California

Recent Legislative Action

2009

AB134: Toughens restrictions on supervision of child riders under age 14 (Passed House and Senate)

2008

SB1228: Requires riders under 16 on public lands to be supervised by adult with safety certification (7/2/08: Passed Senate, sent to House)

2007

SB742: Increased registration fees, increased penalties for riding in closed areas and diverted more money from ORV fund to trail maintenance (10/12/07: Signed into law)

Community Voices Demand Action in California

Californians are increasingly voicing their concerns about a growing  contingent of reckless riders who break the law, damage public and private land, injure themselves and others, and ruin hunting, fishing and hiking experiences for the rest of us.

• "Though county sheriff's deputies monitored activities at the river, Crutchfield said officials were careful not to inflame an already tense situation." -- Julie Cart, reporter, "Utah off-Road rally revs in river", Los Angeles Times (5/11/09)

• "Off-roaders have long resisted attempts to regulate the Rubicon. Rafters and hikers reacted the same way when permits were required for the Grand Canyon and other wilderness areas. But let's face it, folks, this is California, with 37 million people. If we want to leave our landmarks for future generations, we have to manage them for the benefit of all." -- The Sacramento Bee Editorial Board, "No more delays on rules for the Rubicon," The Sacramento Bee (2/9/09)

• "Sooner or later, you can only warn people so much. Then you have to have some enforcement and make it a little painful for people to come up here" to ride. -- Sgt. Richard Wood, Kern County Sheriff's Department Tehachapi substation, "No more warnings for illegal off-roaders", The Bakersfield Californian (1/24/09)

• "Get off the trails before some one gets killed." -- Jeri Sust, a Newcastle resident whose 4-year-old horse, Toby, had to be destroyed after he was spooked by illegal dirt bike riders. The horse bolted, threw Sust and severely injured its leg during flight, "Grieving horse owner wants illegal use stopped", El Dorado Hills Telegraph (1/10/09)

• "I am one of the lucky ones, because I survived a horrific incident while lying on the beach, reading a book. In March of 2003, I was run over by a 13- year-old child who lost control while riding an ATV. He had no prior experience, yet his parents rented the ATV and sent him off with very little training. After the initial impact, I was trapped under the burning engine before the child was finally able to rock the vehicle off me…I certainly don't have all the answers, but it's time we come up with some safe and workable solutions to this deadly problem, hopefully before someone else's son, daughter, family member, or friend is killed or permanently injured." Cambria Grant, Goleta Resident - Letter to the Editor, New Times (12/17/08)

• "The Murrieta Police Department has two specially equipped KTM off-road motorcycles used for the enforcement of ongoing violations of off-road vehicles trespassing on private property...The purpose of the program is to preserve the peace in the outlying areas of Murrieta, and protect the rights of property owners against off-road vehicles utilizing and or damaging their private property." -- "Off-Road Enforcement Detail Renders Aide to Injured Child", City of Murrieta Press Release (11/30/08)

• "We need to take back our communities during the holidays by reporting ORV abuse and by working with the local law enforcement." -- Phil Klansky, author of Op-ed, "Op-Ed: Report off-road abuse every time", Hi-Desert Star (11/29/08)

• "Unmanaged OHV use has resulted in unplanned roads and trails, erosion, watershed and habitat degradation, and impacts to cultural resource sites...The Bridgeport Ranger District recently completed an inventory of unauthorized routes on NFS lands and identified approximately 800 miles of unauthorized routes." -- "Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest; California and Nevada; Bridgeport Ranger District Travel Management", USFS EIS Announcement (11/26/08)

• "Most of the reported crimes are minor. But problems such as noise, alcohol abuse and vandalism discourage law-abiding Californians from enjoying their state parks. That's why it's essential that lawmakers, parks advocates and user groups take steps to crack down on problems, particularly in the most crime-ridden parks. These tend to be beaches, off-road vehicle areas and state park lakes that allow watercraft." -- Sacramento Bee Editorial Board, "Editorial: It's the Wild West in our state parks", Sacramento Bee (7/28/10)

• "Road closures are not really the issue; it's behavior." -- Ken DeCamp, Op-Ed author, "OHV riders cause real, long-lasting damage", Record Searchlight (11/9/08)

• "You can't go in the back yard from all the dust, and it's noisy. It's deafening when they rev up their engines, and dust goes into the house. We can't open our doors." -- Benjamin Cabuella, Vallejo property owner, "Off-roaders stir up dirt, problems", Vallejo Times Herald (11/7/08)

