'Operation Silverwood' Educates Public on Illegal Off-Highway Use

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department recently teamed up with California State Parks, California Highway Patrol, U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE and California Department of Fish and Wildlife for “Operation Silverwood” at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area in Hesperia.

Held during the weekend of August 27-28, the operation resulted in 101 citations (60 OHV-related), four arrests, one stolen vehicle recovery, 10 towed vehicles and over 300 verbal warnings/public contacts.

Our public safety agencies are reminding the public that while there are many legal OHV trails on federal lands, Silverwood Lake SRA is not designated as an OHV park.

Illegal OHV riding has become a huge concern throughout the First District, particularly in the cities of Hesperia and Victorville. Complaints have included reports of property damage, trespassing issues, OHV related collisions, driving under the influence, and driving at excessive speeds. The community of Wrightwood has also seen an increase in illegal OHV riding.

OHV riders can get more information about California laws at RideResponsiblyCA.com  or find legal places to ride here. County codes relating to off-highway vehicles can be found here.

San Bernardino County's OHV Enforcement line is (909) 884-4056.