The MiWok District map was more controversial. It would allow extensive OHV routes to crisscross the Deer Creek and Hull Creek watersheds - both of which have a wide range of resource values that conflict with OHV use. In some areas the routes would traverse right through nest stands of at-risk species such as the northern goshawk and the California spotted owl. In other areas OHV routes would run right across streams (the photo at left shows an existing user-created stream-crossing). If such routes are approved, streambanks would continue to be eroded, riparian plants damaged, and water quality degraded.
The most controversial part of the new MiWok District plan is the Forest Service's proposal to continue to allow OHV use within the critical winter deer range in the Deer and Rose Creek basins. Deer population data compiled for that area by State Fish and Game specialists shows that fawn to doe ratios are low and that overall deer numbers are also well below historic levels.
One deer expert told CSERC staff: "OHVs may not be totally to blame for the deer problem in that area, but OHV use is certainly one additional factor on top of the other problems." CSERC is pressing the Forest Service to halt OHV use in that important wildlife area - especially during the key period when deer over-winter within those two basins.
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