The club, which was formed last spring by Grand Forks native Cody Zorn, is striving to keep trails and riding areas around Grand Forks open and manage the environment and wildlife habitat. A big issue they’ve been dealing with is a proposed land closure in the Gilpin grasslands area.

Here, the Ministry of Environment (MOE) is trying to establish a wildlife management zone and if it goes through, Zorn said ATVers and other backcountry users will be restricted access a large portion of crown land. In September, Zorn sent a letter to the MOE, which gave the club an opportunity to voice their comments and concerns regarding the closure.

In the future, the club would like to see recreational trails in the grasslands marked for hiking, biking, ATVing and snowmobiling. “We want to see it used in a way that will benefit everyone,” said Zorn.

Zorn said the club has also been working with Trails BC to gain limited access to the Trans Canada Trail during certain times of the year. It’s not all work and no play, however. This summer, members of the GFATC went on several fun camping trips and ATV rides.

For the future, the group is planning events, campouts, rides and possibly a poker ride. For information, contact Ray Johnson at (250) 442-3060 or by e-mail. Visit the club’s website.