New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866
Media contact: Matthew Seidel, (505) 222-4728
matthew.seidel@state.nm.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, JUNE 7, 2016:

Sign up for free All-terrain vehicle safety classes
in Lincoln National Forest

The Department of Game and Fish Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) program is teaming up with the U.S. Forest Service to offer free hands-on All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) safety classes in the Lincoln National Forest near Cloudcroft this summer.

Morning and afternoon classes for adults and youths ages 6 or older are scheduled for June 25, July 9 and July 23, 2016, at Benson Ridge Pit.

Each four-hour class is limited to six students and each student must be registered in advance. No walk-ins will be accepted. A parent or guardian must be in attendance while each youth is participating.

State law requires ATV riders ages 18 and younger and riding on public land to carry a safety permit proving completion of an approved OHV safety course. Students receive the permit upon successful completion of the department’s hands-on training course.

During registration, students can reserve a department ATV and safety equipment to use during training. Students can use their own mechanically-sound ATV as long as it is properly registered, complies with age-specific size and fit standards, is equipped with a spark arrester and meets exhaust noise rules. Sharing of ATVs is not allowed.

Each student must have a U.S. Department of Transportation approved helmet and eye protection, including either goggles, safety glasses or a face shield attached to the helmet. Students must wear sturdy over-the-ankle footwear, long pants, long sleeves and full-fingered gloves during training. Limited safety gear will be available for use.

To preregister for classes, please visit http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/ohv/ohv-education/or call the program at (505) 222-4712. Online training that provides the required safety permit also is available.

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