Responsible stewards

I recently embarked upon an excursion to a section of the Flatside Wilderness Area in the Ouachita National Forest. This is one of my favorite outdoor destinations, and for good reason.

First and foremost, those who are willing to do a little bushwhacking are apt to happen upon one of the most impressive waterfalls throughout our section of the state. In fact, there are four substantial waterfalls that I am aware of lurking within the perimeter of this designated acreage. And I wouldn’t be surprised if even more of these water spectacles are hidden in this 9,500-acre section of the forest, as well.

The wilderness area also holds a special place in my heart, as it is where I experienced my first bear encounter. Let alone the fact that special regulations have been posted to ensure these designated wilderness areas remain as pristine and untampered by man as possible.

I appreciate the fact that no motorized vehicles are allowed within the perimeters if wilderness areas. And although I, too, enjoy riding a mountain bike, I am perfectly OK that they are not allowed at this particular destination, as there is something to be said about the opportunity to experience locations where the only tracks left behind are those of native wildlife and those who enjoy a trek into the depths of the forest.

Rolling to a stop and parking my rig at a gate, I was eager to continue my journey along the unsurfaced route via foot. However, I grew somewhat concerned upon noticing a well- used trail making its way around the post. It appeared to be far too wide and worn for foot traffic. And upon easing closer it quickly grew evident that someone had been frequenting the wilderness area via an ATV.

I wasn’t overly surprised however, as the annual hunting season had recently drawn to a close. It isn’t uncommon for folks to travel to their stands on four wheelers and other off-road vehicles. And if they remained on the old road trace, I supposed that little harm would be done. But my sentiments began to change, as I continued walking along the dirt road. Before long, I started noticed a cigarette butt lying in the right-of-way, and a candy wrapper had been discarded a little farther down the road.

I then recalled yet another occasion when I visited this location and happened upon a spot where someone had recently camped alongside the creek. I certainly had no problem with folks camping. But the fact that they had left several beverage cans and a couple of dirty diapers on the premises was beyond excuse.

Don’t get me wrong. I am not remotely insinuating that all ATV owners are guilty of destroying property and ignoring regulations. And I’m not knocking folks who utilize public lands for camping. I know folks who participate in both activities, who are great stewards of Mother Nature. In fact, I’ll go one step farther and suggest that those who are guilty of trashing public lands are few.

However, facts are facts. And there are those who have no respect whatsoever for this state’s greatest natural resource. And one can rest assured that anybody who remotely thinks that these the actions of these culprits does not affect us couldn’t be more wrong.

I will be quick to agree that decisions made by government agencies often make little sense. And I often question how often these decisions are politically driven.

But in their defense, there are also times when regulations are posted as a result of Joe Public’s actions. And the aforementioned accounts of people showing no respect for public lands or regulations are perfect examples of why newer and stiffer regulations are sometimes devised. And in turn, those of us who respect Mother Nature also pay the price by losing privileges.

So what to do? To be honest, I’m not sure that I can produce a valid and sensible answer to that question. One can hardly force others to share their convictions. I fact, I would suggest that one think long and hard prior to approaching someone who is obviously ignoring set rules and regulations.

As for the agencies that are expected to enforce rules and regulations throughout our forests, I

think it would be safe to say that they are not staffed with the manpower to police millions of acres adequately.

That all being said, our hands are somewhat tied. But maybe, just maybe, those who have previously been guilty of ignoring rules and mistreating our forests will come to an understanding that their actions will only lead to stiffer regulations. And with a little luck, they will show at least some consideration for others, and recognize that their irresponsible choices have an adverse effect on each and every person who shares their quest to spend time in the wonderful outdoors.