• "As long as people stay on existing trails, then it's OK... You can drive cars and motorcycles on the roads, but you can't take vehicles into the desert -- and people ignore it pretty regularly." -- Mickey Quillman, BLM chief of resources, "Two ways of life collide in Wonder Valley", Los Angeles Times (1/5/10)

• "As a resident and property owner in these areas, I have lost track of the times that I have had close calls with quad riders coming around blind curves at very high rates of speed and almost crashing into my truck or Jeep… Also, many riders do not respect posted private property…Maybe if the considerate responsible riders will lean on the rest, you might be able to slow the loss of riding areas." -- J. Davis, Clipper Mills. LtE, "Rude off-roaders tarnish reputations", Appeal-Democrat (10/20/08)

• "We believe off-roaders deserve legal access to public land designated for that purpose — as long as they recreate safely and prudently." -- San Luis Obispo Tribune Editorial Board, "Public health must trump recreation", San Luis Obispo Tribune (7/28/10)

• “I’m not an OHVer, autos on the beach are an eyesore to me and, yeah, I’m more the hiker/sailer type than the motorboat/jet ski type... It’s not my lake...It belongs to all of us and we have to find a way to play nice and share.” -- Lois Henry, "Isabella Lake access trimmed", Bakersfield Californian (1/26/10)

• "We understand the Marines need to train, but OHV users need to have areas to recreate as well." -- Jerry Graybow, president of the American Motorcycle Association's District 37, "Marines eye 400,000 acres for training expansion at Twentynine Palms", The Press-Enterprise (8/18/08)

• "I have run into these guys myself. They have cussed me out and kicked up dirt in my face." -- Ray Pessa, president of Friends of Giant Rock, "Two ways of life collide in Wonder Valley", Los Angeles Times (1/5/10)

• "As the legislator who represents many popular off-road-vehicle sites and a father, I am extremely concerned with the increasing number of injuries to children who are driving ATVs. I will continue to work on this important issue." -- Abel Maldonado, State Senator of Santa Maria and sponsor of SB1228, "Bill that aimed to improve safety for youngsters at Oceano Dunes fails to muster state support", The Tribune (8/14/08)

• "We have reached a point of desperation as we witness our rural communities taken over by off-roaders who have no respect for our private property rights. Many of our calls for help are ignored because there is insufficient funding and support for law enforcement who are often overwhelmed by the problem. In our communities, ORV trespass and nuisance is a major complaint to law enforcement both local and federal." -- Victoria Fuller, Private Property Owner of Joshua Tree, Speaking Before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Public Lands (3/13/08)

• "I find that the Oceano Dunes are a great place to roam and mob around with off-highway vehicles. But to tell you the truth, I like to breathe a lot more than doing such recreational activities. Studies have shown that the high levels of dust being blown are polluting the Oceano residents’ air. It is considered a serious health hazard by the Air Pollution Control District. An easy solution to this is limiting the number of users each weekend or simply closing the Dunes down for good." -- Parker Patterson, rider, "Letter: Stop the Pollution", San Luis Obispo Tribune (4/19/10)

• “Operating a motor vehicle on the National Forest carries a greater responsibility than driving in other areas. This is because the operator must know not only the applicable traffic laws, but they need to show a concern for the environment as well. Misuse of motor vehicles can lead to closures of routes and trails that are currently open." -- Forest Service Patrol Captain Gary Barnett, "Men get fines, probation for illegal off-roading", Tahoe Daily Tribune (3/5/10)

• “If you want peace and quiet to reign in our neighborhoods call your supervisor and demand that Ordinance 3793 remain unchanged. If you want to return to the days of orv lawlessness in our neighborhoods don’t say a word — let the supervisors cut the guts out of the law. The ordinance is up for discussion soon. Act now!” -- DS Wenzel, property owner, "Your view: Another vote for piece and quiet", The Desert Trail (1/27/10)

• "Off-road-vehicle use has often drawn complaints from residents about noise, dust and trespassing... We need to have some kind of enforcement tool." -- Gary Penrod, "San Bernardino County officials keep law restricting off-roading", The Press-Enterprise (8/22/07)

Examples of Recent ORV-Related Law Enforcement Activity

Source: United States Forest Service

2008

• Cleveland NF - On 10/1, an LEO made contact with a man in the Wildomar OHV area of the Trabuco RD and observed numerous OHV violations. Further investigation revealed the man was wanted for seven felony warrants out of Orange County including a no-bail warrant. He was transported to jail with assistance from the Orange County SD.

