Latest news with #OHV
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
DNR seeks comment on proposed OHV trail grants
May 10—ST. PAUL — The Roseau Parks and Recreation Department in northwest Minnesota is seeking funding from the Department of Natural Resources' off-highway vehicle grant-in-aid program for a proposed 10.4-mile OHV trail. In a news release, the DNR said the proposed route would connect to the Great Northern Connection Veterans Memorial Trail, which links Roseau and Warroad. The OHV GIA program is a cost-share partnership between the DNR, local government sponsors and local clubs to fund the maintenance and development of trails for all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles and off-road vehicles. The DNR is accepting public comments on the proposed Roseau project — and the city's request for $3,496.64 — along with four other projects in Becker, St. Louis, Aitkin and Kanabec counties, until 4:30 p.m. Friday, May 30. Comments may be submitted by email to Molly Lou Pintok at — indicate the name of the proposed trail(s) being commented on in the subject line and email body; or by postal to Molly Lou Pintok, Principal Planner, Minnesota DNR, Parks and Trails Division, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155 A map of the proposed trail segments for each of the projects up for comment can be found at the DNR's OHV trail plans and proposals webpage at . For more information, call Pintok at (651) 259-5095. In related news, many of Minnesota's more than 3,000 miles of trails for all types of OHVs and rider skill levels are now open for use, the DNR said. Before heading out to the trails, riders should remember these key points: * Know before you go. Some trails may open later than normal due to late spring thaw, flooding, and trail maintenance work. Check the OHV Trail Closures web page ( ) before leaving home. Download maps to a smartphone before heading out to know your location utilizing Avenza. Remember to stay on signed and mapped trails. * Be safety certified. Riders born after July 1, 1987, are required to complete online ATV safety training before riding an ATV on trails. People under age 16 must complete the hands-on component of ATV safety training in addition to the online training. Online safety training for off-highway motorcycle operators under 16 is required before operating on OHM trails. Off-road vehicles may be operated only by individuals ages 16 and older. The Department of Natural Resources and its network of volunteer instructors offers training courses open to everyone. Find information online about upcoming recreational vehicle safety trainings ( ). * Be registered. OHV registration is legally required when riding on state and grant-in-aid trails, and those registration fees support trail construction, trail maintenance and OHV safety. For more information, visit the OHV registrations web page ( ). * Help out. Most trails in Minnesota are built and maintained by clubs and funded through the GIA program. Consider joining a club to help maintain one of these trails. For riders who are interested in trying the trails but aren't ready to commit to OHV registration, there are two upcoming no-registration events: * May 17: For off-road vehicles at the Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation Area near Gilbert, Minnesota. * June 14-15: For ATVs statewide. For information on where to ride, regulations and safety training, check out the OHV program website at .
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Yahoo
Hampden county leaders to announce illegal dirt bike enforcement
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – City leaders from around Hampden County will be joining together on Monday to announce regional illegal dirt bike and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) enforcement efforts. Crews put out house fire in Springfield's Forest Park Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno's office states the city will be working with Chicopee and Holyoke to get dirt bikes off the streets. The Springfield Police Department announced enhanced efforts last month with increased patrols and partnerships with other law departments, including the State Police Air Wing Unit. In Springfield back in 2024, 39 OHV's were seized,14 arrests were made, and 10 criminal complaints were reported. The announcement is set to take place at 10:00 a.m. at Springfield City Hall. Mayor Domenic Sarno stated, 'Our public streets are no place to ride these vehicles. It is illegal and you can get seriously injured or worse. We will continue enforcement in the name of public health, public safety, and for the quality of life for our residents and business community. We must continue to work together to combat this issue. I deeply appreciate the collaboration with our neighboring cities and towns. We have a shared mission that includes educating the public about the illegalities and dangers of riding OHV's on city streets and to let the public know that there is a regional effort to enforce the laws.' 'Our brave and dedicated men and women in Blue will continue to actively enforce this quality-of-life issue and cite, arrest, and confiscate these illegal vehicles. We will also continue working with the MA State Police and Sheriff Nick Cocchi and team for their anti-dirt bike details and tracking efforts to eradicate these illegal dirt bikes and ATV marauders on our city streets and neighborhoods. I again, ask parents of these young riders to intervene with their child, for their own health and safety, and help educate them on the appropriate places to ride and enjoy these vehicles.' WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
