COHVOPS Report
JUNE 27 - JULY 4, 2008
SUNRISE 5:24 SUNSET 8:52(15 Hours and 28 minute days/Daylight Savings Ends on Nov 2, 2008)
As of Thursday, June 15, 2008 at 1430 hrs, the skies are clear and the temperature is 75 with a high of 80 in the forecast for today and a low of 47 expected tonight for the Bend, Oregon area. The days are now officially getting shorter, but the summer temperatures are making their way into the Central Oregon area. High temperatures will gradually increase throughout the weekend with an eventual peak of 96 degrees on Sunday. Lows will hover around the 50’s. With these warmer temperatures comes the potential for thunderstorms starting Sunday and continuing into Wednesday at the least. Expect winds to be from the NW at 6-9 mph. As we move into next week, expect partly to mostly cloudy skies with high temperatures continuing in the 90’s and lows near 50.
SUMMER SOLSTICE – BENDS LONGEST DAY OF THE YEAR – June 21 (15 Hours and 30 Minutes)
WINTER SOLSTICE – BENDS SHORTEST DAY OF THE YEAR – December 21 (8 hours and 53 minutes)
OHV TRAIL OVERVIEW:
The overall weekend forecast for East Fort Rock suggests sunny to partly sunny skies with high temperatures in the mid 80’s and lows near 50 for the weekend. It has been a couple weeks now since the East Fort Rock has seen any significant moisture, so dust levels are visible on 100% of the system. Winds will be from the E/NE at 5-8 mph. With the warmer temperatures, the possibility of thunderstorms will pose a threat from Sunday into next week. There is a good chance that some lightning strikes and thunder will be observed throughout the East Fort Rock area. As we move into next week, temperatures will continue to be in the upper 70’s with lows near 40 until Friday.
Millican’s forecast suggests sunny skies for the weekend with high temperatures peaking out at 96 on Sunday with lows near 50. A chance of thunderstorms is forecast for the area daily starting Sunday and continuing into next week. Winds will be from the NE at 9 mph. Trails are dry and dusty due to lack of moisture in the area. No chance of moisture is forecast until Sunday afternoon. As we move into next week, temperature highs will steady around 90 degrees with lows near 50. Keep in mind there are three developed areas for you to stage out of all with picnic tables, fire rings and port-a-potty. Available are 4-Corners, Alfalfa Curves, and Corrals Staging Area. Please do your part to preserve these OHV resources.
UPCOMING EVENTS
2008 Groundhog Rock Crawl Competition
The Deschutes County 4-Wheelers are an organization committed to preserving, promoting, and expanding 4-wheeling opportunities. The members of this group pride themselves on their involvement in the community, the preservation of public lands and their commitment to the tread lightly philosophy. The Deschutes County 4-Wheelers are located in Bend, Oregon and are once again sponsoring the Class II competition at the Groundhog Rock Crawl located on the East Fort Rock Trail System on June 28, 2008. If you require more information on this event or wish to learn more about how you can get directly involved with this organization, go to their website at www.deschutescounty4wheelers.com.
USFS/BLM ROAD CONDITION REPORT
Have you made plans to visit Central Oregon with your OHV toy haulers and RV’s but weary of what the condition of USFS/BLM roads might be during this time of the year. Here are some recent observations that may help in planning the most suitable route for your mode of travel.
ROAD 18 (CHINA HAT ROAD)
· Milepost 9 to Milepost 14 (Pavement Ending to East Fort Rock Boundary) This section of road has been bladed recently but is starting to develop some minor washboard. It is still in above average condition for towing.
· Milepost 14 to Milepost 24 (East Fort Rock Boundary to Road 18 and Road 25 Intersection) This section of road has been bladed recently but has some minor washboard developing. It is still in above average condition for towing.
· Milepost 24 to Milepost 34 (Road 18 and Road 25 Intersection to China Hat OHV Staging Area) This section of road has been bladed within the last two weeks and is in excellent condition for towing.
· Milepost 34 to Milepost 40 (China Hat OHV Staging Area to Road 18 and Road 22 Intersection) This section of road has been bladed within the last week and is in excellent condition for towing.
ROAD 1815 (HORSE BUTTE ROAD)
· Road has developed minor washboard.
ROAD 22 (FINLEY BUTTE ROAD)
· Road 22 located appx. 30 miles west of La Pine at the intersection of Road 18/25 and traveling east to Sand Springs has moderate to heavy washboard at this time. It is not recommended for towing.
