Rooks ORV Park

A half-section or greater parcel of land with significant topography is being sought for the development of an off-road vehicle (ORV) trail park, near Plainville. Multiple intersecting loops of trail, reinforced for particular classes of ORV, will sprawl across the park. Long-term possibilities may include overnight camping and race facilities.

Off-roading with various all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) is a popular outdoor pasttime for Plainville residents. Plainville Township Lake was at one time a dirt bike racing destination, and a favorite spot for off-road vehicles. However, after repeated injury claims, the governing board elected to disallow ATV use. Lacking other facilities for off-road enjoyment, ORV use at Plainville Township Lake continued. Many local families now have a multi-generational investment in the sport, financially as well as emotionally.

Prairie Frontier Trails supports the validity of ORVs for outdoor recreation, and also respects the governing board’s right to make Plainville Township Lake a quiet recreational area. PFTrails is therefore working to remedy this stalemate and prevent user conflicts by developing an ORV park nearby and separate from Plainville Township Lake.

The first, and largest, step is locating and acquiring land-use rights to a suitable parcel. The second step will be terra-forming the parcel: to provide noise-pollution reduction for neighbors, and to design drainage solutions for both water retention and water runoff quality. Trees will be planted as screens, as conservation cover, and for aesthetics.

The site will be scouted by local riders for advice on the most interesting routes across the property, with both low- and high-intensity challenges being made available. It is expected that the majority of trails will provide recreation for dirt bikes and side-by-sides, with a few trails specifically designed for 4x4s. A fast-track around the perimeter will be designed for users who only want speed, safely.

Once routes are determined, clearing and hardening will proceed one trail (or substantial trail segment) at a time. Hardening involves the placement of geo-textiles and, depending on the site, importation of high-mineral soil. Once one or two trails are completed, the park will be opened. New trails will be added in successive years.

Donations and sponsorship toward the project are appreciated. Individual components include:

• 1/2 section of land, or more;
• Earth-moving equipment for construction, expansion, and maintenance;
• Site parking and sanitation facilities;
• Trailhead and trail signage;
• Naming rights for the park and individual trails.

This list of components is expected to evolve gradually as trails are developed and the site becomes a destination.

Gifts may be made as Friends of the Trail at the link below. Sponsorship with recognition is available for some of the project components; please contact us directly to work out the specifics.

Thank you for your interest, and we hope to see you at the park!