Nobody gives a crap about OHV – except OHV riders. That can’t be more apparent than in California where the legislature is reaming the self-supported/funded OHV programs to help clean up the colossal poop-fest that is the state budget. California OHV programs have taken a severe hit recently when another chunk of money was siphoned off to help pay for non-OHV park systems. The total amount of borrowed money has risen to $110 million. The State Parks division is under the gun and needs cash in a bad way – possibly forced to close 100 non-SVRA (state vehicular recreation areas) this year. Those millions were originally set aside for the purpose of acquiring new land for OHV use.

There’s a strong argument that State Parks as a whole should follow the OHV model and generate their own damn money, but easier said than done. I’ve heard of a similar move here in Oregon where lawmakers are salivating over our own ATV funds, and it must certainly be an attractive option for other state legislatures.

I’m not saying that it’s unimportant to get California’s financial situation under control, and I’m doubtful that Cali OHV riders are self-centered, greedy dirt mongers who care nothing about the big picture. These guys are in a crunch – we all are - but man, this really sucks.

Check out the Blue Ribbon Coalition Western Representative, Don Amador’s, blog about the subject.