Kane warns: Keep ATVs out of forest preserves

GENEVA -- The Kane County Forest Preserve District has been stepping up enforcement against illegally operated all-terrain vehicles and other motorized vehicles in the forest preserves.

Forest preserve officers have made recent arrests or issued citations to ATV users in the preserves, and to other motorists who have left roadways and driven into protected areas.

Forest preserve officials say the vehicles can destroy plants, flowers and wildlife, and make the preserves less enjoyable for others.

Drew Ullberg, director of natural resources, said, "While off-road vehicle use may be fun, people are actually causing irreparable damage to some of Illinois' best natural areas.

"Orchids and rare habitats are being run over, unbeknownst to riders. Once these fragile habitats are damaged, some cannot recover," Ullberg said. "Others take a lifetime to recover, so it's important that ATV owners respect the law."

Mike Gilloffo, director of public safety for the Forest Preserve District, added, "Driving ATVs or other motorized vehicles in the preserves is illegal because of the damage they cause to all of our natural resources. It's also a safety issue."

Gilloffo encouraged those who live near preserves to report any suspicious activity, including ATV use. People are urged to call 911 immediately if they see someone riding an ATV on a forest preserve. A forest preserve or Kane County officer will be dispatched to the location, Gilloffo said.

Source: http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/couriernews/news/1580495,3_1_EL19_07ATV_S1.article

---

Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites