Update On Fruita Singletrack

For Immediate Release
12-13-02
Contact: Dan Vardamis - IMBA advocacy coordinator

303-545-9011

The Grand Junction regional office of the Bureau of Land Management is creating a draft management plan for the North Fruita Desert. Within the jurisdiction of this plan is the area known as "18 Road." 18 Road is home to popular mountain biking trails, including Zippety Do Da, Prime Cut, Frontside, Chutes and Ladders and the Edge Loop, which was designated an IMBA Epic in 2000.

A committee representing various user groups - including mountain bikers - is working with the BLM to shape a draft management plan for the North Fruita Desert. Of concern to mountain bikers is the possible introduction of motorized vehicle use on these trails as a result of this new management plan.

The North Fruita Desert Draft Management Plan has not been released yet. The BLM expects to complete this plan in the next few months. Once the draft plan is complete, the BLM will solicit comments from the public, review the comments, and then present a final management plan that reflects consideration of interests.

IMBA, the Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Association and advocates in Fruita are working with the BLM to help them formulate the draft plan. Once the draft plan is released, IMBA will summarize the potential impacts of the plan on mountain biking and we'll provide action steps to the mountain biking community. IMBA is commited to maintaining the integrity of these trails for mountain bike use.

For more information contact:

Dan Vardamis - IMBA advocacy coordinator
, 303-545-9011

Bill Harris - Western Colorado IMBA Rep
, 970-249-8055