News Release

For Release: June 4, 2007         
Contact: Rich Williams (760) 872-5033, e-mail Richard_Williams@ca.blm.gov
CA-CC- 07-48

BLM Offers OHV Sound Tests

The Bureau of Land Management is offering voluntary sound testing program for off-highway vehicles including off-road motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, Rhinos/Mules or other vehicles used on public lands.

The purpose of the program is to allow owners of vehicles to identify if the vehicle meets California sound regulations before venturing out on public lands where they may be subject to a citation and fine.
Individual testing will be conducted by appointment, including weekends, at the Bishop Field Office, 351 Pacu Lane, and other convenient locations. To make an appointment, contact Rich Williams at (760) 872-5033, e-mail, Richard_Williams@ca.blm.gov.

 “As more people use the public lands, the potential for conflict between different uses increases. The BLM is enforcing sound requirements for OHVs operated on public lands to help minimize conflicts between user groups.” BLM Bishop Field Office Manager Bill Dunkelberger explained.
 
Excessive noise is prohibited under 43 Code of Federal Regulations 8341 CVC 38370(h)(1). A noise limit of 96 decibels (A) for the 20-inch sound test is currently in effect for all federal and state lands in California for OHVs manufactured on or after January 1, 1986, and competition vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1998. Noise limits restrictions of 101db (A) apply for all other vehicles.

Visit,  http://www.ohv.parks.ca.gov and follow links for a full version of the legislation.

The BLM testing program is voluntary and no citations will be issued to those participating in the program.

-BLM-

BLM Bishop Field Office, 351 Pacu Lane, Bishop, Ca 93514