COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information & Update

On March 18th, 2020 the WATVA Board of Directors called a special meeting to discuss the latest news regarding the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the impact it might have on our upcoming 2021 Let's Build It! workshops and annual meeting in Stevens Point. We are taking this matter very seriously, as we want to ensure the safety of our membership and the general public.

After our discussions and reviewing CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html) information and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services safety protocols (https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/coronavirus.htm), we have determined our workshops will fall outside the suggested guidelines, thus our board has decided to postpone with planning our convention on April 3rd, 4th & 5th. 

Hotel reservations are now open for the rescheduled date. Click here to book online.

Update - 9/25/2020 

Hello WATVA members, family & friends:

It goes without saying, we're all pretty tired of events being cancelled or postponed because of the pandemic but reality hits the WATVA planning once again. As you may be aware, our annual Spring workshops, originally scheduled earlier this year for April 3 through the 5th, were postponed once the COVID-19 wrecking ball began to take hold and we began to understand what we were dealing with.

As our board of directors wrestled with what steps to take regarding the April 2020 annual meeting, whether to hold it, cancel it or postpone it, we made our best judgement call back then, given the information we knew at the time. For those who may not be aware, an important detail in our decision making which ultimately was to "postpone it" until December of 2020, was made in part because of the financial contract WATVA was required to sign, which holds the conference center rooms for us so they don't rent that space to others. Within that same contract is wording that clarifies if we (WATVA), cancel the event, we then owe the conference center a significant dollar amount as their ability to rent it to others for those dates are lost.

We've been signing conference contracts similar to that one for years, never giving it a second thought because we've always held the conference once we committed to the dates. Obviously we've never had to deal with or even consider a worldwide pandemic before, this was new to everyone. The conference center was very flexible and accommodating, they also had never dealt with these circumstances either. However, if we had just decided to cancel the event back then, we would have been obligated, by the signed contract, to pay a substantial monetary penalty, based on the information we had going back in time to March of this year.

As you might imagine, the conference center was already booked months in advance through the summer and fall seasons, before the pandemic was ever known or declared. With the information we had available back in March, we selected the December dates based on them being available. This decision to postpone until December satisfied the conference center contractual and monetary obligations. Had we just cancelled, WATVA would have been obligated to pay per the standard conference contract language. Our thinking back then was, depending how things play out as the world was navigating this new COVID-19 situation, we knew we could postpone again if the conditions didn't improve by December. It goes without saying, there is substantial planning and coordinating that has to take place when asking guest presenters to prepare the educational workshops we pride ourselves on providing to our members. Indeed many people end up shuffling schedules around to make the workshop session results a worthwhile experience for all.

At the time of this memo in mid-September, no one knows when, if or how, the vaccine or widely accepted treatments for COVID are going to be achieved or implemented to the population. When that finally takes place, it should then give us some stability for planning things in the near future for events such as ours.

One of our biggest challenges during this time of pandemic is being able to get solid commitments from our presenters for our educational workshops. Many of our presenters are government employees <federal, state and local>, with many still working at a remote site, required by their employer policies. This fact alone, makes it almost impossible for us to plan and coordinate our various workshops in a meaningful way.

For these reasons, we have again postponed the annual workshops, meeting and awards banquet forward to Friday afternoon, April 16th for the reception. All day Saturday, April 17th, 2021 for the workshops with the evening awards banquet. As always, a brainstorming and input session on Sunday morning, April 18th, to conclude the event.

The Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Stevens Point has confirmed with us they will again handle cancelling the overnight room reservations for those that have already called in under the WATVA room block discount rates. That was the process used last time when we postponed back in April of this year.

If you wish to double check yourself to be sure the hotel cancels your room reservations, that number for the Holiday Inn in Stevens Point is (715) 344-0200. If you then wish to rebook your rooms for the April 16 & 17, 2021 dates, hopefully they'll have this updated information in their system soon. Anyone who has already paid for their meals, WATVA will continue holding that credit on file.

We understand there are differing opinions on all the various postponements and cancellations due to the COVID pandemic. However, this decision is considering many different factors that impact the organization's ability to put on quality workshops for our members. Hang in there one and all, we'll get this accomplished as soon as possible.

WATVA Leadership Team

Let's Build It! Sponsors 

The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association would like to thank this years dealership sponsors! If you're looking for a home dealership, you'll definitely want to check out one of the following dealerships.

Friday, April 16th - Reception 

Let's Network! Our Friday evening reception includes a cash bar and time to network with other club leaders, agency partners and learn about other our friends in the 4-wheel drive community.

