Help on state ground turning to off road use!

[Jeepin for joy]

Hey guys just wondering if anyone has ever convinced the state D.N.R. to turn state parks open to full size off road use? We here in the state of Iowa have very limited places to go and the D.N.R. is talking about closing parks down due to funding. We had a place close by that the atvs and motorcycle groups got us all kicked out of. Would like to know how to start at least a discussion on this to the state government. Thanks

 

[Chris]

Good luck on that. I say that because you're talking about politics at this point, and that's a slippery slope.

I'm not saying it can't be done, it would just take massive amounts of dedication, support, money, and probably a petition as well. A petition would be a good starting point.

 

[JP98]

We have had good luck here with local off road clubs sponsoring areas of D.N.R land. They go in and cut back trees, post trail signs and clear debris off trails. It helps with D.N.R resources and keeps the atv and cycle guys from having the say so in who gets to use the public land that we all pay for.

 

[StG58]

The reality of it is in today's climate of climate change and environmental protection it's a loosing proposition. It would take more time and money than any of us TJ drivers have to even get a good start on it. There are lot's of well funded and well meaning young lads and lassies who spend all of their time in the offices and having lunch with the decision makers involved. They are supported officially and unofficially by organizations like the Sierra club et. al. who have prepared talking points and literature that is very convincing on the face of it. The state departments that regulate access and maintain the trails are short staffed and underfunded so they are motivated to not allow this type of access and usage as well. Can it be done? Sure. But it's not trivial or fast.