BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA – The Ninth Circuit Court Panel released its opinion on August 15th stating that the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (ISDRA) Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP) will be upheld and motorized recreation will continue to be an allowable use as indicated in the 2013 Record of Decision (ROD). The federal three-judge panel unanimously rejected the plaintiffs claim that opening additional land to OHV use violated several national laws including the Endangered Species Act, Clean Air Act, the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act. Part of the ROD included the reopening of 49,300 acres of administrative closures.
Fred Wiley, President and CEO of the Off-Road Business Association is thrilled with this victory. “For the past 15 plus years and almost constant litigation, we have been handed a huge win from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. This has set an important precedent and has far greater implications for the future of land use decisions.”
The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, also known as the Glamis, is a unique and popular area for motorized enthusiasts and is located in Imperial County in Southern California. The area spans 214,000 acres; with 127,000 acres open to OHV use and approximately 9,000 acres are closed to OHV use. This area is protected for critical habitat and includes the Pierson’s milk-vetch and the management of the North Algodones Dunes Wilderness.
“The steadfast support from ORBA’s members and important partnerships with American Sand Association and American Motorcyclist Association District 37 (EcoLogic Partners) has been key to the long and arduous endeavor.” Mr. Wiley and the ORBA Board of Directors want to recognize and thank everyone whom participated in this enduring process.
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Fred Wiley, President and CEO of the Off-Road Business Association is thrilled with this victory. “For the past 15 plus years and almost constant litigation, we have been handed a huge win from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. This has set an important precedent and has far greater implications for the future of land use decisions.”
The Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, also known as the Glamis, is a unique and popular area for motorized enthusiasts and is located in Imperial County in Southern California. The area spans 214,000 acres; with 127,000 acres open to OHV use and approximately 9,000 acres are closed to OHV use. This area is protected for critical habitat and includes the Pierson’s milk-vetch and the management of the North Algodones Dunes Wilderness.
“The steadfast support from ORBA’s members and important partnerships with American Sand Association and American Motorcyclist Association District 37 (EcoLogic Partners) has been key to the long and arduous endeavor.” Mr. Wiley and the ORBA Board of Directors want to recognize and thank everyone whom participated in this enduring process.
Continue reading...