DNR reminds OHV users to ride responsibly

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds off highway vehicle (OHV) users to know and follow off-road rules. The head of the DNR’s OHV program, Ron Potter, says that as the number of OHVs increases in Minnesota, so does public concern about their impact. “Riders need to realize that this activity is under greater scrutiny than ever before,” according to Potter, “If OHV users want to be welcomed and continue to have access to public lands, it’s important that they act responsibly. That means users should stay on existing trails and avoid cross-country travel, share the trails with non-motorized users, respect wildlife, avoid wetlands, and not create excessive noise. They also need be careful not to trespass, by crossing private land without permission.” The DNR is currently running an OHV education campaign, using billboards and radio public service announcements, carrying those messages. The Memorial Day weekend is the first big weekend of the year for OHV riding, and for all forms of outdoor use in Minnesota parks, trails and other public lands. DNR Trails and Waterways Director Dennis Asmussen  says, “We want everyone to enjoy all the great outdoor options Minnesota has to offer. We just need to remember that a little mutual respect and courtesy helps make that possible.” Registered OHVs now number more than 200,000 in the state and that number is increasing by tens of thousands of new machines each year.