ORV Framework presentation for PFLA Private Forestry Forum 2011 jun16

Off Road Vehicle
Management Framework
Presentation for
Private Forests Landowners Association
June 16, 2011
Prepared by Vera Vukelich
Manager, Off Road Vehicles
Ministry of Forests, Lands &
Natural Resource Operations

On November 10, 2009, Government announced the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Management Framework.
The goal of the ORV framework is to develop policy that will encourage safe and responsible ORV riding and support a growing industry that has the opportunity to deliver lasting socioeconomic benefits to rural communities.
The ORV Management FrameworkANNOUNCEMENT

In 2005, the Coalition for Licensing and Registration of Off-Road Vehicles in BC produced a report with 47 recommendations to address longstanding ORV management issues in BC.
In 2006, the Coroners Service of British Columbia recommended improved laws to help address ORV accidents resulting in injuries to youth and deaths.
In early 2009, during the review of the proposed Trails Strategy, there was strong overall public support for improving ORV management in BC.
Over the years, the Union of British Columbia Municipalities has passed nine resolutions requesting an improved ORV management regime.
The ORV Management Framework
BACKGROUND

Through extensive dialogue with stakeholders, agencies and ministries over the years, we have learned that ORV issues are complex and achieving consensus among the range of parties was challenging.
As time progressed, we also found that there were many aspects of shared interest and common ground.
The result of this hard work is the ORV framework
The ORV Management Framework
CONSULTATION

Improved public safety
Protecting the environment
Identification through registration
Better compliance & enforcement
The ORV Management FrameworkKEY ELEMENTS

ORVs are used for work, leisure and commuting.
An expanded definition of ORVs will include small, self-propelled motor vehicles manufactured to be operated for off highway travel purposes and are ride-astride or side-by-side vehicles with wheels, tracks and/or skis.
Examples of ORVs include: all terrain vehicles, ‘quads’, off highway motorcycles, snowmobiles, utility vehicles, recreational vehicles, amphibious argos, golf carts and dune buggies.
The ORV Management FrameworkSCOPE

Registration is mandatory for ORVs operated on Crown land, including resource roads.
Registration applies to current and new owners.
A clearly visible number plate/decal will:
Help address irresponsible ORV operators,
track stolen ORVs, and
aide in search and rescue efforts to find lost or injured ORV enthusiasts.
The ORV Management FrameworkREGISTRATION

Non-residents of BC will require a temporary permit if their ORV is not already registered from their home jurisdiction with a visible plate/decal.
For example, Albertan’s would already comply.
The ORV Management FrameworkREGISTRATION Cont.

All ORV operators will be required to wear a safety-approved helmet and, where installed by the manufacturer, seatbelt use will also be requisite for side-by-side ORVs (e.g. UTV).
All ORVs must use lights for low visibility conditions. Off-highway motorcycles that do not have lights will be permitted to use temporary bike lights.
Additional safety rules for youth under 16 years include: adult supervision, appropriate size vehicle for age/weight, and reduced speed limits.
Equipment exemptions continue to apply at sporting/competitive events.
The ORV Management FrameworkSAFETY FOR KIDS & ADULTS

Designated highway crossings will make it more convenient for ORV operators to safely cross highways.
These optional crossings will help connect our communities and trail systems.
At designated ORV crossings, a police-issued Operations Permit will no longer be required but all other Motor Vehicle Act requirements continue to apply.
A police-issued Operation Permit will also continue to be available for incidental road crossings at non-designated locations.
The ORV Management FrameworkSAFE HIGHWAY CROSSINGS

Spark arrestors will be required for ORVs (excluding snowmobiles) to help prevent forest fires and reduce noise disturbance to wildlife, communities and other outdoor enthusiasts.
The Forest and Range Practices Act has already been amended to add penalties for irresponsible ORV operators that damage sensitive habitat, such as alpine, wetland and grassland areas.
The ORV Management FrameworkENVIRONMENT

The ORV Management FrameworkCOMPLIANCE & ENFORCEMENT
A provincial compliance and enforcement strategy for ORVs is being developed.
The strategy includes voluntary compliance through public awareness and education.
Government has been working with provincial stakeholder associations on the development of this strategy.

Implementation of the ORV framework was estimated to take approximately two years to ensure that the ICBC has adequate time to upgrade their systems and to ensure smooth business transition for over 900 brokers.
The ORV Management FrameworkIMPLEMENTATION

ORV MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK
Government continues to work with stakeholder associations on the details and implementation of the ORV framework.
For more information, please refer to the following website:
www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/orv

ORV Framework presentation for PFLA Private Forestry Forum 2011 jun16

by editswords on Jul 23, 2011

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ORV Framework presentation for PFLA Private Forestry Forum 2011 jun16 — Presentation Transcript