ATVs and Environmental Safety Can Indeed Go Hand in Hand

There is no doubt that there has been plenty of contention between some ATV riders and those who seek to protect our environment. In fact, some people believe that there can be no satisfactory middle ground between the two. ATV Discounter is here to remind everyone that all - terrain vehicles and those who ride them can enjoy their fun, still protect the environment and help keep it safe for everyone.

If you've ever spent a summer day out riding an ATV, you know how much fun it can be. Feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face while you’re trail riding as a family or group of friends is a great way to enjoy getting outside and having some fun while enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. In fact, it is safe to say that most ATV enthusiasts love nature and the great outdoors as much as anyone else.

Of course, there are a few bad apples in every crowd. It's true that some off-road riders feel they should be allowed to ride anywhere and any way that they want to with no concern for the future of the wetlands or other protected areas that they encounter. It’s unfortunate, because, like so many things, it makes things tough for those who play by there rules. There are simple, easy-to-do steps that all ATV riders can take that can bring both sides of this issue a little closer together.

When you go out for your next ride, keep these three suggestions in mind to help keep your impact on the environment as minimal as possible:

•    Ride only on approved trails that are designated for off-road vehicles. According to the Bureau of Land Management, there are 264 million acres of public land across the western part of the US and in Alaska. Nearly 93 percent of this land is accessible in same form to ATV riders. In addition, our National Forests are filled with more than 400,000 miles of roads and trails. There are only two National Forests, Hoosier in Indiana and Monongahela in West Virginia, that don't allow ATV riding. So it's easy to see that there are a multitude of places to ride without damaging wetlands, wilderness lands or other public lands.

•    When you are riding on approved trails, keep your ATV in the center of the road or trail you are on. Riding on the edges of trails contributes to the erosion of the road and the dirt and gravel winds up in the wetlands and waters. This can be very disruptive and damaging to the plant and animal life that thrive there, so take care.

•    One more easy way to limit damage to the environment is to avoid muddy trails. Yes, it's true, runnin' through the mud can be a lot of fun, but the tires on an ATV can really tear up a muddy trail.

There's no reason you can't have a great time riding your ATV all year long. By taking a few easy steps to show your concern for our beautiful natural wetlands and wilderness, you can help avoid further legislation restricting more areas where ATV's are not allowed.

ATV Discounter, at www.atvdiscounter.com, is happy to help you with all your ATV needs. For great prices and the kind of customer service you deserve, go to www.atvdiscounter.com today. You’ll be glad you did!