blackburn1973
Well-Known Member
Nothing shocking but valuable info when dealing with parks dep't.s and anti-mtb community. Contains footnotes to studies, etc.: http://mbosc.org/mtb-impact-faq_hydro-geo/
Among their “meta-study” findings:
Among their “meta-study” findings:
- In general, the studies showed no statistically significant difference in soil erosion, excavation, ruts, and trail widening between hiking and biking, and both have less impact than horse riding.
- On properly built and well-maintained trails, no measurable difference is seen between the relative impacts caused by mountain biker and hiker user groups.
- User-created trails are unplanned and don’t undergo the rigorous environmental review and design that officially sanctioned trails do.
- Impacts on wildlife are similar whether the human interaction is with hikers, bikers, or equestrians. Some animals were found to be less disturbed by bikers than other types of trail users.
- Birds tend to be more adversely affected when users make frequent stops along a trail or when they make more noise.
- Unsanctioned trails are not isolated to mountain bikers and are often a symptom of an unmet need for legitimate trail options.