Does your state or region have an association that represents your OHV interests state-wide? If you do, is it still effective or does it need to be revitalized?
States that have significant OHV interest or activity will benefit from having a state or regional association to represent their interests in dealing with entities like government, land managers, or other recreation groups. Local clubs often have a close association with a particular trail system and their own local issues. State-wide associations can take on the role of the overarching representative and point of contact for the broad issues involved with a particular OHV interest. Associations can track and respond to developments that can involve many clubs or social groups around the state. They can serve as a point of contact for government and as such contribute to panels, committees, coordinating potential legislation or rule making, and – among other things – promoting a positive image for OHV recreation. Often, key people in associations come from traditional local clubs. As they advance their knowledge and skills in dealing with government and OHV related issues, they step up to state-wide roles.
Some associations represent multiple interests in OHV recreation. They may represent a combination of ATV/UTV, OHM, or 4WD. Although this can work well, it may be better to have separate associations for each of the OHV interests. They are not competitors at all, but separate associations can provide a better focus on each of the interests. Maintaining a close relationship among groups allows for cross-coordination and the ability to coalesce on matters of mutual interest.
Associations can vary in their size and their resources. In some cases, the mission can be accomplished by a handful of active volunteers. In other cases, greater resources and some full or part-time employees may be required to be able to manage all that is involved with their work. An important component is that they are recognized as the state-wide organization for a particular OHV interest by those they serve and those they interact with in government.
National organizations do a great job representing national concerns, but they don’t usually have the span of control or resources to completely represent interests in every state. Clubs do a great job with local projects and local issues. Associations are required to bridge the gap between national and local. Associations usually have the required knowledge and expertise about state-wide concerns like laws, government systems, grants, procedures, legislation, and key points of contact in their states. In a previous article I wrote about ways to track issues that may have an impact on OHV recreation. This is a great role for state-wide associations as they can interpret developments and initiate a response from their entire OHV interest group. Associations can also be key agents in nurturing new clubs and guiding them to effectiveness and success.
Some may wonder if they really need an association. They may not understand all that an association will likely be involved with. Start one – even at a small scale – and you’ll soon see it develop into an organization with a surprisingly active role supporting your group’s interests.
NOHVCC is very active in providing information and assistance with getting new clubs started. We frequently share our club start-up kit that is available through our website and offer the assistance of our local State Partners. We also work with people in states to help them develop the associations they require to effectively develop and protect OHV recreation opportunities. Our involvement can include start-ups of new associations or efforts to refine or revitalize existing associations that may need some adjustment.
One thing is sure, we need associations operating in states so they can influence a positive outcome for OHV recreation. If you are interested in making that happen in your state, please get in touch so we can work together to get it done!