EDITORIAL: OHV's required responsibility and safety to operate
Apr. 8—As sunnier days and warmer temperatures take hold, our roadways will become more populated and require more sharing. There will be more motorcycles, more cyclists and the whole thing will be sprinkled with farmers looking to get into the field. There will also be the re-emergence of more off-highway vehicles (OHV). These vehicles can include a variety of forms including ATVs and side-by-sides, all of which require another layer of safety when operating. Unfortunately, 2024 was a record year for fatalities in the state involving these types of vehicles. According to a Department of Natural Resources press release on Monday, there were 30 accidents involving OHVs last year, which resulted in 32 fatalities. Of these, more than three — quarters of the crashes were on roadways or in ditches while seven of the incidents took place on private property, a trail or on public property. The other unfortunate aspect about these sobering numbers is that out of those 30 crashes, 26 of the operators involved did not have safety certification for ATVs. This is required for anyone born after July 1, 1987 and who is 12 years or older in order to operate on public lands or waters, public road rights-of-way or state grant-in-aid trails. There is a responsibility to operating these vehicles safely, just as there is any other vehicle operation and it's not done simply for the sake of government oversight. These are very real concerns, especially if you are going to be operating one of these vehicles with others. While the machines are made for off-highway operation, they can easily be tipped over causing extensive injury or even death if proper precautions aren't taken. There are also dangers to motorized traffic on the roads, who sometimes can not see OHV's in ditches. In their release Monday, the DNR reminded the public that anyone under the age of 18 is required to wear a Department of Transportation helmet and even more, it's recommended that all people in or on these vehicles wear helmets. Other ways riders can help ensure a safe ride include: —When they're open, ride only on designated trails. Stay to the right and travel at a safe speed. —Ride sober. —Remember that riders under age 15 are not allowed to operate Class 2 ATVs. —Wear protective gear including goggles, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots, gloves and a DOT-approved helmet when riding all types of OHVs. —If an OHV comes with factory installed seatbelts, wear them. —Avoid riding on paved roads except to cross. Do it safely and ensure it's permitted by law. —Actively supervise young riders as OHVs aren't toys. —Complete a safety education course. For more tips on safe riding, visit the ATV safety page of the DNR website (
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative and Yamaha Rightwaters™ Join Forces to Expand Outdoor Recreation and Conservation Efforts
Yamaha Awards Over $400,000 in Grants to Enhance Access to Public Lands and Waters How to Apply for Yamaha OAI Grants MARIETTA, Ga., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, reinforces its commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation by awarding more than $400,000 in grants in the second half of 2024 through its Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI). For the first time, Yamaha OAI has partnered with Yamaha Rightwaters to extend its impact beyond land-based projects to include sustainable access to public waters. "The collaboration between Yamaha's Outdoor Access Initiative and Yamaha Rightwaters represents an exciting evolution in our conservation efforts," said Steve Nessl, Yamaha Motorsports Marketing Manager. "By bridging our work across land and water, we can support more comprehensive projects, maximize resources and continue leading the way in responsible outdoor recreation." In the latter half of 2024, Yamaha provided 20 grants for diverse projects, including trail maintenance, bridge construction, environmental education and wildlife protection. The first joint efforts between Yamaha OAI and Rightwaters include: Memorial Foundation of Germanna Colonists (sponsored by Village Motorsports, Virginia): Grant funds and a golf car donation provided by Yamaha's Golf Car division will support the Siegen Forest trail system and public boat launch improvements. Alabama Coastal Foundation (sponsored by Hall's Motorsports Mobile, Alabama): Funding will aid the 'Share the Beach' sea turtle monitoring and protection program on Dauphin Island. Saint Louis School (sponsored by Hawaii Rides, Hawaii): A donated UMAX by Yamaha's Golf Car division will enhance the Palolo Stream Restoration Project, supporting environmental education and land stewardship. Sault Ste. Snowmobile Association (sponsored by Chippewa Motors, Michigan): A grant will assist with bridge and trail repairs in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. "Our watersheds and landscapes are inherently connected, and this partnership allows us to support access and stewardship holistically," said Joshua Grier, Sustainability Program Manager, Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. "By combining our expertise and resources, we can maximize the positive impact on outdoor recreation while promoting sustainable practices that benefit both land and water ecosystems." Additional Grant Highlights: The Great Outdoors Fund (sponsored by Florence Motorsports, Oregon): Installation of new OHV education kiosks throughout the Oregon Dunes. