The New York Trail Riders Organization, Incorporated

“ATV and Dirt Bike Organization”

PO Box 2 Macedon, NY 14502

315-986-0966

Including:

INTRODUCTION

NYTRO Inc. is a nonprofit organization of off-highway recreationalists dedicated to

procuring and protecting public and private lands though the promotion of safety, education

and environmental conservation. Emphasis is placed on the responsible use of off-highway

vehicles, using low impact land use principals applicable to off-highway recreational

activities.

VISION:

To obtain off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails in our target area and across New York State.

PURPOSE:

To form a network of OHV enthusiasts and supporters to positively promote and

strengthen OHV interests in New York State and to form a partnership with our state OHV

organization, NYSORVA, and with state agencies and officials responsible for trail

development.

development, OHV safety and many others.

recognize the importance of OHV recreational use.

possible the opportunity for members to attend a certified OHV safety course.

Mission Statement

NYTRO's mission is: to stimulate and advance the general welfare and safety of off

highway vehicle (OHV) recreation; to promote the safe and responsible use of

OHVs; to serve the interests of off highway vehicle enthusiasts; to foster a positive

public image for OHV recreation; to defend enthusiasts against discriminatory

legislation and regulation; to stimulate the development of OHV trail systems on

public and private lands; to develop a fraternal spirit among OHV enthusiasts and

affiliated clubs of NYTRO; to exchange information among members; and to

perform all desirable and lawful functions for the successful operation of the club.

NYTRO has been a leader in the New York off road community since 1992. We provide

our members with access to riding areas around the state, the most informative off road

newsletter in the state, and discounts at many businesses.

NYTRO is a founding member of the New York State Off Highway Recreational Vehicle

Association, Inc., (NYSORVA) established in 1993. NYTRO is also a chartered club of the

American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and ATVA; a supporting member of the

National Off Highway Vehicle Conservation Council (NOHVCC); Blue Ribbon Coalition,

and Tread Lightly.

The NYTRO philosophy is now, and always will be, trail access through safety, education,

conservation and legislation. We will continue to lobby for the reinstatement of our trail

construction and maintenance fund. This fund, created in 1985 through the registration

process, was abolished in the early 90's by former Governor Mario Cuomo, and to date, it is

estimated that millions of dollars have been diverted to the general fund. We need dedicated

members and enthusiasts to help us overturn this prejudicial decision. Join NYTRO and

offer a helping hand, we both will be glad that you did. Access our club information at

Club History Background - NYTRO Inc.

NYTRO was founded in Fredonia, NY, back in 1992 by a handful of off road enthusiasts

who were tired of losing their riding areas. We knew way back then that we must concentrate

on the "big picture" and not just today's fun and activities.

In 1994 we grew to a size that required that we expand into chapters to adequately cover

more area and assist riders in a more timely and convenient manner. We then split into

NYTRO of Fredonia and NYTRO of Buffalo. We continued that way until 1996 with the

adoption of NYTRO of Rochester. As we grew, we experienced some growing pains and

suffered some losses. We reorganized and set forth to spread the word across the state.

We did this by collaborating with dealers and worked out a program for discounts for our

members. Dealers spread the word for us by passing out brochures to their customers. Soon

we were on our way.

During this time we built our website which has been instrumental in our growth. We

receive hundreds of emails weekly and many new applicants every month. For many of these

people who had nowhere to ride or anyone to ride with, NYTRO has provided a necessary

outlet for their needs.

Soon we started to receive requests for chapter status from new or existing clubs. We aided

in the revitalization of the North Country ATV Association, based just outside of Albany,

which became NYTRO of Porter Corners in late 1997.

At this time we decided to rename the chapters to NYTRO of Western NY, NYTRO of

Central NY and NYTRO of Eastern NY. This made it easier for prospective members to

find NYTRO by region rather than by city.

As we forged ahead, we found the need for a chapter in the Southern Tier and tried

unsuccessfully at first to find interested people to take the lead on forming a new chapter.

Finally in 1999 a few brave souls emerged and another chapter was formed. NYTRO of the

Southern Tier, based out of Elmira, has been a great addition to our organization and has

taken a positive role in the off road activity in the Southern Tier.

In 2000 we added another chapter in the Watertown area, calling itself NYTRO of Northern

NY. There is a hotbed of activity up in that region and we want to assist in making a positive

influence in the region. We were very fortunate to have a couple of enthusiasts with vast

experience in off road and on road riding, volunteer to take on the startup of this chapter.

