We are writing in reference to the “My Turn” from Andy Duncan, Alice Chamberlin and Ross Bennett (Monitor Opinion, Aug. 14) regarding the ATV trails in the Mink Hills area of Henniker and Warner. Our goal here is to set the record straight as far as certain assertions that were made in that letter.

First and foremost, and despite what was stated in the letter, it should be understood by all parties that there is nothing new about ATV use of these trails and that there has been no expansion. These trails have been open to ATVs and snowmobiles for more than 20 years, an arrangement that has been a successful and happy collaboration of our clubs, local landowners, various state agencies, and the towns of Henniker and Warner.

Riders from our two clubs have respectfully and responsibly ridden these trails for decades without major incidents and largely without opposition. The recent increase in ATV traffic on some trail access points is entirely due to a landowner’s closure of a portion of the long-existing access off Route 114, the actual status of which is state land. The closure of this access forced riders to use other access trails and created the false impression that overall use has increased.

Regarding the rumor that ATV enthusiasts wish to make Mink Hills a southern version of the popular Ride the Wilds area up north, nothing could be further from the truth. Our clubs have always been and wish to remain small, local and family-oriented. The idea of such an expansion has never, ever been discussed by our clubs, and we have no interest in it.

We also dispute the statements in the column regarding a “history” of ATV trespass and vandalism. Our members share any concerns about damage to trails, private property and nearby structures, and to the best of our knowledge the history at this spot references a single incident some years ago involving vandalism to an abandoned building on the property. It is not even clear it was caused by ATV riders, and certainly not by organized club members. In fact, as part of our efforts to be good neighbors, our clubs have offered to patrol the property in question, which is largely unvisited by its owner, in order to watch for rogue riders or vandals. These generous offers have not been accepted.

Mink Hills unquestionably is, as our friends have said, “a rare and beautiful place.” There is no reason it cannot and should not be shared by respectful people who enjoy all forms of outdoor recreation, in all seasons. We would be more than happy to sit down and discuss solutions that will allow Mink Hills to continue to be loved, appreciated and used by all.

(Jim Morse of Henniker is a member of the Contoocook Valley ATV Riders. Alan Piroso of Hopkinton is a member of the Bound Tree ATV Club.)