News.bytes Extra, issue 513

4H Club Sanctions ATV Safety Project in Imperial Valley

El Centro Field Office Interpretive Park Ranger Joya Szalwinski participated in an ATV Safety Forum for Imperial Valley's 4H Clubs -- the first sanctioned ATV project for the club in the Imperial Valley. Hosted by Heber Dunes SVRA on Saturday, December 17, 2011, the event was designed to introduce young ATV enthusiasts to the myriad of OHV opportunities available in the Imperial Valley, while helping them understand the rules and regulations that govern ATV safety.

The youngsters ranged in age from 8 to 14 years old, and are participating in the 4H project because of their interest in ATV recreation. The event was an opportunity for youngsters to understand that while OHV recreation occurs in many different venues in the Imperial Valley, the overall goal is safe and responsible ATV use and stewardship of the natural resource.

The forum provided a broad overview for the group -- with state, county and federal representatives on hand to answer questions about specific sites. The youngsters and their parents interacted with agency reps through a series of scenarios that focused on ATV safety, decision making and stewardship. Attending the forum brought the youngsters closer to earning 4H medals through their project reports.

State, Federal and County representatives address the 4H Club. The youngsters at the front of the audience represent Southwest Valley and Verde 4H Clubs from Imperial Valley.

BLM Interpretive Park Ranger Joya Szalwinski talks about OHV recreation on public lands managed by the El Centro Field Office.

- Joya Szalwinski, BLM interpretive park ranger, BLM El Centro Field Office/Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (Jan. 6, 2012)

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