ATVBC continued to advance its advocacy, partnerships, and safety initiatives throughout April, supporting off-road vehicle (ORV) recreation and access across British Columbia.
Advocacy & Land Access
We participated in a regional recreation planning session with the Thompson-Nicola Regional District to advocate for continued investment in trail infrastructure and local recreation groups. ATVBC also applied to present at the 2026 provincial budget consultations to highlight the economic and community value of ORV recreation.
We continue to work with government and partners to ensure motorized recreation is fairly represented in future planning efforts. We met with Ministry staff at Water Lands Resource Stewardship (WLRS) to address concerns that were raised about the recent “Kootenay land access” survey in the Kootenays. Had meetings with MLA Donegal Wilson, MLA Pete Davis and brought concerns to Minister Neale. WLRS staff have acknowledged our concerns but refuse to make changes to the questions or to cancel the survey and we encourage our members to help us in this effort by sharing your concerns on this survey to: [email protected]
Our work supporting community ORV access continues, with local engagement efforts underway in Clinton and 100 Mile House. We’re also compiling research on the economic benefits of ORV tourism to support future proposals across BC.
We continue to collect information from key ministries on the de-activation processes in each region to help us better understand the steps involved and advocate for inclusion in the planning stages to see where and when ORV access can be maintained.
Partnerships & Collaborations
ATVBC remains an active member of the BC Powersports Coalition and Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, contributing to efforts that strengthen the outdoor recreation sector. We’re also collaborating with industry partners like Canadian Quad Council and MotoCanada to advocate on national issues affecting riders and dealerships. Our call to action for the federal election was sent out to media, clubs and members asking for support from candidates on the creation of a National Trails Strategy.
Across all these partnerships, our focus remains on building respectful relationships, advancing rider safety, and promoting shared use of public lands.
Grants & Funding
We submitted grant applications to support our safety training program and trail stewardship efforts. Planning is also underway for a fundraising raffle to help offset reductions in external funding and ensure we can continue to offer grants to local clubs.
Now more than ever, we need your support of our fundraising efforts as all funds go back to support our clubs through our grant program. If you haven’t purchased tickets for our Spring 50/50, please do so and share this opportunity with all your friends and family. The more we sell the more we can support the clubs and the trails they work so hard to maintain!
To further support our clubs and our safety program we are launching our new Skill Building Partner Program to promote rider education and trail safety. This is a great opportunity for dealerships and industry experts to participate with ATVBC to deliver key educational events to our riders and clubs.
As we move into our busier season, I want to take a moment to say thank you to our board members, clubs, and partners for your ongoing support and dedication to responsible ORV recreation. We look forward to an exciting and productive season ahead.
See you on the trail,
Kristin
