Yamaha Funds Critical Education Initiative to Enhance Recreation and Stewardship at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
January 14, 2025 —The Great Outdoors Fund (TGOF) is excited to announce a new grant from Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative to protect and enhance access to the iconic Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (ODNRA) by funding new, bilingual signage and upgraded kiosks throughout the entire area. This grant will ensure a more inclusive and sustainable experience for Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, supporting the US Forest Service’s efforts to sustain the enjoyment of the outdoors for all while addressing challenges and meeting emerging opportunities.
Yamaha has awarded TGOF one of the largest grants in the history of its Outdoor Access Initiative. Their investment will help replace 41 aging kiosks, add 55 new bilingual panels in both English and Spanish and incorporate QR codes to streamline fee collection at sites connected to OHV recreation throughout the entire ODNRA.
“Yamaha’s commitment not only aims to improve the visitor experience and promote responsible recreation but also to address crucial challenges facing the area, such as noise management and habitat preservation,” said Lori McCullough, TGOF’s Founder & CEO. “Noise concerns remain one of the top issues for the Forest Service so to address this, all new signage will prominently display noise regulations, helping visitors understand and reduce their impact on the area’s wildlife and environment.”
“Yamaha is all-in on this effort to preserve the unique experience at Oregon Dunes, which draws OHV enthusiasts from across the nation,” said Steve Nessl, motorsports marketing manager, Yamaha Motor Corporation. “By making these critical updates, we’re helping ensure that this iconic landscape remains accessible, welcoming, and sustainable for generations to come. Yamaha is proud to support both The Great Outdoors Fund and the USDA Forest Service in protecting a place that holds so much significance for our customers and outdoor enthusiasts.”
ODNRA, located within the Siuslaw National Forest, is one of the last remaining coastal dune areas where OHV access is permitted. However, with rising visitation and a growing, diverse community of OHV enthusiasts—including a fast-growing Hispanic population—ensuring clear, accessible information for visitors has become critical. The bilingual signs will help educate visitors on responsible recreation, noise restrictions, and environmental protections critical to the ecosystem.
“We appreciate TGOF forging this new partnership with Yamaha and can now implement these much-needed educational updates that support both the OHV community and our commitment to conservation,” said Becca Brooke, Forest Supervisor, Siuslaw National Forest. “This
partnership strengthens our ability to welcome all visitors with inclusive and informative resources while protecting the natural beauty and wildlife of this treasured landscape.”
In addition to educational content, the new kiosks and signage will incorporate technology for easier fee payments, supporting the Forest Service’s shift to a cashless system. QR codes will allow visitors to quickly access fee payment options, helping generate essential funds needed to maintain the area for recreational access. Furthermore, a Youth Corps crew will be employed next summer to help the Forest Service rebuild the kiosks and install the new signage.
This project exemplifies how public-private partnerships can address urgent recreational and conservation needs, creating lasting positive impacts. For more information about the project, please visit the project’s page on The Great Outdoors Fund’s website.
About The Great Outdoors Fund: The Great Outdoors Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding equitable access to the outdoors and improving recreation infrastructure through public-private partnerships. Its mission is to ensure people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can experience and enjoy nature. From city parks to national forests, The Great Outdoors Fund and its partners strive to make a difference and help keep the great outdoors great. For more information, please contact Dante Swallow at [email protected] or (406) 396-6557
