Reaching Out to the Next Generation at Hungry Valley SVRA

Reaching Out to the Next Generation at
Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area

The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division of California State Parks, in partnership with the California Police Activities League (Cal PAL), is working to unite law enforcement and communities by providing youth programs which develop positive self-image, mutual trust, respect and discipline.  Beginning in 2005, Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) took this effort in a new direction by offering a multi-day program designed to go beyond the one day program which is typically used by Cal PALs.  This unique partnership between State Parks, Santa Maria School District, Santa Maria Police Department, Future Farmers of America, Santa Maria Parks and Recreation District and the Los Padres National Forest is designed to offer young men and women the chance to spend several days in the natural environment of Hungry Valley SVRA. 

During their stay, participants rotate through several experiences which teach responsible off-highway vehicle operation, resource management, basic mechanical skills, and wildfire suppression. The goal of the program is to encourage young people to develop an appreciation of the natural world and respect for each other.  The program is also designed to expose participants to future careers which they may not have previously considered.  At Hungry Valley SVRA, this meaningful and valuable program demonstrates that off-highway motor vehicle recreation is more than just an enjoyable outdoor experience; it is an opportunity to educate and develop future responsible citizens.