ATVs are here in New Jersey in the hundreds of tho
It's a rare day when a hiker can walk the trails without hearing, seeing and having to get out of their way. In a state with the most roads per square mile, our public lands and greenways are being turned into speedways. While registration and insurance are technically required, you don't need a license, proof of registration or insurance to roll one out of the dealer.

You are allowed to purchase insurance and register your ATV "later."

The first step state officials should take is to close this ATV point-of-sale loophole and require license plates. Registration fees could then be used to purchase appropriate lands for ATV "parks," and fund enforcement efforts on other public lands.

For too long, the state has ignored its responsibility to regulate ATV use and ownership. The state ultimately bears the responsibility for the current sad state of affairs on our public lands, where neither ATV rider or hiker is served, and the environment continues to suffer as a result.

DENNIS W. SCHVEJDA Advocacy director New York-New Jersey Trail Conference Mahwah