THE WEATHER MAN:

SUNRISE 7:19 SUNSET 4:29 (9 Hours and 10minute days/Daylight Savings Begins on March 9, 2008)

As of Thursday, November 29, 2007 at 8:00 AM, the skies in Bend are clear and Central Oregon is enjoying anywhere from a dusting to about an inch of snow. The temperature is 41 degrees but temperatures will drop to about 30 degrees by 5:00 PM as a pacific storm approaches and will continue to fall to 20 degrees tonight.

Unstable and wet weather is forecast for the area into next Wednesday when the potential for a high pressure may build and settle over the Washington/Oregon area possibly providing dry weather.  The current forecast is unstable but suggests a 20% chance of snow for the Central Oregon area with the potential of a ½ inch accumulation.  Mostly cloudy skies and below freezing temperatures will dominate the region Friday and then Saturday a 20-30% chance of snow is possible with a 40% chance of snow on Sunday.  This unstable pattern is forecast to continue into next Wednesday, but may continue beyond that.  High temperatures will continue to hover around the 32 degree mark with lows settling around the high teens for the weekend. Expect west to southwest winds this weekend at 11 mph. 

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)

The overall weekend forecast for East Fort Rock looks to be one that you might just want to avoid.  A 30% chance of snow is forecast for Thursday night, Friday will be cloudy, Saturday a 20% chance of snow with 16 mph winds and gusts to 35 mph and Sunday a 40% chance of snow.  High temperatures for the weekend will only bein the mid 20’s with lows dropping down into the mid teens.  The wind chill factor on Saturday itself will be a safety concern.  As we move into next week, a chance of snow continues to present itself daily into next Friday.  Millican’s forecast suggests a 20% chance of snow on Thursday and Saturday night with a 40% chance of snow on Sunday.  Moderate winds of 11 mph and temperature highs below freezing and lows down in the low teens will dominate the area for the weekend.  The wind chill factor will also play havoc on this area.  As we move into next week, the chance for rain and snow showers is possible daily into next Friday but because temperatures will get back up into the mid 40’s, rain is likely.  Low temperatures will be in the mid 20’s.      

WEEKEND RATING

Availability of Camping =             10.0   (0-10.0)            ALL STAGING AREAS AVAILABLE

Trails affected by closure =          5.0   (0-10.0)            EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 30, 2007 AT MIDNIGHT

                                    NORTH AND SOUTH MILLICAN VALLEY AND   

                                    HENDERSON FLAT IS CLOSED.  EDISON

                                    BUTTE IS CLOSED TO CLASS II AND CLASS III.

Trail Moisture Rating =                      10.0   (0-10.0)            RAIN, SNOW AND FROST ON THE GROUND

Trail Condition Rating =                        5.0   (0-10.0)            MAY FIND SOME ROUGH SPOTS IN THE TRAIL

                                    RESULTING FROM THE FALL CLASSIC RACE.

Weather Forecast Rating =            0.0   (0-10.0)            A 20-40% CHANCE OF SNOW POSSIBLE ON

                                    THURSDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY. EXPECT       

HIGHS NEAR 30 WITH LOWS IN THE TEENS.  WIND CHILL FACTOR WILL MAKE IT COLDER.   

Overall Rating For This Weekend   =   6.00              CHANCE OF SNOW, TEMPS BELOW FREEZING                 AND WINDY CONDITIONS.  THAT SUMS IT UP!

UPCOMING EVENTS

NO EVENTS ARE SCHEDULED AT THIS TIME

THE OHV TRAVELER OVERVIEW

OPINE TRAVEL MANAGEMENT AREA SEASONAL CLOSURE  

The OPINE Travel Management area seasonal closure was approved and signed on September 28, 2007.  This seasonal closure located on the east side of China Hat Road (Road 18) would include the northeast portion of the East Fort Rock OHV trail system and those areas east of Road 23 below Pine Mountain.  This closure would restrict travel by street legal vehicles to only those roads identified as open and would be administered with the sole purpose of protecting deer habitat each year from December 1 to March 31.  So as an OHV enthusiast, how will this affect you differently from years past? 