• Cleveland NF - On 9/28, LEO’s conducted compliance checks in the Wildomar OHV area on the Trabuco RD. Over 40 contacts were made with OHV riders and 10 violation notices were issued for numerous OHV infractions. One suspect was arrested for a misdemeanor warrant.

• Cleveland NF - On 8/9, an LEO made contact with several people recreating at the Wildomar OHV area on the Trabuco RD and observed several OHV violations. Further investigation revealed drug and alcohol violations. They were detained and issued State and Federal Notices to Appear. The case is pending State and Federal charges.

• Cleveland NF - On 8/3, an LEO on the Descanso RD contacted 34 people at Bear Valley Cul-de-sac in Pine Valley for OHV enforcement and issued a state citation for no spark arrestor/no registration as well as a warning for no safety certificates for OHV riders under the age of 16.

• Los Padres NF: On 5/31, LEO's cited numerous individuals for OHV violations and vehicle code violations in the Pozo riding area on the Santa Lucia RD.

• Cleveland NF - LEO's are concentrating their efforts on OHV enforcement in Corral Canyon and Bear Valley Cul-de-sac in Pine Valley on the Descanso RD. The LEO's contacted over 75 people to check fee compliance, spark arrestors, and OHV registration. Over half of the visitors were not in compliance.

• Cleveland NF - On 5/25, LEO's observed a vehicle driving recklessly on Tenaja Road on the Trabuco RD. The vehicle nearly struck the LEO's vehicle as it passed at a high rate of speed. The LEO requested assistance from Riverside County SD and was able to stop the vehicle approximately three miles down the road. The vehicle was designed for off-road racing and equipped with numerous custom modifications. The driver admitted this wasn't the first time he had raced in the area and that he had been doing it for years. He was cited for reckless driving. Federal charges are pending.

• Sierra NF - On 5/24, a large OHV event was held under special use permit in Jose Basin. LEO's conducted checks of the area and made contact with several irate visitors. The visitors were upset over the upcoming travel management plan and the presence of law enforcement who might infringe on their recreation. In each case, officers were able to provide information to diffuse the situation. Despite the extra patrols, a serious accident occurred at the event. A 25 year-old man, who was drinking, decided to ride on the back bumper of a truck. When a vehicle following the truck accelerated over a bump in the road, it became airborne with all four wheels off the ground at one point. The front end of the airborne vehicle landed on the rear end of the truck. The man riding on the truck's bumper sustained a serious injury to his leg and foot after being pinned between the trucks. He was flown to a hospital. CHP conducted the accident investigation.

• Los Padres NF - On 5/24, LEO's stopped a vehicle traveling at an unsafe speed through a river ford in the Santa Ynez Recreation Area on the Santa Barbara RD and issued a citation to the driver. The passenger was arrested on outstanding warrants for failure to appear for sentencing for driving on a suspended license and failure to appear for sentencing for possession of crystal meth and possession of drug paraphernalia. LEO's also issued numerous Notices of Non Compliance to riders that did not have the required Adventure Pass and numerous citations to riders at the Cameusa OHV trailhead for no valid registration and no helmets.

• Los Padres NF - On 5/24, an LEO issued several citations for various OHV violations on the Mt. Pinos RD.

• Los Padres NF - On 5/9, an LEO issued violation notices to seven motorcycle riders who were riding on a local road in an area with no open trails after it was determined that they had gone around a locked gate to gain access to a closed area.

• Los Padres NF - On 5/3, LEO's conducted additional patrols within the Santa Ynez Recreation Area on the Santa Barbara RD in anticipation of increased public use during the holiday weekend. Numerous citations were issued for riding OHV's on a highway, minors riding in the bed of pickup trucks, and possession of a controlled substance.

• Plumas NF - On 4/25, an LEO and FPO were called out to an accident scene in the Beckwourth/Genesee area on the Mt. Hough RD where a man was found in critical condition after crashing his four-wheeler into the side of a rock cliff. An LEO, FPO, and CHP determined that the man had crashed his four-wheeler 8-12 hours prior to being found by friends and family two miles away from his campsite. He was airlifted to a hospital.

• Plumas NF - On 4/25, an LEO saw two ATV's traveling on a road at Norfolk CG on the Mt Hough RD. A few minutes later, the LEO heard gunfire from the vicinity of the ATV's. The LEO investigated and found several individuals with a shotgun alongside an ATV. The LEO was not able to determine who had fired the shotgun and issued warnings to all three individuals for discharging a firearm within 150 yards of a developed site. One individual was cited for expired green sticker.