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) White River Field Office (sponsored by Craig Powersports, Colorado): Development of a new OHV riding area, including a single-track skills course and a kids' dirt bike track. Southern California Mountains Foundation (sponsored by Yamaha Redlands, California): Workshop repairs and trail maintenance in the San Bernardino National Forest. Tuleyome (sponsored by Roseville Motorsports, California): Restoration of 2.6 miles of OHV trails in the BLM Knoxville Management Area. Additional Grant Recipients and Sponsoring Dealerships: Caribou Viking Riders ATV Club (Priority Tractor & Equipment) Indian Creek Valley ATV Club (Hillview Motorsports) Presidential OHRV Club (Moms of Jericho) Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship (Michael's Reno Powersports) Utah Public Lands (Factory Motorsports) West Central Montana Avalanche Foundation (Five Valley Motorsports) Colorado Mountain Bike Association (COMBA) (Tri City Cycle) Cycle Kids (Bobby J's) Missoula Snowgoers (Maverick Motorsports) Ravalli County Off-Road User Association (Al's Cycle) Ruffed Grouse Society (Wild River Sport & Marine) Rich Oliver Mystery School In addition to the quarterly grant program, Yamaha contributed $25,000 to Pass It On! Outdoor Mentors, raised during Yamaha's annual pre-SHOT Show event. This organization connects youth with mentors to introduce them to hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation. "Yamaha's generous support allows us to expand opportunities for young outdoor enthusiasts and their mentors," said Brittany French, CEO of Pass It On! Outdoor Mentors. "Beyond providing access to the outdoors, we're fostering a strong conservation ethic in the next generation." Yamaha Golf Car SupportYamaha's Golf Car division played a key role in this round of grants, providing two golf car donations to support accessibility and environmental stewardship projects. Their contributions further Yamaha's mission to enhance sustainable outdoor recreation on both land and water. How to Apply for Yamaha OAI GrantsYamaha OAI continues to accept grant applications on a quarterly basis to support critical access and conservation projects. For second quarter of this year, public land managers, riding clubs and stewardship organizations are encouraged to apply for funding before the June 30, 2025, deadline. Submission guidelines and applications are available at Stay connected with Yamaha on social media via @YamahaOutdoors and use hashtags #Yamaha, #YamahaOAI, #REALizeYourAdventure, #ProvenOffRoad and #AssembledInUSA. About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative Since 2008, the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative has led the powersports industry in supporting responsible access to our nation's public lands for outdoor enthusiasts. With more than $6 million contributed to over 470 projects across the country, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams, helped children learn to ride bicycles partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding and cycling clubs and associations, national, state and local public land-use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations, and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding, and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible, and sustainable public use. For updated guidelines, the application form, and the latest Outdoor Access Initiative news, please visit If you have specific inquiries about the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, you can reach the dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email OHVAccess@ or send correspondence to: Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative3065 Chastain Meadows Parkway, Bldg. 100Marietta, GA 30066 About Yamaha Rightwaters Yamaha Rightwaters is a national sustainability program encompassing all of Yamaha Marine's conservation and water quality efforts. Program initiatives include habitat restoration, support for scientific research, mitigation of invasive species, reduction of marine debris, and environmental stewardship education. Yamaha Rightwaters reinforces Yamaha's long-standing history of natural resource conservation, support of sustainable recreational fishing and water resources, and the Angler Code of Ethics, which requires pro anglers to adhere to principles of stewardship for all marine resources. About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USAYamaha