Madison:
Lightweight utility vehicles could temporarily be driven on some ATV trails in northern Wisconsin if local officials opt to participate in a pending state pilot project being developed by the DNR.

"At this point in time, it's important for the public to realize this pilot program has not started yet," said Gary Eddy, DNR ATV administrator. "If and when municipalities decide to participate, the public will be notified."

Passed as part of the 2007-09 state budget, the pilot program is to be administered by the DNR - in consultation with the DOT - to evaluate use and effects of operating lightweight utility vehicles on ATV trails and routes. Counties named in the budget provision as possible participants, pending local approval, include Florence, Forest, Sawyer, Marinette, Langlade, Lincoln, Oneida, and Washburn.

"Participation in this pilot is optional," Eddy said, adding the agency is aware of counties interested in participating when the pilot is launched. "However, on the other hand, we also have been informed some local units of government will not be participating."

The DNR also is responsible for distributing pilot project grants of up to $2,000 per county to assist in the evaluation of this program. The pilot program is slated to end Sept. 30, 2009. The results of the evaluation will be forwarded to the Legislature.

The lightweight utility vehicle's original purpose was to handle farm chores and maintenance duties either too small or too hard to reach by a bigger truck. However, in recent years, the lightweight utility vehicle's popularity has soared in some camps - from the U.S. military to recreational enthusiasts.