Hey, it could happen.....Pay Attention.


So my kid and his friend want to start an ATV club. I pointed out that if they put it together right they might get a lot of cooperation and even get to ride places they otherwise couldn't. Plus getting to ride tomorrow where they ride today.
It does seem like the ATV magazine's only message is to wear a helmet and "roost" your buddies. How can we expect anyone to "behave themselves" off-road when there is no message and there are no guidelines. The "Tread Lightly" campaign in the 4-wheel Truck magazines is blatantly missing in the ATV magazines. Awareness and efforts like this could help insure a future for our sport.
The structure of the Gila Off-Road Riders Club, or Young Riders of the Gila, is a tried and true formula of rewards for following the rules, like 4-H, FFA, Boy Scouts etc. Adult members are "Sponsors". We structure it and provide incentives. The kids get a club they can call their own, with very much enhanced riding experiences. And respect. Everybody wins.
Here is the "Charter" or at least the most recent draft.
Please comment....

Gila Off-Road Riders Club
“Young Riders of the Gila”
Got Dirt?

The Gila Off-Road Riders Club is a local Youth club promoting safe, neighborly, family focused, off-road fun.

Promoting and Conserving Access for Off-Highway Vehicles & Off-Road Recreation on Public and Private Lands. In return for Responsible Off-Roading the Gila Off-Road Riders ask Public Officials and Private individuals to support Responsible Off-Roading and the efforts of the Gila Off-Road Riders to promote and preserve riding areas and their responsible use

Tread Lightly, Ride on Existing Trails, Respect Mother Nature,
Playing by the rules off –road. Conservation of our natural resources. “Toss No Mass”. Return to ride another day.

Trail etiquette, Making all kinds of new friends on the trail,
from Hikers to Horseback Riders. Respect for Public and Private Property. Leaving only good impressions,
taking only memories and photos. Return to ride another day.

Improving Riding and Trail Skills,
Helmet and safety equipment pledge. Return to ride another day.

Rejection of Consumer Product Safety Commission Age guidelines.
It’s not the law and it’s not the right idea.

Membership is free to Youths under 18 years of age who agree to club rules and have and/or ride Off-Road Vehicles Responsibly.

Sponsors are encouraged to contribute time, money, access, expertise or anything which will help these kids have fun and promote Responsible Off-Roading. Organized trips, rides and special access to private tracks and trails are some of the ways sponsors and the community can thank the Young Riders of the Gila for Responsible Off-Roading.

For more information contact Skyler Ocheltree at (505) 535-2825