FALL 2021 - New England Mountain Bike Association
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Issue 167 | nemba.org
NEMBA Trail School • Emily's Bridge • Chapter updates from: Fairfield County CT • Housatonic Valley •
Northwest CT • Central CT • Quiet Corner • Southeastern CT • Berkshire MA • Blackstone Valley • Cape Cod •
Greater Boston • Martha's Vineyard • Merrimack Valley • North Shore • Pioneer Valley • Southeast MA • Wachusett •
Central ME • Penobscot Region • Belfast Area • Carrabassett Region • Midcoast ME • Six Rivers • Greater Portland •
Central NH • White Mountains • Southern NH • Franconia Area • Brattleboro-Keene • Rhode Island
FALL 2021
A LETTER FROM
SAVE
THETHE
EXECUTIVE
DATE DIRECTOR
What is NEMBA?
NEMBA can be the local trail
steward or builder. As I reflect on my first year as NEMBA’s Executive
Director, I come back to a question I’ve asked myself and others
numerous times - ‘What is NEMBA?’. While that might seem
NEMBA can be the connection like a simple question, there are so many possible answers.
to a land manager. Structurally, NEMBA is a non-profit organization with
30+ chapters, 7000+ members, that amplifies local efforts with
NEMBA can be a group ride, a regional presence. But that doesn’t necessarily answer the
or a beginners skills clinic. question.
In all of these situations, NEMBA is a collective of pas-
NEMBA can be an organization. sionate mountain bikers who are working together to guide the
future of the sport in New England.
NEMBA can be a formality. NEMBA comes in many flavors, many shapes, many sizes,
but we are held together by a common glue: mountain biking.
NEMBA can be a festival. Is NEMBA perfect? Of course not. Will everyone join
NEMBA? Of course not. But that has not kept us from making
incredible progress over the past 35 years. And I’m hopeful we
continue to make impactful and meaningful progress for the
next 35 years as we grow the community and create an even
stronger organization.
NEMBA has and will continue to evolve. What began as
an advocacy effort to ensure trail access outside of Boston, has
grown into something so much more.
We have put hundreds of thousands of hours of volunteer
efforts into trails, hundreds of thousands of dollars into trail
creation and improvement. We have formed connections with
land managers, conservation commissions, state officials, and
other partners that we will continue to foster and grow into
more mountain biking opportunities.
As I traveled around New England meeting with chapters
this summer, I was impressed by the variety not only in the
trails, but in the attitudes towards mountain bike access. Some
chapters have ample space to build with ample support from
the community, while others face challenges to maintain exist-
ing trails, let alone construct new trails.
Mountain bike advocacy is often a local issue, but can be
improved with regional collaboration. That’s where NEMBA
comes in. We have over 3 decades of experience to work from
and a network of strong mentors to guide the way. Together we
can improve mountain biking access across New England.
In some places we still face an uphill battle when it comes
to access. In others we might feel more relaxed. But regardless
of the current situation, it is always important to emphasize rid-
ing with gratitude and being a responsible trail steward. This is
especially true as the trails become more and more popular.
What we have is still fragile and we must all work together
to sustain it. Opportunities will continue to grow as the impor-
tance of recreational access becomes common knowledge. The
fewer mishaps along the way, the better trail experience for all.
So, have fun out there, but remember to be mindful of
other users. Be nice, say hi.
Trails are common ground, let’s make sure everyone feels
welcomed. Happy Trails.
TRAVIS COUNSELL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
P.S. NEMBA can also be a weekend of riding with friends, like the 10th
annual Dirt Bag weekend I wrote this at!
