Friends of Jawbone Hosts Law Enforcement Officers Summit:
Cantil, California – The Friends of Jawbone hosted a meeting with law enforcement agencies in conjunction with BLM, California Parks OHMVR Division and Field Representatives for both Kern County’s First District Supervisor Jon McQuiston and Second District Supervisor Zack Scrivner.  The outcome of this meeting is a Joint Task Force of the various agencies, including California City Police Department, Ridgecrest Police Department, Kern County Sheriff’s Office, The American Motorcycle Association (AMA) and private landowners.  This group will be conducting law enforcement activities on the multiple large holidays that attract so many OHV riders to the area.
Mostly informational, the group is getting the word out about the designated trails, the laws about staying on those trails and consequences of making your own trail.  “We want riders to safely enjoy the OHV experience in our area,” states Karen Sanders of the Friends of Jawbone organization.  “We want them to have fun, enjoy their lands, but do so in a responsible manner.  If not, we could lose the privilege of riding on the designated trails.  Especially in the Jawbone Canyon/Dove Springs area there are trails that cut through private property where there is an agreement with the landowner to do so, but if OHVers are not following trails, the landowner can and will shut down those riding areas.  It really is a private property issue in this area.”
The Joint Task Force will start by setting up a DUI checkpoint scheduled for the President’s Day Weekend.  There will be maps distributed and information given.  It is tailored for the public who ride in Jawbone/Dove Springs, the Rands and the El Pasos areas.  Patrols will also be increased during this time for safety and infractions.  Remember it is illegal to drink and drive any type of motorized vehicle, including off-road vehicles.
Friends of Jawbone is a non-profit public benefit corporation dedicated to the promotion of outdoor recreation in the Jawbone Canyon area.  Formed in 1998, Friends of Jawbone supports and develops projects to improve, protect and maintain existing trails and to promote understanding, education and cooperation between all users of public lands.