• Plumas NF - On 4/26-27, California Fish and Game Wardens and LEO's made contact with over 200 people during the opening weekend of trout season. Officers issued over a dozen citations for violations involving fishing green sticker/registration, open container of alcohol, shooting in a closed area, driving ATV's in a campground, disorderly conduct and resource damage.

• Cleveland NF - On 4/12, LEO's contacted a person in the Black Canyon Area regarding sanitation violations. It was determined the person had two prior convictions as the result of FS violation notices relating to possession of marijuana and OHV operation. The person was cited for the sanitation violation and possession of a control substance.

• Stanislaus NF - On 3/29 - A Magistrate Judge convicted eight juveniles for multiple violations they committed while on a campout and party at Board's Crossing on the Calaveras RD during the summer of 2007. The 17 and 18 year-old men and women were convicted of attending a campfire during restrictions, cutting down a standing green cedar tree and OHV violations. The young participants had filmed the nighttime party and the video ended up in the hands of one of their probation officers who contacted an LEO. They were sentenced to pay a total of $2,360 in fines, and serve a total of 295 hours of community service with 8 years probation. In addition, one man violated his state probation by committing these offenses and is serving time at the California Youth Authority.

• San Bernardino NF - On 3/25, an LEO investigated an illegal OHV trail that had been sabotaged with roofing nails. An equestrian rider reported she found several of the nails in her horse's hooves. The investigation is continuing.

• Sequoia NF - Tule River/Hot Springs RD - An LEO found an FS fence adjacent to private property had been cut and replaced with a gate. Tracks from an OHV led from the private property through the gate and onto NFS lands. The owner of the property was interviewed and found in violation of constructing a trail onto NFS lands land in the Sequoia NF - Giant Sequoia National Monument, cutting an FS fence, and constructing a gate to access NFS lands.

• Sierra NF - Bass Lake RD - On 3/8-9, an LEO conducted patrols of high use OHV roads and staging areas. Several verbal warnings were issued for minor OHV violations. The LEO also spoke to several OHV groups to clarify the upcoming "designated routes" regulations. A majority of the OHV users are pleased with the opportunities the OHV route designations will provide.

• Los Padres NF - On 3/1, an LEO and CDF were dispatched to a motorcycle accident in the Pozo-LaPanza OHV area. The rider received moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to a hospital.

• Los Padres NF - On 2/29 - 3/1, an LEO made numerous OHV contacts in the Pozo-LaPanza OHV area. Four people were cited for various OHV violations.

• San Bernardino NF - An LEO stopped a vehicle and cited the driver for off-road vehicle use, having a suspended driver's license, no proof of insurance and expired vehicle registration. The driver was advised not to drive the vehicle. Several minutes after leaving the scene, the LEO observed the same individual driving the vehicle again at a different location. The vehicle was stopped and the LEO had the vehicle towed to storage.

• Imperial Sand Dunes BLM - Two LEO's assisted BLM in the Imperial Sand Dunes over the President's Day Weekend. The LEO's wrote numerous citations, arrested several DUI drivers, and transported a woman who was arrested for assaulting a BLM Ranger.

• Los Padres NF - On 2/24, an LEO contacted six juveniles who were found trespassing on Bureau of Reclamation property patrolled by the FS. The juveniles were in the process of pulling one of their vehicles from a mud hole directly above the utility supply lines for a Fire Station. A citation was issued to the driver of the stuck vehicle and all six were given warnings for trespassing.

• Sierra NF - On 2/23, an LEO conducted a follow-up investigation in a remote area concerning the illegal construction of roads and trails, illegal restriction of public access, OHV/UTV in designated Wild and Scenic areas, and Fish and Game violations.

• Sierra NF - Bass Lake RD - On 2/17, an LEO located a wrecked vehicle in the Bass Lake Recreation Area that matched the description of several prior reports of vehicle off-road violations. The vehicle was found to have an expired registration. The LEO arranged to have the vehicle towed and stored.

• Sierra NF - On 2/9, an LEO and a CHP Officer conducted patrols concentrating on safety, OHV violations, and snow park regulations. During one vehicle stop, four occupants in a pickup noticed the LEO's K-9 and felt immediately compelled to produce several containers filled with illegal drugs along with open alcoholic beverage containers. Officers addressed various incidents including passenger vehicles driven on snow groomed trails and a pickup truck that caused a snowmobile accident when it parked across an OHV trail.

