DNR reminds restrictions placed on ATV ditch riding in agricultural zone

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DNR reminds riders of restrictions placed on ATV ditch riding in agricultural zone to protect habitat
(Released April 7, 2011)


The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds ATV riders that state law prohibits the riding of Class 1 all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in ditches in the agricultural zone between April 1 and Aug. 1.

The agricultural zone lies south of a line that runs west to east, approximately from Moorhead to Taylors Falls along highways 10 and 95. It roughly covers the southern half of the state. This does not apply to ATVs licensed and used for agricultural purposes or on grant-in-aid (GIA) ATV trails. Class 2 ATVs cannot be operated in ditches at any time.

“With warm weather on the way, many OHV riders are eager to get out and ride,” said Maj. Roger Tietz, DNR enforcement operations support manager. “Roadsides, especially in southern and western Minnesota, provide nesting sites for birds and animals that nest on the ground or in low vegetation during the spring and summer. Minnesota law protects those nesting sites and habitat for animals like pheasants, gray partridge, rabbits, waterfowl and songbirds.”

The DNR temporarily closes certain state forest roads and trails to highway-licensed vehicles and recreational vehicles every spring and early summer due to wet conditions and soft soils. The DNR will post closure signs at entry points and at parking lots in affected state forests. Riders are advised to check road and trail conditions and temporary closures before going out to ride.

Current trail condition information is available on the DNR website and from the DNR Information Center at 651-296 6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367. Conditions are updated by 2 p.m. every Thursday.

View map of ag zone.

http://news.dnr.state.mn.us/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/agzone.jpg