Forest preserve officials give ATV drivers a warning

Written by The Chronicle

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

GENEVA – Forest preserve officials are reminding those who illegally operate all-terrain vehicles will be cited.

Forest Preserve District police have recently made arrests and cited ATV drivers who have left the road and driven in protected areas, causing damage in forest preserves.

Damage from ATVs in forest preserves includes destruction of plants, flowers and wildlife, according to Drew Ullberg, director of natural resources.

“While off-road vehicle use may be fun, people are actually causing irreparable damage to some of Illinois’ best natural areas,” he stated in a release. “Orchids and rare habitats are being run over, unbeknownst to riders. Once these fragile habitats are damaged, some cannot recover. Others take a lifetime to recover, so it’s important that ATV owners respect the law.”

Those cited for driving an ATV in a forest preserve are fined, responsible for repairing the damage and must appear in court.

For more information, the Forest Preserve District’s use ordinance is posted at each preserve. Rules and regulations are also posted online at www.kaneforest.com.

Source: http://www.kcchronicle.com/articles/2009/05/19/18961340/index.xml

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“Once they chased our cow into a deep arroyo where it fell and broke its neck. I don't understand how anyone could think chasing livestock is fun.” As a result of the growing conflicts with off-roaders, the Gonzales family stopped their cattle ranching. It doesn't matter whether it is a plate or decal, what is important is that the identification is visible. The police could have tracked down the illegal riders if we had been able to photograph the IDs on their vehicles. I think that would have made them think twice before breaking the law.”

- Eleanor Gonzales, private property owner in Santé Fe County, NM