LAKE COUNTY – Assertive enforcement measures were enacted in the area of Putah Creek near Hidden Valley Lake. Complaints of vehicular trespass prompted tactics to stop the random misuse and frequent destruction of privately owned, unoccupied lands.
According to Lake County Sheriff Captain Jim Bauman, for the past two months deputies focused patrols on private lands to the east of State Route 29 on both sides of Hartmann Road. “Thus far, only verbal warnings have been issued to OHV operators and pedestrian trespassers. Those contacted during the two-month ?grace period” have respectfully complied with requests to leave the property,” Captain Bauman reported. “Commencing this month however, those found trespassing will now be subject to arrest, citation or criminal complaint.”
Bauman said the sheriff”s department and the State Department of Fish and Game will be working cooperatively with absentee land owners to abate the Hartmann Road and Putah Creek areas in the coming months. LCSO advises all off-road motor sports enthusiasts to enjoy recreation without violating the law by using designated OHV-use areas such as the Cow Mountain Recreation area, designated areas of the Mendocino National Forest and the newly-opened Oasis Motocross track in Clearlake Oaks. OHV enthusiasts must otherwise comply with the provisions set forth by state law and county ordinance when enjoying their sport on private property, Bauman said.
