Tread responsibly and enjoy your public lands

Tires chirp along rock ledges searching to gain purchase; they squish over rocks and boulders — driver and spectators focus intently on the obstacle. While the challenging ups and downs of the trail are the main events for any “Jeeper” during Easter Jeep Safari, many visitors also choose to participate in a number of volunteer opportunities throughout the event. 

This year, the BLM partnered with Jeep, Tread Lightly!, Grand County Motorized Trail Committee, and Red Rock 4-Wheelers to make improvements to several OHV trails in the area. Jeep donated enough buck-and-rail fencing to use at two project sites. The fencing was used at parking and staging areas along designated trails — Dome Plateau, at the Tub Canyon obstacle, and along the Top of the World trail. 

"It's no secret that Jeep brand holds a deep appreciation for Moab and Grand County, Utah. The region's remarkable landscapes and off-road trails provide an unparalleled experience, while allowing us to engage with the local community and the thousands of Jeep enthusiasts who convene here annually" said Mike Koval Jr., senior vice president and head of sales operations, Jeep brand. "We are grateful to the Bureau of Land Management for their continuous stewardship of these exceptional public lands, and to the Red Rock 4-Wheelers who care for the 4x4 trails and organize the world-renowned Easter Jeep Safari event where we get to come play. We understand that with this privilege comes responsibility: It is our honor to be able to lend a hand in the stewardship of these trails." 

The goal for these projects was to delineate the routes, protect natural resources and improve trails by installing 1200 feet of buck-and-rail fencing, which serves to eliminate confusion at obstacles or parking, staging and air-down areas. 

At Dome Plateau, the Tub Canyon obstacle had many unnecessary bypasses that were in worse shape than the original obstacle. Not only did the trail braiding cause confusion, it also disturbed the natural landscape around the area. Buck-and-rail fencing was installed to address the problem areas and facilitate a better user experience. 

Along the Top of the World trail, BLM and volunteers installed a kiosk at the entrance and a wayside sign, both donated by Tread Lightly!, in the open area before the route gets more technical. This area was slowly edging into the natural spaces surrounding it, causing damage to the landscape. Additionally, the trail braiding made it difficult to navigate in a coherent and manageable way. Now, thanks to new fencing, there is a designated turn-around/staging area, clearly marked and easy to follow. The crew also installed buck-and-rail along the trail leading to certain viewpoints to ensure vehicles do not continue to encroach on the surrounding natural areas.  

“We appreciate the continued partnerships with permittees, such as Red Rock 4-Wheelers, Tread Lightly! and leaders in the industry such as Jeep. For more than a decade, these partners have been donating materials, supplies and their invaluable labor to improve motorized trails within the Moab Field Office,” said Jennifer Jones, assistant field manager for recreation. “Working together to reduce damage on the iconic trails, improve the directional and information signs, and define the designated trails and obstacles by installing fencing is paramount to sustaining access to these amazing lands.” 

At Top of the World, the primary obstacle has become more challenging, leading users to create two bypasses. One of these bypasses will continue to be accessible as an alternative route, while maintaining trail sustainability. 

“We’re incredibly grateful for the dedicated volunteers and BLM staff who contributed their time and energy to help protect and preserve the iconic ‘Top of the World’ trail during this year’s Easter Jeep Safari. These collaborative efforts exemplify what’s possible when agencies, organizations, and the off-road community come together with a shared commitment to responsible recreation,” said Kabe Wolf, Utah program manager for Tread Lightly!. “Every shovel of dirt moved, and every sign installed plays a part in protecting access and promoting conservation. Thank you to everyone who showed up, got their hands dirty, and demonstrated what stewardship truly means. Your work ensures that the beauty and integrity of this landscape will be enjoyed for years to come." 

Balancing user experience and the protection of public lands is no easy task. The BLM’s relationship with its many OHV partners and the community is essential to understanding needs, collaborating on projects, and finding solutions for common concerns on trail.