Polaris and Foundation for America’s Public Lands Launch Grant Program to Improve OHV Access and Safety on BLM Lands

More than $700,000 in funding will support trail improvements, signage, safety projects, and rider access across Utah, Arizona, Montana, and Nevada

A new partnership between Polaris and the Foundation for America’s Public Lands is bringing significant investment to off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation areas across the western United States. The organizations have announced a new grant program that will provide more than $700,000 in support for projects designed to improve trail access, rider safety, navigation, and visitor experiences on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands.

The initiative combines a $350,000 contribution from Polaris with a dollar-for-dollar match from the Foundation for America’s Public Lands, creating one of the largest recent investments focused specifically on OHV recreation infrastructure on BLM-managed lands.

The grants will fund projects ranging from trail signage and wayfinding improvements to facility upgrades, fencing, trail maintenance, and accessibility enhancements. Seven projects across Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and Montana have been selected in the program’s first round of funding.

Supporting the Future of OHV Recreation

The Bureau of Land Management oversees more than 200 designated OHV recreation areas and millions of acres of public land open to responsible motorized recreation. These riding areas provide opportunities for adventure, tourism, family recreation, and economic activity for many rural communities.

Polaris CEO Mike Speetzen said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to supporting the riding community while helping preserve access to public lands.

“People are deeply connected to the areas they spend their days riding, and we know strong communities are at the heart of maintaining these spaces,” said Speetzen. “Through our new partnership with the Foundation for America’s Public Lands, we will invest alongside local partners to improve trails, promote responsible riding, and support the people who know these areas better than anyone, helping to keep these places thriving.”

I Ling Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation for America’s Public Lands, noted that public lands play an important role in recreation and local economies across the country.

“America’s public lands are powerful economic drivers and places where Americans can get outside to experience the Great Outdoors,” Thompson said. “BLM lands offer countless opportunities for multiple use recreation, and we are thrilled to partner with Polaris to support local communities and bring much needed funding to these important projects.”

Moon Rocks Receives First Grant

The partnership officially launched at the North Reno Recreation Area’s popular Moon Rocks OHV Area in Nevada. The 19,000-acre riding destination recently hosted the Friends of Moon Rocks annual cleanup event, where hundreds of volunteers gathered to help improve the area.

Funding at Moon Rocks will support the installation of new portal signs and barriers designed to improve visitor orientation and guide traffic to designated trailheads.

“It is astounding to see all of these partners, including the Foundation, Polaris, and all of the volunteers coming together to enhance the Moon Rocks Recreation Area,” said Kim Dow, Associate State Director of BLM Nevada. “Without their support and dedication, Moon Rocks would not be what it is today.”

Utah Projects Receive Significant Support

Utah riders will benefit from four of the seven projects selected for funding.

Cricket Mountains OHV Trail System

Located in western Utah, the Cricket Mountains OHV Trail System will receive a complete signage overhaul. New directional markers, trail maps, and wayfinding signs will help riders navigate the extensive trail network while improving safety and reducing route confusion.

Greater Three Peaks OHV Riding Area

Near Cedar City, the Greater Three Peaks OHV Riding Area will receive approximately 4,800 feet of fencing around an area known as “The Crater.” The project aims to improve safety by reducing travel through heavily braided informal routes and challenging terrain while improving overall trail management.

Tusher Tunnel, Uranium Arch and Bartlett Alcove

Three popular BLM recreation destinations near Moab will receive upgraded signage, parking improvements, and site maintenance. The enhancements are designed to improve visitor experiences while helping protect these heavily used recreation areas.

Fivemile Pass Recreation Area

One of Utah’s most popular OHV destinations, Fivemile Pass will benefit from restroom repairs and the installation of new kiosks at seven staging areas. The upgrades will improve amenities for riders and visitors while providing updated recreation information.

Arizona and Montana Projects Expand Access

The grant program also includes projects in Arizona and Montana.

Black Canyon Corridor, Arizona

The Black Canyon Corridor will receive approximately 1,400 new waypoints and interpretive markers designed to improve navigation and enhance the riding experience. Installation efforts will involve youth crews in alignment with the federal EXPLORE Act.

Glendive Short Pines OHV Area, Montana

Funding will support construction of a shade structure and an ADA-accessible concrete trail. The project will improve accessibility while helping establish the area as a premier OHV destination in eastern Montana.

A Positive Step for Public Land Access

At a time when access to public lands remains a major concern within the off-road community, the partnership between Polaris and the Foundation for America’s Public Lands represents a significant investment in maintaining and improving riding opportunities.

By supporting trail infrastructure, rider education, safety improvements, and stewardship projects, the program aims to help ensure that popular OHV destinations remain accessible and enjoyable for future generations.

For riders who value access to public lands, projects like these demonstrate how collaboration between manufacturers, nonprofit organizations, federal agencies, and local communities can help protect and enhance the places where off-road enthusiasts ride, explore, and recreate.

About the Foundation for America’s Public Lands

The Foundation for America’s Public Lands is the official charitable partner of the Bureau of Land Management. The organization works to build partnerships, generate private support, and connect more people and communities to America’s public lands and waters. Learn more at americaslands.org.

About Polaris

Polaris is a global leader in powersports and outdoor recreation products. Founded in 1954, the company manufactures industry-leading off-road vehicles including the Polaris RANGER, RZR, and XPEDITION, along with snowmobiles, boats, motorcycles, and related accessories. Polaris serves customers in nearly 100 countries worldwide. Learn more at polaris.com.

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