Saturday, April 17th - Workshops (All Workshops Subject to Change)

• Let's Plan It! - A workshop for planning your project. From permits to engineering costs, this workshop discusses various tools you'll need to plan a successful project.
• Let's Fund It! - Funding is a major part of building any project. Learn about the current funding status and how to utilize DNR resources for funding your project.
  
• Let's Build It! - Building a trail is more complex than one might think. Check out the factors that go into building a trail.
  
• Let's Sign It! - Keeping your riders on the right path will help keep folks safe as well as promote a positive image for your area. Learn about signing requirements and hear from sign vendors about their products.
  
• Let's Promote It! - Working with the Department of Tourism and local tourism organizations can bring out of area riders to your trail. Learn about the tools and techniques available to clubs and land managers to promote their riding area.
  
• Let's Enforce It! - Enforcement and education will help keep a trail open. Learn about how your club can work with various law enforcement agencies as well as adapt the Trail Ambassador program to assist with community policing and positive education.
  
• Let's Share It! - Joint ATV / Snowmobile clubs are growing around Wisconsin. Learn and hear about clubs that have taken the shared use approach and discuss how your club has or is planning to join together to represent both ATV and Snowmobile recreation.
  

• Trail Communications - Can you hear me now? This workshop looks at various two-way communication tools you can utilize including CB Radio, FMS / GMRS, HAM Radio and other long range tools.
• Road Routes - A town hall style workshop where clubs can collaborate on various road route issues.
• Club Marketing - What tools are available for your club to promote events, membership and the positive things going on in your community? Hear from experienced club leaders about how they utilize various marketing tools to promote their sport.

Sunday, April 18th - Review

It's time to wrap up the weekends activity with a town-hall style review. During this meeting we will discuss what we liked, didn't like and plans for the remainder of the year / next years annual meeting. This session is open to the public as we love to hear feedback on how you enjoyed (or didn't) the annual convention. 

Hotel Information 

Roger Steinbach Trail Guardian of Excellence Award 

This award is to recognize certified Trail Patrol Ambassador's that have demonstrated extraordinary volunteer efforts that reflect proudly on the Trail Patrol Ambassador program, as well as highlighting their role(s) that prominently define their work as an Ambassador for our sport.

• 2019: Mike Biese; Kettle Moraine ATV Club
• 2018: Bob Grunset, Mark & Marge Lubecke
• 2017: Dan Adamec, Keith Stoney
• 2016: Audrey Emery, Mike Biese

The images below are from the Roger Steinbach trail dedication.

Bud Auer Good Image Award of Excellence 

This award is to recognize individuals, couples, businesses or clubs that demonstrate ongoing efforts that follow the WATVA vision, mission and operating values, focusing on programs and efforts that educate the public while being role models showcasing a positive image of our sport.

• 2019: Hidden Bear Trail ATV Club; Trails North ATVers; David & Brenda Brindley
• 2018: Team Winnebagoland
• 2017: Terry Coplien
• 2016: Ernie Pulvermacher
• 2015: Jim Wisneski, Phil & Dorthy Dausch, Roger Bean

 Dan Adamec Excellence in Mentoring Award

This award recognizes efforts that mentor and involve our youth in ways that encourage them to be an integral part of our positive future.

• 2020: Brenda Adamec

WATVA Presidents Award 

 This award is to recognize outstanding leadership, dedication and support for the ATV / UTV program in Wisconsin. The President of the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association chooses recipients of this award based on direct interactions with the state association.

Previous Recipients 

• 2019: Team Winnebagoland; Ryan Pollow & Kawasaki Motors Corp; Travic Streck & Paul Schmidt of Country Financial
• 2018: Team Winnebagoland
• 2017: Jeff Anderson; Howard Marklein; Mary Felzkowski; American Honda Motor Company
• 2016: Bryan Much
• 2015: Roger Flaherty; Peter Walls; Dick Dikker; Rob DeBruyne; Rocky Caffarella; Mike Musiedlak; Bill Schumann; Tom & Holly Tomianovich
• 2009: Marlys Knutson

Please complete the form below to nominate someone for an Award of Excellence.

 The following are economic impact studies that have been conducted to showcase the economic benefits ATVs and UTVs are towards a community.

Jackson County ATV/UTV Trail Study Survey Report, 2019 (June 2020/11)

The purpose of this study was to obtain trail surface preferences of ATV and UTV users of the Jackson County trail network and to solicit feedback about their trail experiences.

Jackson County ATV Trail Users Survey Report (2015)

The purpose of this study was to assess the economic impact of users of the Jackson County trail network and to solicit feedback from riders about their experience. Survey data were collected by intercept interviews with trail users during the 2015 trail season (May 16 to October 15).

Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account: Prototype Statistics for 2012-2016

Prototype statistics from the Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account (ORSA) released by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) show that the outdoor recreation economy accounted for 2.0 percent ($373.7 billion) of current-dollar GDP in 2016 (table 1). In addition, the outdoor recreation economy grew 3.8 percent in 2016, compared to growth of 2.8 percent in the overall economy.

A Case Study of Cheese Country Trail Users & Economic Impacts in Southwestern Wisconsin (2012)

Motorized trail use is an important activity throughout the Lake States and is an important component of outdoor recreation in Wisconsin. As an enjoyable activity for all ages, it represents a particularly important form of outdoor recreation for older adults. The presence of places to ride and trails that connect communities provides these recreationists with a varied and enjoyable landscape within which to enjoy the Wisconsin outdoors. Motorized use trails also provide important assets for the development of tourism within rural communities.

In this report, we raise issues relevant to motorized recreational use of trails and the communities that find themselves affected by these trail users. We do this from a community development context and focus on the developmental attributes of trail user impacts as an externally driven community economic stimulus. As evidence, we support this with case study research of the Cheese Country Trail in Green, Lafayette, and Iowa Counties of southwestern Wisconsin.

Economic & Demographic Profile of Wisconsin's ATV Users (2004)

In an attempt to gather more information about Wisconsinís ATV riders, the Department of Tourism partnered with the Wisconsin All-Terrain Vehicle Association (WATVA) and the University of Wisconsinís Department of Urban and Regional Planning to gather marketing and economic impact information. The objectives of the research were: 1) to define an ATV rider (age, educational level, and residence); 2) to describe characteristics of the ATV trip (length of overnight stays, overnight accommodations, and party size), 3) to identify the userís reasons for being in the area and other attractions/activities they will participate in while on this trip; 4) to assess the importance of various aspects of ATV trail riding; 5) to measure user expenditures in the area; and 6) to determine the economic impact of nonresident visitors in the area.

Data: Motorcycling, ATV riding, side-by-side driving among nation's largest outdoor recreation activities

IRVINE, Calif., — Motorcycling, ATV riding, and side-by-side driving are among the country's five largest traditional or conventional outdoor recreation activities, when ranked by economic output, according to data released last week by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

This was the first time that the BEA provided preliminary data on economic contribution in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, demonstrating how important outdoor recreation is to both local business as well as the nation's gross domestic product.

And, it's a growth sector.

According to the BEA release, its Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account "shows that inflation-adjusted (real) GDP for the outdoor recreation economy grew by 3.9 percent in 2017, faster than the 2.4 percent growth of the overall U.S. economy. Real gross output, compensation, and employment all grew faster in outdoor recreation than for the economy as a whole."

The bureau defines "conventional" outdoor recreation as activities done for pleasure, such as camping, hiking, hunting, and fishing, and involving some physical effort.

 "We have long known that motorcycling, ATV riding and side-by-side driving are major contributors to the economy, to our country's GDP, in so many ways," said Tim Buche, president and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council. "We boost local economies, too, and not just through powersports dealers and retailers. Our enthusiasts book hotel stays, pay park fees, buy food, supplies, and other gear they need for all sorts of great outdoor adventures. All of that makes them, and our industry, a powerful economic engine that merits the attention of policymakers and those who manage public lands."

When you register your ATV and / or UTV for the first time, you might receive a handy little booklet from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources which explains the current laws within the state. If you didn't, here is what it looks like: https://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/pubs/le/LE0500.pdf

In the event you were not able to take the time to read over the entire document, here is a post that goes over the frequently asked questions regarding ATV / UTV laws within the state.

• Every person born after 01-01-1988 must take and pass a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) ATV safety course to legally operate an ATV or UTV on a public trail or route. Yes, this applies to people in their early 30's, it doesn't matter if you have your driver's license or not. The DNR ATV Safety course covers ATV / UTV laws and ethics.
• You must be at least 16 years old and have a WI DNR ATV safety certificate to operate an ATV or UTV by yourself on any road route. 12-15 year old youths are permitted to ride ATV's (not UTV's) on a road route ONLY IF accompanied by a parent or parent approved adult. However, some municipalities have different age minimums, specific hours of operation, mandatory insurance with some even requiring a valid drivers license. Remember, it's up to the owner / rider to learn and follow municipal ordinances that sometimes differ from Wisconsin state laws.
• Any person, operator or passenger under the age of 18 MUST wear a helmet that is approved from the Department of Transportation (DOT). A bicycle helmet does not qualify. If you can't find a helmet small enough for your child, they're probably too small to safely be riding on public trails or road routes.
• Every occupant riding in a UTV must be seated with a seatbelt fastened in a manner prescribed by the manufacturer. No passenger can ride in or on any part of a UTV that is not designed or intended to be used by passengers. You cannot ride in the back storage box areas, sitting on someone's lap or on the roof.
• Front headlights and rear taillights must be turned on, day or night, while riding on road routes & trail systems. The more visible you are to other vehicles, the safer everyone is. This safety tip applies to both road routes and trail systems.
• All ATV's and UTV's must display a current registration sticker on BOTH sides of the vehicle as well as on a rear facing plate. The plate must have a white background and use black text. Other details about the plate do apply. 
• No trail passes are required for in-state registrants. Wisconsin does have a non-resident trail pass (5 day or annual) with a single sticker requirement. The non-resident passes do not require rear facing plates. 
• Wisconsin has an exhaust sound level requirement (96 dB or less) designed to keep our trails and road routes quiet. Excessive sound levels annoy and curtail access, do your part. 
• Observe and follow all speed limits, as posted or provided in a municipal ordinance.

