Off-Highway Vehicle and Legislation History
The Arizona Game and Fish Department became involved with off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation in 1972 when legislation was passed that gave the Arizona Game and Fish Commission the authority to approve and expend funds to identify habitat damage, provide information and education, and provide law enforcement for OHV-related activities. Although the authority to conduct these activities was approved, it was not until 1989 that funding was actually provided to administer these duties.
With this revenue, the Arizona Game and Fish Department funds personnel and resources to meet the department’s mission of conserving, enhancing and restoring Arizona’s diverse wildlife resources and habitats through aggressive protection and management programs, and to provide wildlife resources, safe watercraft and off-highway vehicle recreation for the enjoyment, appreciation, and use of present and future generations.
On June 27, 2008, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano signed into law SB1167. The rules and regulations of that bill went into effect on January 1, 2009, thanks in large part to a joint effort between Arizona Sportsmen and OHV user groups.
The goal of the new regulations is to provide better OHV management and protection of natural resources while maintaining access. Funds generated from this program will be used to help ensure sustainable opportunities by bolstering grant programs that pay for maintenance, signage, mitigation, education and enforcement. Remember to leave no trace and that nature rules! Stay on roads and trails.
