Bringing Light to Recreation: Where Do Your Permit Dollars Go?
MISORVA attended the Powersports USA Show in Novi this past weekend, and once again, I was amazed by how many enthusiasts still don’t know where their trail permit dollars go. When asked if they were members of MISORVA, I often heard responses like:
“What’s that?”
“Why do I need to be a member?”
“I belong to my local club — I don’t need you guys!”
Well, if you’re content with the DNR administering your trail permit dollars without oversight, then you’re right — you don’t need us.
But if you believe your hard-earned money should be used transparently and responsibly, then you absolutely do need MISORVA.
Your Watchdog for Motorized Recreation
MISORVA serves as the watchdog between the DNR and your elected officials — your elected officials are the only group that can truly hold the DNR accountable for how your dollars are spent.
If you’ve been following social media lately, you’ve seen hundreds of posts from legislators demanding transparency and answers about Michigan’s recreation funding. That’s membership at work — your voice amplified through MISORVA.
We don’t just attend meetings; we show up, we push. MISORVA representatives — including our paid lobbyist — are constantly monitoring legislative changes and pushing for accountability in trail funding. While I admit our recreation budgets are not yet fully transparent, progress is being made. I’ve personally met with numerous Senators and representatives, as well as our lobbyist, to ask pointed questions and advocate for change.
Passion vs. Administration
Let’s face it — the DNR administration lacks the passion that drives our community. That’s why MISORVA exists. We bring the user’s voice to the table — the passion of those who ride, volunteer, and build the trail system with their own hands.
We take lawmakers out on snowmobile and ORV rides to help them understand what we do. Photos and videos can’t compare to the experience of riding the trails themselves. From their office in the Capitol, it is challenging to understand.
That’s your $40 membership contribution at work — creating understanding, building relationships, and protecting your recreation future.
Setting the Record Straight
At the Novi show, one frustrated rider told me he planned to skip buying a permit next year. He said, “Governor Whitmer stole our money — I’m done paying for DNR mismanagement.”
Let’s clear that up. That statement is not true.
During the COVID shutdown, Governor Whitmer temporarily froze spending from the trail funds — but she did not steal the money. Those funds are constitutionally protected and cannot be used for anything other than their intended recreational purpose.
In fact, it was our predecessor Michigan Snowmobile Association (MSA) — working with MUCC, Ducks Unlimited, and others — that helped pass legislation ensuring those funds could never again be diverted. That’s advocacy in action. Currently, we are working to cut the administration fees to DNR for their appropriation of the fund. Our legislators are listening. Are you contacting them? Attend their open house and coffee hours, and let them know your thoughts; they will follow up for clarification and additional information.
Transparency and Oversight
The Snowmobile Advisory Workgroup (SAW) and ORV Advisory Workgroup (ORVAW) continue to push for greater transparency in both programs.
MISORVA recommends three of the seven members to the SAW, representing each of the 3 regions of our state — yet another layer of volunteer leadership working on your behalf.
It was the MSA that modified the statute to increase trail permit fees every five years, preventing the DNR from implementing random administrative hikes. These fee adjustments are not intended to inflate bureaucracy; rather, they are necessary for maintaining infrastructure and replacing outdated grooming equipment, ensuring that every rider can enjoy safe and well-kept trails. Costs are rising, including those for equipment, fuel, and maintenance, as well as for sleds, trucks, and trailers. Next year, we may see permit prices increase to $65 or more, adjusted for inflation. Thank your volunteers for helping to keep your costs affordable!
Your Voice Matters
Every dollar, every permit, every membership counts.
We are all pay-to-play users — but with MISORVA, you get a say in how that play is protected, funded, and improved.
Join us.
Be informed.
Be part of the solution.
Together, we’ll keep Michigan’s trails the best in the nation.