Homeowners, dirt bikers urged to compromise

A compromise is being sought to diffuse a dispute between Cascade Shores residents and off-road dirt bike riders who have moved into the area since the Greenhorn Creek area was closed.

Homeowners contend riders are using drugs and creating noise in the neighborhood, while the dirt bike enthusiasts say they are simply enjoying their sport on private land.

Cascade Shores Homeowners Association President Kent Rees said Nevada County Supervisor Nate Beason urged about 70 people on both sides of the issue to hammer out their differences Wednesday night at an association meeting.

“Nate wants to settle it in-house without involving the county or the sheriff,” Rees said.

“It’s not within the power of the board to get involved” in a final solution.

The matter is complicated because some Cascade Shores landowners allow riders on their property while others do not, Rees said. There are also questions about who should be involved when the riders utilize both private and public lands.

Resident Skip Hatton told The Union earlier this week that the riders cross property lines, smoke marijuana and illegally hunt. Riders at the meeting said they have access to private lands and should be able to keep it.

To contact Senior Staff Writer, e-mail dmoller@theunion.com or call 477-4237.