2 Issue 167 Fall 2021
MASTHEAD
Fall 2021
ISSUE 167
nemba.org
COVER PHOTO OF EMILY CROTEAU
REGIONAL TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD OFFICERS John Puziss Trevor Mills Phil Pless
Glenn Vernes John Anders Benjamin Jankowski
President
Central CT Midcoast ME Pioneer Valley
ADAM GLICK, GREATER BOSTON
Vice-President Mike Malwitz Aaron Brasslett Thomas Walker
MATT SCHULDE, RHODE ISLAND Fairfield County Carson Carney Stephanie Beaudoin
Penobscot Region Southeast MA
Treasurer
Paula Burton
ANNE SHEPARD, BLACKSTONE VALLEY
Matt Tullo Chuck Wagenheim Brett Russ
Secretary Housatonic Valley Piscataquis County Jeffery Ardinger
TOM GRIMBLE, GREATER BOSTON Wachusett
Jonathan Regan Kristian Haralson
Brian Vibert Kristin Jhamb Michael Davern
STAFF Northwest CT Six Rivers ME Pete Schrader
Brattleboro-Keene
Executive Director Serena Dupuis Kevin M Delaney
TRAVIS COUNSELL Heather Merson Alison McGee Grant Drew
Operations Coordinator Quiet Corner Berkshire Central NH
CRYSTIE MCGRAIL
Brett Severson Laura Zimmer Tim Clough
Outreach Coordinator Janet Andersen Kris Munroe Joe Harrison
BILL BOLES Kim Bradley Blackstone Valley Franconia Area
Southeastern CT
Frank Merola Kevin Luce
DESIGN Chris Gardner Lev Malakhoff Pemi Valley
Scott Hall Cape Cod
RICKY BLOXSOM Belfast Area Matt Caron
Tom Grimble Christopher Gaudet
Julie Coleman Mary McCarthy Southern NH
David Hughes Adam Glick
Warren Gerow Greater Boston Paula Churchill
Carrabassett Region Maryanne Dunfey
Louis Hall Leo Rossignol
Christopher Riley Martha's Vineyard White Mountains
NEMBA, the New England Mountain Bike Hjordys Fedorowicz
Association, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization Central Maine Barry Moore Matt Schulde
committed to creating epic riding experiences, Karen Korza Chris Hughes
preserving open space, and guiding the future Matthew Warner Merrimack Valley Wayne Asselin
of mountain biking in New England. Sam Morton Rhode Island
Greater Portland Frank Lane
NEMBA, PO Box 2221. Acton, MA 01720.
Hank Kells
office@nemba.org
North Shore MA
4 Issue 167 Fall 2021
TOC
6 NEMBA TRAIL SCHOOL
8 FEATURE:
EMILY'S BRIDGE
14 CHAPTER UPDATES
14 CONNECTICUT
20 MAINE
27 MASSACHUSETTS
37 NEW HAMPSHIRE
42 RHODE ISLAND
New England Mountain Bike Association 5
NEMBA
TRAIL
SCHOOL
OS BY APHY
PHOT PHOTOGR
OOTE
U A T. F
JOSH
On Sept. 25, 2021, over 50 people attended NEMBA Trail
School which was held at Stonewall Farm in Keene NH. After
a hiatus of 2.5 years, it was great to hold this important event
again to educate trail users, trail builders, and land managers
on best practices for designing, building, and maintaining sus-
tainable natural surface multi-use trails. Due to Covid and the
uncertainty of restrictions, the committee organizing the event
pivoted to a hybrid model which included a series of short vid-
eos and a zoom webinar. A big shout out goes to Works Bakery
Cafe of Keene for donating breakfast and lunch. Attendees
from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island,
and Connecticut learned about best practices for trail design,
benching, and maintenance. As the attendees cycled through the
sessions, much sharing of experience, lively discussion, active
practice and excellent weather ensured a great day. Stonewall
Farm is a not-for-profit farm and we thank them for welcoming
us to their facility and trails for the day. A special thanks goes to
the instructors, Tom Grimble, Adam Glick, Mike Davern, Matt
Caron, Mike Hoefer, Peter Ponessa, and Paula Burton.
6 Issue 167 Fall 2021
New England Mountain Bike Association 7
EMILY'S
EMILY CROTEAU RECENTLY BUILT
A BRIDGE ON THE VIETNAM
MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAIL AS PART
OF HER GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD
PROJECT. IT IS LOCATED ON
THE HOLLISTON HIGHWAY ON
THE MILFORD SIDE. EMILY HAS
BEEN A MILFORD GIRL SCOUT
SINCE KINDERGARTEN AND IS
CURRENTLY A JUNIOR AT MILFORD
HIGH SCHOOL. SHE NOT ONLY
HAS ENJOYED GIRL SCOUTING
FOR THE FRIENDSHIPS, CAMPING,
FIELD TRIPS, ADVENTURE, AND
COMMUNITY SERVICE BUT
ADDITIONALLY EARNING THE
LEADERSHIP AWARDS OF BRONZE,
SILVER, AND NOW GOLD. FOR THOSE
UNFAMILIAR, THE GOLD AWARD IS
THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS AWARD IN
GIRL SCOUTING. IT BEGAN IN 1916
WHEN THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST
UNDERTOOK PROJECTS THAT
IMPROVED THEIR COMMUNITIES.