In 2001, we added three new chapters: NYTRO Northwestern, NYTRO Mohawk Valley

and NYTRO Genesee Valley. At the present time, these chapters are closed due to lack of

member participation.

What’s in store for the future of NYTRO? Remember that a club is much like a chain, in

that it is only as strong as its weakest link. Become a part of what is going on, join in, attend

meetings, work parties, fun rides and activities, and meet some really great people.

BY-LAWS

Article I – Purpose

advance the general welfare and safety of off highway vehicle (OHV) recreation; to promote

the safe and responsible use of OHVs; to serve the interests of off highway vehicle

enthusiasts; to foster a positive public image for OHV recreation; to defend enthusiasts

against discriminatory legislation and regulation; to stimulate the development of OHV trail

systems on public and private lands; to develop a fraternal spirit among OHV enthusiasts

and among affiliated clubs of NYTRO; to exchange information among members; and to

perform all desirable and lawful functions for the successful operation of the club.

Article II – Membership

vote to NYTRO Inc. Any Chapter in default of yearly membership dues to NYTRO Inc. or

in arrears of the payment shall not be entitled to vote.

Inc. The Secretary shall refer applications to the board for consideration and approval before

payment of Chapter membership dues.

of dues will be paid.

of Directors in the event of nonpayment of dues or for good cause shown. Termination

shall not release said chapter from the obligation to pay all dues and other amounts owed to

the end of the period of membership. Membership may be terminated for gross misconduct.

This may include but not be limited to violation of the bylaws.

Article III – Management

Article IV – Board of Directors

voted upon by the entire voting membership in accordance with Article IV, Section 2 of

these bylaws. The board will consist of an Executive Director, Assistant Director, Secretary,

Treasurer and a Delegate from each chapter. Provisions will be allotted for the position of a

legislative officer if the need arises.

of one year. At said meeting nominations will be held; at which time a ballot will be prepared

and all members in good standing present at said meeting will participate in said electoral

vote as covered in Article IX.

of the Board to act in its stead in emergencies. The Executive Director may appoint

committees, fill any vacancies or change the membership in club committees and shall serve

as ex-officio member of all committees. The Board of Directors shall have the power to

create or abolish any committee.

of a tie.

Article V – Yearly Dues

determined by the Board of Directors. Currently set at $150.00, due in October of each

calendar year.

Article VI – Officers

Secretary and Treasurer. Any officer may hold multiple positions.

occurring between such elections may be filled for the unexpired term by the Board of

Directors at any board meeting or by mail ballot as determined by the Board of Directors.

Any officer may be removed from office by affirmative vote of two-thirds of the

membership.

year or until their successors shall have been elected and qualified.

oversee and coordinate such committees as are authorized by the Board of Directors, shall

be a member ex-officio of all such committees and shall fulfil any responsibilities assigned to

him or her by the Bylaws or by the Board of Directors.

Executive Director, shall perform the duties and have the powers of the Executive Director.

including minutes of meetings, roster of members, and lists of committees and their

members. He or she shall send out notices of meetings, receive applications for membership,

and perform all of the usual secretarial functions of the office required herein or by the

Board. The Secretary shall maintain a mailing address for NYTRO Inc. and direct incoming

correspondence to the appropriate official. The Secretary may delegate such responsibilities

as deemed appropriate.

its funds. He or she shall keep all NYTRO Inc. funds in a bank approved by the Board of

Directors and in the name of NYTRO Inc. He or she shall disburse such funds under the

direction of the Board of Directors. Withdrawals shall be made by checks signed in such a

manner as may be approved by the Board of Directors. A treasurer’s report shall be

prepared for each Board of Directors meeting. The approved method is each check must

have two signatures, one from the Treasurer and one from an additional board member.

Article VII – Fiscal Year

end on the last day of September, one year later.

Article VIII – Meetings

Directors. Notice of the time and place of the annual meeting shall be sent to each member

on the Board no later than fourteen calendar days prior to the meeting. Delegates from each

chapter will be required to attend said meeting as required to represent their respective

chapters.

fixed by resolution at the previous meeting – or as otherwise designated by the Board.

constitute a quorum. Any formal action taken at any meeting of the membership shall

require a majority vote of those active members present.

Article IX – Election Procedures

floor and positions shall be put the vote of the membership at the annual meeting.

