There's an area in west American Fork where there are no roads or homes, where deer, foxes and even cow elk roam free. But lately, people on all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles have been tearing it up, leaving long-lasting marks on the land. Others have dumped trash.

Mitchell Hollow, which encompasses about 20 acres, is mostly undeveloped. American Fork purchased the property several years ago, with the intent to keep it as open space for residents to enjoy its wildlife and natural beauty. Some of the property purchased is being developed into a park with traditional play equipment and benches. The rest is expected to remain as it is, because it has been designated as wetlands by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Mark Coddington, a city employee, said he grew up running cattle in the area.

"It was a whole other world -- no houses, no cars," he said. "It is still pretty much in that state. I see deer, fox and even a cow elk down there."

In one area, the wet conditions have created kind of a mud bog, which has been used by riders of ATVs for racing and general riding. That has torn up the ground.

"We don't allow Jeeps, four-wheelers, snowmobiles or other such vehicles," said city engineer Andy Spencer. "There were races last year and you can still see the after-effects."

During Steel Days this year the city cited some kids who were riding motorcycles in the water and mud areas, Coddington said. "It was a learning experience for them," he said. "I think these kids appreciated it."

In addition to the damage done by the vehicles, there have been other concerns.

"We have also had problems with trash," Spencer said. "We have had people dump old refrigerators and couches, and also grass clippings in the hollow."

Coddington is working to get information out about what's allowed in the park.

"We are making door hangers so people can be more aware of it," he said. "If we keep having people tearing it up, we will have to lock it up."

The city has recently installed signs at several entrances to the hollow, indicating that no vehicles are allowed. Some have complained that there have been too many restrictions. One reported to the City Council that he was told he could not walk in the hollow. Spencer said that was not true.

"Anything that is noninvasive is welcome in the hollow," he said. "They can walk dogs, ride bikes or horses or walk. They should stay out of the wet areas."

Coddington agreed with Spencer.

"We want to keep it as open to people as possible," he said. "We welcome people to hike, walk it, ride their bikes, take their dogs. We just can't have motorized traffic down there. It tears things up." He said the signs were to help both the public and the land. "It is a win-win deal as long as everybody cooperates.

"I am pretty passionate about the hollow," Coddington said. "The hollow is a pretty neat place. If people would go down there and walk through it, they would understand what we are talking about.

"They are not making land any more, especially something like that," he said.