The Georgia Times Union reports all terrain vehicles are wreaking havoc on the state's wildlife. Drivers of off-road vehicles are illegally roving in areas off limits. This is damaging natural wetlands and making wildnerness vulnerable to wild fires. State officials say they are to blame for two recent fires that burned five acres on the coast.
The problem is year-round, officials say, but worsens during spring and summer when recreation high, which puts hikers and birdwatchers at risk not to mention the wildlife. The all-terrain vehicles have flattened native plants and caused erosion which has disturbed animals’ raising their young.
The State plans to crackdown on violators. The punishment for riding an All-terrain vehicle in a Wildlife Management Area can be up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $1,000.
