Riverside County Sheriff's Office is set to beef up its off-highway vehicle enforcement and education, eyeing a hefty grant from state coffers. Sheriff Chad Bianco is spearheading the initiative seeking $200,168 from the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division, a bid that could bolster law enforcement projects for the Lake Mathews Station.
The area, a sprawling 158 square miles of terrain, frequently lures OHV enthusiasts, eager to rev their engines across various state and federal lands. Despite plenty of legal trails and parks in the vicinity, thrill-seekers often choose to boldly operate their vehicles illegally, a trend that's sparked a spike in emergency calls and friction with residents. According to the Riverside Sheriff's announcement, calls related to off-highway vehicles surged to 2,570 in the past year, with over 200 ringing out from Lake Mathews' jurisdiction alone.
Legal venues like Lake Elsinore Motocross Park and San Bernardino National Forest offer safe, mapped-out spaces for riders, but enforcing the rules in non-designated areas remains a challenge. With the grant money, the Lake Mathews Station hopes to intensify enforcement and also stress the importance of sticking to legal grounds, balancing emergency responses with data collection, and public outreach.
Lake Mathews' cops aren't just gunning to slap wrists; education is also a critical part of their strategy. From weekdays to holidays, deputies will make an effort to vary their duties, ensuring they're not only on the lookout for illegal riders but also connecting with the community. As delineated by the Sheriff's Office, they'll promote legal riding areas and the need for responsible recreation. The station is prepped to store and maintain the necessary gear for this enforcement uptick.
This crackdown isn't just a flash in the pan. The plan outlines dedicated training for selected personnel to effectively handle off-highway monitoring. The public now alerted to the office's intent to snag the funds, can chime in during a comment period stretching from March 5 to May 6. For additional details, concerned citizens and OHV enthusiasts alike can visit the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle site or ring Sergeant Jason Gore at the Lake Mathews Station. Media inquiries are being funneled through the Media Information Bureau, ensuring full transparency and a direct line for updates.
