The great outdoors is one of our most treasured assets. From the stunning mountain ranges of the Rockies to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, America has an abundance of natural beauty to offer.
It is no surprise that camping, off-roading, and other outdoor recreational activities are popular pastimes for millions of Americans. However, with this increased popularity comes the responsibility of protecting and preserving these natural lands for future generations.
One organization that has taken on this responsibility is the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative (OAI). OAI focuses on protecting public lands for the future of outdoor and motorized recreation and provides funds for projects that work toward keeping public land available for fun and adventure.
Whether you ride on two or four wheels, on dirt, sand, or snow, OAI is dedicated to preserving your access to public lands.
The threat to access public land for outdoor and motorized recreation is real. Over the years, there has been a growing concern over the preservation of these areas. Public land managers often face the difficult task of managing resources and balancing competing demands.
When problems arise, such as conflicts or overuse, the easiest solution is often to shut access down. The OAI works to turn “no” into “yes” by providing funds for critical projects that maintain access to public lands.
The OAI has been active for 15 years, injecting more than $5 million into projects across the country. Projects include bridges, maps, signs, bathroom facilities, and trail maintenance supplies. OAI funds have also helped to plant trees, purchase gravel, and rent heavy equipment to help redirect trails and keep riders away from sensitive areas and user conflicts.
Outdoor recreation is not only a vital part of our culture and heritage, but also an important contributor to our economy. Protecting public lands for outdoor and motorized recreation is critical to maintaining our outdoor recreational opportunities, which in turn support local businesses and communities.
The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative serves as an example of the importance of promoting outdoor ethics to heighten individuals’ sense of good stewardship. Their dedication to protecting public land for outdoor and motorized recreation is an important step toward ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural beauty of America’s public lands.
Apply for a Yamaha OAI Grant
Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is dedicated to doing even more to protect public lands for outdoor and motorized recreation and has funded more than 425 projects so far. With four grant cycles each year, the OAI is constantly seeking opportunities to improve and expand access to trails and recreation areas. If you are passionate about preserving public lands, we encourage you to learn more about and apply for an OAI grant to support your initiative at: yamahaoai.com.
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This article originally appeared in OVR Issue 03. For more informative articles like this, consider subscribing to OVR Magazine in print or digital versions here. You can also find the print edition of OVR at your local newsstand by using our Magazine Finder.
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