Update: IMBA Leads Mountain Biker Response to BLM Plan

For Immediate Release
01-05-01
Contact:
303-545-9011

Cycling Community Unites in Opposition to Grouping Bikes with OHVs

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management received more than 12,000 letters and emails commenting on its proposed Off-Highway Vehicle Strategy that was released December 4th. According to BLM officials, the bulk of these comments came from IMBA members and affiliated clubs, the bike industry, and other cycling groups.

This controversial plan proposes to group mountain bikes with motorized vehicles, and if approved could lead to new restrictions on mountain bike access on BLM-managed land, which totals one-eighth of the United States.

IMBA executive director Tim Blumenthal hand-delivered IMBA's formal comment letter on January 3rd to senior BLM officials in Washington D.C. The BLM's OHV strategy team has gathered in Phoenix to review all comments and prepare the strategy's final version for a January 19th release.

"Never before has the cycling community acted so quickly and with such impact on a mountain bike issue," said Blumenthal. "We're confident that the feedback of mountain bikers will have tremendous influence on the BLM's plan because the comments were heartfelt, articulate and right on the money."

IMBA mobilized an effective mountain biker response by sending a broadcast email to its membership, posting updates and comment advice on its website, and working with the media to publicize this important issue.

A copy of IMBA's official comment letter is available at http://www.imba.com