For Immediate Release: June 11, 2003
Contact:  Scott Dollus, USFS  303-275-5626
Jack Placchi, BLM    303-239-3832
Tom Metsa, CO. State Parks 303-866-3203 x338

3rd Annual OHV Management Workshop

Denver-The third annual Off-Highway Vehicle Management Workshop will be held June 18th to  June 21st , 2003 (Wednesday through Saturday) at the Rampart Range, South Platte Ranger District. The workshop will be sponsored by the Colorado State Parks - OHV Program, Colorado Off-Highway Vehicle Coalition, US Forest Service, and BLM. The cadre of speakers will consist of the most experienced OHV managers in the nation. This year also will include an 80- hour certification course for advanced SWECO operators. Most importantly, this workshop is an ideal time for managers and OHV enthusiasts to discuss issues in a relaxed manner.

The objective of the sessions are to: provide needed certification for specialized equipment; develop strong working relationships between enthusiasts and land managers; better understand OHV recreation needs; learn about successful planning and management strategies for meeting those needs; develop OHV and travel management expertise; provide an opportunity to train trail crews supported by OHV registration funds; and experience projects for maintenance and construction of motorized trails.

The workshop agenda will be designed for a combined audience of Line Managers, Field Specialists, and OHV Enthusiasts. Wednesday will be set aside for ATV Certification Training and Thursday will involve field trips with discussions of issues and general principles. Friday and Saturday are targeted toward Field Personnel and OHV Enthusiasts with a demonstration of environmentally sound SWECO operations and hands-on-training for specific management techniques. Consecutively scheduled will be an advanced 80-hour SWECO operator’s certification course available to both agency personnel and OHV enthusiasts who have received prior SWECO certifications. This course will be limited to nine trainees and will require a $100 registration fee, which is a great value because this course normally costs over $1000 a person. Other types of certification will include: chainsaws, ATVs and motorcycles.

Please mark this on your calendars and plan on attending.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact any of the individuals listed at the top of this page.

-BLM-