OMRA NEWS & UPDATES
Welcome to OMRA News & Updates, the official home for confirmed updates from the Oregon Motorcycle Riders Association.
This page includes land use and advocacy updates, OHV access information, race and series announcements, and key organizational news affecting riders across Oregon. It’s where we share clear, accurate information about the work being done to protect access, support events, and strengthen Oregon’s off-road community.
Updates are posted as information is verified. For everyday highlights and storytelling, find us on social media. For official updates and context, you’re in the right place.
Land Use Update: North Fort Rock Recreation Planning
OMRA is actively monitoring early-stage recreation planning conversations in the North Fort Rock area. This update outlines what’s happening, who’s involved, and what riders should know at this stage.
Advocacy & Partnerships: Strengthening Trail Stewardship Through NOHVCC
OMRA represented Oregon riders at the National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council Annual Conference in Bend, engaging in national conversations on trail sustainability, land use, and collaborative advocacy.
Stewardship & Volunteers: Honoring Trail Leadership with the Lyon Payne Award
OMRA and the State Forests Trust of Oregon are proud to recognize outstanding trail stewardship through the new Lyon Payne Trail Volunteer of the Year Award. Created to honor longtime OMRA member Lyon Payne, the award celebrates volunteers whose behind-the-scenes efforts help keep Oregon’s trails open, safe, and sustainable.
Land Use Update: OMRA Leads Successful Effort to Keep Christmas Valley Sand Dunes Open
Thanks to a coordinated call to action led by OMRA, the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes will remain open for OHV recreation. Through strong member engagement and partner support, riders successfully spoke up for access and multiple-use public lands — proving that when our community shows up, it makes a real difference.
Land Use Update: Rider Action Needed to Protect Christmas Valley Dunes
Rider action is needed now. The BLM is considering closing the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes to cross-country OHV use, and the public comment period ends Thursday at midnight. OMRA is asking riders to submit a short comment supporting Alternative D, the only option that keeps this historic riding area open. One minute can make the difference.
Land Use Update: Secure the Recreation Trails Program
Help protect OHV trails with a quick email. OMRA is asking riders to contact their U.S. Representative in support of H.R. 5797, a bipartisan bill that ensures Recreation Trails Program funding is returned to the trail systems it comes from. It takes less than a minute, even a 20-word email makes a difference. Read more to learn how to help today.
Stewardship & Volunteers: Lyon Payne Honored with 2019 AMA Outstanding Off-Road Rider Award
OMRA member Lyon Payne was recognized by the American Motorcyclist Association with the Outstanding Off-Road Rider Award. The honor places Lyon among a select group of riders nationwide whose volunteerism and stewardship have shaped the future of off-highway motorcycling.

