DNR wardens to offer free sound check for ATVs, UTVs near south trail
By: Joanne M. Haas/Bureau of Law Enforcement
If you are planning to drive your all-terrain or utility-terrain vehicle this weekend on the Tri-County Trail in southwest Wisconsin, you’ll want to make time to have your vehicle’s sound level checked for free by the Department of Natural Resources conservation wardens who will be patrolling the trail.
DNR Conservation Warden Supervisor Joe Frost, based in Dodgeville, says there are legal exhaust/muffler requirements for all ATVs, UTVs and three-wheelers. These are to provide safety and enjoyment for all who enjoy Wisconsin’s outdoors.
“Those requirements are the vehicle must be registered in Wisconsin, have an exhaust system equipped with a spark arrestor – and it cannot emit a noise louder than 96 decibels,” Frost says. “The wardens want to help you make sure your vehicle’s noise level is within the legal limits.”
To do that, the wardens will have their Recreational Safety Enforcement Team trailer ready to check your ATV or UTV for no charge at these locations from 1 – 5 p.m. on these days:
Fri., August 16, Darlington: The trailer will be on the trail by the fire department.
Sat., August 17, Calamine: The trailer will be on the trail at the lot across from the pavilion.
“Anyone who trailers their machine to these testing sites may have them tested with no fear of a citation. However, the sound level law will be enforced for operators on the trail,” Frost says.
Trail users will see more wardens on the trail during this weekend as a special patrol effort for safety by the Recreational Safety Enforcement Team.
“Remember to have fun on the trail by staying safe,” Frost says. “That means keeping your speed in control, wearing a helmet and staying sober.”
Want to learn more about ATV and UTV riding in Wisconsin, including safety? Excellent! Please visit this website:
If you have information regarding natural resource violations, please call: VIOLATION HOTLINE: 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367. The hotline is in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Trained staff relay reported information to conservation wardens. Anyone who calls the Violation Hotline or provides information can remain anonymous.