Executive Director Update – Spring 2026

As we move into spring riding season across British Columbia, there’s a renewed energy in our communities. Trails are opening up, machines are coming out of storage, and riders are getting ready to reconnect with the backcountry. It’s also one of the most important times of year to make sure you and your machine are prepared for a safe and successful season.

Before heading out, we encourage all riders to take the time to do a full pre-ride check—fluids, brakes, tires, battery, and safety gear. Spring conditions can be unpredictable, with lingering snow, soft trails, and changing access conditions. Riding smart, staying on designated trails, and respecting closures helps protect access for everyone.

Strong Start to the Season – Connecting with Riders

March and April have been incredibly busy months for ATVBC, with a strong presence at three major tradeshows across the province. These events continue to be one of our most effective ways to connect directly with riders, clubs, families, and industry partners.

Through these shows, we:

  • Engaged with hundreds of riders and community members
  • Promoted safe riding practices and upcoming events
  • Supported dealer and partner relationships
  • Welcomed new members into the ATVBC network

These face-to-face conversations are invaluable. They not only help grow our community, but also ensure we are hearing directly from riders about what matters most on the ground.

Advocacy in Action – Protecting Access Where It Matters

Advocacy in Action – Protecting Access Where It Matters

Behind the scenes, advocacy work continues to be a major focus as we move into the 2026 riding season.

We are actively engaged on several key land access and deactivation files, including:

  • Rady Creek
  • Incomappleux
  • Christina Lake / Columbia & Western corridor

Across all of these areas, our work remains consistent: pushing for transparency, proper consultation, and evidence-based decision-making.

In the Incomappleux, efforts have expanded to include coordinated stakeholder action, public awareness, and exploration of legal pathways to ensure accountability in decision-making.

At Rady Creek, we are working with partners to better understand safety concerns and explore opportunities to transition toward a recreation trail designation that supports long-term access.

These are complex, long-term files—but they are critical to the future of motorized recreation in BC.

👉 We encourage all members to visit our website for full updates, sign ongoing petitions, and stay engaged in these advocacy efforts. Your voice matters.

Expanding ORV Access into Communities

Our ORV Access into Communities initiative continues to gain momentum, with more communities exploring how to safely connect trail systems to local services like fuel, food, and accommodations.

We are now working with 37+ communities across BC, providing guidance on bylaws, safety considerations, and best practices.

This work is about more than convenience—it supports:

  • Rural economic development
  • Tourism growth
  • Safer, more controlled access routes
  • Stronger relationships between riders and communities

Taking the Message Province-Wide

This spring, ATVBC is bringing the voice of motorized recreation directly to decision-makers and partners across the province.

Upcoming Advocacy & Presentations

  • SILGA Conference – Revelstoke
    Presenting our ORV Access into Communities project to local governments, highlighting the economic and community benefits of managed access.
  • ORCBC Conference – May
    Presenting on the Value of Motorized Recreation, reinforcing the role our sector plays in outdoor recreation, tourism, and local economies.

These opportunities are critical to ensuring that motorized recreation is included in broader conversations around land use, infrastructure, and outdoor recreation planning.

Strengthening Partnerships & Industry Voice

We continue to work closely with partners across the sector, including:

This collaboration ensures a coordinated, unified voice when engaging with government and stakeholders—something that has never been more important.

Looking Ahead

Looking Ahead

As we head into peak riding season, ATVBC remains focused on:

  • Protecting and expanding trail access
  • Supporting clubs and volunteers
  • Advancing ORV access into communities
  • Strengthening safety programs and rider education
  • Ensuring government decisions reflect the value of our community

Final Thoughts

Spring is one of the best times to get out and enjoy everything BC has to offer—but it’s also a time to ride responsibly, stay informed, and stay engaged.

The work happening behind the scenes is driven by one goal:  ensuring long-term, sustainable access for riders across British Columbia.

Thank you to our members, clubs, and partners for your continued support.

Ride safe. Ride smart. Ride together.

—
Kristin Parsons
Executive Director, ATVBC

Ride safe, ride smart!

Kristin Parsons
Executive Director, ATVBC