For Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA), 2024 marked another year of unwavering commitment to protecting public lands and wildlife habitat through our Illegal Motorized Use Reward Program. Designed to incentivize citizens who report instances of illegal offroad motorized use on public lands, our program continues to highlight our dedication to responsible recreation and the stewardship of our shared outdoor heritage.

A Quick Look at the Program

The Illegal Motorized Use Reward Program offers a cash reward to anyone who provides information leading to a conviction or fine for illegal motorized activity on public lands. This initiative is a unique collaboration between BHA members, public land agencies, and our broader outdoor community, ensuring that unethical and unauthorized motorized uses do not degrade habitat or infringe on the backcountry experiences that we hold dear.

Major Successes This Year

1. Central Idaho Success

In central Idaho’s Salmon-Challis National Forest, a keen-eyed backcountry hunter recognized fresh ATV tracks veering into an area clearly designated as non-motorized. The individual took photos and immediately notified authorities. Following an investigation, those responsible were issued citations and fined. BHA’s reward to the tipster underscored how local knowledge and quick action can protect critical wildlife habitat and maintain the integrity of designated roadless areas. Read the full story here.

2. White River National Forest Case

Over in Colorado’s White River National Forest, unauthorized OHV use was discovered on trails closed to motorized vehicles. A concerned local documented the illegal activity and provided detailed information to land managers, prompting citations against the offenders. This case highlighted a broader need for vigilant stewardship in one of the state’s most heavily visited national forests. By awarding the tipster, BHA emphasized how citizen reporting can preserve precious backcountry experiences for everyone. Read the full story here.

3. Gunnison Enforcement

In the Gunnison area of Colorado, a proactive outdoorsman noticed multiple motorized vehicles accessing a restricted route known for its importance to elk and mule deer populations. With collected photo evidence and a thorough report, law enforcement was able to track down the offenders, resulting in fines and a reinforced sense of accountability. The tipster received a BHA reward, shining a spotlight on how everyday citizens can help safeguard wildlife habitat through prompt and detailed reporting. Read the full story here.

4. Phillips Brothers Incident

A particularly striking example of civic engagement arose in the Phillips Brothers case, where community members observed repeat OHV violations in a sensitive backcountry area. Their diligence in noting dates, times, and vehicle details gave authorities the evidence they needed to cite the perpetrators. BHA issued a reward to the watchful locals who helped stem further habitat degradation, demonstrating the tangible benefits of collective vigilance. Read the full story here.

Driving Impact Through Collaboration

Each reported violation this year reminds us that our public lands face a multitude of threats, dependent on all of us to protect them. BHA’s Illegal Motorized Use Reward Program wouldn’t exist without:

• Engaged Public Land Users: Everyday hunters, anglers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who keep an eye out for illegal behavior and choose to speak up.
• Agency Partnerships: Strong relationships with federal and state agencies—like the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management—facilitate swift action when illegal activities are reported.
• Community Support: Donations and membership support make it possible for BHA to offer financial rewards and sustain the program.

Looking Forward

As we enter a new year, our commitment to protecting public lands remains steadfast. Through continued collaboration with land management agencies and our passionate membership, we aim to:

• Expand awareness of the Illegal Motorized Use Reward Program, ensuring that anyone who witnesses wrongdoing knows how to report it.
• Deepen our partnerships, enabling more effective enforcement and quicker responses to illegal activity.
• Elevate our impact through education, encouraging ethical use of motorized vehicles while preserving designated roadless areas for traditional backcountry pursuits.

Join the Effort

If you witness illegal motorized activity on public lands, don’t hesitate to speak up. By reporting violations, you actively help maintain the integrity of our backcountry heritage. From maintaining prime wildlife habitat to preserving quiet hunting spots, these efforts protect what we love.

Thank you to everyone who contributed tips, donated to the program, or took part in these collaborative successes. With your continued commitment, we can ensure that our shared wild places remain unspoiled for future generations of hunters, anglers, and backcountry conservationists.

Remember, every effort counts in the quest to protect and preserve our public lands and wildlife for future generations.

To learn more about how you can get involved with BHA's conservation efforts and to support the Illegal Motorized Use Reward Program, click here.