Article X – Amendments

Chapter Requirements and Operating Procedures

respective chapters.

respective chapters. Members may include immediate family members residing in the

same household consisting of a spouse, or spouses, and dependent children who are

under the age of eighteen. Provisions will also be made for the inclusion of a significant

other, active military personnel or college student(s) as cases arise. A parent or guardian

MUST accompany family members under the age of 16 at all times. Written signature of

parent or guardian is required in order for underage members to participate in events

and/or activities.

interest in the club and OHV recreation. NO FEES will be charged to said organizations

under the stipulation that discount opportunities will be made available to members in

good standing. No riding or voting privileges are included in a Sponsor’s Membership.

Newsletters will be provided as a free service to discount sponsors.

4. Chapters must conform to Standard Operating Procedures brought forth by the Board

of Directors of the New York Trail Riders Organization, Inc. and conduct business

under the provisions set forth by the Chapter’s bylaws. Although situations are different

in each chapter, the basic premise of safety, education and conservation of the

environment, which the Chapter promotes, must be met and adhered to.

5. Chapters are required to pay a yearly fee for the use of the NYTRO name and the

affiliations associated with it. The fee is one hundred and fifty dollars (US$150.00) and is

due in October of each calendar year.

6. Chapters must use the “NYTRO” acronym as a surname such as “NYTRO of Western

NY” in all documents and official club mailings and handouts. Official documents must

contain the phrase, “A division of the New York Trail Riders Organization, Inc.” and

must do business under the rights, rules, and obligations set forth by our incorporation

status as a not for profit organization.

7. Chapters must maintain a full management staff at all times. These positions should be

voted upon yearly at an annual meeting. If a position becomes vacant, it may be

necessary to appoint a replacement until an election can be held. Officers will not be

an officer. This will include, but not be limited to President, Vice President, and

Secretary/Treasurer. If a chapter is unable to maintain chapter officers and management,

the chapter will revert to the direction of NYTRO Inc. for reorganization. All funds and

assets will be placed in escrow for up to two years while new chapter officers are

appointed. If, after two years, the chapter cannot maintain officers and management, all

funds and assets will be placed in NYTRO, Inc.’s general fund.

8. Chapters will send out approved brochures, documents and applications to dealers,

prospective members and any other contacts. These documents must contain all

pertinent information about all NYTRO chapters and include a current mailing address

for each. Variations to the artwork and documents may be brought in front of the Board

of Directors for approval. We also suggest that you obtain a post office box for a

uniform address. Approximate cost is $60.00 to $80.00 per year.

9. Chapters must receive and process all applications for their respective areas. Applications

are dated, and membership numbers assigned as they arrive. They must also be marked

as paid with all info including check number and amount paid. Payment must be made

by check. We request that you do not accept cash for membership payment unless

absolutely necessary.

10. All membership dues collected will remain in the respective chapter. All dues owed by

the chapter will be the sole responsibility of that chapter.

11. Chapters are required to submit articles and information about their chapter for the

newsletter each month. A one or two-sided sheet per month to be delivered by a

in the speedy delivery of information to our members. This may be done by mail or

the 25th of every month to allow printing and delivery by the first/second week of the

following month.

12. Each chapter will be required to maintain their own membership database for the

regular basis. Each chapter will be billed for the printing and mailing of their newsletter

copies.

13. Chapters may purchase insurance through NYTRO Inc. at their own discretion.

14. Chapters may hold events and activities to benefit their respective chapter. Open

invitations to all members must be placed in the club newsletter as soon as possible to

allow members to plan on attending. Any profits made will be the sole property of said

chapter. We suggest that you consider picking a worthwhile charity to donate a portion

of the proceeds. This shows community support and will assist in future operations of

the club.

15. Chapters holding AMA events must be arranged well in advance with the AMA.

Scheduling for AMA sanctioned events takes place at the yearly sanction meeting in late

November or early December of the preceding year. Risk management seminars are

provided at this time. It is an AMA requirement that the risk management seminar be

taken at least once every two years in order to hold a sanctioned AMA event.

16. The Board of Directors will set division boundaries in conjunction with requests and

recommendations by said division. Amendments may be made in writing to the BOD

and will be voted on at the annual meeting.

