The ATVBC Trail Ambassador Program equips local volunteers with the necessary training and resources to champion the safe, responsible, and environmentally sustainable use of off-road vehicles (ORVs). Our Trail Ambassadors are crucial in safeguarding trails, enhancing the reputation of ORV riders, and protecting the right to ride in British Columbia. They play a vital role in raising awareness about ATVBC and its clubs, encouraging riders to become members and active participants in the community.
Are you or your club interested in:
- promoting ORV riding as a positive recreational activity and building a positive image of ORV riders?
- demonstrating that ORV recreation can be enjoyed while protecting environmentally sensitive habitats?
- sharing your knowledge with others to increase ORV rider safety? educating ORV riders about existing programs, “Pack it in, pack it out”, Stay on the Trial”, “Respect Private Land”, and others?
- raising awareness of the impacts of irresponsible ORV recreation?
ATVBC will provide the training and materials, you provide the volunteers!
If you are interested in learning more and have time to take part in a short, online training program please let us know!
The ATVBC Trail Ambassador program will provide training and resources to volunteers interested in educating the public about safe, responsible and environmentally sustainable ORV riding in British Columbia.
ATVBC Trail Ambassadors will have no law enforcement authority or role, rather they will use their experience, training and influence to demonstrate on-the-trail leadership and to distribute information about trail etiquette, ORV regulations, rider safety, and trail information while promoting the benefits of club membership.
Email [email protected] or your club with the following information to let us know you are interested in becoming a Trail Ambassador:
- Name, phone number, email address
- Riding area(s) and frequency of riding (# of times per month)
- Club name and indicate if you have club support for the program
- Information about relevant training you already have
Join the Program
The ATVBC Trail Ambassador Program (TAP) is an ongoing initiative to promote ORV riding and help people on the trails. You can become a Trail Ambassador at any time. We have several ATVBC members from across the province trained.
Trail Ambassadors are volunteers who embody the spirit of safe and responsible ORV riding. If you are passionate about promoting positive ORV recreation, protecting the environment, and enhancing rider safety, consider becoming an ATVBC Trail Ambassador.
ATVBC has the capacity to train more members – if you are interested in becoming an ATVBC Trail Ambassador read more about the program below, and let ATVBC and your club know.
Responsibilities and Objectives
Monitoring and Advocacy
Trail Ambassadors actively monitor trail user activity and trail conditions to ensure that all users have a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. They emphasize safety, environmental respect, risk management, information provision, and legal compliance. By reducing their own risk and that of others, ambassadors help create safer and more enjoyable riding experiences.
Training and Resources
Ambassadors receive a comprehensive manual designed to assist ATVBC clubs in managing public mixed-use trails successfully. The manual is available online at atvbc.ca and is regularly updated. Once trained, volunteers are issued a vest, Trail Ambassador identification, and a Trail Ambassador Certificate, which can be revoked if necessary.
Role and Duties of a Trail Ambassador
Trail Ambassadors are the cornerstone of the ATVBC Trail Ambassador Program. They maintain a regular, highly visible presence on the trails and are responsible for:
– Promoting ORV Riding: Advocating for ORV riding as a positive recreational activity and fostering a positive image of ORV riders.
– Environmental Stewardship: Demonstrating that ORV recreation can coexist with the protection of environmentally sensitive habitats.
– Safety Education: Sharing knowledge to increase ORV rider safety and encouraging riders to take certified ATV Rider training courses.
– Raising Awareness: Educating riders about programs like “Pack it in, pack it out,” “Stay on the Trail,” and “Respect Private Land,” as well as the impacts of irresponsible ORV recreation.
– Club Representation: Representing their Club and ATVBC, encouraging riders to join and volunteer.
– Public Relations: Providing a visible presence on the trail, acting as a model trail user, and serving as a public relations officer (not an enforcement officer).
– Trail Etiquette and Information: Educating riders about trail conditions, ORV trail etiquette, and providing accurate information about trail rules, safe practices, and laws.
– Event Updates: Informing riders about upcoming ATV rides and events.
– Trail Inspection: Inspecting trail conditions for hazards, reporting them, and taking immediate action where appropriate (e.g., issuing notifications about damaged bridges).
– Emergency Assistance: Assisting in emergencies within their capacity, such as providing First Aid if certified or managing a scene until professionals arrive.
– Record Keeping: Recording information for required follow-up and attending club and civic events to promote the program.
Reporting
The Trail Ambassador Program plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and sustainability of our trails, and reporting is a key component of its success. By documenting trail conditions, user interactions, and any incidents or concerns, Trail Ambassadors provide valuable insights that help guide our trail management and improvement efforts. This information is not only used to address immediate issues but also contributes to long-term planning and policy-making.
We’re committed to sharing the outcomes of these reports with our community, and you can look forward to updates in our upcoming newsletters. By keeping our members informed, we ensure that everyone is aware of the ongoing efforts to maintain safe, accessible, and enjoyable trails for all.
Additional Information
Trail Ambassadors are equipped to:
– Request – Record – Report – Relax
Join us in making a difference on the trails and in our communities. Together, we can ensure that ORV riding remains a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable activity for everyone.