This is not a complete list of state ATV / UTV laws, only those that are most commonly asked about.

 Looking to hand this information out at an upcoming meeting? Download the PDF file here!

Purchase the VVMapping Map Book

Printed map book with over 150 pages of color maps from around Wisconsin.

Sold by National Motorsports Services.

The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association is requesting a bill that makes adjustments to the state's ATV / UTV program based on the need to adapt and grow the program for expanded trail access.

This legislation enhances the ability to improve, update, and adjust to the evolution and growth of the ATV / UTV registration program in Wisconsin. 

Since the 2012 legislation passed that permanently introduced and registered the Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV aka Side x Side), our organization has been gathering input from our multitude of local clubs, trail ambassadors, associated businesses, tourism affiliates, federal, state, county and local units of government that deal with our recreational industry of ATV UTV owners.

This legislation is a package of multiple upgrades and changes that address the continuing growth of our registration numbers, providing solutions necessary to better manage the registration program into the future.

The following bullet points capture the majority of changes being proposed for our ATV / UTV program (for further explanation, see the additional pages in this document):

1.  Remove the words "low pressure tire" from the tire requirement found in the definition of an ATV or UTV.
2. Clarify how to measure the width of an ATV and/or UTV, which is a requirement for the definition of an ATV and/or UTV in statute.
   
3. Ease and simplify the registration requirements for municipally owned ATVs and UTVs.
   
4. Address and establish rules for auxiliary lighting on ATVs and UTVs based on feedback from users, land managers and law enforcement officers.
   
5. Make headlights mandatory for all times of the day on the trail to match the current law that requires headlights being lit on road routes.
   
6. Create a statutory requirement that riders must obey regulatory signs (stop, yield, etc.) on the trail.
   
7. Open further funding resources from the ATV segregated account for statewide mapping projects by non-profit organizations.
   
8. Add $100 per mile for winter trail maintenance funding on trails that allow UTV vehicles in winter.
   
9. Summer trail maintenance dollars will be increased by $100 per mile on the UTV side of the program, increasing the total maximum amount for maintenance to increase by 14% or up to a maximum of $800 per mile.
   
10. Clarifying where someone can be tried in a court of law for falsifying registration information.
    
11. ATVs that are not designed from the manufacturer for passengers are no longer allowed on the trail (it had already been illegal on route systems for some time).
    

1. Remove the words "low pressure tire" from the tire requirement found in the definition of an ATV or UTV.

Low pressure tires definition in current statute is no longer relevant because of technology changes in ATV UTV suspensions. Tire technology itself has changed dramatically including radial designs with a plethora of different tread options. These facts, along with the reality of the recent trend of having thousands of miles of road route expansions, make low pressure tires a definition no longer needed.Another factor is the multi-passenger UTVs requiring the newest tire technology where as required air pressure is much different than on single passenger ATVs. The simple answer is to stipulate the definition be "tire" which allows the latest tire and design technology to address machine needs based on different uses and models.  

 2. Clarify how to measure the width of an ATV and/or UTV, which is a requirement for the definition of an ATV and/or UTV in statute.​

Dating back to 2007 through 2011, a time when we here in Wisconsin were conducting the pilot testing to determine if the UTVs were compatible with our ATV trail footprints, the UTV industry had yet to develop certain standards that we could consider using in our definitions as the legislature made the UTV registration permanent in 2012. One such subject was in defining "where" to measure maximum width of the machines...Since that time, the industry has now caught up, they added a width measurement standard which this legislation adopts for consistency that benefits our riders, dealerships, and law enforcement professionals alike.

 3. Ease and simplify the registration requirements for municipally owned ATVs and UTVs.​

​The UTV popularity with its appeal and diversity, including utilitarian work purposes for many local and county governments is addressed with this legislation. It eases the process originally designed more for public trail and route use versus these units serving as work vehicles for these local units of government. If the government entity clearly designates the machine is owned by their government entity, under this change they would no longer be tasked with the registration process and subsequent identification requirements that trail riders are. This streamlined update also allows leased vehicles to be included whether being used for utilitarian, emergency or enforcement purposes. It further clarifies when being used for emergency response uses, the current requirements for passenger restrictions, seat belts, helmets etc. are not required.

