ATV-UTV Routes
Royce Walters, a member of the Crawford County Ridge Runners, drives an ATV from Prairie Motor Sports, one of several sponsors of the club and the ATV-UTV route in Crawford County.
New ATV-UTV route system up and running,
Crawford County Ridge Runners seeks new members, sponsors
By Ted Pennekamp
The Crawford County Ridge Runners ATV-UTV Club is up and running and continues to seek new members and sponsors.
“We would like everyone to know that we have most our routes open and we invite everyone to join the club,” said Royce Walters, a club member. Walters noted that the club has routes on almost all of the township roads in Crawford County. The only township that does not have routes is Haney Township.
“We also have 10 sections of county roads to connect the township roads,” said Walters. The club is working towards getting 250 miles of ATV-UTV routes in Crawford County, he said. All routes have signs designating them as ATV-UTV routes. With more help and input from an increasing membership, it is hoped that the club can increase the route system already in place.
In addition, the club will be having fundraising events to go towards developing ATV-UTV route maps. Walters also said that fees from members and sponsors will go towards more signs and the production of route maps.
Walters said that the club’s goal is to connect all the communities in Crawford County, including but not limited to Prairie du Chien, Bridgeport, Wauzeka, Eastman, Steuben, Mount Zion, Rolling Ground, Gays Mills, Soldiers Grove, Ferryville, Lynxville, Seneca and De Soto. Also, Richland and Vernon counties have shown great interest in possibly connecting with the Crawford County Ridge Runners’ routes.
The club has monthly meetings, usually the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at different locations around Crawford County in an effort to pique interest in each community. The club has 100 members and is seeking more. Walters said they send out mass emails and put up meeting posters. With increased revenue, the club could possibly have regular radio and newspaper announcements.
In addition to new members and sponsors, Walters said that the club gladly invites visitors to come to Crawford County to enjoy the new ATV-UTV routes and the great scenery found in the hills and valleys. While on an ATV or UTV excursion, one can also take in some of the many other attractions the county has to offer.
Now that the ATV-UTV season is in full swing, Walters would like to give a reminder to all ATV-UTV enthusiasts. “The state, the county and the townships are allowing us to use the roads which is a privilege that they can take away,” he said. “So please obey all speed limit signs and all other laws and rules of the road and stay on the routes.”
If anyone would like to become a member or a sponsor, they can contact Vicki Walters at (608) 875-5044, or John Udelhoven at (608) 391-2350, or John Shimpach at (608) 391-1253.