• Sequoia NF - Kern River RD - On 2/7, LEO's received a request from BLM to handle a report of OHV's riding recklessly and causing resource damage on BLM land adjacent to NFS lands. The officers contacted the OHV riders as they were leaving the area and issued three citations to them for green sticker violations. One rider was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

• Inyo NF - An LEO, CHP and Mono County SAR personnel responded to a snowmobile accident with injuries at a permitted snowmobile operation on the Forest. The LEO assisted with transporting the victim back to the highway and a waiting ambulance. The responders also assisted at another accident involving a permitted snowmobile operation at the Mammoth Mountain Ski area. The victim was transported by Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrollers to a waiting ambulance.

• Inyo NF - An LEO worked with Mono County SD deputies to enforce Green Sticker registration on snowmobiles at multiple staging areas on NFS lands. The SD received funding through the Green Sticker grant program and is actively assisting the FS in enforcement of registration, safe riding, and speed control in congested areas. The LEO and deputies issued multiple violation notices.

• Stanislaus NF - A recreation tech/FPO was assisting an injured snowmobiler on a groomed snow trail at Lake Alpine on the Calaveras RD and observed a snowmobiler entering a heavily congested area at a high rate of speed. The FPO signaled to the snowmobiler to slow down and asked him to be careful as he drove through the congested area. The snowmobiler responded in a hostile manner and used several obscenities. He told the FPO that he was on official business and did not have to slow down. Another FPO contacted the same snowmobiler two miles up the trail at the snowmobile parking area. The man denied seeing the first FPO. He was asked to wait for the other FPO and an LEO to arrive, but left the area. The FPO's and an LEO located the man at his cabin and issued violation notices to him for unsafe snowmobile operation and for giving false information to an FS employee. The man admitted that he was not on official business when contacted by the first FPO.

• Sierra NF - On 2/2, an LEO and Fresno SD OHV deputies patrolled on snowmobiles to provide public safety services for a snow-cross race at Huntington Lake. The event was being held under a special use permit and experienced a large number of participants. Officers made several stops for open containers, driving on a suspended license and operation of an OSV at unsafe speeds within 50 feet of spectators.

• Sierra NF - On 2/1, an LEO contacted several people on OHV's in the Redenger Lake area regarding resource damage and registration violations. The LEO has been working the area for several days due to an increase in OHV use. Many educational and law enforcement contacts have been made in attempt to reduce the problems.

• Cleveland NF - On 1/27, LEO's and Riverside County SD deputies responded to a report of shots fired in the Wildomar OHV area on the Trabuco RD. The officers identified and detained four male suspects. Further investigation revealed all four were illegally target shooting adjacent to the Wildomar OHV area. They were each cited for discharging a firearm in an unsafe manner and released.

• San Bernardino NF - On 1/27, an LEO was dispatched to a report of illegal OHV use on Bureau of Reclamation land. A 4-wheel drive Suburban was discovered abandoned and buried up to the doors approximately 30 feet down an embankment. The vehicle was towed by CHP.

• Cleveland NF - On 1/25, LEO's initiated compliance contacts on approximately 50 OHV's in the area of Bear Valley Road. Local OHV activity has increased over the last month in this area.

• Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, CA - On 1/19 at 0840 hrs, an undercover U. S. Custom and Border Protection Agent was killed in the line of duty in the South Dunes. The Agent was working an undercover operation along with his team when a smuggling vehicle ran over him. The vehicle then fled back into Mexico. BLM EMS personnel in the area saw the incident and provided emergency services to the Agent until advanced life care arrived. Shortly after advance care arrived, the Agent was pronounced dead. BLM Law Enforcement Rangers provided assistance with scene security and initial case management. The FBI and Mexico officials are investigating the death of the Agent. Secondary investigations are being conducted by ICE, California HP, and Imperial County SD Coroner.

• Tahoe NF - On 1/13, an LEO and an FPO patrolled an increasingly popular OHV area along Greenhorn Creek on the Yuba River RD. The area saw very intense use over the weekend due to an annual OHV event nearby. Numerous violation notices and warnings were issued for a variety of OHV violations.

• Sierra NF On 1/9, a snowmobiler was traveling on the groomed runs at Sierra Summit Ski Resort, an area closed to snowmobiles. The man was operating the snowmobile in a reckless manner, rolled it, and crashed into snow-making hydrants, attached water lines, and air lines. The rider called his friends who responded to his location and removed the snowmobile. An LEO located the man who admitted to being very intoxicated while riding in the closed area and causing the damage. The man contacted Sierra Summit, voluntarily paid for the $1,000 damage to the ski resort property, and was cited his unsafe actions.