4. Address and establish rules for auxiliary lighting on ATVs and UTVs based on feedback from users, land managers and law enforcement officers.​

A dangerous trend has developed with the advancement in aftermarket and original equipment auxiliary lighting technology. High intensity lights are being added with no requirement for dimming lights to oncoming traffic. This has resulted in multiple complaints and dangerous situations. Another issue being addressed has to do with a different kind of aftermarket lighting. This language specifies that only emergency response vehicles are permitted to have flashing red or blue lights on trail systems, staying consistent with road route compliance. Currently auxiliary light options are being sold and used with red and blue colors by the general public, this legislation fixes that omission.

Lighted whips are still legal, however they are restricted in color to Amber or white (forward facing). This is to stay consistent with road route laws that already prohibit certain colors of lights.

The following rules language specifies the new lighting requirements:

5. Make headlights mandatory for all times of the day on the trail to match the current law that requires headlights being lit on road routes.​

​Because ATV UTV riding networks include thousands of miles of routes that intermix and combine with trail systems, currently riders are required to have headlights lit for routes but not on trail systems. Some trails are under thick tree canopies that make for a darker riding condition. When combined with dusty scenarios, it enhances everyone's safety to require headlights lit on trails as well as routes. This is another example of making the ATV UTV law consistent, whether riding on trails or routes, the law will now be the same.

6. Create a statutory requirement that riders must obey regulatory signs (stop, yield, etc.) on the trail.​

​Currently there is no statutory requirement in 23.33 that requires trail riders to comply with stop, yield, or other regulatory sign on our trail systems. The ATV UTV program registration program that started in 1986, never anticipated the growth we've had and continue to experience. Our total number of machines registered is approximately 400,000 strong and still growing. Most riders aren't aware there are no requirements to comply with regulatory signs on trail systems but as we keep expanding, it's high time to correct this omission. In the early years, there was little chance or need to have this provision, that's not the case nowadays. Another adjustment to make the law consistent whether on road routes or trail networks.

7. Open further funding resources from the ATV segregated account for statewide mapping projects by non-profit organizations.​

​A major benefit to the business community, as well as the Wisconsin general economy, depends on attracting riders from out of state as well as new riders in Wisconsin coming into this type of outdoor recreation. A major tool that all riders seek are "where the riding opportunities exist" by way of a statewide riding area map. For these specialized maps to be effective, they need to be shipped to tourism centers, registration locations as well other tourist attractions where riders and potential riders can obtain them to make their travel plans accordingly. The state association has been able to secure temporary funding to produce these statewide maps, proving they are a desired and sought-after product. This update allows for a stable funding source for a statewide map using the stability of the ATV UTV registration program, self-funded to promote our own trail networks. This update also updates eligibility for a statewide app which is the current trend in society. As well, the self-funded ATV account would make eligible the acquisition to secure safety and public awareness signage that are currently not being displayed. This update also provides for communications equipment needed to enhance the safety and productivity for the dedicated volunteers doing trail and ambassador work in the back-country of Wisconsin.

8. Add $100 per mile for winter trail maintenance funding on trails that allow UTV vehicles in winter.​

​​With the growing popularity of the enclosed cabs on the side x side UTVs, winter trail riding has increased greatly. In some areas of the state, the consumer is purchasing a UTV versus a snowmobile as it can be used year-round. The original UTV laws did not anticipate heated and enclosed cabs or winter use at all. This update adds an increase for the UTV side of winter funding of $100 per mile even if the winter trail is not used in the summer season. Likewise, this update provides for a new type of winter trail that may not necessarily be shared with the snowmobile community, referred to as a frozen ground winter trail. This new opportunity will apply to areas of the state that receive the cold weather but light snow cover.

Click the link below to download a PDF of the flowchart, including a page that will estimate your maintenance dollars per mile with the current system and the proposed system.

9. Summer trail maintenance dollars will be increased by $100 per mile on the UTV side of the program, increasing the total maximum amount for maintenance to increase by 14% or up to a maximum of $800 per mile.​

​Summer trail maintenance dollars will be increased by $100 per mile on the UTV side of the program, increasing the total maximum amount for maintenance to increase by 14% or up to a maximum of $800 per mile. With increased traffic and larger UTVs, this increase is necessary to sustain our ability to maintain our resources.