First, this closure will reinforce the already established regulation that non-street legal motorized travel (Quads, and Motorcycles) are allowed on “designated trails and roads” only.  The East Fort Rock OHV trail system is a designated trail system and those choosing to utilize the trail system need to respect that motorized travel is only allowed on those trails and shared-use roads defined on the maps provided. 

Secondly, this closure would restrict street-legal vehicle travel from December 1 to March 31 to only those routes approved for vehicle travel and posted as open.  Routes that have been approved include Roads 18, 23, 25, 2500-800, 1829, 2016, 2017, 2312, 2313, 2510, 2015-500, 2300-308, 2312-400, 2313-400, 2510-110, 2510-300 and 2510-400.  This closure in no way compromises OHV travel on those trails or shared-use roads that reside within the East Fort Rock designated trail system.  However it may impact your ability to legally travel to your favorite dispersed camping spots. 

For some OHV enthusiasts this closure may not impact your activities at all if you don’t use the trails from December 1 to March 31.  But for any public citizen recreating, camping, or just going for a drive during this time frame will now have to be aware of this new seasonal closure.  If you have questions or concerns regarding this closure, feel free to contact the Bend Fort Rock Ranger District office at (541) 383-4000.

MCKAY CREEK WATERSHED SEASONAL CLOSURE  

The MCKAY CREEK WATERSHED closure is in effect as of December 1, 2007 and will remain closed until May 19, 2007.  Routes inside the closure area that will remain open to motorized use will include The Green Mountain Trail, Roads 27, 2705, 2710, 33, 3320 and spur roads 325 and 350 off of road 27.  If you have questions regarding the closure, please feel free to contact the Ochoco National Forest at (541)416-6500.  Printed copies of this closure are available.

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) is in below average condition at this time.  In some places moderate to heavy washboard has occurred and definite wear patterns and lack of gravel are beginning to show.

Milepost 14 to Milepost 24 (East Fort Rock Boundary to Road 18 and Road 25 Intersection) is in below average condition at this time.  Moderate to heavy washboard has occurred with spots of severe.  A definite wear pattern is beginning to show in the road.  There is a lack of gravel in the road which really contributes to lengthy and unpleasant towing.    

Milepost 24 to Milepost 34 (Road 18 and Road 25 Intersection to China Hat OHV Staging Area) from the 18/25 intersection to China Hat Guard Station has recently been bladed and is in excellent condition at this time.  Little washboard is visible and there is good gravel cover on the road.  If you are traveling to China Hat Guard Station, this is the optimal route.

Milepost 34 to Milepost 40 (China Hat OHV Staging Area to Road 18 and Road 22 Intersection) is in average condition at this time.  Light to moderate washboard has occurred.

ROAD 1815 (HORSE BUTTE ROAD)

Light to Moderate washboard developing on 70% of the Road. 

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 begins with light washboard and progresses to severe washboard the closer you get to Sand Springs.  It is a rough road and offers unpleasant towing conditions. 

ROAD 23 (SAND SPRINGS ROAD)

Road 23 heading southeast to Sand Springs from the 23/25 junction has severe washboard conditions.  Moisture in the area has packed the loose powdery dirt which smoothed the surface in some areas and made it rough in others. It is still very rough and offers slow and abusive towing.

CENTRAL OREGON DROUGHT

Did you know that the Deschutes National Forest is presently suffering from less than half (2.5”) of its annual precipitation? (8-9”)  With less precipitation comes a higher potential for the ignition of wildfire.  When you are on public lands, please consider these wildfire prevention tips that you as a responsible OHV enthusiast can do to protect our Forest from wildfire.