ROAD 23 (SAND SPRINGS ROAD)
· Road 23 heading southeast to Sand Springs from the 23/25 junction has minor washboard becoming moderate as you approach Sand Springs. Still good for towing.
ROAD 2510 (TO ROAD 2510 STAGING AREA)
Road 2510 is in average condition at this time with minor to moderate washboard beginning to show if you travel beyond the staging area.
THE WEATHER MAN AND TRAIL STATUS:
· East Fort Rock (elev. 4400-6400’) – OPEN / HOT TEMPS AND CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS The weekend forecast calls for sunny skies with high temperatures peaking out at 84 on Sunday with lows near 50. Chances of thunderstorms are forecast for Sunday and continuing daily into next week. Winds will be from the E/NE at 5-8 mph. The East Fort Rock Trail system has been groomed in its entirety by COHVOPS and now they are working on the second go round. Trails are in great shape but grooming efforts are now being hampered by the lack of moisture in the ground. Dust is now showing itself on the majority of the trail systems. As we move into the week, thunderstorms are possible with high temperatures in the mid 70’s and lows in the mid 40’s. All staging areas are accessible at this time including Road 25, Road 2510, Camp II, China Hat and South Lava Trailhead. Please ride safely. The OPINE Closure implemented on Dec 1 officially ended on March 31, 2008 and is no longer in effect.
Availability of Camping = 10.0 (0-10.0)All staging areas available
Trails affected by closures = 10.0 (0-10.0)All trails open at this time.
Trail Moisture Rating = 2.0 (0-10.0)Trails are groomed but moderate to heavy dust on the trail.
Trail Condition Rating = 8.0 (0-10.0)Trails are well groomed but they are dusty.
Weather Forecast Rating = 7.0 (0-10.0) Sunny skies and hot temperatures/ possible thunderstorms
Overall Rating For EFR = 7.00 Sunny skies, hot temps and chance of thunderstorms
· Millican Plateau (elev. 3300-3700’) -OPEN / HOT TEMPS AND THUNDERSTORMS The forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance for thunderstorms presenting itself on Sunday. Temperature highs will peak out at 96 degrees with lows near 50. Winds will be from the NE at 10 mph. Trails are dusty which is normal for this time of year. As we move into next week, high temperatures will continue to be near 90 degrees with lows near 50 into next Friday. Trails are in pretty good condition at this time except for the dust. Remember there are 3 staging areas available on this OHV trail system. They are 4-Corners, Alfalfa Curves and Corrals.
Availability of Camping = 10.0 (0-10.0) All Staging Areas are available at this time.
Trails affected by closures = 10.0 (0-10.0) All trails open at this time.
Trail Moisture Rating = 0.0 (0-10.0) Trails are drying out and getting dusty.
Trail Condition Rating = 5.0 (0-10.0) Trails are groomed but getting whooped out.
Weather Forecast Rating = 5.0 (0-10.0) Sunny skies, chance of thunderstorms
Overall Rating For Plateau = 6.00 Sunny skies, hot temps and dusty trails.
· Henderson Flat (elev. 3000-3400’) – OPEN/ SUNNY SKIES The forecast for the weekend calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing Sunday and continuing daily into next week. Epect high temperatures to peak out near 96 with lows near 50. Winds will be from the NE at 8-11 mph. As we move into next week, temperatures will be in the upper 80’s with lows near 50. (Open to OHV Traffic from April 1 to November 30).
Availability of Camping = 10.0 (0-10.0) Staging areas are all available at this time.
Trails affected by closures = 10.0 (0-10.0) No Trail Closures at this time.
Doing maintenance on the trail system.
Trail Moisture Rating = 0.0 (0-10.0) Trails have dried out and gotten dusty.
Trail Condition Rating = 3.0 (0-10.0) Grooming was attempted but trails are hard and dry.
Weather Forecast Rating = 6.0 (0-10.0) Sunny skies and hot temperatures.
Overall Rating For Henderson = 4.00 Sunny skies, hot temperatures and chance of thunderstorms.
· North Millican Valley (elev. 3300-4200’) – OPEN / SUNNY SKIES, HOT TEMPS, THUNDERSTORMS
The forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. Temperatures will peak out at 97 on Sunday with lows near 50. Winds will be from the N/NW at 5-8 mph. As we move into next week, expect a continued chance of thunderstorms daily with high temperatures in the low 90’s and lows near 50. (Seasonal closure to OHV Traffic is December 1 to April 30).