THE GOLDEN EAGLET INSIGNIA
MARKED THE BEGINNING OF A
LONG TRADITION OF RECOGNIZING
THE EXTRAORDINARY GIRLS. NOW
REFERRED TO JUST AS THE GOLD
AWARD IT IS THE AWARD HIGHLY
SOUGHT AFTER BY HIGH SCHOOL
GIRL SCOUTS ACROSS THE
UNITED STATES.
NEMBA HAD A CHANCE TO WORK
WITH EMILY ON HER GOLD AWARD
PROJECT TO CONSTRUCT A BRIDGE
ON THE TRAIL. WE WANTED TO
KNOW MORE ABOUT HOW THE
PROCESS CAME ABOUT WITH GIRL
SCOUTS AND WHAT INTERESTED
HER IN MOUNTAIN BIKING.
EMILY SHARED HER THOUGHTS,
ACCOMPLISHMENTS, AND
CHALLENGES OF COORDINATING
A PROJECT OF THIS SCALE.
https://www.facebook.com/vietnamtrails
8 Issue 167 Fall 2021
BRIDGE I knew I wanted to earn my Gold
Award for the past several years but first
I had to think of an idea. I have 13 girls
in my high school troop and several
of us had been brainstorming with our
troop leader over different ideas. We
were strongly advised that it was import-
ant to find something you enjoy because
the project would be 80-100 hours and
probably take at least a year to complete.
I have always enjoyed the outdoors and
picked up mountain biking during quar-
antine because I was really bored. My
brother, Alex, is really big on mountain
biking and he would race at Highland
Mountain Bike Park. Since he was home
because of COVID-19 quarantine, we
would go all the time. Alex is a patient
and good teacher and taught me how
to ride.
While I was mountain biking
one day, I was going over a bridge and
thought this would be a fun project. This
was when the idea turned into a project.
I had to get approval from Girl Scouts
of Central and Western MA, the Milford
Conservation Committee, NEMBA, as
well as find an advisor, assemble a team,
fundraise, and a variety of other plan-
ning steps before I could even begin
building.
My dad is an engineer, and he
likes to mountain bike too, so I knew he
would be a big help. Joe Ferreira, a local
builder, agreed to be my advisor. Girl
Scouts approved and gave me a volun-
teer advisor to guide me through the
process. Finally, Kevin Keenan was my
liaison to NEMBA. It all started to come
together over the year of planning.
The funding of the project came
from several sources. For the past two
years I have been collecting cans, which
didn’t seem like a lot, but it added up
over time. My troop has been collect-
ing donated sneakers too, which also
added up as we can redeem them for
cash. Then, to my surprise, Lobisser and
Ferreira Building Corporation donated
most of the wood for the bridge, which
was a huge help to the budget! Friends
New England Mountain Bike Association 9
and family made some financial dona- we liked best. My dad and I sat down one good with tools and a chop saw. This was
tions and NEMBA completed the con- day and drew out the whole bridge and a huge help as the three of us along with
tribution. I am grateful to all those that the measurements for what we thought my sister, Brianna, and my dad were able
contributed with dollars, supplies, and would fit in our space on the trail. My to get all the boards cut and ready to
their time to make this bridge project bridge location was about 60 feet, so we go. I borrowed my Papa’s trailer, and we
a reality. decided that three whoops would be bet- loaded all the wood for the construction
For the designing part, my dad and ter than two. of the bridge.
