2004 just keeps “Marching” on. Winter’s last days are almost over and spring is just around the corner. Time to put the sleds away and start pulling out the quads for another good year of ATV’s. March is always a good month to get your ATV’s looked over, make sure everything is in working order and start planning some nice trail rides and get together with other riders.
The 2004 Legislation session is in full swing and it’s vital for you to stay informed and on top of the issues as they relate to our sport. Now would be a good time to get to know who your elected officials are and let them know how you feel about proposed changes in our sport as bills are introduced. If you don’t tell them, someone else will.
ATVAM continues to rely heavily on our membership regarding up-to-the minute information on issues so we can assist and be pro-active in ATV riding issues. We strive to get vital information out to our membership as quickly as possible. John Warren from Up North Out Doors has created an ACTION ALERT notice toward the top of our homepage. When ATVAM is notified of items that may have an impact on riding issues, we’ll post it at the very top of the web page, so you can keep up with the latest information across the State.
Ditch-riding issues continue to remain an item at the top of topics these days. Counties in the State will continue to address ditch-riding concerns as long as people are willing to bring the issues forward. For our membership, we have put together a very good package filled with up-to-date information. This information can assist in addressing the concerns of ditches where there are limited or no trails to ride ATV’s. The packages are easy to use and are available through ATVAM to membership. For more information, contact Cheryle Young at the ATVAM Office for assistance.
Trails open in April for lots of us, but not until May for others. Always check the DNR for up-to-date information regarding trails. Without getting into it, make sure you are doing the right thing out there. Lots of people just waiting for an excuse to restrict us tighter or shut us down so don’t take a chance by thinking no ones watching. Enough said.
Lastly, In January of this year we announced a Trail Awareness Ride to be taken by some of our membership on the Great Western Trailout West. With continued success, it looks as if the ride will actually be taking place later this year. Five weeks, five states from border to border over 3200 miles. The logistics are coming together nicely and we should have more information to share with members prior to the Spring Convention.
With such a good base of members, ATVAM continues to be a very pro-active organization for motorized recreation and continues to make progress with good people, increased membership and support from our dealers and manufactures. We hope to see all of our membership at the Spring Convention in May. Continue to have a safe and Happy New Year ATVAM members, you are why we are here.
Without a doubt, our trails becoming more and more valuable as others try to take them away. Make 2004 a great year by making a difference. You do more by riding correctly in the eyes of a non-rider then any laws will, so enjoy your ATV and the trails we ride.
Remember: Show a non-rider a ride. Show a rider a club. Show a club to ATVAM.