Where ORR Stands on Motorized Recreation and OHV Trails
By Del Albright, Sustainable Recreation Advocate
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) is a coalition of national outdoor recreation trade associations working together to advance policies that promote the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy. That includes our world of motorized recreation and OHV trail use — and ORR is paying attention.
Advocacy for Responsible Motorized Recreation
ORR supports responsible and sustainable motorized recreation. They recognize that off-highway vehicle (OHV) use is not only a legitimate form of outdoor enjoyment — it’s a vital part of the recreation economy, especially in rural communities where these activities bring in visitors and revenue.
They consistently push for balanced public land policies that maintain access for motorized users while upholding environmental stewardship. (For more on my take on “balanced stewardship,” click here.)
The EXPLORE Act: A Game-Changer for Access
ORR has come out in strong support of the bipartisan EXPLORE Act — legislation aimed at expanding and improving access to public lands for all kinds of recreation, including motorized use.
“This legislation improves infrastructure, increases access, and supports the powersports industry — all while encouraging responsible recreation on our public lands.”
— Erik Pritchard, Motorcycle Industry Council (an ORR member)
The EXPLORE Act also seeks to streamline permitting, modernize recreation sites, and help gateway communities that depend on outdoor tourism — a win-win for motorheads and conservationists alike.
ORR’s Member Coalition Includes OHV Advocates
ORR’s broad membership includes groups directly representing the motorized sector:
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Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA)
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Motorcycle Industry Council
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Specialty Vehicle Institute of America
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American Motorcyclist Association
That means voices from the OHV world are at the table, helping guide ORR’s advocacy.
Motorized Recreation’s Economic Footprint
New numbers from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (2023) show that outdoor recreation contributes over $1.2 trillion to the U.S. economy — with motorized activities like ATVing and motorcycling ranking among the top contributors. ORR doesn’t ignore this. In fact, they lean into it when making their case for continued and enhanced access.
Final Thoughts: A Seat at the Table
We in the motorized community know we need both access and accountability. ORR brings together the voices that help fight for both. Whether you’re crawling rocks, playing in the dunes, or exploring backcountry routes, the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable is advocating for our ability to keep doing what we love — legally, responsibly, and sustainably.
Want to learn more? Visit recreationroundtable.org
Let’s keep the momentum rolling. Support your local OHV group and national orgs fighting to keep our trails open.