· South Millican Valley (elev. 4200-4500’) - CLOSED
(Seasonal closure to OHV Traffic is December 1 to July 31).
· North Millican Cinder Pit (elev. 4400’) – OPEN / SUNNY SKIES, HOT TEMPS, THUNDERSTORMS
The forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. Temperatures will peak out at 97 on Sunday with lows near 50. Winds will be from the N/NW at 5-8 mph. As we move into next week, expect a continued chance of thunderstorms daily with high temperatures in the low 90’s and lows near 50. (Seasonal closure to OHV Traffic is December 1 to April 30).
· Edison Butte (elev. 5000-6900’) – OPEN / SUNNY SKIES, CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS The forecast for the weekend calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. High temperatures will be in the mid 80’s with lows in the mid 50’s. Expect E/NE winds at 7-10 mph. As we move into next week, temperatures will steady in the mid 70’s and the low 50’s. At this time, the seasonal closure has been lifted and will be open to “all” classes of OHV’s. We request your cooperation and your courtesy to other users of these trails and request you make an effort to respect each others sport. (Seasonal Closure for Class II and III OHV’s from Dec 1 to March 31)
· Green Mountain (elev. 4500-5400’) - OPEN / SUNNY SKIES, CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS The forecast calls for sunny skies with a small chance of a thunderstorm forming on Sunday night. Expect high temps to peak out at 97 on Sunday with lows near 53. Winds will be out of the NE at 7-10 mph. As we move into next week, expect temperatures to steady in the mid 80’s with lows near 52. Please note that the Mckay Creek Road closure that went into effect on December 1, 2007 and was scheduled to complete its designated term on May 31, 2008 has been revised. The Ochoco National Forest announced the week of June 22nd that this closure has now become a year-round closure until further review can be accomplished. Additional details will be provided as they are made available.
· Rosland Recreation Site (elev. 4200’) – OPEN/ SUNNY SKIES, CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORMS The forecast calls for sunny skies with high temperatures approaching 91 degrees by Sunday with lows near 50. Expect NE winds at 6-9 mph. As we move into next week, expect temperatures to cool slightly down into the 80’s with lows near 45. Play area has experienced some heavy drainage in the area and some areas are washed out, but all in all a good place to ride.
· East Fort Rock Pit/Play Areas
· Sabol Butte Play Area (elev. 5205’) – SUNNY SKIES AND HOT TEMPS
· South Cinder Play Area (elev. 5555’) – SUNNY SKIES AND HOT TEMPS
· Ice Quarry Play Area (elev. 5195’) – SUNNY SKIES AND HOT TEMPS
· Ground Hog Rock Crawl Play Area (elev. 4900’) – SUNNY SKIES AND HOT TEMPS
· Millican/ODOT Pit (elev. 4200’) – OPEN / SUNNY SKIES The forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing late on Sunday and continuing daily into next week. Expect high temps to peak out at 91 degrees on Sunday with lows near 50. Winds will be out of the NE at 6-9 mph. As we move into next week, expect temperatures to cool into the low 80’s and lows in the mid 40’s.
NEW OREGON ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS
Senate Bill 101 was signed into law by Governor Ted Kulongoski on August 15, 2007. The law requires that all Oregonians operating Class I (quads) or Class III (motorcycle) All-terrain Vehicles (ATV) for recreational purposes on public lands successfully complete an ATV safety education course. It also includes new requirements for adult supervision of youth under 16 years of age, fastening of helmet chin straps, and properly matching youth under 16 with a correct size quad. These new requirements will be phased in over a period from January 1, 2008 through January 1, 2014. The following schedule shows when each of these specific requirements will be put into effect.
Starting January 1, 2008
SUPERVISION:
Starting January 1, 2008, all youth under 16 operating a Class I or Class III ATV on public lands must be supervised by an adult who:
· Is at least 18 years of age.
· Holds a valid All-terrain Vehicle Education Card. (Note: The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is currently developing requirements for the ATV safety education course. As a result, this specific requirement will begin on January 1, 2009.)
· Is able to provide immediate assistance and direction to the children.