Motor Corp., USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company's ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Snowmobiles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Outdoor Power Equipment, Power Assist Bicycles, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Power Assist Wheelchair Systems, Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States. YMUS has a corporate office in California, three corporate offices in Georgia, as well as facilities in Wisconsin, Alabama, and Florida. YMUS subsidiaries Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC), based in Georgia, and Yamaha Jet Boat Manufacturing USA (YJBM) based in Tennessee, each assemble and manufacture selected Yamaha brand products. YMUS owns Skeeter Boats [Texas] with its division G3 Boats [Missouri]. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company, Inc. (YMSC) with subsidiary Siren Marine [Rhode Island] and divisions Bennett Marine [Florida], Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders [Wisconsin] and Yamaha Precision Propeller Inc. [Indiana]. Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, USA (Yamaha Financial Services), an affiliate of YMUS, offers financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. Yamaha Financial Services provides retail and commercial financing for the diverse line of Yamaha brand motor products based out of Cypress, CA and Marietta, GA. MEDIA CONTACT:Scott NewbyYamaha Motor Corp., USA770-420-6078Scott_Newby@ Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
Yahoo
25-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Coastal Commission did not have authority to ban off-roading at Oceano Dunes, court says
Friends of the Oceano Dunes celebrated a victory over the California Coastal Commission in court Monday, opening the path for continued use of off-road vehicles at the popular recreation area. In an opinion filed Monday, the Second Circuit Court of Appeals found that the commission's attempt to ban off-road vehicles at the Dunes contradicts the language of the Local Coastal Plan put in place by San Luis Obispo County. As a result, it said the decision to open or close the Dunes to vehicles fell under the jurisdiction of the county, not the Coastal Commission. However, the court said it would not resolve any contentions in other cross-appeals filed by Friends, and did not base its opinion on the cultural, scientific or policy-based reasons for supporting or opposing an OHV ban. 'These provisions make clear that the governing LCP (Local Coastal Plan) permits OHV use at Oceano Dunes,' the opinion read. 'And while the carrying capacity of different areas of the park may be 'readjusted as conditions warrant,' any moratorium must come from the County, not the Commission.' 'Here, we conclude the commission did not have the authority to phase out OHV use by unilaterally amending the Oceano Dunes [development permit] because the LCP permits such use,' the Second Circuit court ruling said. 'The LCP states that one of its goals is to 'maximize public recreational opportunities' — including OHV use — at Oceano Dunes.' That means, if the Coastal Commission wants the Dunes closed to vehicular use, it must take the issue up with the county or state Legislature to amend the Local Coastal Plan, the opinion read. The Friends of Oceano Dunes applauded the ruling in a news release. 'Friends' victory ensures continued OHV recreation at Oceano Dunes,' the Friends said. Monday's decision marks the culmination of a years-long legal battle between the Coastal Commission and Friends of Oceano Dunes. Most recently, San Luis Obispo Superior Court Judge Tana Coates ruled July 19, 2023, in favor of the Friends, overturning the Coastal Commission's 2021 vote to close the Dunes to off-road vehicles. 'A total and permanent ban on all OHV recreation in the OSDVRA directly contradicts the provisions of the certified (local coastal program), which specifically permits OHV riding in certain designated areas of' environmentally sensitive habitat areas, Coates' 2023 ruling said. That decision was appealed to the Second Circuit by the Coastal Commission on Aug. 10, 2023, with the aim of reinstating its order to close the Dunes. There is still one appellate case awaiting briefs and oral arguments relating to two lawsuits filed by the Friends of Oceano Dunes against the Coastal Commission in 2016 and 2017. The 2016 petition challenged the use of an emergency coastal development permit to implement dust control measures and whether the situation constituted an emergency designation, while the 2017 petition challenged dust control measures and whether State Parks could implement such measures without a coastal development permit. Coates denied both petitions in 2024. The two cases have been consolidated into one appellate case, and the Friends of Oceano Dunes first brief is due June 27, the court docket shows. Friends of Oceano Dunes president Jim Sutry declined to comment on Monday's ruling. 'Friends' Board of Directors remain committed to pursue all legal remedies to protect beach driving, camping and OHV recreation at Oceano Dunes SVRA the way it has been occurring for the last 100 years,' the release read.
