Important Opportunity to Protect and Expand OHV Recreation in Vermont
The growth of ATV use in Vermont has focused the attention of the many in the state on the availability of legal riding opportunities. Most riders feel there are not enough places to ride legally in Vermont. And unfortunately, irresponsible riding behavior on the part of a few riders, which has included trespassing and property damage, is angering landowners and the vast majority of responsible and law abiding ATV riders. In Vermont, the definition of ATV includes off-highway motorcycles as well.

In response to this situation, Vermont Governor Douglas recently appointed an ATV Collaborative charged with recommending suggestions to address the concerns of landowners, environmental groups, public safety officials, and local government on this important issue, without impeding the safe riding and recreational enjoyment of Vermont’s ATV community. The Collaborative is made up of all groups interested in developing a sound solution to this situation – including the state’s ATV community and representatives of state and local government.

The draft proposal, representing the first round of the Collaborative’s work can be found on the Vermont ATV Sportsman’s Association Web Site, at www.vtvasa.org. The Collaborative is seeking public comment on the proposal. A series of public meetings was held and written comments are due November 10, 2004. Once the Collaborative has reviewed the comments, final recommendations will be sent to the Governor.

It is important that as a responsible OHV rider, your voice is heard in this process – to protect and grow your riding opportunities in Vermont. Comments should be directed to:

ATV Collaborative
Attention: Michael Bernhardt
c/o Commissioner of Motor Vehicles
120 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05603-0001
Phone (802) 828-2011

Comments by email should give a subject line of “ATV Collaborative” and be directed to bette.bailey@state.vt.us.

 

I find it sad that you took all the time to post this and no one has replied from your state. When are people going to learn that we all need to help. If any good comes from this collabaritive I'm sure people will be thank-ful but Without any positive input your cause might go for a bad ride. Remeber people that 1 angry person will actively tell and try to convice at least 10 others, where 1 positive person usually will not be as passionate about recruiting for the cause. Please if you live in this state do your part.

 

Well said Quadduck. The same problems are occuring here in New York. The enviromental extremists want nothing short of a total ban on motorized off road vehicles, especially in the Adirondack Park. We ATVers MUST band together to fight for our recreational rights. Join a local club, write your political representives and help to police our sport against the wahoo riders who have helped create the problems.

 

Most definatly join a club, much better being part of something offical.