NOTE: If you are the guardian or the acting supervisor of youth less than 16 years while operating motorized vehicles on public lands, you acknowledge and accept the responsibility of these youth. On January 1, 2009, the law states that the individual supervising youth as well as the youth themselves will have in their possession an All-Terrain Vehicle Education Card to operate on public lands.
HELMETS AND CHIN STRAPS:
Helmets are currently required for youth under 18 for Class I and III ATVs. Oregon law now clarifies that the helmet’s chin strap must be fastened.
Starting January 1, 2009
MANDATORY SAFETY TRAINING:
Safety training is a component of riding on public lands that is now mandatory for all users regardless of age. This phase-in process will be implemented over the next 6 years. Below is a breakdown of the phase in dates:
Starting January 1, 2009, all youth under 16 operating a Class I or Class III ATV on public lands must submit to the following requirements:
· All youth under 16 must always be supervised by an adult over 18 years of age
· Must hold a valid All-Terrain Vehicle Education Card.
Starting January 1, 2010, all persons under age 31 must have an operators permit.
Starting January 1, 2011, all persons under age 41 must have an operators permit.
Starting January 1, 2012, all persons under age 51 must have an operators permit.
Starting January 1, 2013, all persons under age 61 must have an operators permit.
Starting January 1, 2014, all persons are required to have an operators permit.
VEHICLE OPERATING REQUIREMENTS:
All vehicles operating on public lands must meet the following requirements:
· Must have a valid ATV Sticker (Oregon has reciprocity with and honors Alaska, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah and Washington stickers as well as other States).
· Must have a spark arrestor (year around)
· Sound must be muffled to 99db or less
RIDER FIT GUIDELINES:
Rider Fit Guidelines are currently being developed for youth under 16 who operate Class I ATVs (quads). These guidelines will help properly match the size of the youth to the correct size quad. (Note: This specific requirement will begin on January 1, 2009.) For more information about the new guidelines, go to the Oregon Parks and Recreation website at http://www.oregonohv.org.
ONLINE INTERNET ATV TRAINING:G:
Mandatory ATV safety education requirements are being developed during 2008. ATV education cards will be available through an online course and test, similar to the Oregon State Marine Board’s Boater education program. Hands-on safety training requirements are also being explored for youth. At this time, the Online course is not yet available. For more information go to http://www.oregonohv.org.
DRIVERS LICENSE AND OPERATORS PERMITS:
You are required by law to carry your driver’s license or permit and have the capacity to display them to a Forest Officer or Law Enforcement official at all times when riding. If your driver’s license has been revoked you can not legally operate any motorized vehicle on public lands. You can be cited for not having the legal authority to operate mechanized equipment.
OHV TRAINING VENDORS:
The MSF DIRT BIKE SCHOOL is your outlet to acquire the state required operator permit training and can be contacted at 877-288-7093. Eligible ages for the training will be 6 to 15 and the cost is $75.00. However, because Oregon Parks and Recreation is committed to the education of safe and responsible operation of OHV’s, they contribute $45.00 toward the cost of the training. This leaves a balance of $30.00. Confirming that whoever takes this course will have an understanding of OHV technique and safety awareness. For 16 and above, the cost is $100.00. Classes are held on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. For families with multiple riders, the school does offer discounts. For more information on the MSF Dirt Bike School, go to their website at http://www.dirtbikeschool.com
The ATV SAFETY INSTITUTE offers training and can be contacted at 800-887-2887. For ages 15 and under the cost of the training is $75.00. However, because Oregon Parks and Recreation is committed to the education of safe and responsible operation of OHV’s, they contribute $45.00 toward the cost of the training. This leaves a balance of $30.00. Confirming that whoever takes this course will have an understanding of OHV technique and safety awareness. For 16 and above, the cost of the training is $125.00. If you have purchased an ATV from a dealer within the last 5 years, the training will be offered for free. For more information on the ATV Safety Institute or to enroll online, go to http://www.atvsafety.org
OHV CLASS BREAKDOWN
CLASS 1 DEFINED
· For vehicles 50” wide or less, and…..
· Dry weight of 800 pounds or less
· Have a saddle seat.
· Travels on three or four tires
· Meet the safety equipment standards for off-road vehicles
CLASS II DEFINED
· For vehicles more than 50” wide, or….
