten-Step Checklist. USDAForest
Service, Pacific SW Region, Vallejo, CA, p. 18.
Monitoring
On page 19 of Crimmins there is a short list of basic questions to ask before setting up a
monitoring plan. A method for trail condition monitoring to determine the need for
maintenance is described in the California State Parks 2008 Soil Conservation Standard
and Guidelines. The publications by Lucey and Hall on photo point monitoring are not
specific to trails, but provide basic guidelines for this simple and cost-effective
monitoring. For trails, the key to photopoint monitoring is to establish random points
across the whole trail network, and then follow a consistent protocol. Chilman is an
example of long-term monitoring of an OHV area. Generally, OHV managers should
focus on trail condition monitoring and photo point monitoring, but if more quantitative
monitoring is needed, tread loss can be monitored using an erosion bridge as described
by Ranger, or by collection of sediment in a silt fence trap as described in Robichaud.
Crimmins, T.M., 2006. Management Guidelines for OHV Recreation. National OffHighway Vehicle Conservation Council, Great Falls, MT.
http://www.nohvcc.org/materials/ManageGuide.aspx
CA State Parks, 2008. 2008 Soil Conservation Standard and Guidelines. California State
Parks, OHMVR Division, Sacramento, CA, p. 54.
http://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=26656
Lucey, W.P., Barraclough, C.L., 2001. A User Guide to Photopoint Monitoring
Techniques for Riparian Areas- Field Test Edition. Aqua-Tex Scientific Consulting Ltd.,
Kimberley, B.C. cmnmaps.ca/cmn/files/methods/pdfs/ppmAqatex.pdf
Hall, F.C., 2002. Photo Point Monitoring Handbook: Part A–Field Procedures. General
Technical Report PNW-GTR-526. USDA-Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research
Station, Portland, OR, pp. 1-48. www.fs.fed.us/pnw/pubs/gtr526/
Hall, F.C., 2002. Photo Point Monitoring Handbook: Part B–Concepts and Analysis.
General Technical Report PNW-GTR-526. USDA-Forest Service Pacific Northwest
Research Station, Portland, OR, pp. 49-134. www.treesearch.fs.fed.us/pubs/3255
Chilman, K.C., Vogel, J.J., Conley, J.L., 1991. Turkey Bay: Off-Road vehicle area at land
Between the Lakes. Monitoring use and impacts since 1973. Motorcycle Industry
Council; Land Between the Lakes Association; Land Between the Lakes, Tennessee
Valley Authority; Department of Forestry, Southern Illinois University, p. 36.
http://nohvcclibrary.forestry.uga.edu/ei%20inventorying.html
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Ranger, G.E., Frank, F.F., 1978. The 3-F Erosion Bridge--A New Tool for Measuring
Erosion. Range Improvement Studies. State of California, The Resources Agency,
Department of Forestry, Sacramento, CA, p. 10.
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:QdzjuVo-wsoJ:ftp://ftpfc.
sc.egov.usda.gov/OR/Technical_Notes/Agronomy/Agronomy51.pdf+The+3F+Erosion+Bridge-A+New+Tool+for+Measuring+Erosion.+Range+Improvement+Studies.+State+of+Califor
nia,+The+Resources+Agency&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEESiRO8UgyZbvu9PQ9
3yGrerjhbRfn6SNHRCmx8Zb50cMQXAb1ixyDy0O1ky7HoaKp5mJxFUtyvoXlBp6WKceze703zJnIDnIp
5eU5eytBi1gGHHVNqJtz1t719OTizA301BhdG&sig=AHIEtbRuY9WGR1ZhbviOds0jkxggCnQD9Q
Robichaud, P.R., Brown, R.E., 2002. Silt fences: an economical technique for measuring
hillslope soil erosion. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-94. USDA-Forest Service, Rocky
Mountain Research Station, Fort Collins, CO, p. 24.
http://www.treesearch.fs.fed.us/pubs/4543/
OHV Parks
A good publication for the design and management of OHV parks and concentrated use
areas is Fogg.
Fogg, G.E., 2002. Park Guidelines for OHVs: A resource guide to assist in the planning,
development, enhancement, and operation of OHV recreation facilities. National OffHighway Vehicle Conservation Council, Sheboygan, WI.
http://nohvcclibrary.forestry.uga.edu/management%20site%20planning.html
Effects of OHV Traffic
Most of the research on the effects of OHV traffic is related to uncontrolled open riding.
Managers of designated OHV trails are not usually concerned with this, but may need
references to some of this literature for grant applications or for environmental analysis.
Ouren is a recent and extensive annotated bibliography on the effects of OHV traffic.
Stokowski is another extensive annotated bibliography. Although not recent, the
frequently cited book by Webb covers the literature on OHV for arid lands up through the
1980s and includes extensive bibliographies. The article by Cole discusses the impacts
of non-motorized recreation on wildlands.
Ouren, D.S., Haas, C., Melcher, C.P., Stewart, S.C., Ponds, P.D., Sexton, N.R., Burris,
L., Fancher, T., Bowen, Z.H., 2007. Environmental Effects of Off-highway Vehicles on
Bureau of Land Management Lands: A literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies,
extensive bibliographies, and internet resources. Open-file report 2007-1353. U.S.
Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey, Reston, VA, p. 225.
http://purl.access.gpo.gov/GPO/LPS97030
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Stokowski, P.A., LaPointe, C.B., 2000. Environmental and Social Effects of ATVs and
ORVs: An Annotated Bibliography and Research Assessment. School of Natural
Resources, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, p. 32.
atfiles.org/files/pdf/ohvbibliogVT00.pdf
Webb, R.H., Wilshire, H.G. (Eds.), 1983. Environmental effects of off-road vehicles:
impacts and management in arid regions. Springer-Verlag, New York. (out of print, but
can be found in libraries)
Cole, D.N., 2004. Environmental impacts of outdoor recreation in wildlands. In:
Manfredo, M.J., Vaske, J.J., Bruyere, B.L., Field, D.R., Brown, P.J. (Eds.), Society and
Natural Resources--A Summary of Knowledge. Modern Litho, Jefferson, Missouri, pp.
107-116. http://www.treesearch.fs.fed.us/pubs/23890
Additional Resources
The following websites are excellent sources of additional information on management
of OHV trails. They include searchable databases, pdf files for download, book reviews,
on-line bookstores, and links to additional resources.
National Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Conservation Council http://www.nohvcc.org/
American Trails http://www.americantrails.org
U.S. Forest Service Technology and Development Centers
http://www.fs.fed.us/eng/techdev/
Federal Highway Administration, Recreational Trails Program
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/recreational_trails/resources/
Professional Trail Builders Association http://trailbuilders.org/