10. Clarifying where someone can be tried in a court of law for falsifying registration information.​

​The original registration program of the 1980s could never had predicted the ever changing and developing ATV UTV industry. Equipment manufacturer's now build many different models and sizes, some designed for use out west in desert and/or wide-open type riding while other models are designed for narrower and smaller trail systems which better describe our woods riding here in Wisconsin. This situation has created confusion for the consumer who can legally purchase a machine that is outside of our state description of what a legal UTV or ATV is, but they later discover they can't ride it when their registration application is eventually returned. In some cases, however, the application / applicant for legal registration omits a certain model designation, yet with other examples of falsified models listed and being sent to the DNR registration bureau. Unfortunately, the state estimates as many as 10,000 machines may have already been registered when the fact is the machine is too wide or too heavy to meet the agreed upon size dimensions our trail footprints are planned around and built upon because of the falsified applications. Eventually the consumer discovers they either purchased a machine that was outside the legal parameters to be registered, only to discover they can no longer register or ride on our trail networks or even worse they are cited when discovered when riding out on the trail networks. The unscrupulous retailer bears no financial recourse under current law, simply because the original registration program is outdated. Under our change, we are clarifying where someone can be tried in a court of law for falsifying registration information.

11. ATVs that are not designed from the manufacturer for passengers are no longer allowed on the trail (it had already been illegal on route systems for some time).

During the bill signing, a line item veto power was executed which changed how the law was worded.

The new law made riding with passengers on an ATV or UTV that was not originally manufactured for passengers illegal on public trails (it was already illegal on roadways). However, the new law does allow passenger use on ATVs or UTVs not originally intended for passengers during an emergency situation for public safety entities. This would help protect those entities from lawsuit's that might arise during these types of operations, which occur throughout the year during rescue missions in remote areas.

Also adding to the confusion was the fact that passenger use on an ATV or UTV that was not originally intended for passengers was already illegal on public road routes and had been illegal for some time.

Sometimes the complexities that surround an issue are not as they first appear. We might think we understand what we're dealing with but when we dig deeper and pull away the layers, we often find something completely different.

To make a situation more complicated, others may disagree with how we want to approach the situation. A proper situation appraisal is an important step because often issues like this are found to have a tangle of divergent elements, varied opinions, different priorities or possibilities for solutions toward different needs.

Below is the wording from Act 183 regarding passenger use on All-Terrain Vehicles:

SECTION 12. 23.33 (3) (em) of the statutes is amended to read:
23.33 (3) (em) With Except as provided in sub. (11m), with a passenger riding in or on any part of a an all−terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle that is not designed or intended to be used by passengers while the all−terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle is being operated on an all−terrain vehicle route, all−terrain vehicle trail, or roadway as authorized in this section.

Act 183

In a press release after signing Act 183, Governor Evers wrote:

"I have exercised the partial veto in Section 25, relating to being a passenger on an allterrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle on public and private land. Current law prohibits a person from being a passenger on a utility terrain vehicle, regardless of location, if said vehicle is not designed for passengers. Section 25 would prohibit a person from being a passenger on an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle that is not designed for passengers only on an all-terrain vehicle route, all-terrain vehicle trail, frozen water, or an authorized highway. This section would specifically not apply the prohibition to private property.

I am partially vetoing the requirement that the prohibition on unauthorized passengers only applies to designated routes and trails because I object to allowing the potentially unsafe operation of all-terrain vehicles and utility terrain vehicles in undesignated areas and on private land. If an all-terrain vehicle or utility terrain vehicle is not designed for passengers, then it should not be operated with passengers, except for those exceptions provided for in Section 33. The safe transportation of passengers, regardless of location, is essential to the prevention of injuries and fatalities associated with all-terrain and utility terrain vehicle use. 

by Governor Evers

We have included the press release issued by Governor Evers below.

Furthermore, the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association was recently made aware that this law already existed for any road route (meaning it was already illegal to carry a passenger on any road route in Wisconsin). WATVA was not aware of this law change.

Passenger use on ATV's varies between states. For example, Michigan, Iowa, California does not allow passengers unless the ATV is originally manufactured for a passenger. Minnesota has some restrictions depending on which type of ATV it is (they have Class 1 and Class 2 ATVs).

The ATV Safety Institute advises that adding passengers to an ATV that is not designed for passengers changes the center of gravity and impacts the ability for the rider to safely control the machine. For best riding tips and a guide on safety, please check out the ATV Safety Institutes guide by following the following link: https://atvsafety.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ASI-ATV-Tips-Guide-2018.pdf

Last Edited May 26th 2020 at 14:15.

We Need You! 

Did you know most of the ATV and UTV trails, summer or winter, are maintained by a local club? Without our grassroots organizations, our states trail program would be vastly different from what we enjoy today.

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Where Can I Ride? 

