The state of Wisconsin is taking rising UTV and ATV injuries and fatalities into its own hands by offering $297,000 in grant funding for organizations that want to provide safety courses for OHV users. The rise in accidents and deaths is an unfortunate side effect of increasing use, and we’re glad to see the state take a commonsense approach.
The Department of Natural Resources expects funds to be used for “…recruiting and providing support to volunteer safety instructors, ATV/UTV clubs and organizations, and promoting the ATV safety education program.” Further, it sees this as an opportunity to make local communities aware of the economic upsides that come with involving side-by-sides and ATVs in their communities. Funding will also help join the OHV community with the Department of Tourism, and help connect each of these parties with powersports dealers and their corresponding manufacturers. Trail patrol is also expanded under the grant.
The program extends the existing safety infrastructure Wisconsin has in place. Currently, those born after January 1, 1998, who are seeking to operate an ATV or UTV on public trails must complete an ATV/UTV safety course. The DNR was unavailable to comment by the time this published, but its website says the program was conceived to “reduce the potential for accidents, injuries, and fatalities; to reduce the potential for conflict between participants, landowners, and other resource users; and to promote safe, responsible, and ethical use of the environment and our resources.” Proactive action is best, and the DNR is on its game.
Regardless of whether you prefer ATVs or UTVs, this is a cause we can get behind. If you’re part of an organization looking to participate, be sure to submit an application by the June 28 deadline. More info can be found here. We encourage anyone and everyone who represents an organization that can improve ATV/UTV safety to do so.
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