· Dry weight of more than 800 pounds
· Meet the safety equipment standards for off-road vehicles
CLASS III DEFINED
· For vehicles riding on two tires
· Dry weight of less than 600 pounds
· Meet the safety equipment standards for off-road vehicles
OHV TRAVELER SUMMARY
Travel and weather information presented in this newsletter is derived from the most recent forecast available at the time of this mailing. Because travel and weather conditions are subject to dramatic change, information may not be consistent with recent changes. THINK SAFE, THINK SMART. Before traveling, take the time to consult Trip check 511 for the most recent travel and weather information. Just dial 511 on your telephone or if a computer is convenient www.tripcheck.com.
Santiam Summit -The Summit of Hwy 20 sits at an elevation of 4817 feet. The forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. Expect highs to be near 80 with lows near 57. Winds will be out of the E at 7-10 mph. As we move into next week, expect partly cloudy skies with a chance of rain showers. The road surface is dry as of Thursday at 1400 hrs.
N. Santiam Pass -Hwy 22 at Detroit sits at an elevation of 1397 feet. Forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. High temps will be near 90 with lows in the 60’s. Expect NE winds 3-8 mph. As we move into next week, anticipate a continued chance of rain showers into next Friday. The road surface is dry as of Thursday at 1400 hrs.
S. Santiam Pass -Hwy 20 sitting at the junction of hwy 126 has an elevation of 3335 feet. Forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. High temperatures will be in the 90’s and lows in the 60’s. The forecast calls for E winds from 3-8 mph for the weekend. As we move into next week, expect temperatures to cool into the 70’s with lows near 55. The road surface is dry as of Thursday at 1400 hrs.
McKenzie Hwy - Highway 126 sitting at the junction of Hwy 242 has an elevation of 2010 feet. The forecast calls for a 20% chance of thunderstorms all weekend. High temperatures will be in the mid 90’s with lows near 60. Expect winds from the E at 8-11 mph. As we move into next week, the forecast calls for a chance for rain showers daily with temperatures cooling into the 80’s. The road surface is dry as of Thursday at 1400 hrs.
Mt. Hood - Hwy 26 at Government Camp sits at an elevation of 3950. The forecast calls for sunny skies with a chance of a thunderstorm developing on Sunday. High temperatures will be in the mid 80’s with lows in the 60’s. Winds will be from the NE at 6 mph. As we move into next week, expect temperatures to be near 70 with lows in the 60’s. Road surface is dry as of Thursday at 1400 hrs.
Hwy 97 South - Hwy 97 at La Pine sits at and elevation of 4200 feet. The forecast calls for sunny skies and a chance of thunderstorms developing on Sunday. Expect high temperatures near 90 with lows near 50. Winds will be from the NE at 6-9 mph. As we move into next week, expect a chance of rain showers daily with temperatures dropping into the mid 70’s and lows in the mid 40’s. The road surface is clear and dry as of Thursday at 1400 hrs.
RV DUMP STATION PIT STOP
The listings given here are intended to assist in the location of organizations that provide a special service and not as an endorsement of these firms. No liability or responsibility is assumed for the services rendered by any organization that is listed. The information given in this page can change at any given time.
City Description Fee Phone
Bend Expressway Market on Reed Market Road east of US $5.00 N/A
97 at 15th Street. Non-Potable water available.
Bend Chevron at 3rd Street (US 97) and Revere Avenue. $3.00 w/ fuel N/A
Burns Rest area on US 20 about 18 miles west of Burns ? N/A
Corvallis Shell Food and Mart, 1680 SW 3rd Street. Located Free (541)738-8028
About one mile south of downtown area on Hwy 99W
(SW 3rd Street)
Eugene Wastewater Treatment Plant on River Avenue off of ? N/A
Beltline Road.
John Day Rest Area on US 26 about 4 miles west of John Day at ? N/A
Clyde Holiday State Park.
La Pine Gordy’s Truck Stop on east side of US 97 about three $6.00 N/A
Miles north of town.
GPS
La Pine La Pine State Park, 15800 State Recreation Road Free (541)536-2071
27 miles southwest of Bend and 4 miles west of US97
GPS 43.768452 -121.513399
Madras Public Dump Station adjacent to City Public Works; $3.00 donation ?
West on B Street from US 97/US 26 at N. end of town.
GPS
Mill City Riverbend Campground on OR 22 $3.00 N/A
GPS
Prineville Crook County Chamber of Commerce, 390 NE $3.00 (541)447-6304
Fairview Street, located off US 26.
