This award is given in recognition of successful efforts to influence public policy relating to trail planning, trail protection, trail development, or maintenance.
Royce Wood is a dedicated advocate of recreational trails across the country; paying particular attention to the trails in his current home state of Ohio.
As the Government Affairs Manager for the American Motorcyclist Association, Royce spends his professional day defending the rights of those that use all of America’s incredible trails systems. More impressive is his dedication in his personal time to advancing the message that stewardship is an integral part of responsible use of public trails.
When Royce joined the AMA he became an active responsible motorized recreationist in the Wayne National Forest and has remained so since. In order to create an extension of community between his professional mission at the AMA and the riding community he saw a great benefit to working locally.
In April 2009, the AMA, All-Terrain Vehicle Association (ATVA) and the Wayne National Forest entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for motorized recreation that was championed by Royce Wood. He used his local residence and personal involvement in the Wayne Trail Patrol as platforms for developing the MOU. His work solidified the connection between policy initiatives, advocacy and responsible riding among the public and private organizations that can so often struggle to achieve such a goal.
The Wayne National Forest MOU helps ensure that off-highway vehicle (OHV) riders have a safe and enjoyable experience when they ride the Wayne’s 121-mile motorized trail system. The partnership created has already begun promoting responsible OHV use and expanded communication and cooperation within all levels of the OHV community.
In addition to his efforts on behalf of responsible motorized recreation and the Wayne, Royce continues to promote the need for increased recreational trails funding in the state of Ohio, safeguard the recreation community from harmful legislation and move motorized recreation toward a positive future.
Royce practices what he preaches and volunteers multiple weekends during the riding season to the Trail Patrol. He believes the friendly faces of riders that help maintain the trails of the Wayne, guide riders along the marked motorized system and offer assistance along the way are critical elements that exemplify the responsible motorized recreation community.
Royce Wood personifies the motorized recreation community dedicated to responsible use and the need for reasonable public policy to govern that use.
505 views • posted 01/16/2018
