Media Contact
Amy Granat, Managing Director
California Off-Road Vehicle Association
Amy.Granat@CORVA.com
(916) 710-1950

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 5, 2018  

Ocotillo Wells OHV Trails Remain Open to Users Thanks to Actions of California Off-Road Vehicle Association

Court Rules in Favor of California Department of Parks and Recreation

Sacramento, Calif. – A lawsuit had been brought against the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the Division of Motor Vehicle Recreation by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility in 2013. PEER claimed that the state was not protecting cultural and archeological resources within Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area, 85,000 acres located near Borrego Springs, Calif.

The lawsuit lasted several years and sought to limit travel in the park to only routes shown on the official park map, a small percentage of the routes actually in the park. The California Off-Road Vehicle Association led the fight against the closures and played a pivotal role in fighting this lawsuit on behalf of the State. Additional organizations, EcoLogic Partners and Tierra Del Sol 4 Wheel Drive Club, later joined in the legal battle under the direction of CORVA's attorney Jesse Barton.

On Jan. 2, 2018, the Superior Court of California ruled in favor of the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the Division of Motor Vehicle Recreation. Off-roaders can still enjoy full use of the recreation area, while park management can continue to manage the park without fighting a lawsuit.

“With the recent passage of Senate Bill 249, which renewed the California Off-Highway Motorized Vehicle Recreation Division, and the win of this lawsuit, a strong foundation of responsible use guidelines for off-road vehicle opportunities has been established in California,” said CORVA Managing Director Amy Granat. “While these successes should be celebrated, it’s critical for off-road enthusiasts to continue to advocate for their rights. CORVA will continue to monitor legislation and engage its members to protect off-road opportunities.”

View PEER Ruling

About CORVA

Working for off-road interests at all levels of government since 1970, the California Off-Road Vehicle Association is based in Sacramento, Calif. CORVA is solely supported by members, donations and sponsors. The organization’s primary focus includes working with federal and state agencies to promote off-road recreation and prevent trail closures, while protecting motorized access in California for the people, not from the people. CORVA ensures that the voices of off-road recreationaists are heard and that off-road trail users retain the right to enjoy public land. For more information, visit CORVA.org.