county resource management plan- utah（县资源管理计划-犹他）.docVIP

Non-Motorized Trails Pathways Draft 07/22/04 Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife Resources Issue Overview The purpose of this section is to provide information and boilerplate language that will help to provide a basic understanding of the issue by factually describing the issue, its scope, and dimensions. Options Trade-Offs Demand for non-motorized trails, pathways and open space is on the rise across the State. In 2002, Utah State University’s Institute for Outdoor Recreation and Tourism performed a statewide opinion survey to determine trail issues and needs by planning districts or regions of the state. The study revealed strong support and use levels of trails in all areas of Utah. Among other things, the study found that trail use is very much a family affair in Utah; 4 of 5 trail users say they have benefited personally from trails; hiking is the most frequent trail activity (71 percent); and 80 percent of trail users agree there are economic benefits from trails. In general, many of these same issues apply to a given county. Potential for Conflict While the uses of non-motorized trails, pathways and open space are fairly “clean” activities; there are a number of financial and other impacts. There are initial costs to trail development and open space acquisition. These features and activities frequently require property acquisition and facility development. There is a certain amount of liability regarding the construction (e.g., established standards), maintenance and removal of hazards associated with these facilities and activities. There will be costs associated with the operation and maintenance of these resources. There can be impacts on community infrastructure too. There can be increased search and rescue needs, and impacts on the community’s ability to provide sanitation, water, food, and lodging for visitors. Range of Alternatives The following are some major management objectives identified in the 2003 State Comprehen