I went on a ride to look at some other As I got ready for the build day, On build day we arrived early and
bridges. We found one at West Hill Dam there was prep work to do the week were ready to go! I was very grateful for
that had two whoops on the bridge. We prior. Two of my Girl Scout troop Kevin Keenan and his ability to round
both thought that was a cool feature and members, Tessa and Natalie, spent the up 8 NEMBA members that volunteered
fun to ride. We took the measurements afternoon with me pre-cuting the wood to hike some of the wood about a mile
on that bridge and picked out the ideas at my house. Thankfully they are very to the bridge site. They helped teach
10 Issue 167 Fall 2021me how to build a bridge for mountain bikers and were willing to donate their time to construct the bridge in the rain and with mosquitos biting us. This was a major accomplishment, and they were a tremendous help. Brian Forestal gave me lots of advice and I learned so much about building from him as he has built many bridges and was more than happy to help me. John Goeller was also very familiar with bridge building and a big help as he took lots of pictures during the construction. Later in the morning, New England Mountain Bike Association 11
more friends and family showed up to
help. I am very grateful to NEMBA, my Emily’s other interests include basketball, volleyball, and lacrosse as she is a
uncles, brother, sister, neighbor, girl three-sport varsity athlete at Milford High School. In her spare time, she enjoys
scout friends, parents, and all who came snowmobiling with her family and hanging out with her friends. To learn more
out to assist. Everyone had a different about the Girl Scouting and the Gold Award visit
role and we worked very well together.
I was surprised at how quickly the bridge
https://www.girlscouts.org
was assembled and very happy to be
nailing the last board in place and taking
my first ride over the bridge in the
early afternoon. Vietnam is the NEMBA owned property in Milford, MA. It hosts many miles of chal-
lenging mountain bike trails and forms part of a much larger conservation area.
12 Issue 167 Fall 2021DISCOVERING TOP
ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY SALES,
SALES ENGINEERING,
AND CSM TALENT
… & WHEN NOT RECRUITING, RIDING THE TRAILS WITH YOU!
WWW.XTRAEFFORT.COMCENTRAL CT
topography is very unique. The problem is it’s hard to get to. As
President part of our effort to improve riding opportunities in the New
GLENN VERNES Haven area, we’re implementing a plan to revitalize the trails,
repair an old bridge, and make access easier. Substantial work
Vice President
has already been done to unblock and improve the trails, and
TRICIA DOWCETT
they’re riding great. Thanks to Francisco Perez for taking the
Secretary lead in this effort. Next step is to improve parking and access.
BRUCE TAYLOR West Rock continues to benefit from our dedicated
volunteer crew. Last spring a small team of volunteers built
Treasurer
two bridges, which were added to a brand new trail that CCT
FRANCISCO PEREZ
NEMBA opened up last fall with the blessing of the land
managers. The bridges, designed by member/volunteer Paul
As we write this in early October, we’re starting to feel the Wetmore and Bob Bergen, were carried in piece by piece and
first breaths of fall-- the cooler, dryer air, chilly nights, and assembled in quick fashion. They were needed to cover an
technicolor leaves that herald the best riding of the year. Of area of a trail that has suffered from run-off. This section was
course, those leaves, and ball bearing acorns, will eventually also cleared of debris, and as a result of the efforts of these
blanket the trails and create a new, seasonal challenge, but volunteers, this flowy trail now has better drainage. Many
that’s all part of riding in New England. The past summer was thanks also to Francine Bergen, Lisa Maloney, Bill Kurtz, Bruce
a challenge, one of the wettest on record. Thanks to everyone Taylor, and Joel Schall and his sons! Elsewhere on this section,
who behaved responsibly and stayed off the trails when they member/volunteer Camille Keeler, sporting a self-designed
were too wet to ride. backpack chainsaw, cleared a recently fallen tree from a section
Watrous Park in Cromwell is now open and has become of the same trail during a Wednesday night ride. If you haven’t
a magnet for families. It looks like our goal of creating a place explored this section yet, what are you waiting for?
where parents and young kids—even toddlers!-- can ride And as always, if you’d like to volunteer let us know. We’re
together has been met. Places like this ensure that mountain especially looking for ride leaders. Contact us by emailing any
biking will have a future, and we want to create more like it. If board member. Ride on!
you’re interested in helping us, let us know. GLENN VERNES, LISA MALONEY AND TRICIA DOWCETT
We’ve had great participation on our Saturday morning
rides. The record so far has been 20+ riders at Naugatuck State West Rock Group Build. Photo by Lisa Mahoney
Forest. We try to ride unique and interesting places that might Apollo Petersen and Christopher Campenelli shred the trails
not otherwise get ridden. Check the chapter’s Facebook page at Watrous
-Central CT NEMBA- for the weekly itinerary. The Wednesday
evening women’s rides at West Rock have expanded to include
all genders, and this has generated more interest. We will
continue to ride the lower trails and sections of Baldwin Drive
until the snow flies. Updates for this ride will also be posted to
the Facebook page weekly.
