Feinstein’s Desert Bill

While I agree with the thesis of his column, it nonetheless exposes Caneva’s ignorance and widely held prejudice that “dirt bikers” deprecate the desert.

There is no convincing scientific evidence (but much ecofreak rhetoric) that motorcyclists have significantly impacted any desert species or community, caused significant erosion, or interfered with other desert recreational pursuits. On the contrary, inadequately controlled land and water development, extended drought and disease have inflicted significant measurable adverse impacts on the desert’s physical and biological resources.

In 25 years of off-road motorcycling I have consistently observed that the vast majority of ORM enthusiasts stay firmly on established roads and trails. To do otherwise in varying and unpredictable desert terrain is dangerous, and of course, illegal in most areas.

Like Caneva, most off-road motorcyclists flock to the desert not only to pursue their sport, but also to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity. The desert closure bill, which for good reason failed in three previous attempts to pass congressional committee, would reserve such enjoyment only for the few hikers willing to carry a lot of water on their backs.

DAVID W. KAY

Mar Vista