Enjoy your BLM lands responsibly

Steelhead and big game hunting season are here in North Idaho. Salmon fishing season is right around the corner. A day spent hunting or enjoying the great outdoors on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management should be filled with great memories.

The BLM wants to help ensure that your time spent on our national public lands continues to be a rewarding experience. Please note some of the common mistakes outdoor recreationists make and avoid spoiling a great day outdoors. The following regulations apply to all BLM managed lands:

• Off-road vehicles must be registered. Make sure your ATV, UTV or motorcycle has a current off-road sticker displayed.

• Off-road vehicle operators must possess a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.

• Children under 18 must wear a helmet while riding an ATV, UTV or motorcycle.

• Stay on designated routes when using your ATV. Irresponsible ATV use can quickly destroy vegetation and leave lasting scars upon the land.

• Do not drink and drive while operating an ATV. Alcohol is a common factor in many off-road vehicle crashes. Open containers of alcohol may not be transported by any motorized vehicle, including off-road vehicles.

• Be alert to road closures. Areas may be closed to motorized use in order to protect wildlife habitat, archeological resources or for a variety of other reasons. Please do not ride around closed gates, berms or other physical barriers which clearly indicate non-motorized use only.

• Do not discharge a firearm within developed recreation areas such as campgrounds and picnic areas.

• Do not use fireworks on BLM or other federally managed lands.

• Remember to follow all Idaho Fish and Game Regulations.

Specifically along the Salmon River corridor managed by the BLM (Vinegar Creek to the confluence of the Snake River):

• A fire pan is required. The fire pan must contain all the ash and debris from a campfire. This helps to keep the beaches along the river clean for other visitors. Please remember to take the ashes with you for proper disposal - dumping the ash on the beach defeats the whole purpose!

• A portable toilet is required. This regulation is designed to keep the beaches clean and sanitary for other visitors.

BLM Rangers assist visitors and enforce regulations such as these that are designed to protect natural resources. Your awareness to these regulations will help you enjoy your public lands and help us ensure they remain for future generations of Americans.

The local BLM field offices in Cottonwood and Coeur d'Alene also have free pamphlets regarding activities on BLM lands.

Information: http://www.blm.gov/id/st/en.html or Cottonwood office, (208) 962-3797 or Coeur d'Alene office, (208) 769-5000