8.0. PRSR 08-12-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

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eity of Item#8. Elk/ River MEMORANDUM TO: Park and Recreation Commission FROM: Phil Hals, Street/Park Superintendent DATE: August 12, 1998 SUBJECT: Mountain Bike Trails In making contact with Hennepin County, Ramsey County, the City of Burnsville, and Quality Bike Products, I have found that there are very similar situations and concerns in other jurisdictions, but there are also solutions available. Maintenance and usage are the two big issues that prompt the following suggestions: • Design trails to minimize erosion • Separate bikers and hikers if possible, but bikers and skiers are ID compatible since they can use the same trails in different seasons • Make use of user groups and "Sentenced to Service Workers" for maintenance because it is labor intensive • Schedule city maintenance twice per year • Limit biking to posted trails only • Close trails during certain weather conditions • Design trails for precision riding and not speed • Allow mountain biking from 8/1 to 10/31 for vegetation establishment • Erosion can be controlled with Class 5, Road Oil (a pine tar product) and rubber water bars • Post rules encouraging helmets, safe riding, courtesy to other users and restrictions that can be imposed • Policy establishing the maximum number of trail miles within a park • Encourage users to self police the trails • Clearly state that bike use is a privilege within the park and can be revoked if rules are not adhered to Gary Sjoquist of Quality Bike Products has offered to serve as a consultant for mountain bike trails and a BMX truck free of charge. Mr. Sjoquist is well known in the biking community and with regional park managers and is very • highly regarded for his expertise in these areas. 13065 Orono Parkway • P.O. Box 490 • Elk River, MN 55330 • TDD&Phone: (612) 441-7420 • Fax: (612)441-7425