Spark arrestors are required on all internal combustion engines.  Please do a thorough check of all spark arrestors.  Some types of spark arrestors have the potential of burn-out after extended use and require replacement.  If the OHV was purchased from a second party, the spark arrestor may have been removed for competitive racing.

Campfires are as hazardous as they are enjoyable.  When building a campfire, choose a site that is clear of low hanging branches, dry grass, leaves or that is located on a steep slope.  Clear the site down to the bare soil.  Circle the pit with rocks and always have a shovel and plenty of water nearby.  Never leave a fire attended even for just a few minutes as wind direction can change.  When putting out the fire, drown the fire, stir it and drown it again.

Fireworks are not allowed on public lands.  The use of fireworks is strictly prohibited and enforced on all Federal and State public lands.

Lanterns, Stoves and Heaters promote there own dangers.  Cool all lanterns, stoves and heaters before refueling.  Place them on a cleared area and fuel them.  If fuel spills, move the appliance to a new clearing before lighting it.  Store flammable liquid containers in a safe location away from an open flame.

Smoking requires that you attend to details.  Safe practices require at least a 3-foot clearing around the smoker.  Grind out your cigarette, cigar or pipe tobacco in dirt.  Never grind it out on a stump or log.  Never walk off and leave a burning cigarette and use ash trays.

Stop Burning Plastic and Cans.  Utilizing campfires as a means of disposing of plastics, aluminum cans or propane bottles is littering.  Burning plastic gives off toxic fumes into the air, aluminum does not break down and propane bottles can endanger unsuspecting campers.

What Can Kids Do?  Never play with matches, lighters, flammable liquids or any fire.  Encourage your friends to practice fire prevention.

Be responsible when traveling to designated OHV sites and reduce the potential of wildfire.  Confirm that all Off-Highway Vehicles have spark arrestors & advocate Leave no Trace ethics.

CURRENT TRAIL CONDITIONS:

A reminder to all OHV enthusiasts that DECEMBER 1, 2007 to MARCH 31, 2008 jumpstarts the annual OPINE CLOSURE located on the northeast portion of the East Fort Rock OHV Trail System.  You are encouraged to carefully review the map boards located at the entrance of this trail system to identify which roads can legally be traveled with a street legal vehicle and which will be considered a violation of this closure.  This closure will be applicable every year from December 1 to March 31.  See OPINE article describing this closure in this newsletter.  Please plan your trip accordingly. 

East Fort Rock (elev. 4400-6400’)- OPEN / SNOW The forecast calls for a 20-40% chance of snow for the weekend.  Temperature highs will be in the mid 20’s with lows in the teens. Windy conditions will occur Saturday night with wind gusts up to 35 mph. Trails are in good condition but unless you enjoy the cold weather, riding conditions will not be the most pleasant.   As we move into next week, expect the continued chance for rain and snow daily into next Friday. Expect west winds for the weekend from 15-21 mph.        December 1 marks the beginning of the OPINE Closure for the East Fort Rock.  Please review the map boards before traveling on the East Fort Rock.

Millican Plateau (elev. 3300-3700’)-OPEN / SNOW The forecast for the weekend calls for a 20-40% chance of snow for the weekend.  Temperature highs will be in the mid 30’s with lows near 20.  Expect west winds from 8-16 mph with gusts up to 26 mph.  As we move into next week, expect the continued chance for rain and snow showers into next Friday. 

North Millican Valley (elev. 3300-4200’)- CLOSED

(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).

Henderson Flat (elev. 3000-3400’)- CLOSED

(Seasonal closure to OHV Traffic is December 1 to March 30).

Edison Butte (elev. 5000-6900’)- PARTIAL CLOSURE Expect opportunity for snow daily beginning Saturday night and continuing into next week.  Temperature highs will be in the mid 30’s with lows in the mid 20’s.  As we move into next week expect temperatures to be much of the same. (Seasonal Closure for Class II and III OHV’s from Dec 1 to March 31.  Trails remain open to Class I OHV’s.)

