The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Colorado River Station has announced its intention to apply for $78,550 in funding from the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Division Grants & Cooperative Agreements Program. The proposed grant aims to support law enforcement projects related to off-highway vehicle activity within the station’s jurisdiction.
The Colorado River Station oversees an area of about 4,200 square miles, which includes state and federal wildlife areas, Bureau of Land Management lands, and several designated limited use OHV riding zones such as the Big Maria and Riverside Mountains. In total, these areas offer around 500 square miles of approved trails. The region also contains 14 Areas of Critical Environmental Concern and multiple wilderness and cultural sites.
According to the press release, “The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Colorado River Station OHV team has observed a significant rise in illegal off highway vehicle (OHV) activity within our jurisdiction. The station oversees an expansive area, encompassing a diverse range of terrains, including mountainous regions, valleys, deserts, and wilderness. The expansive landscape spans hundreds of miles of open space, often experiencing extreme and unpredictable weather conditions, such as torrential rainfall, flash floods, high winds, extreme heat, and the risk of debris flow from wildfires.”
Officials report that illegal OHV use is impacting protected areas like the Big Maria and Riverside Mountains. There have been repeated incidents involving fencing being cut and unauthorized tracks found within these boundaries. Bureau of Land Management Rangers have documented evidence of trespassing and environmental damage.
“Areas like the Big Maria and Riverside Mountains have seen repeated incidents of fencing being cut and OHV tracks appearing within protected boundaries. These violations have been documented by Bureau of Land Management Rangers, who have recorded evidence of trespassing and environmental degradation,” states the release.
The increase in OHV riders—many unfamiliar with regulations or safety protocols—has prompted regular patrols by law enforcement teams in both legal riding zones and non-legal problem areas. The goal is to enforce state laws while promoting rider safety and reducing accidents or harm to sensitive environments.
“In addressing these concerns, the Colorado River Station OHV team has committed to conducting regular patrols of both legal OHV areas and problematic non-legal riding zones. This enables law enforcement to enforce California laws, enhance rider safety, and minimize accidents and environmental damage,” according to the statement.
The sheriff’s office plans not only to cite illegal operators but also educate riders about lawful routes using maps that show approved trails within their jurisdiction.
“This Press Release is to ensure the public is aware of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office- Colorado River Station’s intent to apply for OHV funding as outlined above,” officials said.
Public comments on this grant application will be accepted between March 3rd and May 4th, 2026. Further information can be found at the California State Parks Off-Highway Motor Vehicle website.
For media inquiries regarding this matter please contact the Media Information Bureau. Those interested in careers with the department are encouraged to visit joinrso.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD.
