Abstract
The use of off-road vehicles (ORVs) is widespread and a recognized management problem in the deserts of the southwestern United States and elsewhere (Sheridan, 1980). One of the most important and long-lasting effects of ORV use is the compaction of soil caused by the force of rolling wheels. Compaction can be defined as the application of forces to a soil mass which results in an increase in density and strength. Soil compaction is known to be a contributing factor to accelerated soil erosion (Snyder et al., 1976; see Chapter 5) and a cause of decreased plant growth (see Chapters 7 and 13) in deserts. Hence, a quantitative prediction of soil compaction is of fundamental importance in the formulation of management plans designed to minimize adverse impacts of ORVs on soils.
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