Detroit Lakes man named 2012 ATV instructor of the year


Gary Thompson of Detroit Lakes has been named the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) 2012 all-terrain vehicle (ATV) volunteer instructor of the year.

In the past eight years, Thompson has certified more than 450 students and encouraged seven individuals to become DNR certified ATV safety training instructors.

“This award recognizes outstanding individuals such as Gary Thompson who make significant contributions to educating youths on the safe use of an ATV and respect for laws and conservation,” said 2nd Lt. Leland Owens, DNR Enforcement recreational vehicle coordinator.

DNR conservation officers work closely with 825 ATV volunteer safety instructors. Through the efforts of these instructors, about 2,500 ATV’ers have graduated from ATV safety education courses annually since 1985.
“Without the work of volunteer instructors, educating ATV operators would be an impossible job,” Owens said.

Minnesota law requires anyone born after July 1, 1987, to have a certificate if they are 11 or older and want to ride on public land, trails and frozen waters. The course also is available for adults.
Minnesota has nearly 350,000 registered ATVs.

For more information on ATV safety training, go to

www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/vehicle/atv/index.html