American Sand Association

ASA Invited to Washington, DC

At the request of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), ASA participated in the Western States Sheriff’s Summit hosted by Bill Woody, BLM Director of Law Enforcement and Security on November 1 and 2, 2005. Attendees included County Sheriff’s from areas where BLM and the Sheriff’s have common jurisdiction. Several BLM lead law enforcement officers were also in attendance. One of the primary topics of discussion was the “Public Awareness Programs” being implemented at the Imperial Sand Dunes.

The keynote speaker, BLM Director Kathleen Clarke, praised the efforts of the Partners in Stewardship program noting that in a mere twelve months the UDG and their partners have made remarkable progress. She continued by noting that the UDG is being used as a model by many other gateway communities.

ASA Chairman Bob Mason was joined by Stephen Razo, California Desert District External Affairs Director, in summarizing Public Awareness Programs supported by the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office (ICSO), United Desert Gateway (UDG), BLM and ASA. Considerable interest was expressed in the Partners in Dune Safety and Stewardship programs at the Imperial Sand Dunes. Leo the Lizard was a prime topic of discussion.

Imperial County Sheriff Harold Carter noted that considerable progress has been made toward returning the Imperial Sand Dunes to a safe and enjoyable place for families to enjoy off-highway vehicle recreation. Sheriff Carter discussed the ICSO’s new role in visitor fee collection. Carter noted that while there are many bugs to be worked out, the collections through October 30, 2005 have more than doubled that of 2004 for the same period.

Bill Woody observed that the Imperial Sand Dunes managers, the OHV organizations and the gateway communities have really got their act together. He encouraged his staff and the visiting County Sheriff’s to take a good look at the public awareness programs.

During their visit to Washington, Razo and Mason had an opportunity to meet with BLM Director Clarke. Stephen Razo reviewed the progress made since formation of the UDG with particular emphasis on the “Litter Education” program. A “Leo” banner was presented to the Director along with copies of the October 2005 edition of the “Partners in Dune Stewardship Report” and the November 2005 “Litter Education Report.” The Director offered to communicate her support of the “Litter Education” program. Director Clarke acknowledged the designation of the “Litter Free Zone” by the El Centro Field Office Manager.

The participation by several prominent sand sports related businesses was noted. It was observed that the local support will likely be several times more than required under the cost matching provisions of the UDG/BLM Task Orders.

Thanks Bob Mason and Steve Razo

There is no doubt that the Partners in Dune Stewardship/Safety are making a mark.

Good job everyone!