Green Mountain (elev. 4500-5400’)- OPEN / SNOW The forecast for the weekend suggests a 20-40% chance of snow.  Temperature highs will be near 30 with lows near 20 degrees.  As we move into next week, expect a continued chance of rain and snow daily into next Friday with high temperatures warming to the 40’s.  Expect winds to be from the southwest from 7-10 mph.  Note that the Mckay Creek Road closure goes into effect December 1, 2007.  Please plan your trip accordingly. 

Rosland Recreation Site (elev. 4200’)- OPEN / PARTLY CLOUDY The forecast for the weekend suggests a 20-40% chance of snow.  Expect high temperatures to be near 32 and lows in the mid 20’s.  As we move into next week, expect a chance of rain or snow daily into next Friday. Expect westerly winds at 6-11 mph. 

East Fort Rock Pit/Play Areas (elev. 5100-5700’)- OPEN / SNOW

Ground Hog Rock Crawl/Play Area (elev. 5400’)- OPEN / SNOW

Millican Reservoir Road Play Area (elev. 3300’)-OPEN / SNOW

North Millican Cinder Pit (elev. 4400’)- CLOSED

Millican/ODOT Pit (elev. 4200’)- OPEN / RAIN/SNOW The forecast for the Pit calls for a 20-40% chance of snow for the weekend. Temperature highs will be near 31 with lows falling into the teens.

TOPIC OF THE WEEK

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, Wisconsin.  ATV Stickers can be purchased at G.I. 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

TRAIL CLOSURES

Trail closures are an integral part of the maintenance schematic developed for OHV trail systems.  Trail closures occur when public feedback on whooped out trails, a safety concern is identified or when overuse occurs on a trail system.  The success of this maintenance is not only weather pending, but also requires the cooperation of those that use it.  Please honor these closures until they can be re-opened as hours of work have been put into the improvement of these trails.

NO TRAILS HAVE BEEN REPORTED CLOSED DUE TO MAINTENANCE AT THIS TIME

CAMPING CONSIDERATIONS:

East Fort Rock

Road 2510 Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No Water at Staging Area

Road 25 Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet &  No Water at Staging Area

Camp II Trailhead - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No Water at Staging Area

China Hat Campground – NEW VAULT TOILET but No water at Staging Area

South Lava Trailhead - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No water at Staging Area

Millican Plateau

4-Corners Staging Area - Includes 1 Port-a-Potty, 2 Picnic Tables, 2 Fire Pits & No Water

Alfalfa Curves Staging Area – 2 Picnic Tables, 1 Fire Pit & No Water, Port-a-Potty

Corrals Staging Area – 2 Picnic Tables, 2 Fire Pits, Port-a-Potty  

North Millican

ODOT PIT - Includes 2 Port-A-Potty’s & No Water at Pit Area

Henderson

Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet & No water at Staging Area

Rosland

Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet

Green Mountain

Staging Area - No Toilet & No Water

Edison Butte

Staging Area - Includes 1 Vault toilet

THE OHV PULSE 

OREGON LEGISLATURE REVIEWS OHV Proposals by OPRD - The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) proposed four new laws for the Oregon Legislature to address in 2007.  Each proposal was a responsible approach, based on recent trends, to address ATV safety and protection on public lands.  Below is a short summary of those proposals and what they were to accomplish:

Passengers – Passenger restrictions for Class I and III all terrain vehicles.  ATV’s are not designed to carry passengers.  Unless the ATV is specifically designed for two, only one will be allowed. 

Helmets – Helmets save lives and people unnecessarily die for failing to recognize this.  This proposal would make helmets mandatory for all riders and their passengers on Class I and Class III ATV’s.

Titling - This proposal would require all new or used Class I and Class III all terrain vehicles purchased after January 1, 2008 to be titled through the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Safety Training – This proposal would require that all operators of Class I and Class III ATV’s complete a certified training to operate safely on public lands.