2007

• CALIFORNIA - Sierra NF On 12/23/07, an LEO observed two people traveling at a high rate of speed on motorcycles in the Miami Mountain area. When the riders saw the LEO, they attempted to flee. The LEO was able to stop them and identified them as local juveniles. Both motorcycles were unregistered and one of the juveniles had a suspended driver's license. The LEO contacted their parents and arranged to have the minors and their motorcycles picked-up. Written warnings were issued to both juveniles.

• Sierra NF - An LEO and a CHP Officer have worked together over the past week to enforce OHV registration on the District. The two officers also worked together to enforce snow park permits and to prevent reckless driving on Hwy 168 through NFS lands. During their coordinated effort, the officers have issued numerous citations for various violations including unsafe vehicle operation.

• Lassen NF On 12/15, LEO's were notified of an ATV accident on the Hat Creek RD near the Pacific Crest Trail. A man rode over a jump with his ATV, lost control, and fell off the ATV. Both the man and the ATV slid approximately 85 feet across snow and ice before they came to a stop. The man sustained a compound fracture to his leg. LEO's are investigating the accident and related resource damage.

• Lassen NF On 12/8, LEO's contacted a man operating an ATV with a juvenile passenger near Humbug Summit on the Almanor RD. They admitted to traveling on and off of NFS Roads. It was determined the driver had multiple felony and misdemeanor arrest warrants. The juvenile was transported back to his party by an officer and another adult was brought back to the site to take possession of the ATV. The man was transported to Chico and was transferred to Butte County SD personnel. He was given a violation notice for operating the ATV with a passenger and was warned for the other violations.

• Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area, CA - On 12/8, SA's were notified of a suspicious camp in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. BLM, FBI and DEA personnel observed as large bundles were smuggled into the camp by riders on blacked-out OHV's. Just after midnight on 12/9, BLM, FBI, DEA, ICE, California HP and Imperial County SD personnel contacted the camp. Upon entering the motor home to conduct a protective sweep, Agents discovered a large amount of marijuana in plain view. Three males and two females were arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and aiding and abetting. Upon conducting a further search of the motor home, 842 pounds of marijuana was seized. Agents also seized a Ford Explorer, a dune buggy, an OHV, two trailers and the rented motor home. All five suspects were booked into Imperial County Jail on federal charges. A Criminal Complaint was filed with the U.S. District Court in El Centro, CA.

• Imperial Sand Dunes, CA - On 11/24, BLM Rangers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a motorcycle jumping a large dune in an unsafe manner and not displaying a required safety flag. The rider, upon seeing one of the Ranger's marked vehicle, quickly accelerated and then nearly collided with another BLM Ranger on an ATV who also attempted to stop him. The motorcycle accelerated and continued to fail to stop as it headed toward several camps on the outside edge of the Dune Buggy Flats area. Two Imperial County SD Deputies on marked ATV's also attempted to stop the motorcycle as it continued through several large camps at unsafe and reckless speeds and then began to pull away from responding units. Officers, unable to keep up, followed from a safe distance in an effort to keep visual contact. The suspect then hit a worm hole away from the camps, lost control of his motorcycle, and crashed at speeds estimated near 60 mph. Deputies and Rangers arrived on scene and immediately requested that EMS respond. As he was being treated by Rangers and EMS personnel, the suspect repeatedly stated that he had run from the officers because "he didn't want another ticket", "that his license was suspended" and "that he didn't want his buddy's bike to get towed". It was also determined that the suspect was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He was later airlifted to a hospital with a collapsed lung and other injuries. The suspect is facing pending charges to include felony reckless driving, evading, DUI, driving while suspended, as well as several other misdemeanor charges.

• Tahoe NF - On 11/24, an LEO attempted to stop six off-highway motorcycles for riding on a paved highway. The lead rider fled the scene and the remaining five riders would not identify the rider. One of the remaining riders was found to have a suspended driver's license and the LEO accompanied them to their campsite. Because he had been wearing a full face helmet, the fleeing driver could not be positively identified by the LEO. The man suspected of fleeing was arrested on an outstanding arrest warrant out of Lake County, CA.

• Gila NF - LEO's on the Gila and Coronado NF's assisted with a special operation on BLM lands in response to a large gathering of off-road vehicles on the Imperial Sand Dunes in California. Numerous citations were issued and DUI patrols were conducted to prevent vehicle accidents in the areas.