17. All new subdivision requests must be voted on and approved by 2/3 of the Board of

Directors. All new subdivision affiliates will receive official subdivision status within 60

days. This will be subject to existing conditions and evaluations of current situations. A

review of subdivision activities, participation, and adaptation of NYTRO bylaws will be

done at this time. Non-conformity to NYTRO rules and regulations will be addressed in

writing to said subdivision and a request for reasoning will be required. Certain situations

in different regions of the state will be addressed and modifications of the standard

operation procedures or bylaws will be addressed at that time.

Chapter Membership Outline

accompany those under the age of 16 when using NYTRO trail systems.

membership, the second being a FAMILY membership and the third is a SPONSOR

membership.

the current rate agreed upon by the chapter.

to be able to participate in any scheduled club event or activity.

NYTRO has certified safety instructors who may be able to provide discount classes for

NYTRO members and their families who have not had the opportunity to attend classes

provided when purchasing a new off road vehicle.

members until they have completed their riding for the day during club

scheduled/sponsored events. Non compliance of this rule will lead to possible expulsion

of the club. Members must comply with NYTRO rider safety code rules.

right to expel any member for gross misconduct.

Membership Benefits

all the essentials necessary to get off to a great start in the NYTRO world of off highway

vehicle recreation. The following list contains many of these benefits:

1. Monthly newsletter which will keep members up-to-date on all aspects of the club. The

articles include a letter from the presidents of all individual chapters, a current list of all

discount sponsors, current list of all known activities and runs, information on what’s

happening on the state level, and much, much, more.

2. Dealer Discount Program which will give you a discount on parts and accessories. Some

dealers give discounts on machines as well. Call the dealer of your choice for the

discounts available with your NYTRO membership.

3. Representation on the state level through NYTRO’s affiliation with The New York State

Off-highway Vehicle Association (NYSORVA). This statewide association of ATV and

dirt bike clubs has worked very hard to establish strong ties with the governor’s office,

police agencies, and the Department of Environmental Conservation, of which has

signed an agreement recognizing NYSORVA as the only “Official” Off Highway

Vehicle association in New York State.

4. Membership card, which will get you your discount at participating dealerships across

New York State and in Northern Pennsylvania.

5. Family Gatherings, Picnics, Holiday Parties, Adopt-a-Highway projects, charitable

events, out-of-state riding excursions and much more.

ATV RIDER’S CODE of ETHICS

The ATV Rider’s Code is nothing more than a list of common sense rules which we as

safety conscious off-roaders must learn to abide by. These few rules will help to create a

more positive image for the ATV community. Members should be constantly reminded of

these few things through direct contact, newsletters and club meetings.

been designated for ATV use

designed for it

LAND USE

Section 1 - Managed Lands

(a) Arrangement for parcels of land to be managed by NYTRO Inc. and/or its affiliate

chapters will be made by each individual chapter’s Board of Directors. Considerations

for approved lands will include but not be limited to: parking availability; amount of

possible miles of trails; proximity of trails to adjoining properties; objections to use by

inhabitants of adjoining properties; difficulty of terrain; limitations of use directed by

landowners; and cost of easement/lease of said lands.

(b) All members using lands managed by NYTRO Inc. and /or its affiliate chapters must

possess a valid ATV registration and a minimum liability insurance policy, which must

remain in effect during the duration of the membership term.

(c) Any member wishing to use said managed lands must obtain a NYTRO Land Use

Permit sticker. The member’s home chapter may have stickers available; otherwise they

can be obtained from the managing chapter. There may be a fee that is collected over

and above the membership fees and is good for the membership year.

(NOTE: For lands which require a lease agreement and fees owed exceed fees collected,

said affiliate chapter may require a fee greater than that set aside for land use on most

NYTRO managed lands. For example, NYTRO Eastern NY leases their riding area at

great expense. Members from other chapters wishing to ride there may do so with

permission, on a limited basis.)

Members must contact the managing chapter to arrange access.

(d) All NYTRO members are requested to participate in trail construction and maintenance

workdays.

(e) All lands managed by NYTRO Inc. and its affiliate chapters will close for the duration of

deer hunting season. The Landowner will set trail closure dates. This season usually runs

from mid October until late December. NYTRO members are not allowed to use these

lands at this time. Winter riding is allowed after the season ends.

(f) Rules and regulations detailed in the NYTRO Land Use Policy must be strictly adhered

to. Violations of the land use policy will result in the termination of the permit for land

use. Gross misconduct resulting from the violation of said policy may result in the

termination of NYTRO membership as outlined in Article II, Section 6, of the NYTRO

Inc. bylaws.