The Mount Sanford block of Naugatuck State Forest in
Cheshire and Hamden was a very popular place to ride in the
early days of the sport 25 or 30 years ago. Then mountain
bikers all but abandoned the place due to the main access point
being restricted. Trails are a mix of tech and flow, and the
14 Issue 167 Fall 2021FAIRFIELD COUNTY CT
President
MIKE MALWITZ
Vice President
GUNNAR WALDMAN
Secretary
MONIKA STOKES
Treasurer
ERIC SCHONENBERG
Coming off the wettest summer in recent memory,
including 2 tropical storms, our trails are holding up well
but washed out bridges, fall-line erosion, downed trees, and
overgrowth have been keeping us busy. In addition, we’ve been
dealing with vandalism from anti-MTB hikers in Huntington
State Park, including disappearing bridges and booby traps.
We’ve reported these issues to the State DEEP but there isn't much
they can do. We hope everything settles down a bit as we come
through the pandemic and start getting back to normal, but for
now we advise everyone to keep their eyes open at Huntington.
Our new 2 mile trail in Seth Low Pierrepont State Park in
Ridgefield Connecticut, designed and built with the permission
of CT DEEP, has been getting great reviews. We even got a
nice article in the local newspaper, Ridgefield Press: “Cyclists
Install New Trail that will Last for a Long Time at Ridgefield's
Pierrepont State Park.” David Cronin of the Ridgefield
Conservation Commission said: The group’s done “very good
trail work.” “They build trails that will last for a long time,” he
said. See The Ridgefield Press for the full article.
Seth Low Pierrepont State Park is part of the largest
remaining open space in Fairfield County containing over
30 miles of trails that span Hemlock Hills, Pine Mountain,
Bennett’s Pond, Wooster Mountain, Tarrywile and Terra Haute
open spaces. Our next major project is Terra Haute in Bethel,
near the former Cannondale Bikes location. We’re still working
on approvals and hope we can begin work Spring 2022.
Our weekly group rides have been attracting new
members, which is great to see! We ride Sundays at 9am and
Tuesdays at 5:30pm. The Sunday rides are usually 3 hours and
are suitable for intermediate/advanced riders. We split into 2
or 3 groups depending on who shows up and there is always a
“Social paced group” for riders who want more rest stops, so
come on out! We’re also trying to start up an “inter-mellow
group this Fall for folks who want to ride less technical trails.
Please contact us if you are interested in joining the group.
Tuesday evening “Fitness Rides” are offered while there’s
still some daylight at the start of the ride. In the Fall, you need
to bring lights for the return home. These are usually 1-2
hour rides with some climbs to help us keep in shape. Rides
are posted on our FCNEMBA Facebook Group. Also, thanks
to Michaela Lawlor for setting up our FCNEMBA Instagram
account! We already have 2,600 followers which is fantastic!
MIKE MALWITZ
Ryan Tucker and Dave Francefort keeping the trailer and tools
in shape. Photo by Mike Malwitz
Michaela and Kathryn looking for new inter-mellow riders.
Photo by Mike Malwitz
Tuesday Fitness Ride at Bennett’s Pond State Park.
New England Mountain Bike Association 15HOUSATONIC VALLEY CT
As the leaves begin to change, we look back on a summer
President filled with fun group rides, events and trail work, and start to
MARK LURIE look forward to what’s planned for 2022. The pressure our trails
saw in 2020 due to an increase in pandemic users largely sub-
Vice President
sided this summer, with a core group of new participants con-
BILL LAKE
tinuing to enjoy all our trails have to offer.
