Forwarded by Jane Clark at [log in to unmask]
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DNR TO FORM STATEWIDE TASK FORCE ON ATV RIDING AREAS

DES MOINES – The DNR is forming a statewide task force to develop policy
guidelines for acquiring and developing lands for all-terrain vehicle (ATV)
riding areas.

The task force is in response to concerns voiced during recent state land
purchases regarding the environmental impacts of ATV use. The task force
will develop policy guidelines for future identification, selection, public
input processes and environmental criteria when purchasing land for off
highway vehicle (OHV) riding. The task force is expected to be made up of
representatives from the State OHV Association and clubs, the DOT, DNR,
Audubon Society, Iowa Association of County Conservation Boards, National
Trails Advisory Committee, Natural Heritage Foundation, Sierra Club and the
Farm Bureau.

"The DNR is supportive of the acquisition and development of lands for OHV
riding areas," said Janet Ott, DNR executive officer. "There is a growing
demand and need for legal riding areas in Iowa where families can go and
ride safely. The DNR has been working with local ATV clubs and the Iowa OHV
Association to find suitable lands to acquire for riding areas."

A moratorium has been placed on the acquisition of additional private farm
lands for OHV riding areas pending recommendations by the taskforce and
approval of the policy by the Natural Resource Commission. The DNR will
proceed with the acquisition of land near Peterson in northwest Iowa with
the intent to develop it as an OHV riding area. However, if the land does
not fit the criteria set forth by the task force, the area will be managed
for other purposes.

"The DNR seeks to reassure ATV riders that there are opportunities and
lands available and suitable for development of riding areas," stated Mike
Carrier, division administrator of the DNR's Parks, Recreation and
Preserves Division. "We will continue to work with the clubs and the State
OHV Association to find, develop and maintain these riding areas."

For more information about the statewide task force, contact Carrier at
515-281-5207 or Keven Arrowsmith, DNR information specialist, at
515-281-0879.

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