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Hubbardston committee forms subgroups to curb ATV damage with deterrence and public outreach

November 02, 2025 | Town of Hubbardston, Worcester County, Massachusetts


This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »

Hubbardston committee forms subgroups to curb ATV damage with deterrence and public outreach
The committee agreed to a two‑pronged approach to address recent off‑road vehicle (OHRV/ATV) damage on town trails: physical deterrence measures at vulnerable access points and a public‑outreach campaign to reduce inappropriate use.

Members described problem sites at Malone Road, Mount Jeff Road and Canesto area trails where ATVs have created unauthorized trails and in some cases driven in parking lots. The committee discussed a range of deterrence options — from DCR‑style steel features to wood‑faced steel girders — noting tradeoffs between cost and appearance. Members also asked that any physical solution preserve access for legitimate snowmobile use where required.

The committee formed two small working groups to develop proposals outside the full meeting. Tim volunteered to lead the deterrence subgroup with Rick; Todd and Susan volunteered to lead communications and outreach, with other volunteers to be added. The teams will return to the full committee with recommended designs, cost estimates and suggested text for signage, and will explore grant funding sources and potential coordination with county or DCR funding streams.

Why this matters: unauthorized OHRV/ATV use can damage trail surfaces, create safety hazards for other users, and increase maintenance costs. The committee intends to recommend low‑cost physical measures in some locations and a public‑education effort to reduce incidents before taking larger capital steps.

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Scribe from Workplace AI
Scribe from Workplace AI