• Imperial Sand Dunds, CA - On 10/29 at approximately 1000 hours, USBP Agents and the Imperial County SD responded to a report of gunfire at the Buttercup CG within the southern Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area. Witnesses reported four males on all terrain vehicles (ATV's) loading suspicious looking packages into a vehicle occupied by three men. During this process, gunfire erupted and the vehicle sped away, resulting in six packages of marijuana falling out of the vehicle onto the roadway. Witnesses stated that they were quickly approached by several unknown individuals on ATV's who threatened to shoot the bystanders if they didn't stay away from the packages. USBP Agents collected 131.3 pounds of packaged marijuana. An El Centro BLM SA assigned to the DEA Task Force was notified and responded. Follow up investigation is underway.

• Red Buttes, CA - On 10/27, the Victor Valley Off-Highway Vehicle Enforcement Team responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon. The victim reported that he and his son were riding their dirt bikes and were shot at by the suspect. The father was able to call 911 on his cell phone and gave the suspect's description and vehicle information. Adelanto Deputies stopped the suspect and a semi-automatic handgun was located in the truck. A Ranger and a San Bernardino SD Deputy responded to the victim's location for the interview and crime scene investigation. The location of the crime scene is a mine site on private property, surrounded by public lands.

• Dumont Dunes Recreation Area (BLM), CA - On 10/6, a Ranger was assigned to quad patrol at the Dumont Dunes Recreation Area. At roughly 2130 hours, the Ranger observed a quad approach his location at a high rate of speed. When the quad was within a few feet of the another Ranger's vehicle, it turned sharply and accelerated, throwing sand and rocks all over them and the marked patrol vehicle (commonly known as roosting). The suspect lost control of his quad and clipped the Ranger's marked BLM patrol quad that was parked approximately 20 feet in front of them. The suspect wrecked and the Ranger responded to his location. The suspect appeared to be getting up to run at which point the Ranger placed his body weight on top of him and held him to the ground. The suspect ignored verbal commands to put his hands behind his back. With assistance, the Ranger was able to apply handcuffs to the suspect's wrists. EMS responded. The suspect refused medical care, was cited, and released.

• Stanislaus NF - On 8/18, two men, without helmets, were riding an ATV on a closed road blocked with an earth berm on the Summit RD. As they tried to ride over the edge of the berm, the ATV rolled several times and landed on top of the two riders. The passenger pulled the ATV off the driver and discovered he did not have a pulse. An FS Recreation Technician administered CPR to the driver but he did not survive.

• Stanislaus NF On 8/10, a Caldwell County SD Deputy witnessed two people lift two four-wheel ATV's over a rock barricade and determined they had been riding on the closed road. The Deputy and an LEO later visited their residence and issued citations for ATV violations and providing false information.

• Lassen NF On 7/6-7, an LEO and an FS Recreation employee patrolled the High Lakes OHV area on the Almanor RD. The area has experienced an increase in use and resource concerns. Numerous violation notices were issued for registration, shooting, and alcohol offenses. Visitors were provided education and information regarding upcoming changes to the area.

• Tahoe NF - On 6/11, an LEO saw two ATV's riding on a paved highway. When the riders saw the LEO vehicle they turned around and attempted to flee. One ATV became wedged into a trail crossing barrier designed to allow only motorcycles through. The second rider started to flee but stopped. When the LEO started to pat down one of the riders for officer safety, the man announced he was a parolee and tried to twist around to face the LEO. The LEO pulled the ATV rider off balance and handcuffed him. The man had a suspended driver's license which constituted a violation of his parole. He was arrested for the misdemeanor crime of riding on the highway. The man had been out of prison for about one month after having been sent back for three months for domestic violence charges.

• Pacheco Peak, CA - BLM - On the morning of 9/5, a multi-agency operation consisting of Santa Clara County SD Deputies, San Benito County SD Deputies, United Narcotics Task Force (UNET) members and a BLM Ranger conducted a raid/eradication on a suspected marijuana garden. The garden was reported two days prior by a land owner of a Ranch bordering BLM managed public lands. A total of approximately 2,550 plants were eradicated during the operation. While en route to the garden, a Ranger from the Hollister Field Office was involved in an ATV rollover accident. Both the Ranger and a UNET Agent sustained injuries as a result of being thrown from and crushed by the ATV. Both officers were airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital. The UNET Agent was released with minor injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. The BLM Ranger sustained 12 broken ribs, 2 collapsed lungs and a broken clavicle and was admitted to the ICU.