GPS 44.3034 -120.8406
Sisters Three Sisters Overnight Park (city park) on the SE $5.00 N/A
Side of town off US 20. 60-Site Campground ($10.00)
GPS 44.2883 -121.5425
ATV STICKER VENDORS
You may purchase ATV stickers at the Prineville BLM, State Park offices, most Joes stores, and many OHV dealerships. For information about vendors in your area, please view the following list or check the state website at: www.oregon.gov/oprd/atv/permit_vendors.shtml for vendors statewide. The Millican Store is no longer selling ATV stickers and is closed.
AGENT PHONE ADDRESS TOWN AND ZIP
BEND
OPRD Central Oregon (541)388-6211 1645 NE Forbes Road, Suite 112 Bend, OR 97701
Bend Recreation (541)382-5731 3500 N. Hwy 97 Bend, OR 97701
Cascade Motorsports (541)389-0088 20445 Cady Way Bend, OR 97701
Joe’s Sports (541)388-3770 63455 Hwy 97 North Bend, OR 97701
Sportsman’s Warehouse (541)693-5000 63492 Hunnell Road Bend, OR 97701
The Moto Shop (541)383-0828 61445 S Hwy 97 Ste. D Bend, OR 97702
CHRISTMAS VALLEY
Ag & Auto Inc. (541)947-2188 87000 Christmas Valley Hwy Christmas Valley 97641
Santa Supply Co. (503)772-0700 87038 Christmas Valley Hwy Christmas Valley 97641
Valley Foods (541)576-2500 87164 Christmas Valley Hwy Christmas Valley 97641
LAPINE
Mountain View Powersports (541)536-5291 52690 Hwy 97 Lapine, OR 97739
Peak Performance (541)536-3893 51388 S Hwy 97 Lapine, OR 97739
Quick Stop Market (541)536-2553 51497 Hwy 97 Lapine OR 97739
MADRAS
Farmers Cycle & Small (541)475-6093 1755 SW Hwy 97 Madras, OR 97741 Engine Repair
PRINEVILLE
Prineville Power Sports (541)447-5401 3048 SW High Desert Drive Prineville, OR 97754
R & R Grocery & Sporting Goods (541)447-7231 940 SE Combs Flat Road Prineville, OR 97754
Bureau of Land Management (541)416-6700 3050 NE Third Street Prineville, OR 97754
REDMOND
Midstate Power Products (541)548-6744 1776 S. Hwy 97 Redmond, OR 97756
WASCO
Morrow County Grain Growers (541)442-5781 71025 Old Hwy 97 Wasco, OR 97065
QUESTIONS FROM THE READERS
1. ARE CHILDREN UNDER 16 YEARS OF AGE REQUIRED TO BE SUPERVISED OR DO THEY JUST REQUIRE AN OPERATORS PERMIT TO RIDE ON PUBIC LANDS?
When Senate Bill 101 was reviewed by the State Legislature, they recognized that they needed to provide a time window for the public to come into compliance with the new revisions. Therefore, Senate Bill 101 was implemented on January 1, 2008 with a 1-year window for parents to come into compliance with the newly established laws. The requirements at this time state that children under 16 are to be supervised by an adult that is 18 or over. On January 1, 2009, the new revisions will be implemented in full and will require that all children under 16 have an operators permit to ride on public lands. In addition, they are required to be supervised by someone who is 18 or older, holds a valid operator’s permit and can provide immediate assistance and direction to the children. In addition, youth under 18 are required to wear a helmet and have the helmet fastened when riding on public lands. Finally, rider fit guidelines are being developed at this time for youth under 16 who operate Class I ATV’s (quads) by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. These quidelines will help properly match the size of the youth to the correct size ATV. Failure to comply with any of these new laws will be considered a ticket-able offense.
