News.bytes Extra, issue 450

Director visits sand show and recognizes American Sand Association's 10th anniversary

BLM Director Bob Abbey recently joined the American Sand Association in celebrating its 10th anniversary.  The event was held during the Sept. 17-19 Sand Sports Super Show at the Orange County Fairgounds, where booths with safety information and the lastest equipment and vehicles for enjoying California's unique sand dunes -- including BLM's Imperial Sand Dunes -- were on display. (text continues below)

Director Abbey looks over the latest technology in off-road trucks.

He spoke at the evening anniversary event, and talked about the need for OHV organizations like ASA to work with BLM to raise safety awareness in the aftermath of the tragic OHV accident at Johnson Valley.  "The organized groups and the individual, both spectators and participants, all have a critical stake in the future of the sport and all must take personal responsibility when it comes to public safety," he said.

Abbey also announced the winner of the Jerry R Seaver Volunteer Recognition Award.  This year's winners were Irma and Gary Johnson and family, long-time Dunes recreationists.

He also recognized ASA and its board of directors for stressing responsibility and safety in all its extensive outreach efforts with a Director's Leadership Award.

The Director visits the California Department of Parks and Recreation OHV booth.

Director Abbey looks over an OHV brochure with Daphne Green of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

BLM-California News.bytes, issue 450