This Service-wide Memorandum of Understanding (SMU) is
made and entered into by and between the United States Department
of Agriculture Forest Service, hereinafter referred to as FS and
the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council,
hereinafter referred to as NOHVCC.
I. PURPOSE
The
purpose of this SMU is to establish a general framework of cooperation
upon which mutually beneficial programs, projects, and motorized activities
may planned and accomplished on national forest land. Such programs, projects,
and activities complement the FS mission and are in the best interests
of the public.
II. STATEMENT OF MUTUAL BENEFITS AND MUTUAL INTERESTS
The FS is a land management organization dedicated to the management of the Nations natural resources for a variety of uses and activities, including outdoor recreation. The FS is interested in providing motorized recreation opportunities that are environmentally sensitive, educational and enjoyable.
The NCHVCC is a national organization which is dedicated to developing an ongoing communication network between off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasms, their clubs and organizations, and the providers of OHV opportunities. They are also committed to providing educational materials which will encourage responsible OHV use and create a positive image of the sport. Many members of affiliated clubs and organizations enjoy recreational opportunities on public lands. NCHVCC members have a history of participation with Federal managers of these public lands. The FS is a major source of these recreational opportunities and has benefited from their participation.
It is mutually beneficial for both the NOHVCC and the FS to work cooperatively in order to further develop the conservation ethic of motorized recreation enthusiasts and too imbue a greater understanding of the needs of motorized recreation. The FS will provide technical assistance to the NOHVCC with regard to the development of educational materials and a comprehensive communication network.
in
consideration of the above premises. The parties agree as follows:
III. THE FOREST SERVICE SHALL
1. Provide information to help NOHVCC produce educational materials that support FS objectives and are consistent with applicable federal laws, regulations, Forest Plans, and other management direction.
2. Encourage local FS officials to utilize the NOHVCC communication network, via the internet, to communicate with NOHVCC affiliated enthusiasts, clubs, and associations and to utilize programs and materials produced by NOHVCC as appropriate.
3.
Make National Forest System lands available for the furtherance of this
SMU subject to applicable Federal laws, regulations. Forest Plans, and
other management direction.
IV. NOHVCC SHALL
1. Develop a national communication network for contacting local enthusiasts and organizations through a system of State representatives.
2. Locate, publicize, develop, and provide training and materials to motorized recreation groups and their organizations.
3. Develop and maintain a database and library of publications related to OHV activities which can be available for use in the analysis of OHV plans and projects.
4. Provide the public the opportunity to attend conferences and to participate in NOHVCC training, on topics such as conflict resolution, community collaboration or OHV strategic planning, and to facilitate improved understanding and communication between OHV users, public agencies, and others.
5.
Encourage its members and other motorized recreation enthusiasts to take
part in volunteer projects on National Forest System lands.
V. IT IS MUTUALLY AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD BY AND BETWEEN THE SAID PARTIES THAT
1. This instrument is neither a fiscal nor a funds obligation document. Any endeavor involving reimbursement or contribution of funds between the parties to this instrument will be handled in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and procedures including those for Government procurement and printing. Such endeavors will be outlined in separate agreements that shall be made in writing by representatives of the parties and shall be independently authorized by appropriate statutory authority. This instrument does not provide such authority. Specifically, this instrument does not establish authority for noncompetitive award to NOHVCC of any contract or other agreement. Any contract or agreement for training or other services must fully comply with all applicable requirements for competition.
2. The local contact persons for FS are District Rangers.
3. This instrument in no way restricts the FS or NOHVCC from participating in similar activities with other public or private agencies, organizations, and individuals.
4. Nothing in this SMU shall obligate the FS to NOHVCC to expend appropriations or to enter in any contract or other obligations.
5. Either party, in writing, may terminate the instrument in whole, or in part. at any time before the date of expiration.
6. Modifications within the scope of this instrument shall be made by mutual consent of the parties. by the issuance of a written modification, signed and dated by both parties, prior to any changes being performed.
7. Pursuant to Section 22, Title 41. United States Code. no member of, or Delegate to, Congress shall be admitted to any share or part of this instrument, or any benefits that may arise therefrom.
8. The principal contacts for this agreement are:
Brent
Botts
USDA
Forest Service
RH&WR
4CEN AUD
P.O.
Box 9609
Washington.
D.C. 20090-6090
(202)
205-1313
Randy
Harden
NOHVCC
3005
South 12th Street
Sheboygan.
WI 53081-6749
(414)
458-3332
9.
This instrument is executed as of the last date shown below and expires
no later than September 30, 2000, at which time it
is subject to review. renewal. or expiration.
This document was optically scanned. Errors in character recognition may be present.
Scott Silver, Executive Director,
Wild Wilderness
248 NW Wilmington Avenue, Bend OR 97701
Phone (541) 385-5261 E-mail: ssilver@wildwilderness.org