Alert for Headworks Park near Genoa riders!

Problems caused by riders will force the area to be closed if these problems do not stop.  As of this writing, everyone using the ATV and dirtbike park is on probation for the problems caused by others.  Loup Power employees have been really good to us over the years.  However with the near constant problems occurring, with them having to make all of these repairs, it is cutting into their regular work duties and thus costing Loup Power a considerable amount of money.

Problem One – The entrance gates have been vandalized with chain saws so that UTVs, side-by-sides, jeeps and dune buggies can get though the gates.  Now the vandalized gates will need to be replaced, at the expense of NOHVA with steel posts and concrete.  The width remain set to the original width of 55 inches wide.  The hooligans that took it upon themselves to widen the gates are ruining it for the honest trail riders that follow the rules.  If this continues to occur, it will cause early closure of the area this summer as punishment to riders or until the gates can be repaired. 

Problem Two – ATV riders have been cutting cables in the Weir Bridge Park located at the canal bridge to gain access to the entrance trail.  They are doing this instead of unloading in the main parking area located only a short distance down the road.  They ride or push their machines across the grass and think that it’s OK to do this, even though signs stating “No ATVs in this Area” are clearly posted.  The cables have had to be repaired by Loup Power about once a week this year.  This MUST stop and if it does not stop, the riding area will be closed as punishment to riders.

Problem Three – Riders are leaving all kinds of trash in the riding area on the sand bars, on the river and on the trails.  Can’t people pick up their trash?   When the trash is left on the river and when the river rises, the trash is carried down stream and becomes someone else’s problem.  This is not only a hazard to wildlife, but violates state environmental laws.  The violations of state laws due to trash WILL result in the long term or permanent closure of the riding area.

This is what is going to happen. 

Any vehicle including UTVs, side-by-sides, jeeps dune buggies that are over the width of 55” will be ticketed for trespassing. 

Anyone found to be taking down cables, fencing, widening gates, etc. will be ticketed for destruction of private property. 

The area will close early this year if the problems do not cease. 

On the issue of UTVs.  UTV riders on machines of greater than 52 inches in width are causing problems at Headworks, at the Nebraska National Forest near Halsey and locations across the nation.  People buy these machines not thinking about width restrictions at many riding areas and then think everything needs to change to meet THEIR needs and expect groups like NOHVA to fix THEIR issues.  ATV trail width limits were sent long before UTVs came on to the market, and trail managers simply can’t change over night the long established rules to fit the newest trend, especially when users vandalize and do not become involved in the process. 

In an attempt to address these problems, NOHVA formed a UTV Committee composed of UTV enthusiasts last winter, but the committee has never had a meeting.  A committee of level headed and open minded UTV/side-by-side enthusiasts needs to work on solving the issues concerning the machines they enjoy.  If this does not occur, these problems will never be solved and non-UTV using trail riders on ATVs and dirtbikes will suffer as well. 

NOHVA is not at all opposed to UTVs or side-by-sides.  We are opposed to anyone who does not follow the rules whether it be ATVs, dirtbikes or UTVs and side-by-sides.  We are opposed to those that break laws and commit acts of vandalism so that they can enjoy their latest toy.    

I believe that this problem can be turned into an opportunity for UTV users.  I believe that issues involving UTVs and side-by-sides can be resolved IF the people who use them are willing to become involved in understanding the issues, and then help develop a plan with land managers to allow their access. 

Forward this message to others if you desire.