2. ARE DUAL SPORT MOTORCYCLES REQUIRED TO DISPLAY AN ATV STICKER? WHY?
Did you know that dual-sport motorcycles are also required to display an ATV sticker if they wish to utilize designated trail systems? Just as a state displayed license gives legal permission to dual sport motorcycles to operate on state highways designated for vehicle travel, so does the ATV sticker which gives legal permission to travel trails “designated” for off-road use. In addition, the State of Oregon also recognizes ATV permits that are issued in another state if the issuing state also honors the Oregon ATV permit. The State of Oregon has Reciprocity with the following states: Alaska, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont, Washington and Wisconsin. ATV Stickers can be purchased at Joes and many motorcycle dealerships for the price of $10.00 for a 2-Year sticker. For more information regarding available ATV sticker vendors located in your area, go to www.oregon.gov/OPRD/ATV/permit_vendors.shtml
3. ARE OHV’S ALLOWED TO TRAVEL SPUR ROADS ON THE EAST FORT ROCK
No They Are Not! Did you know that the East Fort Rock OHV Trail System is a designated trail system developed specifically for trail riding? This means that anytime that you operate a non-street legal Class I and Class III ATV on the trail system, you cannot legally travel spur roads, back roads, deer trails, cow trails or cross-country. All roads are closed accept a handful of shared-use roads that are highlighted in red on the printed East Fort Rock map. Failure to comply with this regulation is a violation that is ticket able. Please reference this map at all times for trails and roads open to ATV use.
4. CAN WE SHOOT FIREWORKS WHEN ON PUBLIC LANDS?
Did you know that it is illegal to possess or ignite fireworks on Crooked River National Grasslands, USDI Bureau of Land Management and USDA Forest Service Lands? The COHVOPS program would like to remind those of you that recreate on public lands of the potential hazards that fire presents to National Forest lands and to those that recreate within it. We urge you to leave your fireworks at home and take responsibility for the preservation of public lands and the designated OHV trail systems we have all come to appreciate. Individuals possessing or igniting fireworks may have their fireworks confiscated and may receive a $1,000 fine or a one-year prison term, or be sentenced to both. They can also be billed for any resulting fire suppression costs. If you observe firework violations on public lands, contact (541) 693-6911 and report the incident or 911 if it is an emergency.
5. CAN A MOTORCYCLE BE CONVERTED TO A DUAL SPORT BY SIMPLY ADDING EQUIPMENT?
Did you know that your Class III ATV (motorcycles) cannot become street legal just by adding a dual sport kit? If your Class III ATV was manufactured for off-road use at the factory, the engine emissions were never tested to meet federal highway emissions standards. Therefore, to be converted to the street-legal classification, you would have to acquire documentation from the manufacturer stating that the vehicle does in fact meet federal emission standards before it can become street-legal. This conversion to dual sport would also require Department of Transportation approved tires, signals, mirrors, metal gas tank and other equipment to be street legal. Class I ATV’s (quads) cannot become street legal under current Oregon Policy as they were never intended for on-road use. In addition, engine emissions were never tested to meet federal hwy. emissions standards, nor does it have the appropriate equipment.
6. IS THERE A LOST AND FOUND? I LOST MY OHV KEYS WHILE RIDING IN CENTRAL OREGON?
HAVE YOU EVER LOST YOUR OHV OR VEHICLE KEYS WHILE RECREATING ON NATIONAL FOREST LANDS? Did you know that the COHVOPS program spends much of their time doing trail maintenance and because of this they come across items that have been lost on the trail while recreating. One of the most common items found on the trail is vehicle key chains. Have you lost a set of keys recently that you would like to identify? The COHVOPS program has a collection of keys that have either been found on the trails or turned in by other riders. If you have lost a set of keys or know of someone that has, feel free to contact Todd Cardin at (541) 383-4794 and make arrangements to identify and confirm the ownership of your missing keychain.
DO YOU HAVE AN OHV QUESTION THAT YOU WOULD LIKE ANSWERED? FEEL FREE TO REPLY DIRECTLY TO THIS NEWSLETTER AND YOUR QUESTIONS WILL BE ANSWERED.
CAMPING CONSIDERATIONS:
East Fort Rock
o Road 2510 Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No Water at Staging Area
o Road 25 Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No Water at Staging Area
o Camp II Trailhead - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No Water at Staging Area
o China Hat Campground – NEW VAULT TOILET, Picnic Tables, Fire Rings & No water at Staging Area
o South Lava Trailhead - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No water at Staging Area
Millican Plateau
o 4-Corners Staging Area - Includes 1 Port-a-Potty, 2 Picnic Tables, 2 Fire Pits & No Water
o Alfalfa Curves Staging Area – Port-a-Potty, 2 Picnic Tables, 1 Fire Pit & No Water,
o Corrals Staging Area – Port-a-Potty, 2 Picnic Tables, 2 Fire Pits, & No Water
North Millican
o ODOT PIT - Includes 2 Port-A-Potty’s & No Water at Pit Area
Henderson
o Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No water at Staging Area
Rosland
o Staging Area – Includes 1 Vault toilet, Picnic Tables, Fire Rings and No Water
Green Mountain
o Staging Area - No Toilet & No Water
Edison Butte
o Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet
TREAD LIGHTLY TIPS TO REMEMBER:
· Stay on designated routes.
