July 4th has come and gone, and the summer recreation season is here—a time when state lands usually crowd with visitors. To prepare for this busy time of year, DNR’s law enforcement officers spent a day last month motor biking at Straddle Line ORV Park as part of an Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) safety course. The group included officers stationed in each of DNR’s six regions, and was lead by the state’s Law Enforcement Chief, Larry Raedel.
The training is one of three safety courses held every year, and is meant to enhance education and enforcement: officers practice riding on different kinds of terrain—including very steep or unsafe roads—in variable weather conditions. Importantly, they learn how to prevent and handle behaviors that could be harmful to the public or state lands. This experience is essential to being able to patrol safely, especially in a pursuit situation, or if someone needs help.
Although the budget prevented it this year, as a past service to the public, officers have conducted annual Safety Summits to give off-road users tips to stay safe. Safety awareness is just a part of DNR’s officers’ broader mission to protect the public, DNR employees and state lands. Officers manage state lands for the benefit of all. Other duties include monitoring recreation to avoid injuries and property damage, investigating and preventing wildfires, and much more.
| Follow DNR on: |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
