MTB Trails Associations

So much work has already been done in developing the purpose-built network in both rural and urban areas but this left a vacuum at the top end of the sport leading to riders building their own trails, the majority of which, without landowners permission. In 2018 the National Access Forum Scotland, of which DMBinS are a part, released guidance which provided a framework for mountain bikers to work together with landowners to mitigate against any issues caused by these trails. There was a great need identified to establish a culture of trail stewardship from riders and DMBinS were tasked to support this culture change by a methodical and strategic approach to support riders to set up trails associations, each with the responsibility for the stewardship of trails in its local area.

Our regional development coordinators have been heavily involved in this from funding tools, Trail Inspection and Maintenance courses, first aid courses and assisting with setting up Memorandums of Understandings with landowners and sorting out Insurance to enable groups to operate. As our Highland development coordinator is the most recent in post, we thought it would be a great opportunity to share an update of the pretty cool stuff that is happening in that area. There has been a real enthusiasm for forming local trail associations, and we want to show some appreciation for all the great work going on within Highland communities.

Through all the restrictions of the last year, it has been difficult for organised trail maintenance sessions to take place and most of the local trail groups have needed to take a step back but that doesn’t mean they haven’t been busy behind the scenes.