TMR Sign in Spanish
QWR wants to commend the Stanislaus National Forest for
its outreach to the Latino community via bilingual travel management signs
located strategically throughout the unit.
As you know, QWR believes a quality signing and
information program conveys the agency’s commitment to resource protection,
management of recreation facilities, and public access to a high value outdoor
experience.
Forest Health Project Information in Spanish
An American Trails 2009 article: Changing demographics and reaching new visitors to National Forests in
California, states, “… By 2020,
Latinos will be the largest percentage [in California] of every age group
except for senior adults.” It also
recommends that translated materials should be provided in Spanish whenever
possible (especially in forests with Latino visitor populations).
Link to Article
Diana Perez, an elected member of the Latino community and
member of the California Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Commission, states,
“Communication with our off-road riders is the key to access and responsible
riding. When we focus on bilingual
signage we are better serving our growing Latino enthusiasts. This creates a better experience not only for
off-roaders but for other users. By
implementing bilingual signage we are setting the highest standard on
compliance and becoming the trendsetters in state.”
Del Albright, President of Albright Enterprises, states, “I
am thankful I have a working knowledge of Spanish because in all my extensive
off-road travels throughout the southwest, it has become obvious that the
Latino community has fully discovered the joy of motorized recreation and need
bi-lingual signage to ensure a safe and fun time for all.”
QWR agrees with Commissioner Perez and Albright on the
importance of outreach to the Latino outdoor community. We also believe that land agencies should
consider posting bi-lingual travel management signs where appropriate and
publishing related land ethic materials based on visitor demographics.
