Hosting a Trailhead

Hosting a Trailhead

Hosting at a trail head is another way you can spend a few hours educating the public. The Off-Highway Vehicle program has an excellent training resource that you may want to include while you are at a trailhead. The education trailer is stocked with program information and material that may spark an interest in what the program has to offer. The trailer also includes an ATV simulator.

Roles & Responsibilities

Safety

Your safety and the safety of other riders is a high priority. This is critical on every ride.

  • Being responsible for your own personal safety
  • Use of correct safety gear
  • Proper riding techniques
  • Seeking education related to each trail you choose to ride (maps, brochures etc.)
  • User conflict mitigation strategies and practices when interacting with the public
  • Setting a positive example to other riders

Service

As a non-law enforcement presence on a trail system, you are performing a great service to land managing agencies, the public and the state of Utah. You will also be serving the OHV community.

  • Setting a positive example through volunteering
  • Scouting for potential projects
  • Providing assistance to other riders (changing a tire, rescue etc.)
  • Reducing user conflict
  • Using your personal knowledge to provide a positive experience

Education

Educating the public is one of the most important aspects of your responsibility as a host. By educating the public you give other riders the ability, knowledge, and resources to ride responsibly.

  • Handing out flyers and educational material
  • Providing maps
  • Promoting Tread Lightly! Principles and ethics
  • Informing the public about OHV education courses, rules and Laws

Additional duties & responsibilities

  • Comply with all Federal, State and local laws related to OHV operation ​
  • Complete volunteer agreement and work description addendum ​
  • Always perform host duties with at least one other person ​
  • Positively represent yourself and the Division of State Parks and Recreation by conducting yourself in an understanding and polite manner ​
  •  Communicate location and date at least one day prior to hosting a trail ​
  • Report activities, emergencies and hours to Volunteer Specialist within one month of hosting a trail or system
  • Participate in a minimum of 8 hours per year ​
  • Conduct his or her self in a professional, courteous and respectful manor

Steps for difficult interactions

1. Take your time! Introduce yourself as a volunteer and utilize small talk if needed.

2. Describe your position and purpose. Once people have discovered that you are a volunteer they will usually be more open to talking with you and answering any questions.

3. Ask if they have any questions about the OHV program, the particular trail or if there is anything else that you can help them with.

4. If the person or group seem in a hurry, provide them with appropriate educational material and let them move on.

5. If the person or group seems suspicious, step away and take note of it. If possible, sneak a picture of the license plate or machine. This information can help craft a detailed report.

6. Keep in mind your own passion for the sport when interacting with people. Relate and be understanding.