Secretary HV NEMBA ran a regular series of Monday and Tuesday
LISA BILODEAU evening rides, that, despite being occasionally canceled by wet
weather, were ultimately a return to the enjoyable get-togeth-
Treasurer
ers from years past. In early August, we hosted the “Rockhouse
BRAD ACCETTELLA
Hill Showcase,” which was well-attended, despite our unwant-
ed guest – an early morning rainstorm that none of the local
metexzorologists predicted! Advanced, Intermediate, and
Family rides went out despite the slippery conditions, and then
joined back afterwards for burgers and dogs to relive the adven-
ture. Thanks to everyone that helped out, especially the high
school students from Oxford’s Youth Conservation Corps, with-
out which many of the trails at Rockhouse Hill wouldn’t exist.
Thanks also to Greg Meghani from Southbury’s Class Cycles,
who provided a mechanic’s tent to handle any mechanical
issues that might have popped up. Local bike shop support is
very important to what we do!
Speaking of the Rockhouse Hill Sanctuary trails, HV
NEMBA is very excited to announce we are one of the recipi-
ents of Athletic Brewing’s “Two for Trails” grant in the amount
of $22,200! This much appreciated grant was applied for by
RHS Land Manager Joe Lanier, and will be put to good use on
several parking projects and trailhead improvements around
the trail system, including a parking lot for the Moose Hill
Family Loops, as well as adding spaces to the main parking lot
below Oxford High School. The lot at Moose Hill will be a great
addition now that the YCC Trail Crew has completed work on a
variety of kid-friendly skinnies, stunts, and a bermed downhill
trail, all designed for the youngest riders amongst us. Many
thanks to Joe and the great folks at Athletic Brewing for secur-
ing and enabling this grant. As Athletic Brewing says, “We only
get one chance at this world and once chance at our health –
let’s make a difference together!”
Moving on to our other trail systems, one of our local
riders, Connor Dillon of Dillon Excavating and Tree Service in
Roxbury deserves a big shout out for taking care of a large tree
that came down on the new boardwalk over the Yellow trail at
Waldo State Park. Vice President Bill Lake and several dedicated
volunteers have been making progress over at the Trolley Trails
Preserve in Woodbury, recently building over ¾ of a mile of
new trail, while also re-routing several problem areas. The trails
are coming along nicely, and look to be an up and coming spot
in the area. More work days are planned for the future - follow
our facebook page if you'd like to help out. If you haven’t had a
chance to check them out yet, put this spot on your list!
Fall riding is quite possibly the best time to ride in New
England, offering cooler temperatures, a respite from the sum-
mer bugs, and an up close and personal view of one of nature’s
most impressive shows – fall foliage in the Northeast! We
encourage everyone to get out and enjoy the trails before the
cold darkness of winter takes hold. Remember to respect local
hunting laws, and wear blaze orange this time of year for proper
visibility. Now is a great time to get out and ride – we hope to
see you out there!
Trolley Trail Build. Photo by Bill Lake
Tree Removal, Waldo State Park. Photo by Connor Dillon
16 Issue 167 Fall 2021NORTHWEST CT
structural strength to support the weight of an all-terrain vehi-
President cle should one be needed for rescue efforts. The structure was
JON REGAN so large that it was fabricated off site, disassembled into pieces
and transported as close to the build site as possible. Our great
Vice President
team of bridge erectors was able to carry it in to the build site
JOHN LUISI
and have it fully assembled in less than 4 hours.
Secretary Another new addition in Burlington is a beautiful informa-
BRIAN KELLEHER tion kiosk at the entrance to the Johnnycake Mountain trail net-
work across from the designated parking area on Scoville Road.
Treasurer
This project was also completed as part of our signature trail
CARA REGAN
grant by Eagle Scout candidate Declan Bernetich. It’s beautifully
constructed and will serve the trail system for years to come.
The fall riding season is quickly coming to an end and the Congratulations Declan on a very well-conceived and imple-
short days and cold nights of winter are fast approaching. Last mented project. Thank-you for your efforts.
chance to get in those epic rides before the leaves camouflage Our group rides have concluded for the year. Despite the
the trails and the first snowfall blankets everything in white. many challenges working around the weather, we were able to
The seasons are changing, so shift gears, get the lights charged, assemble some great groups who had loads of fun exploring.
the fat bike tuned and the snowshoes at the ready. Many thanks to the Organizers and Ride Guides for making
The summer and early Fall have been extremely challeng- it all happen. We look forward to another season of rides next
ing from a weather perspective here in Northwest Connecticut. season kicking off around Memorial Day, if not sooner.
