Environmental responsibility is a key element of OHV recreation on state and federal lands. It is important to know that many units are working hard in a collaborative manner with various stakeholder groups to address conservation issues associated with motorized recreation so that those OHV opportunities are preserved for future generations.

As owners of Recreational Off-Highway Vehicles (ROVs) get ready to hit many popular OHV riding areas in California, it is important to remember that helmets are required to be worn by the operators and passengers when traveling on public roads, trails, and areas designated for such use.

Effective January 1, 2013, the California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 38601 requires all passengers and the operator to wear a safety helmet while operating an ROV which are also known as Side by Sides, Recreational Utility Vehicles, or Utility Terrain Vehicles.

You’re in the middle of nowhere stuck in the sand. Your buddy waits patiently while you paw through your car looking for the recovery strap and gear needed to get you out of your bind.

“I know it’s in here somewhere!” you scream (along with a few choice words).

Your off-road adventure is becoming a disaster because you either didn’t pack a recovery strap, or you packed it so deeply it’ll take you a long time to find it.