But the reality is grim.

The escalating popularity of jeeps, motorcycles, four-wheelers and other outdoor toys, combined with a lack of rules, has allowed OHV riders to have a field day, literally. Some of them show nothing but disdain for their own negative impact on the land and what it contains

The U.S. Forest Service has called unmanaged OHV use the biggest threat facing national forests and the natural resources they contain. A minority of OHV users who don't seem to understand, or don't care, how fragile these lands are have caused erosion, damaged watershed and wildlife habitat, ruined cultural sites and artifacts, and further endangered plant and animal species that are protected under federal law.

Quiet recreationists - cyclists, hikers, horseback riders and backpackers - are dissuaded from using the same public lands by the roar of the OHV engines across the open country

To address the problem, Dixie National Forest managers have written new rules for motorized vehicle use within the forest. It's about time.

The proposal would reduce the free-for-all that now exists in the 1.9 million-acre forest that comprises parts of six Utah counties: Garfield, Iron, Piute, Kane, Washington and Wayne.

Cross-country riding and some old trails that threaten sensitive areas rightly would be eliminated and a new system of trails would be designated. Enforcement, always a challenge, will depend in part on the cooperation of responsible OHV riders who don't like to see others degrade the environment and bring on further restrictions.

Members of the public can comment on the plan - and they should - during meetings scheduled this week in Bicknell and Cedar City and on June 25 in St. George and June 26 in Salt Lake City. Check dates and times at www.fs.fed.us/r4/dixie/projects/MTP.

Outdoor recreation and tourism form a growing cornerstone of Utah's economy. It makes no sense to let irresponsible motorheads ruin the fun, and the lands, for others.