High winds, tropical storms, over the top humidity and the In conclusion, as we pedal into the late fall a reminder that
never-ending parade of rain events have certainly influenced we are also entering into the heart of hunting season. Please
the available time to ride and more importantly taken a toll on take a few moments to review some basic hunting safety and
some of our favorite riding areas. From strong thunderstorms, the Connecticut rules and regulations. A little knowledge on
the winds of Henri and the torrential soaking unleashed by Ida this front can help keep you safe while you’re out enjoying the
our trail volunteers have had their hands full. The high winds woods. Know the different hunting seasons and where hunting
from thunderstorms and TS Henri combined with the blight of is allowed in relation to bike/hiking trails and try to cater your
the ash trees from the Emerald Ash Borer have left a plethora ride plans to reduce conflict with the hunters. Here's a couple
of down trees across trails in all areas. In many cases they were tips that will help:
falling faster than they could be cut and removed.
Perhaps the most damaging weather event was the rem-
nants of Hurricane Ida and the 7+ inches of rain it brought • Avoid riding during peak hunting times
to our part of the state. Trails were turned into rivers and (early morning/evening hours).
remained unrideable for almost a week in many instances. • Ride in areas where hunting is not allowed
At the Harwinton Recreation Area virtually every bridge • Wear an article of bright orange clothing
was washed from it’s foundation by the powerful waters of • Avoid wearing items that are white, brown or red.
Leadmine Brook and its tributaries. Fortunately, by design, • Plan your epic rides for Sunday when hunting is
all the bridges are cabled to retain the structures from taking not allowed in Connecticut.
a long trip downstream. Local Volunteers quickly assembled
and had all back in their original locations in very short order.
Another area taking a big hit during Ida was Northfield Brook The hunting season is short and enjoyed by many so
Lake. Many of the trails are located within the impoundment please show this group respect. Let us try to give them the abili-
area of a flood control facility operated by the Army Corp of ty to enjoy the forest during this short window of time as much
Engineers. The waters collected behind the dam during the as we do the rest of the year. By being informed and respectful,
storm rose to the highest levels ever recorded since the dam’s we as mountain bikers can generate much good will between
construction following the great floods of 1955. Sections of the user groups. As always respect gets respect.
trail were submerged under 20 feet of water and debris was JON REGAN
left everywhere as the levels were allowed to slowly drop. For
the most part the trails were left relatively unscathed but due
to damage to the existing facilities in the park, the recreation
area was closed for the season to repair the damage. Not to fret,
the trails remain open and can be accessed from parking areas
outside of the main recreation area. Once again, many thanks
for the trail stewards and their efforts cleaning up the mess and
getting things back open.
Speaking of Bridges, as part of the signature trail grant
awarded to us last year for the Johnnycake Mountain project,
our trail stewards designed, fabricated and installed a massive
new bridge spanning Whigville Brook on the White-Yellow
blazed (Hinman) trail here in Burlington. To satisfy safety
requirements as dictated by our Land Manager, this 20-foot
clear span bridge is five feet wide with railings and has the Saved by the Cables. Photo by S. Roderrick
New England Mountain Bike Association 17QUIET CORNER CT
heard about Pomfret’s new trail system. “I get a great sense of
President satisfaction when I work on a section for hours and then stand
SERENA DUPUIS back to see the results. It’s even better to see people riding the
trails and features and enjoying themselves on our creations.”
Vice President
JEFF DOYLE
David-Peter Santarcangelo
Secretary
CRIS CADIZ does trail work because “mountain biking is more than just
riding, it’s a lifestyle. That means putting in work. I’m a firm
Treasurer
believer in ‘Work Hard Play Hard’ and I apply that to every-
HEATHER MERSON
thing I do.” He’s only been mountain biking for 2 1/2 years, but
his passion comes from riding moto for decades. “My favorite
This April, we began to create a new trail system in thing about trail building is having a vision and making it reali-
Pomfret Forest (thanks to NEMBA for our Signature Trail ty. It a good feeling.”
