Agenda 08-14-2001 - 9c - Laserfiche WebLink

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L 26 Specific Impacts of Proposed Uses Hiking ♦ Widening of trails to avoid muddy areas ♦ Compaction of soils at attraction sites (at edge of river, at scenic viewpoints) ♦ Shearing on downslopes in wet conditions Hiking with companion dogs ♦ Dogs can increase disturbance of wildlife • Less predictable • Sometimes chase and kill wildlife • Evoke a predator-alarm response ♦ Impact is less if dogs are on a leash and don't leave the trail Mountain Bikes ♦ Less compaction of soils (less downward force) ♦ Less shearing on downslope than horses or hikers only if riders don't ride breaks ♦ Shearing on uphill sections if wet due to wheel-slip ♦ Development of ruts 4 increased erosion • In wet soils • When riders skid with hard breaking ♦ Some riders form new trails (single-track) off established pathways Equestrian ♦ Loosen hillside soils and initiate erosion ♦ Shearing on downslope, especially in wet conditions ♦ Compaction of soils due to heavy loads but sometimes maintain permeability by loosening soils ♦ Deepen trails during wet periods 4 development of braided, parallel trails when hikers and horses avoid these deep trails ♦ Wear trails three times more than hikers ♦ Damage to trees from tying horses ♦ Introduction of exotics ♦ Less disturbance of wildlife—many animals are less afraid of horseback riders than hikers To Reduce Impacts ♦ Construct trails with proper drainage to reduce wet soils and pools on the trail ♦ Limit the number of trails ♦ Create narrower trails or utilize existing edges to reduce edge effects ♦ Provide adequate mileage and varied trails to reduce the creation of impromptu trails ♦ Leave undisturbed places for wildlife breeding and refuge ♦ Avoid building trail continuously close to riparian areas ♦ Design appropriate places to tie horses ♦ Educate users—"Leave No Trace" is-t