All information from http://www.evergreenmtb.org

The lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are laced with hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails. In response to legislation that Evergreen was instrumental in influencing and passing, the DNR is now required to develop new guidelines for the management of these trails.

Many of the goals and objectives that DNR set for the Recreational Trail Policy remain unclear, but what is certain is that it has enormous implications for the way agency trails are developed, maintained, and used around the state.

As part of the process of developing the new policy, DNR will be asking for public input through a series of public meetings and will form an advisory committee that will include Evergreen.

This is a critical opportunity to work with DNR in a way that enhances the future of mountain biking in Washington. Let’s make sure that your voice is heard! The dates for open houses are listed below. Find one in your area and make an impact by attending.

Here are some points you might consider making to DNR:

• New trail development and maintenance of existing trails should stress resilience, user experience and cost-benefit balance rather than over-engineering.

• Mountain bikers seek a diversity of trail experiences, from rolling cross-country routes to steep-and-fast downhill runs. DNR’s trail policy should meet diverse recreation user needs.

• DNR should consult with the recreating community as it develops policies and standards for sanctioning or decommissioning user-built trails created by all user groups. Many were built to address a significant shortage of recreation opportunities, are in excellent condition and would make worthy additions to our trail inventory. Others are poorly located or built and should be decommissioned in the interest of user safety and resource protection.

• We’ll provide more information as it becomes available. Mark your calendars—dates and locations are below.

• Sedro-Woolley -September 18 -6-8pm
• Vancouver -September 22 -6-8pm
• Ellensburg -September 24 -6-8pm
• Spokane -September 25 -6-8pm
• Issaquah -September 30 -6:30-8:30pm
• Port Angeles -October 2-6-8pm

Categories: Advocacy

Tags: Advocacy, evergreen mtb, mountain bike