ATV debate moves forward |
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| Written by Rolla Daily News |
| Sunday, June 27, 2010 |
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Adam Van Hart Rolla, Mo. — Baby steps were the key words for Randy Verkamp on Thursday, as the Phelps County Commission tackled the issue of all-terrain-vehicles. A decision or even a consensus on how permits would be implemented for U.S. Forest Service roads was not reached during the meeting, but commissioners were resolved to create a county program. The issue has generated much discussion and a handful of responses from county residents. The drafting of an ordinance was recommended to be handled by Prosecuting Attorney Courtney George. One such idea proposed by Verkamp would set a one-year trial for the permits. District Two Commissioner Bud Dean was at first uncertain a trial period was necessary, but he was quickly followed by Verkamp’s assertion it would allow the county the opportunity to examine the costs and benefits, with the option of halting permits if it deemed necessary. District One Commissioner Larry Stratman suggested the permits in the trial period be granted without a possible $15 charge. Strassner also argued not charging fees would make it easier for the county to cancel the program since citizens wouldn’t be able to object because they already paid for their permit. County Clerk Carol Bennett was less enthusiastic about free permits, noting that there was costs associated with them that need to be considered. -- Source: http://www.therolladailynews.com/news/x1237306162/ATV-debate-moves-forward |
State by State Momentum
Community Voices
“During the past decade, I have personally had six out of seven elk hunts ruined by the careless intrusions of ATV operators. This epidemic has forced me to abandon one prime hunting area after another, only to encounter the same situation elsewhere. The shameful part of this picture is that the overwhelming majority of these ATV’ers are young and healthy, not decrepit or physically challenged. Maybe these riders would be more respectful of other people's outdoor experience if they knew we could ID them." - Bill Sustrich, Colorado Backcountry Hunters and Anglers |