These four proposals were tossed around in the legislature but for the most part were defined insignificant by an ATV user group that was in opposition of the safety precautions that advocates for the proposals said would reduce deaths and injury.  Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 101 making several changes to Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 821 and 390.  These are the results of those changes:

MANDATORY SAFETY TRAINING – This segment of the bill passed with absolutely no opposition including unanimous support from the manufacturers and the distributors.  The bill passed focuses on rider training for both youth and adult riders.  The measure includes a phased-in process over the course of the next 6 years to pass a training course and obtain an operators permit before riding on public lands.   Below is a breakdown of the phase-in dates:

Starting January 1, 2008, all youth under 16 must always be supervised by an adult over 18.

Starting January 1, 2009, all youth under 16 must always be supervised by an adult over 18 and have an operators permit.

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.

SUPERVISION – This segment of the bill put emphasis on the need for increased adult supervision and who qualifies for this role.  Starting January 1, 2008 supervision for youth under 16 riding Class I and Class III ATV’s is defined as:

A person who is at least 18 years of age

A person who holds a valid all-terrain vehicle operator permit (Class I or III)

A person who is able to provide immediate assistance and direction to the children

CHIN STRAPS - This segment of the bill was intended to become a safety precaution that would be utilized by all ATV riders, including those mentoring their children.  However, it remains as follows.

Helmets are currently required for youth under 18 for Class I and Class III ATV’s.  Starting January 1, 2008 Oregon law clarifies that the helmet’s chin strap must also be fastened.

RIDER FIT – Rider fit guidelines are being developed for youth under 16 who operate Class I ATV’s (quads).  Rider fit guidelines will help properly match the size of the youth to the correct size ATV.  Rider fit Guidelines are being developed during 2008.  For more information about the new guidelines, go to http://www.oregonohv.org/.

The Bill now moves to the Senate for action on amendments.

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 Tripcheck 511 for the most recent travel and weather information.  Just dial 511 on your telephone or if a computer is convenient www.tripcheck.com.

It is that time of the year when weather in Central Oregon can change dramatically. For that reason it is a good idea to carry tire chains.  Studded tires are legal from November 1 to April 1 and should also be considered an option for winter travel.  ODOT encourages motorists to use studded tires only when necessary.  Delaying can increase the longevity of our public highways. 

Santiam Summit -The Summit of Hwy 20 sits at an elevation of 4817 feet.  The forecast for the weekend calls for a 60-90% chance of snow.  Expect highs to be near 30 with lows in the mid 20’s.    As we move into next week, rain and snow showers are likely into next Friday with temperature highs near 40 and lows near 32.  Anticipate west to southwest winds at 20-23 mph gusting to 28 mph. The road surface has packed snow and there is 26” of roadside snow as of Thursday at 1630 hrs.  Chains are required.  Traction tires allowed in place of chains on vehicles under 10,000 GVW and not towing.  Vehicles towing must use chains.

N. Santiam Pass -Hwy 22 at Detroit sits at an elevation of 1397 feet. The forecast calls for a 60-80% chance of rain showers for the weekend.  High temperatures will be near 36 with lows near 28.  As we move into next week, expect continued rain showers into next Friday with temps warming by 10 degrees.  Expect southwesterly winds from 11-18 mph gusting to 28 mph. Surface has spots of ice as of Thursday at 1630 hrs. Carry chains or traction tires.

S. Santiam Pass -Hwy 20 sitting at the junction of hwy 126 has an elevation of 3335 feet.  The forecast calls for a 60-90% chance of snow for the weekend.  High temperatures for the weekend will be near 33 with lows near 27. As we move into next week, expect a chance of rain showers daily into next Friday. Expect southwesterly winds from 10-20 mph with gusts to 29.  The road surface has packed snow and there is 19” of roadside snow as of Thursday at 1630 hrs.  Chains are required.  Traction tires allowed in place of chains on vehicles under 10,000 GVW and not towing.  Vehicles towing must use chains. 

