The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is calling for public participation, seeking two enthusiastic individuals to serve on its All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Advisory Committee and ATV Grant Subcommittee. These volunteer positions offer a significant opportunity for Oregonians to contribute to the future of off-highway vehicle recreation, with four-year terms commencing on January 1, 2026.
Guiding Oregon’s ATV Recreation Future
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department plays a crucial role in managing and promoting outdoor recreation across the state. As part of its commitment to responsible and accessible recreational opportunities, the department relies on advisory committees to provide valuable input and guidance. The ATV Advisory Committee and the ATV Grant Subcommittee work in tandem to ensure that the state’s ATV program effectively addresses user needs, safety concerns, and funding priorities. Their collective mission is to enhance the ATV experience in Oregon through informed recommendations to the OPRD Commission.
Open Roles and Desired Qualifications
OPRD is specifically looking to fill two distinct volunteer seats. One position is designated for a representative knowledgeable about Class II vehicles, which typically include 4-wheel drive vehicles and sand rails. The second opening is for a representative with expertise in Class III vehicles, commonly known as dirt bikes. Ideal candidates will possess experience in areas such as land management, recreation planning, trail planning or design, or have a background in recreation-related volunteerism. Trail enthusiasts who can critically evaluate statewide project proposals based on their unique experience and involvement are also highly encouraged to apply. While specific geographic location within Oregon is not a primary requirement, candidates can reside anywhere in the state.
Committee Functions: Safety, Policy, and Funding
The ATV Advisory Committee plays a vital role in reviewing critical aspects of ATV recreation. Its responsibilities include examining ATV-related accidents and fatalities, assessing necessary changes to vehicle classifications for safety considerations, and reviewing the safety features of all classes of ATVs. The committee meets infrequently, typically only once or twice a year, to deliberate on these important matters.
Complementing this, the ATV Grant Subcommittee focuses on the financial support for ATV recreational activities statewide. This subcommittee is tasked with reviewing and recommending grant funding for a wide array of projects. These can include the operation and maintenance of trails and facilities, law enforcement presence in riding areas, emergency medical services, land acquisition for recreational purposes, safety education initiatives, and planning for future development of ATV opportunities. The subcommittee holds up to four public meetings annually, which may be conducted either in-person or remotely, and requires mandatory computer access and experience for participants.
OPRD’s Role in Oregon’s Outdoor Life and Leisure
Oregon offers a rich tapestry of ATV opportunities, from the famed coastal dunes to desert landscapes and wooded trails, catering to a diverse range of enthusiasts. The OPRD manages funds generated through ATV user permit sales and a portion of gasoline tax revenue, with these funds being directly reinvested into statewide off-highway vehicle recreation. This funding supports critical infrastructure, maintenance, law enforcement, and safety programs, ensuring riding areas remain open and well-maintained. Furthermore, recent legislative actions, such as House Bill 2232, have consolidated rulemaking authority for ATV safety equipment and noise emissions under OPRD. This shift underscores the department’s increasing responsibility in setting standards for the safe and responsible enjoyment of outdoor life and leisure, making public input through these advisory roles more critical than ever.
How to Apply and Contribute
Individuals interested in serving on either the ATV Advisory Committee or the ATV Grant Subcommittee are invited to apply. To submit an application, interested parties should visit the ATV-AC webpage on the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s website and access the “Committee Interest Form.” All applications must be received by 5 p.m. on September 12, 2025. For further information or to clarify any details, prospective volunteers can contact Jeff Trejo, OPRD ATV Safety Education Coordinator, via email at jeff.trejo@oprd.oregon.gov or by phone at 503-586-9622. This announcement is important news for those looking to actively shape the future of ATV recreation in Oregon and contribute to the state’s vibrant outdoor pursuits.
