Why are ACECs an important management tool?
ACEC designations highlight significant resources or hazards where special management measures are needed to prevent irreparable damage. The ACEC designation enables land managers to specifically address the relevant and important value or hazard and formulate a prescription to manage it. An example of where ACEC designation was applied to protect significant resources is the Red Bluff ACEC in southwestern Utah. This is the only location in North America where the endangered dwarf bear-claw poppy occurs. The prescription for this ACEC protects the erodible saline soils at risk from extensive off-road use and human encroachment from urban areas. At the same time, it allows for trail designation to accommodate one of the most popular forms of recreation here, mountain biking.
