Introduction
Quite common in tourism, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have many types of negative impacts on the environment. Firstly, these vehicles change the forest soil, making it more compact. In such an environment, many forest plants do not have the opportunity to develop (Ferrera et al., 2022). This effect created by ATVs is irreversible and does not imply methods of restoration. Moreover, ATVs are much more common in mountainous terrain, where the fertile layer is quite unstable. Active travel on the slopes on such vehicles involves desertification of the terrain (Lesson 3.2, n.d.). In order to carry out restoration, a wildlife preserve and artificial landscaping in this area will be required.
The Meaning of the Topic
The popularity of ATV riding remains at a fairly high level. Even in every small town, there is a rental office for this type of transport, which allows tourists to explore natural landscapes. Concern about the impact of this type of tourism on the environment grows out of the fact that many of the effects have become visible not only to environmentalists (Ferrera et al., 2022). For example, residents of many mountainous areas have noted that frequent ATV rides have led to the scaring away of animals and the disappearance of many species of shrubs (Ferrera et al., 2022). Similar changes can be seen in the flat forest areas. Initially seemingly harmless, this recreational activity has become a significant threat to many ecosystems around the world. It should not be overlooked that these means of transportation are actively used by farmers for professional purposes, which also has a negative impact on the environment.
Negative Impact on the Surrounding Environment
One of the most obvious changes provoked by ATVs is the scaring away of animals by noise. Standing at the foot of a mountain or the edge of a forest, many people will be able to hear the sound of engines operating at a distance of several kilometers. This creates considerable stress for the fauna, which are forced to migrate to neighboring, less habitable areas. The next major change is the compaction of the soil and the associated structural changes. The level of fertility changes, and excessive water runoff forms, with no space for infiltration (Ferrera et al., 2022). The soil eventually drains into water bodies and forms sediments that make it very difficult for fish and other animals to live.
Consequently, the composition and quality of water changes, which affects not only the life of animals but also violates the growth of algae. It is impossible not to mention the purely mechanical damage to plants and shrubs that occurs when traveling on ATVs through overgrown terrain (Ferrera et al., 2022). Finally, collets left by ATV treads form significant destruction (Ferrera et al., 2022). Micro swamps made in places where these vehicles pass attract frogs, leaving them in considerable danger.
How the Destruction Can Be Avoided
The main way to change the situation is to reform the legislation and create stricter regulations for the use of ATVs. In places that have the status of nature reserves or wildlife sanctuaries, this type of transportation should be prohibited. In the same areas that have already been significantly affected by ATVs, it is necessary to introduce a special regime prohibiting the use of any type of transport with engines (Ferrera et al., 2022). In the future, it is vital to carry out active work on the restoration of the composition of the water by purifying it (Ferrera et al., 2022). It is important to plant forests and bushes affected by this transport, and years after such works, you can expect restoration of flora and fauna life.
Measures to regulate the riding of ATVs should be introduced not only for tourism but also for agriculture. Time limits should be set for farmers who often use this vehicle to explore pastures (Ferrera et al., 2022). Moreover, there should be a radius beyond which it is forbidden to ride a quad bike in the wilderness and punishable by a serious fine or arrest.
Conclusion
The main harm from ATVs manifests itself in scaring away animals, polluting water, and changing the quality of soil. The main way to change the situation is to reform the legislation regulating the use of this type of transport. Restoration of already affected areas requires the creation of sanctuaries.
Significant financial investments are needed for water purification and the creation of favorable conditions for plants and animals. In my experience, I can recall some episodes where areas popular with ATV drivers became sanctuaries, resulting in the improvement of the state of the ecosystems.
References
Lesson 3.2 (n.d.) Web.
Ferrera, G. R., Alexander, M. M., Wiggins, W. P., Kirschner, C., & Darrow, J. J. (2022). The legal and ethical environment of business: An integrated approach. Wolters Kluwer.