Trail Ambassador Program

Introduction

The 2007 Minnesota Legislature established an Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Safety and Conservation Program and Advisory Council (MS 84.9011) to assist in safety and environmental education and monitoring trails on public lands. OHVs include all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), off-highway motorcycles (OHMs) and off-road vehicles (ORVs) such as four-wheel-drive trucks.

The “Minnesota DNR Volunteer Trail Ambassador Program” was established by the DNR Divisions of Enforcement, Parks & Trails and Forestry. The program exists to promote safe, environmentally responsible operation of OHVs through informational, educational contacts and monitoring efforts. Oversight and management of the program is the responsibility of the DNR Division of Enforcement, Safety/Education section.

The Volunteers

Volunteer trail ambassadors are responsible for greeting fellow outdoor enthusiasts, educating trails users, giving minor aid in emergencies, trail monitoring, and providing useful information about responsible OHV use on public lands.

Pre-requisites for Becoming a Trail Ambassador

Individuals interested in volunteering for the Trail Ambassador program must meet the following requirements.

Be 18 years of age or older.
Be an active Certified MN DNR Volunteer Youth ATV Safety Training Instructor
Submit to a thorough background investigation.
Possess a valid driver’s license.
Be sponsored by a “Qualified Organization” – your Timberland Dirt Devils ATV Club Inc.
Complete a “Trail Ambassador” training session (6 hrs)

View a calendar for Safety Instructor and Trail Ambassador training sessions.

What is a “Qualified Organization”?

At this time, qualified organizations, or sponsors, are the local OHV clubs that are committed to outdoor recreation, and OHV safety and education. Currently qualified organizations are required to be members in good standing of one of the following state associations:

Amateur Riders Motorcycle Association (ARMCA);
All-Terrain Vehicle Association of Minnesota (ATVAM).
Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association (MnUSA)
Minnesota 4-Wheel Drive Association (MN4WDA).

What is covered at a “Trail Ambassador” Training Session?

Prospective new “Trail Ambassadors” will receive training covering the following topics:

Trail Ambassador Program Overview
Policies and Guidelines
Volunteer Expectations
Program Paperwork
Trail Monitoring
Equipment Requirements
Risk Management
Invasive Species Training
GPS Training
OHV Laws
Meeting & Greeting Trail Users

How do I become involved?

Individuals and organizations interested in participating in the Trail Ambassador program can contact:

Bruce Lawrence, Recreational Vehicle Coordinator
Club President, Timberland Dirt Devils, Inc.
bruce.lawrence@state.mn.us
(763) 267-8534