Potlatch puts restrictions on UTVs

Larger versions of the popular all-terrain vehicle (ATV) aren’t a good fit for private timber company roads and trails.

Potlatch Corp. recently issued a policy that allows utility-terrain vehicles, known as UTVs, only on the company’s roads that are open to full-size trucks and automobiles. The policy applies to all company-owned property in Idaho.

The Spokane-based timber company is Idaho’s largest private landowner, with nearly 670,000 acres.

“Potlatch’s extensive existing gate and trail system are not designed to accommodate the larger UTVs,” said Steve Smith, Potlatch’s Idaho regional resource manger in Lewiston. “Based on the size, footprint and construction of the UTVs, we consider them as having the same use restrictions as any truck, full-size automobile or Jeep.”

A UTV is larger than an ATV but smaller than a Jeep or small pickup truck. Potlatch defines a UTV as a vehicle that is larger than 48 inches wide, has a wheel base greater than 61 inches and weighs more than 850 pounds.

Rules for UTV use on Potlatch lands include:

All UTVs must have current registration through Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

All UTVs must remain on maintained roadways open for standard vehicle travel.

UTVs will not be allowed the use of roads that lie behind closed gates.

No off-road use of UTVs will be allowed on Potlatch forestlands.

UTVs will not be authorized the use of trails designated for ATVs.

All UTVs shall not be operated in a manner that may endanger passengers, other motorists or individuals engaged in other types of recreation activities.

The number of passengers or load capacity shall not exceed the manufacturer’s rated limit.