OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLES, 1: A few bad apples have given 
off road trail riding a bad name ... we'll explain on 
Passport to Texas ... 
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Passport to Texas ... from Texas Parks and Wildlife 

It's probably safe to say that the general public has a 
negative image of off road enthusiasts.

There have been problems within the off-road community of 
people disregarding personal property, and trespassing, and 
being disrespectful of the sport and people in general. And it's 
created a very negative stereotype. But that's not typical of the 
community in general. :18

Steve Thompson coordinates the new Texas Off Highway 
Vehicle Program through Texas Parks and Wildlife. He 
says most folks in the off road community are respectful. 

The people that are responsible users of these machines, that 
respect the environment, that respect the ability to go out and 
use these on public land are not very noticeable because they're 
not creating problems. :13

Some of the bad press the community receives may stem 
from the fact there are very few places in the state for 
enthusiasts to pursue their sport. Approximately 86 
percent of Texans live in 30 of the largest metropolitan 
areas of the state. 

And there is a large unmet need for additional venues for legal, 
safe, family-oriented trail riding type facilities. :10

We'll talk about this need, and what's being done to 
address it tomorrow.

We have more ATVs, motorcycles and full size off highway 
vehicles than any other state other than California. :06

That's our show for today ... For Texas Parks and 
Wildlife ... I'm Cecilia Nasti. 


Total sound bite time:		0:47.0
 Maximum Script time:		0:39.0 Suggested show time: 86.0 = 1:26