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Dear Editor, Spring has arrived, and area ATV/OHM trails are open again for the season. The Prospector Trail Alliance, MN DNR Enforcement Division and local Conservation Officers want to remind the public of a few things as the season gets underway.
As registered ATVs in the state continue to increase, our local trail system continues to expand, and ATVs get bigger and more powerful, safety is of the utmost importance. More machines have translated to more crashes and more fatalities in recent years. Statistics have shown that taking an ATV safety course significantly decreases the risk of injury and death. Everyone born after July 1, 1987, is required to be certified in ATV safety to operate an ATV. Also, all OHM operators from age 6-16 must be certified in OHM safety.
All ATV operators and passengers under 18 (both class 1 and class 2 side-byside models) are required to wear a DOT approved helmet. Youthful operators (under age 16) are required to be accompanied by an adult on the same or a separate machine while operating on public lands, trails, and roads. Youth under 16 are not allowed to operate a class 2 ATV, except at 15 with a parent present in the machine. No ATVs are allowed to operate on any state highways. If riding in Ely, use alleys and avenues to access downtown businesses. Also, make sure your machines are currently registered and registration is displayed.
OHMs are restricted to operation on designated trails and to private lands. Operation on any public roadway (including streets and alleys) is strictly prohibited, unless it’s part of a designated trail.
Thank you and have a safe, legal, and enjoyable riding season!
Anthony Bermel MN Conservation Officer Ely, MN