• Stanislaus NF - On 5/28, the Patrol Captain responded to the Cherry Dam rock quarry (a site that is used heavily for camping by OHV groups during holiday weekends) to investigate reports from an FPO that there had been shooting and fireworks in the remote area the previous two nights. The campers were gone, but had left abundant evidence of OHV riding, litter and gun shells. On the quarry floor, a large slash pile had been ignited, a campfire with litter was burning, and two spots of wildland fire had apparently been aerially ignited by the burning slash pile. An FS engine and FPT responded to suppress the fires.

• Eldorado NF - While conducting OHV registration checks on the Georgetown RD, an LEO contacted a juvenile riding a motorcycle on NFS roads and trails. A registration check determined that the motorcycle had been reported stolen. While the LEO waited for an El Dorado County SD Deputy to arrive, a parent of the juvenile rode up on another motorcycle. This motorcycle had an obscured VIN, which the LEO located under thick fresh paint. It had also been reported stolen. The parent, who claimed ownership of both vehicles, was cited and released for knowingly possessing a vehicle with an altered VIN. Both motorcycles were impounded. Further charges for vehicle theft are pending by the El Dorado County DA's office.

• Sierra NF - On 3/25, an LEO and a CHP Officer conducted an OHV patrol to address public complaints of resource damage and unsafe vehicle operation. They responded to several incidents, including a clash between a snowmobile rider and 4-wheel drive vehicle driver. The vehicles nearly collided and one driver challenged the other to fight. The CHP Officer also conducted several vehicle safety and/or equipment inspections.

• Los Padres NF - On 3/23, two men, ages 20 and 23, pleaded guilty in U.S. Magistrate Court to one count each of threatening, resisting, intimidating or interfering with a forest officer. They were each sentenced to serve 40 hours of community service, and one was ordered to pay $320 restitution to the FS. The case began on 10/07/06 when the men entered into a Forest fire closure in Ballenger Canyon OHV area and two FPO's contacted them. The men initially refused when asked to identify themselves. As the FPO's attempted to write the citations, the men called them names and cursed at them. While the FPO's explained the citations to the men, one of them sounded his vehicle's horn numerous times, interfering with the officers. After the citations were issued, the men told the officers they would take care of the matter later, intimidating the officers.

• Tahoe NF - An LEO discovered fresh motorcycle tracks going around a clearly posted OHV Trail Closure sign and three motorcycles coming out of the closure area. All three drivers fled when the officer attempted to contact them. One of the riders eventually stopped. The 18 year-old male driver had never been issued an identification or driver's license. The "Green Sticker" on his motorcycle was registered to a different motorcycle and a check of the ATV's VIN revealed it was stolen. The driver was arrested and taken the county jail for riding a stolen motorcycle and being in possession of stolen property. The man also admitted that one of the other two fleeing riders was his father. An LEO and an FPO returned to the father's campsite. The LEO determined that the registration on the vehicle at the site was false and that the vehicle's actual registration had been expired since 2001. The LEO and FPO were waiting for the father to return when an unidentified vehicle drove up and the occupants, unaware they were being watched, signaled for the father to come out of hiding. When the father did not respond, the male driver of the car and his female companion got into the father's vehicle and commented "let's get out of here before the cops come back" and indicated they were going to take the father's wallet and leave. After they entered the vehicle, the LEO interceded and detained them. The two showed the LEO where the father had been hiding out since his son's arrest nearly three hours earlier. A check of the father's hidden motorcycle showed it was also stolen. The LEO recovered the stolen motorcycle, and ordered the father's vehicle impounded under California state law. In addition, numerous items of methamphetamine and associated paraphernalia were recovered. Attempts to locate the father were unsuccessful. The investigation continues and additional charges are pending.

• Sierra NF - On 2/28, an LEO was contacted by Sierra Summit Ski Resort Security regarding a man in possession of an embezzled/stolen rented snowboard valued at over $400. He was taken into custody and turned over to Fresno SD. The man rented the snow board three weeks prior and kept it. The man and three friends were contacted the following day at the ski area by Fresno SD. They were in possession of illegal drugs and under the influence. They were also operating an OHV and a passenger vehicle in an unsafe manner. The group bragged about embezzling the snowboard. Sierra Summit personnel told them they were not welcome at the resort, and the group told Deputies they would burglarize mountain homes if they were not welcome at the ski resort. The following day, the group's vehicle was stopped by Fresno SD adjacent to NFS lands as they were returning to Sierra Summit. The driver was arrested for reckless driving and CHP towed the vehicle.

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