May 9,2008 Tri City News

Mountain biking enthusiasts, hikers and other trail users have until the end of this month to offer their feedback on Port Moody’s mountain biking task force report.

The draft report will guide the city’s policies to manage mountain biking in city parks. It includes a review of existing policies and summaries of research on the environmental impacts of mountain biking in riparian areas, as well as current and future plans for park trails.

Site tours of Bert Flinn Park and upper West Noons Creek last summer showed mountain biking wasn’t a major concern but more signs and maps are needed, especially in Bert Flinn.

The draft report also called for better trail connections from Heritage Mountain neighbourhoods to Crown land above the BC Hydro right-of-way as well as the inclusion of mountain bike connections in any future development.

The committee also identified several key needs, including:

• updating trail maps to show connections to trails outside Port Moody;

• providing connections between on- and off-road bike networks;

• establishing trail etiquette for different users;

• dealing with unofficial trails and structures that cause erosion and habitat damage;

• identifying sensitive areas that require raised boardwalks;

• developing a consistent sign system;

• and dealing with trails through private land.

The draft report is available on the city’s website (www.cityofportmoody.com) and surveys are due by May 30. The report then goes to the environmental protection and parks and recreation committees for review before it’s submitted to council in June.

spayne@tricitynews.com