At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe outdoor adventures should be exciting, and safe. That’s why our Ride Safe, Ride Smart program continues to expand its reach and impact, helping youth and families across Nevada learn how to enjoy Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) responsibly and safely. From helmet giveaways to hands-on skills courses and classroom partnerships, we're proud to share some of our recent efforts to build a culture of OHV safety.
Helmet Outreach and Training at Sand Mountain
October brought one of our most impactful events yet. On October 26th, our team returned to Sand Mountain, where we interacted with 266 participants over two days. We distributed an incredible 155 helmets and facilitated a Youth Rider Evaluation, where 11 young riders took part in skill assessments focused on safe ATV operation. Parents and families from across the region stopped by, many expressing appreciation for our hands-on approach to safety education. We were thrilled to see more kids wearing helmets by the end of the weekend — proof that education truly leads to action.
We returned to Sand Mountain again over Easter weekend, where we distributed an additional 110 helmets, further expanding our reach in one of Nevada’s most popular OHV recreation areas.
Launching a New After-School Program
On March 19th, we kicked off our latest Ride Safe, Ride Smart class with a group of enthusiastic students. With support from Communities in Schools, we launched a dedicated after-school program that dives into critical topics like durable versus non-durable surfaces, outdoor preparedness, and safe ATV navigation. Students engaged in interactive activities and games, reinforcing key safety concepts in a fun and memorable way.
To encourage commitment, Communities in Schools is sponsoring a raffle, students who attend every session have the chance to win a free spot at summer camp, blending learning with opportunity.
Spreading Safety at Logandale Trails
Later in March, we joined the Logandale Junior Ranger Day on March 29–30, hosting a Youth Helmet OHV Safety Booth at Logandale Trails. Our team engaged with 106 participants, including families eager to learn more about safe riding habits. We distributed 40 helmets and spent a total of 424 hours outdoors, offering practical safety advice and building relationships with key partners like the Bureau of Land Management and other outdoor safety advocates.
Online and Statewide Education
Ride Safe, Ride Smart doesn’t stop at in-person events. This year, 33 adults and two youth completed our online OHV safety course, demonstrating the value of accessible education for riders of all ages.
We also participated in the Clark County Fair from March 9–13, where we met with 258 attendees and handed out 60 helmets to Nevada youth. In November, we partnered with Renown Medical Hospital at the Nevada Farm Bureau Conference, engaging with 22 participants about OHV safety and helmet use.
Reaching Rural Nevada
Outreach to Nevada’s rural schools remains a cornerstone of our mission. In early 2025, we connected with 34 students during our RS2 and AIC education programs alongside the USFS, BLM Biology, and Fire teams in Paradise Valley and McDermitt. These partnerships help ensure that even Nevada’s most remote communities receive the tools they need to enjoy outdoor recreation safely.
Thank You to Our Supporters
Nevada Outdoor School would like to extend our sincere thanks to NV Energy, the Nevada Off-Highway Vehicles Program, and the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative for their generous support of the Ride Safe, Ride Smart program. Their contributions make it possible for us to provide life-saving safety education, distribute helmets, and empower youth and families to enjoy Nevada’s outdoor spaces responsibly. We’re incredibly grateful for their partnership in helping make our trails and communities safer.
A Safer Trail Ahead
From classrooms to desert trails, Nevada Outdoor School’s Ride Safe, Ride Smart program continues to grow in impact and reach. With over 365 helmets distributed so far this year and hundreds of meaningful interactions across Nevada, we're proud to lead the charge in promoting safe, respectful OHV use.
Thank you to our partners, volunteers, and community members who help make this work possible. Together, we’re creating a culture of safety that protects both people and public lands, one helmet at a time.
Ride safe. Ride smart. See you on the trail!
No comments:
Post a Comment