Illegal Off-Road Activity At Lake Roosevelt NRA

Published Date

April 12, 2023

Off-road activity is illegal in a national park site, it's ugly, and it can leave lasting damage, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area / NPS File

Law enforcement rangers were recently dispatched to dirt bike and ATV activity on the drawdown at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area. Not only is it a federal crime to drive off road in national park sites, like Lake Roosevelt, but it can damage known or unknown cultural sites and artifacts as well as natural features. It’s also a safety risk in areas of deep mud where people and vehicles can become stuck.

Under federal law, anyone who causes injury to or destroys National Park Service property or natural or cultural sites can be held personally liable for the cost to investigate and assess the damage, to restore the property or resources, and to compensate the American people.

Operating vehicles off park roads or outside designated areas is a violation of Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations and is subject to a maximum fine of $5,000 and up to six months in prison.

Violations related to wildlife, plants, and/or natural or cultural features carry a maximum penalty of $5,000 and/or six months in prison.

Endangered Species Act violations can result in fines of up to $50,000, one year in prison, and civil penalties up to $25,000.

Damage to or destruction of archaeological resources in violation of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act carry a maximum penalty of $20,000 and two years in prison.

If you see what appears to be vehicle, ATV, dirt bike, etc. off-roading, please report it to a national park ranger, ranger station, or call 509-754-7800. You can also leave a message on the Lake Roosevelt NPS Facebook page.

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