Gale Bradford Named Minnesota 2018 ATV Safety Instructor Of The Year

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has named Gale Bradford, of Wright in Carlton County, as its 2017 ATV safety instructor of the year. Bradford, who is the lead ATV safety coordinator for the Evergreen PAC ATV club, has been involved with the club for 11 years and been an ATV safety instructor for more than seven.

Bradford stepped into the role after her mentor, Rita Butterfield (the 2009 ATV safety instructor of the year), passed away unexpectedly. Bradford has a passion for youth ATV training and is committed to continuing the work of her mentor.

“Gale’s dedication to ATV safety is impressive,” said Conservation Officer Amber Ladd, who patrols the McGregor area and nominated Bradford for the award. “She goes above and beyond to make sure youth riders who want to take safety training have the opportunity to do so.”

Last summer, for example, Bradford’s club had one class that grew unexpectedly large. Rather than turn away students, she organized more volunteers and set up two sets of courses. Bradford’s club last summer certified more than 100 students, which is more than it ever had. The club offers courses in Aitkin and Carlton counties.

DNR conservation officers work closely with the nearly 1,000 volunteer ATV safety instructors throughout the state who deliver ATV safety training certification. For details on safety courses and training, see mndnr.gov/safety/vehicle/atv/index.html.