ORVs have significant environmental impacts, especially in fragile habitats such as wetlands, deserts and tundras. ORVs can cause harm to ecosystems and soils in areas much greater than the constructed trail, since trails themselves generally expand and change over time. As ORV riders move further and further off trail to avoid muddy areas or obstacles, such as fallen trees, the trail widens. Even where ORV use is restricted to trails, the rules are often not effectively enforced. The use of ORVs often causes substantial erosion of the soils on which they travel.
Soil erosion can expose the roots of plants.
Displaced soil can bury downslope vegetation. Displaced soil typically finds its way into waterways, which can negatively impact aquatic species. Soil Compaction Primarily because of their weight, ORVs tend to compact the soils on which they are driven. Compacted soil can cause damage to surface vegetation, disrupt nutrient cycling, and negatively affect the ability of roots to penetrate the soil. Pollution Off-road vehicles are allowed to pollute our air, water, and soil.