I have a few questions I would like you to answer if possible. How are the trails and parks maintained in order to protect the environment and surrounding areas? What kind of impact has there been on the local wildlife in these areas? I know some of the fees go into rebuilding and maintaining these areas, but how do you guys/gals feel about the fees? Are they too high or not high enough? Let me know your views and opinions. Please keep your answers as straight forward and constructive as possible (some critisizm welcome). I don't want to hear about the battles we face against environmentalists, that is an obvious downer for us all. Thank you everyone? I look forward to hearing what you have to say!:thumb::beer::thumb:
The only fee site I have have used is the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area outside of Safford Az.
How are the trails and parks maintained in order to protect the environment and surrounding areas? The only trails that are maintained is the access road and parking area around the restrooms, hot tubs and pay station. The trails (primarily quads and dirt bike) are simply carved into the area by the riders.
What kind of impact has there been on the local wildlife in these areas? Still seeing loads of lizards and rabbits on the trails. Around the camp sites there are bull frogs and "kangaroo mice" every now and again you see some water birds (the wet areas are posted against off road traffic)
I know some of the fees go into rebuilding and maintaining these areas, but how do you guys/gals feel about the fees? Are they too high or not high enough? The fees are very fair. It seems that the site is well maintained and improvements with additional restrooms etc. Day use permits for camping etc (to just drive around the area if your Jeep is tagged for highway use then no fee needed)
It seems to me.:twocents: that this site was set aside primarily for quads etc. A large area fenced off from the rest of the desert with lots of sand to encourage use of this area rather than free wheeling across the desert. Great idea IMHO since most people do not Tread Lightly when out in the open desert. There is a police presence as well as ranger presence out there to minimize the "drinking and riding" as well as the super reckless behavior.
I have not used this site since I had a serious quad accident (not at this site) I do NOT intend utilize this site with my Jeep because:
1. The trails etc are littered with quads and side by sides running very fast and drivers who are not expecting to see larger machines.
2. The general perception of the area is a party ride site. Not always the cleanest site (cans, trash etc). This is not an image I want related back to me (or Jeeps)