Submitted by:
Meghan Rose, Rural Leadership Specialist
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives

On September 11, 2012 eighteen valley residents, youth to adult, took part in the ATV safety session at the Veterans Community Hall.

Click any picture for a larger version.

The participants learned about the legal requirements of operating ATVs on the farm and on the trail, the special characteristics of ATVs and their effect on safety and operation, the protective gear for an ATV operator and pre-ride and post-ride inspections.

Among the many safe operating tips they learned participants found the tips for loading and unloading an ATV to be a new skill they would put into practice. There was good discussion and sharing during the workshop and everyone, regardless of skill level was able to take home some good safety tips and reminders.

“It was a great start to ATV safety in the Swan Valley”, said one workshop participant. “Next year it would be great to incorporate an in-motion segment to put into practise the techniques we learned tonight”.

All Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV) are used on farms, ranches, and other agricultural workplaces to:

• herd livestock
• check fences and irrigation lines
• haul fuel, chemicals, salt, feed or other supplies
• move small injured or ill animals
• apply chemicals
• plow snow
• mowing grass and cutting brush

In the Swan River Valley ATVing is also an enjoyable pass time for many residents and visitors. As with any motorized vehicle there are risks associated with ATV operation.

Thanks to support from the Canadian Agriculture Safety Association (C.A.S.A.), Farm Credit Canada (F.C.C.) and Northern Rentals and Power Products Ltd. several valley residents have done their part to keep the farms and the trails safe.


If you are interested in ATV workshops or in becoming a certified trainer, contact Meghan Rose at the MAFRI GO Office 734-3417