· Travel only in areas open to OHV use.
· Cross streams only at designated fording points.
· Avoid riding in meadows and marshy areas.
· Protect the sound-scape by preventing unnecessary noise created by your vehicle.
· Please preserve your OHV resources and pack out all garbage from the trails and all staging areas.
· Remember to limit your speed to 5 MPH within the staging areas.
· With the drying weather, please be conscious of your dust stream and show courtesy to others camped around you.
· Please respect all trail closures. Closure signs are placed at the entrance of trails when recent grooming and maintenance has been done. Violating these closure signs compromises hours of maintenance activity.
· The East Fort Rock trail system is a Class I and Class III trail system. All trails are open to both classes, but please reference your map as trails vary in difficulty and may not be recommended for riders lacking experience.
· Spark arrestors are a mandatory piece of equipment when you operate your OHV on public lands. Failure to comply with this law is a direct violation of federal regulation. Because spark arrestors have the potential to burn-out, please check all spark arrestors prior to unloading them on public land.
· Dehydration is a condition that occurs when the amount of water lost exceeds the amount taken in. Water is lost through sweating, breathing and through your urine and stool. When operating your OHV in the High Desert areas of Central Oregon, make sure that you have adequate amount of water to replace the water lost through high temperatures and aggressive physical activity. Also avoid drinking products that contain alcohol or caffeine as your body will use water to flush them out. Warning signs of dehydration include: constipation, fever, dry skin, dry tongue, dizziness when standing, confusion, loss of appetite and weakness.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
· When operating on large developed trail systems like the East Fort Rock and the Millican Valley system located in Central Oregon, OHV operators need to take the time to consider safety issues before heading out on the trails. Prepare for the unexpected before you leave your staging area. Some items you might want to consider putting on your OHV are flashlights, matches, non-perishable energy foods such as chocolate or granola bars, drinking water, change of clothes, blankets and maybe tow cables.
· OHV mechanical failure is a given. Always tell a responsible person where you are traveling and when you plan to return. Don’t ride alone, two heads and two backs are better than one.
To help reduce the potential of accidents and un-necessary injuries to unsuspecting riders, please report trail hazards to the COHVOPS program immediately. (541)383-4000
Dispersed Riding Information:
· Crooked River National Grassland: The use of any OHV off of a designated trail is prohibited year round except for the designated trails and play area at Henderson Flat. If a route does not have a trail number, it is closed.
· Santiam Pass OHV Trails: Please read all posted signs and watch for closures. Contact the Sisters Ranger District before you recreate in the area.
· East Fort Rock OHV Trail System: Travel is allowed on designated OHV trails only. Please reference map provided at the entrance of the trail system. OHV travel on user roads or spur roads not designated on the trail system map is a violation.
For additional information Please contact the following locations:
· Bend: contact the Bend/Fort Rock Ranger District in Red Oak Square (541) 383-4000 or the Deschutes National Forest Supervisors Office (541) 383-5300.
· Prineville: contact the Ochoco National Forest Supervisors Office on NE Third (541) 416-6500 or the Bureau of Land Management on NE Third (541) 416-6700.
· Madras: contact the Crooked River National Grasslands on SW Highway 97 (541) 416-6640.
· Sisters: contact the Sisters Ranger District on the corner of Hwy 20 and Pine St (541) 549-7700.
· McKenzie Bridge: contact the McKenzie River Ranger District on the McKenzie Highway (541) 822-3381.
THANK YOU FROM COHVOPS
The Central Oregon Off-Highway Vehicle Operations (COHVOPS) program staff would like to thank you for your continued interest and support. The purchase of your 2-year ATV sticker ensures that we can continue to serve you through regular maintenance of the trails, providing printed maps at the staging areas and entrances to the trail system, maintaining adequate signing on the trails and continued upkeep on the restroom facilities so that your OHV experience may be a positive one. Thank you for taking the time to read the weekly OHV newsletter and for sending in your comments. We encourage you to ride safe and to tread lightly. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact our office at (541) 383-4000.