Effects of all-terrain vehicle trails on stream channel characteristics, Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas

Abstract

Research shows that road and trail crossings have negative impacts on forest streams, and that off-road vehicles are detrimental to the environment. However, little information is available concerning the effects of such vehicles on stream channels and riverine environments. This research investigates the effects of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), one of the many types of off-road vehicles, on stream channel characteristics in the Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas, where the Wolf Pen Gap All-Terrain Vehicle Trail system was built and opened to public use in 1991. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in stream pool characteristics between the "pristine" control stream (Caney Creek) and those affected by ATV trails (Board Camp Creek and Gap Creek) in the national forest. Pools in Board Camp Creek and Gap Creek were found to have increased amounts of sands and fines, higher values of embeddedness, lower depths, and less volume. These characteristics are consistent with observations that ATV trails are primary sources of sediment input into stream channels. Statistical differences in pool characteristics between streams affected by forest roads (Brushy Creek) and those by ATV trails were also revealed, although forest roads apparently impact streams to a lesser extent than ATV trails. The effects of roads and trails on stream pool characteristics were illustrated using Geographic Information Systems. These findings have important implications for the ecological integrity of stream systems in areas affected by ATV trails. They also contribute potentially valuable information in the management context.