McKenzie Hwy -             Highway 126 sitting at the junction of Hwy 242 has an elevation of 2010 feet. The forecast calls for a 60-80% chance of rain showers for the weekend.  High temperatures for the weekend will be in the mid 30’s with lows in the mid 20’s.  As we move into next week, expect temperatures to warm up into the mid 40’s. Expect southwesterly winds from 10-18 mph with gusts to 25 mph. The road surface has spots of ice on the eastern end as of Thursday at 1630 hrs.  Carry chains and traction tires. 

Mt. Hood -            Hwy 26 at Government Camp sits at an elevation of 3950.  The forecast calls for a 60-100% chance of snow showers for the weekend.  Expect high temperatures to be near 30 with lows near 25.   As we move into next week expect temperatures to get warmer by 10 degrees. Expect southwesterly winds from 19-22 mph with gusts to 26 mph.  The road surface currently has packed snow and there is 31” of roadside snow as of Thursday at 1630 hrs.  Chains are required.  Traction tires are allowed in place of chains on vehicles under 10,000 GVW and not towing.  Vehicles towing must use chains.

Hwy 97 South -           Hwy 97 at La Pine sits at and elevation of 4200 feet. The forecast calls for a 20-40% chance of snow for the weekend.  High temperatures will be in the mid 30’s with lows in the mid 20’s.  As we move into next week expect a chance for rain turning to snow showers daily into Friday.  Winds will be from the southwest at 11-17 with gusts to 28 mph. The road surface has spots of ice and there is 2” of roadside snow as of Thursday at 1630 hrs.

I-5 North -             I-5 sitting at Vancouver, Washington sits at an elevation of 179 feet.  The forecast calls for a 60% chance of rain/snow turning to rain by Sunday. Highs will be 36 with lows near 34.  The road surface is dry with showers forecast for Saturday as of Friday at 0800 hrs.

 2007 OPERATING REQUIREMENTS (These are in the process of being modified for 2008)

CLASS I (QUADS, 3-WHEELERS)

Operators must have:    

A valid drivers license, or

An Operator Permit, or

Be accompanied by someone 18 years or older who meets one of the above requirements on a Class I ATV

A helmet is required if under 18

Vehicles must have:

A USFS approved spark arrestor (year around)

A valid ATV sticker

Sound must be muffled to 99db or less

CLASS II (JEEPS, SAND RAILS, SUVS)

Operators must:

Have a valid drivers license

Vehicles must have:

Class II ATV Sticker

Operating muffler and exhaust system under 99db, which prevents sparks.

During fire season vehicle operators must have

Shovel

Fire extinguisher or one gallon of water.

CLASS III (MOTORCYCLES)

Is the Operator younger than 7 years of age?

Child cannot operate a Class III on Public Lands

Is the Operator 7-11 years of age?

Must have both the Operators Permit AND be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older who meets one of the above requirements on a Class III ATV or the same vehicle if designated for passengers, AND

Wear a helmet if under the age of 18

Is the Operators age 12 or Older?

Must have a valid drivers license, OR

Have an Operators Permit, OR

Be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older who meets one of the above requirements on a Class III ATV, or the same vehicle if designed for passengers, AND

Wear a helmet if under 18.

 Vehicles must have:

A USFS approved spark arrestor (year around)

A valid ATV sticker

Sound must be muffled to 99db or less

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

Central Oregon Workensport            (541)382-0860  1120 SE Reed Market Rd.       Bend, OR 97702

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

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

DRIVERS LICENSE AND OPERATORS PERMITS

You must have a valid driver’s license or operator permit or be accompanied by someone who does to operate a motorized off highway vehicle on public lands. 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. 

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.

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. 

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.