Riding during the winter season in Wisconsin can be a fantastic and rewarding experience. However, the dynamics of the winter climate in Wisconsin means that the riding opportunities are not uniform. Research is needed prior to riding someplace new in Wisconsin during winter.

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Counties Receiving Winter Trail Funding (with links if available) 

Rules & Regulations 

Aside from the regular regulations that apply to ATVs and UTVs, there are some other regulations you should be aware of if you're riding in Winter or on frozen surfaces.

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Image by Kathi Hlasny

Snowplowing with ATVs and UTVs
Wisconsin allows the use of ATVs and UTVs for snow removal throughout the state under the following restrictions:

• At a speed not to exceed 5 mph while on a public sidewalk
• At a speed not to exceed 15 mph while on or adjacent to a roadway
• Operation is allowed on all roadways where the motor vehicle speed limit is 45 mph or less
• Operation shall be restricted to the far right hand side of the road
• Operation is also allowed on roads that are legal and open ATV Routes
• Operators must be 16 years or older and if born on or after
• January 1, 1988 must also possess a valid ATV Safety Certificate.
• Operation is only allowed between October 1 and April 30 for the purpose of removing snow
• Operators may not travel at a distance greater than 2 miles from
• Their original starting or loading point
• Machines must display one or more illuminated, yellow lights that are flashing or rotating and visible for 360 degrees

• A city, village, or town may enact an ordinance authorizing the operation of ATVs with snow removal devices (that are operating for snow removal purposes) on roads where the speed limit is greater than 45 mph, if the road is located within the territorial boundaries of that city, village, or town; regardless of who has jurisdiction over the particular roadway.
• ATVs/UTVs are required to have their headlamps on at all times while operating on any road. Headlamps must be able to illuminate an object at least 200 feet away. Tail lights must be visible from at least 500 feet away during the hours of darkness. Operators must be certain that their snow removal equipment does not interfere with these legal lighting requirements.
  
• ATVs/UTVs must have current Public Use Registration while operating on public roadways, public road right of ways or on public sidewalks.
  
• Helmets are required for all operator's under age 18, except while operating on lands under the ownership or management of their immediate family.
  

http://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/pubs/le/LE0500.pdf

Information posted above was taken directly from the WI DNR 

Safety Information 

Aside from the regular regulations that apply to ATVs and UTVs, there are some other regulations you should be aware of if you're riding in Winter or on frozen surfaces.

by Author

Wisconsin allows ATVs and UTVs to ride on frozen surfaces of any navigable, designated waterways. This makes using ATVs and UTVs for ice fishing very popular.

Before you head out on the ice, you will want to check with local resources on the latest ice conditions. The Internet is a great resource for checking on ice depth and conditions, however you will want to make sure the information you gather is accurate and timely. There are a few great sites that not only give you ice conditions, but user reports on how well the fish are biting!

Studding your tires for better traction can improve your performance on frozen surfaces. Make sure you follow the proper instructions for installation and maintenance on studs. If you do have studs on your vehicle, make sure to stay on the ice. Studded tires can be very harmful to any trail surface, especially groomed snow!

Tracked vehicles can be very useful for winter riding (however they are not allowed on any public trail). Make sure to keep the tracks maintained per the manufacturers guidelines!​ 

Riding on snow

Riding on snow can be a highly enjoyable experience but also presents its own set of hazards that are unique to winter reason riding. 

ATVs and UTVs work great on packed snow, however can struggle in fresh snow. If you're traveling on an unpacked surface, the snow can accumulate and pack under the frame of the vehicle, eventually lifting it off the ground. Furthermore, if your machine leaves a packed surface it can quickly become stuck in loose snow. 

Properly maintained and treaded tires will greatly help with traction on snow. Make sure you have the proper tires before heading out on a ride. 

A winch can be a valuable asset to have on your machine during winter riding. Making sure the winch is in proper working order and that the cable is functional is critical. Unspooling and inspecting your winch cable is a great way to make sure it will be ready when you need it. Furthermore, spooling your winch cable properly will increase the life of the cable and reduce any chance of a mechanical issue should you need it while out on a trail. Remember to follow the safety guidelines for proper winching as a snapped cable can injure someone.

The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association always suggests taking a hands on safety course. Understanding how your machine handles (in both dirt and snow conditions) will increase your level of overall safety while riding. Remember, if you have an accident or breakdown in winter, your at a higher risk of weather related exposure injuries.

​Download this information in a booklet form by clicking "Download File" below.

The information on this page is intended as a reference for clubs and municipalities that are seeking information on ATV & UTV sign topics.

Wisconsin Department of Transportation Resources

If you're looking for guidance on ATV / UTV road signage, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation has two pages that explain in detail the rules and sign information needed. 

