Cynthia - Estacada, Or

To: ODNRA OHV Designated Routes Working Group

We have been riding OHV's  at the Oregon Dunes for more than 10 years, primarily out of Florence.  This has become a family activity, and a major part of our lives.   It is a way for us to enjoy the beauty of the Oregon coast while participating in a sport that we have become passionate about.  Over the years, we have come to know, love and respect the local communities, and have met many wonderful people and have developed life long friendships.  It has also been a way for us to teach our children about safety, responsibility and respect for the environment.
 

We have found that those opposed to OHV riding on the dunes typically have a biased, one-sided view of the people involved in the sport.  They paint everyone with the same brush - as being irresponsible, and having total disregard for the environment.    The truth is that the MAJORITY of the people involved in OHV riding are very responsible, and care very much about our environment.   The majority of riders follow the rules and regulations, and try to encourage others to do the same.
  

Unfortunately, as with EVERY sport and activity, there are people that are not always responsible.  But again, that can be found in EVERY sport and activity, not just OHV riding.  Closing more of the dunes to OHV riding will NOT stop these irresponsible people.  They will keep doing what they are doing.   Enforcement of the current regulations is what is needed, not adding more closures and regulations.  We believe the enforcement agencies need to partner with those of us in the sport that ARE responsible, and work together to protect the restricted areas from damage.  Many of us belong to groups that are more than willing to become pro-active (ie: Buggyfreaks), not only in areas like beach clean-up projects, but in helping our enforcement officers target the abusers.
 

Closing more of the dunes will have an extremely negative impact on local economies.  The responsible riders will likely stop going to places where our riding is restricted.  We put a LOT of money into the local economies.   Many businesses in dune riding areas rely on OHV riders for their livelihood.  An alternative solution to closing riding areas needs to be found.  Fencing, better signage, better enforcement of current regulations and riding restrictions would be a start. 

Sincerely,

Cynthia Daniels

Estacada, Oregon