Volunteer Bike Patrols: California's Mountain Bike Unit a Model Program

Not all volunteer efforts focus on trailwork. IMBA's National Mountain Bike Patrol program organizes and supports more than 60 volunteer bike patrol groups throughout the United States and the world. Patrollers inform, assist and educate mountain bikers and other trail users.

Since 1988, The Mountain Bike Unit (MBU) has worked diligently to build a bike-friendly community in California's Santa Monica mountains. The volunteer-based, non-enforcement, educational patrol has built a strong relationship with the National Park Service (NPS), California State Parks and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA).

Originally part of the Concerned Off-Road Bicyclists Association (CORBA), one of IMBA's founding clubs, the MBU is now an independent organization. With over 100 volunteers, the well-organized group is an valuable asset to public lands managers. "They are the eyes, ears and bodies that can give greater coverage across the recreation area. In today's park environment, volunteers have become a great service to us," explains NPS staff member Mike Malone. Malone nominated MBU for the George Hartzog Jr. Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service, resulting in the MBU being recognized as the Pacific West regional winner in 2006.

The Unit's CPR and First Aid certified patrollers are required to patrol eight hours per month in the parks. On average, they contribute a total of between 8,000 and 10,000 hours of service per year. MBU volunteers not only help fellow trail users but also educate them about MBU's role, carrying informational flyers and looking to spread the word. Their distinctive yellow shirts and helmet covers make them easily recognizable.

Aside from uniforms, the MBU has few expenses. It does not charge patrollers a membership fee and provides them with CPR and First Aid certification at no cost. "We have no real bylaws or budget," explains Lois Olson, MBU's recruiting coordinator. However, when the time comes to raise money, MBU is creative and successful. A recent wine tasting and silent auction raised several thousand dollars for new gear.

The MBU's success is direct result of their commitment to high-quality training. During "Scenario Day," new recruits are faced with real-life circumstances created by volunteer actors. Requiring 40-60 volunteers and additional land agency staffers, the training events are impressive undertakings. "Scenario Days are extremely popular ... all the students love it. They're afraid at first, but afterwards they want more," Olson explains.

MBU's commitment to advocacy and service have yielded results. Trail conflicts have been decreasing and mountain bikers are enjoying improved relations with hikers on Santa Monica trails. "We're not having as much trouble as we used to," says Olson. Especially in places that suffer from strained relationships between user groups, a committed volunteer force can do wonders.