​Check out the latest events from the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association! 

 This information is from our 2019 annual meeting & workshops, presented by Cathy Burrow from Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Friday April 12th 2019

​5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - Trail Ambassador Club Coordinator Training

Our trail ambassador club coordinator training is for clubs that are actively involved with the trail ambassador program and meet the requirements for a club coordinator.

7:00 p.m. - WATVA Game Show Premiere

Join us as we randomly select three WATVA clubs to compete for over $3,000 in prize money! Funds were raised by our WATVA dealerships. 

Saturday April 13th 2019

​7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. - Register & Check-in

Saturday kicks off with registration and guest check-in. Check-in is located in the commons, just inside the convention center main entrance.

8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. - Motorized Trails Panel

• ​Governors ORV Council / Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association
  
• Governors OHM Council / Wisconsin Off-Highway Motorcycle Association
  
• Governors Snow Council / Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs
  
• Road Legal 4WD Association

12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. - Working Lunch / Winter Trail Designation & Funding

How many users are enjoying the winter side of our sport? Is there proper funding to sustain the winter trail systems? What's the future for the winterized recreations? These are questions that are being asked to ensure that the winter trail program is where it should be. Join us for a lunch and discussion on how we are working on solutions to help winter trail funding in Wisconsin. Lunch will be held in the Expo center.

Lunch information: Our Saturday lunch includes your choice of a boxed lunch, and a presentation / open topic about winter trails for ATV and UTV vehicles. A lunch ticket is required to attend this workshop.

Lunch options:

• ​Roast Beef Sandwich w/ Chips, Cookie, Apple or Orange and Soda
• Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Wrap w/ Chips, Cookie, Apple or Orange and Soda
  
• Turkey and Cheese w/ Chips, Cookie, Apple or Orange and Soda
  
• Ham and Swiss w/ Chips, Cookie, Apple or Orange and Soda
  

6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. - Trail Ambassador Awards & Banquet 

Our annual awards recognition evening kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with a dinner and presentation on the volunteers that enhanced our recreation program by being ambassadors of the sport.

Meal Information:

Your choice of two: beer brats, ground beef patties or grilled chicken breasts. Served with fresh buns and condiments, home-style baked beans, Wisconsin potato salad, tomatoes, onions, pickles, cheese, coleslaw, potato chips, fresh fruit or fresh vegetables and fresh homemade cookie and bars.

Meal costs: $10.00 per person.

Sunday April 14th

9:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. - Annual Meeting Wrap Up Session

Our wrap up session is an open discussion towards the meeting and topics brought up during the workshops.  

Registration Information 

​The Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association has published documents for previous events and meetings. WATVA is making these publications available for the public on this page.

About the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association

To further enhance and to expand the vision of the Wisconsin ATV / UTV Association (WATVA), the leadership has recognized the need to provide a tangible set of goals to serve as a guide for the clubs and membership to believe in, to work toward, and to encourage others to join us!

WATVA promotes shared leaderships that strengthen the ability of organizations at the most local level. To best support and offer effective assistance to our members, our focus remains on helping form new OHV groups, offering meaningful help to existing ones, promoting a positive image in all things we do, and by establishing a communications network in which all can share their successes or ask for assistance with particular challenges. WATVA remains committed to provide educational programs and materials for youth and adults alike, to encourage awareness of the impact we all have on the future of the sport and industry of off-highway vehicles (OHV).

WATVA Goals

Ensure WATVA and its local chapters are widely recognized as a resource and support system for promoting responsible OHV use by providing useful and positive OHV information to area media, lawmakers, land managers, businesses and dealerships, and other sources as it may apply.

Ensure the behaviors of OHVers are that of enthusiasts who are respectful of other trail users; understand industry safety issues and who are environmentally responsible.
Promote the widespread image of OHV recreation as family oriented and as a responsible group maintaining sound community ethics. To assist and encourage community OHV recreational parks and/or trail systems at which safety training and responsible riding habits are a priority program.

Expand and sustain the network of OHV enthusiasts and their supporters who promote the responsible enjoyment of the OHV sport. Establish successful informational and educational displays in dealership showrooms that connect the local and state OHV organizations centering around the Ride Smart program.

Attract, train, involve, support, recognize and retain large numbers of members dedicated to promoting the WATVA's goals and mission. To coordinate and plan regional workshops that address specific needs of the members, OHV enthusiasts, land managers, tourism representatives and other advocates, to increase and maintain OHV riding area opportunities.

Promote balanced safety and environmental education. This includes but is not limited to distributing available materials through community safety programs and various demonstrations that present themselves to our memberships. To always be proactive and aggressive in delivering a consistent message that portrays the OHV sport as mainstream and socially acceptable.

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