Recently, Unser was approached by a group of toyhauler trailer manufacturers that have formed a group called the ACTION Program. The program currently raises funds to assist any off-road group nationwide that is in a legal fight for access to their local public lands and recreation areas.

"Anyone who has ever been locked out of their favorite camping area can understand why it is so important that we call attention to this land grabbing being done with frivolous lawsuits, bad science, and out-in-out mistruths generated by the so called environmentalists," said Wally Cahill.

Cahill is currently heading up an all-out fundraising and media blitz with print, radio, and TV ads. There are also complete one hour radio and TV shows dedicated to the education of the off-road community about land access issues in the works. "I welcome Al Unser, Sr. as our spokesperson and his presence will bring a lot of credibility to our efforts. Al is known by multiple generations and recognized as a winner in whatever task he undertakes."

Is the threat real?

You bet it is. While the numbers of citizens who recreate off-road has doubled in the recent years, land closures have also increased at an alarming rate. Scenic off-road areas that have been visited by generations of families for off highway recreation are now being closed without proper environmental studies being completed. Absolutely no consideration has been given to the economic impact that will affect thousands of families through their loss of employment.

How funds are raised?

Currently the participating toyhauler trailer manufacturers contribute $25.00 for each of their units built to ensure that their buying public has a place to continue to use their products. “We here involved in the ACTION Program are now looking toward the dirt bike and ATV manufacturers to get on board and lend a hand. Meetings with Kawasaki have shown that there is interest at that level to support ACTION and its goals," Cahill remarks.

Where does the money go?

Recently, the ACTION Program has been involved in hiring scientists to provide environmental impact stuidies to help clear the air on some of the current land closures due to bad science. Another huge battle is being funded in the courts as ACTION assists financially in hiring attorneys to intervene in pending land closures. These same attorneys are also paid to keep the dialog open on pending land management plans.

Who makes the decisions?

Keeping all of the land issues in check nationwide is a chore, to say the least. That’s where the ACTION Program relies on its Board of Directors to keep the BIG picture in focus. The Board of Directors consists of representation from The American Motorcycle Association, Back Country Horseman-Borrego, California Off Road Association, High Desert Multiple Use Coalition, American Sand Association, Blue Ribbon Coalition, California State Horseman’s Association, Gold Prospectors of America, and United Four Wheel Drive Associations.

For more information about the ACTION Program, you can call toll free at (866)215-2565 or go to www.actionprogram.info.