Grant!). To date, we have more than 8 miles of singletrack, all David’s mechanical skills have been invaluable. “I was the
hand built, and there’s more to come. Volunteers have worked 5-year-old taking the new VCR apart to see how it works. It’s
nearly 1,000 hours on this project. ALL of our volunteers have satisfying and a building block of who I am. Being in charge of
been tremendous. Our chapter leadership team wants to recog- operations and maintenance in a gas turbine power plant is the
nize the following people who have worked non-stop, quietly same thing but on a much larger scale. If something breaks you
and happily carving paths in the woods for all to enjoy. We also need to know how to fix it in a timely fashion.”
thank he who does not want to be mentioned—he is hard-work- David’s love of free riding unfortunately ended in a bad
ing, humble and his many hours of service deserve praise. crash that needed surgery in late September. David still came
Please meet a few of our Trail Heroes… We are so grateful! out to see our progress, his arm in a sling. We enjoyed his
company and that we could lift his spirits. We wish him speedy
recovery!
Irving Fenner Vaughn Winkler aka “Beastmaster”
has been our most steadfast trail gnome at Pomfret Forest- has been riding trails since the mid-90s, when he became
his second home this summer. Almost any day you could find “mesmerized and obsessed” with the North Shore in BC. “That
him out there, usually with his dog, Willow. Irving has history style of riding sunk its teeth in me and never let go!” He bought
with this land. In the early 70s he roamed the woods on horse- his first freeride bike in ‘99, began watching NSX Bike videos,
back. His mom took them to the “Manor” (the adjacent estate then building stunts. Vaughn has created many of Pomfret
and original landowner) to swim in the pond. Irving can tell you Forest’s most exciting features, including “The Thing,” a skinny
about interesting artifacts on the property: the giant swimming with a tight turn and a drop, carved out of a huge fallen log.
pool--its sunken basin now full of dirt and trees—a huge, rust- “The challenge of North Shore stunts always appealed to
ed water pump by the pond, the remnants of chain link fence, me. I have mellowed with age, but I still love a good man-made
which used to keep the estate’s exotic animals safe. Just ask him. skinny, drop or ladder.” Lucky for us, Vaughan has “become
Irving’s purchased his first mountain bike in 1984 and still addicted to trail building. It’s so creative and exciting to build
loves to ride cross country. To him, trail work is “an excuse to a feature, line or trail that we get to ride and enjoy for years to
be outside and enjoy Mother Nature's beauty…plus spend time come.”
with my buddy Willow.” He loves “the satisfaction of creating Vaughn’s features are more “freeride” than the average
something.” After 30 years of owning/running a contracting trail, but to him, “mountain biking allows people to expand
business, he is now retired and “part-time trail gnome.” You their reality of what’s possible and for constant progression,
can appreciate Irving’s building skills as you ride the bridges no matter who you are. Most importantly it’s FUN! I’ve met so
throughout Pomfret Forest. “I love watching others enjoy what’s many great people and made so many friends. Anything worth
been created,” he says, “not to mention the teamwork and plen- doing in life is hard work, but if you love your job, you’ll never
ty of fun making trails.” work a day in your life!”
Wayne Warner
raced BMX as a kid and rode his bike everywhere, includ- Other volunteers who devoted many hours to our trail
ing the woods behind his house. The bike riding stopped with build are Shane Merson, Cheryl Doyle, Tom Campbell,
his driver’s license…until a friend talked him into mountain bik- Christian Smutnick, Sam Houde, Rob Lussier, Eric Ingram, Ray
ing four years ago. “Soon after, I bought an entry level hard tail Wishart, Tim Sabrowski, Matt Danis, Dan & Liz Bove, Nicole
and started riding twice a week.” He caught the bug, upgraded Salisbury, Sean McClintock, Jay Smith. To all the others who
to full suspension and started riding throughout New England helped build Pomfret Forest: Every single minute mattered.
and beyond. THANK YOU! To support us at Pomfret Forest, please donate to
Wayne met Irving Fenner at a weekly ride group and soon QCNEMBA’s PayPal through Trailforks.
Irving asked Wayne to help maintain a local trail system. “We
both enjoy improving trails and finding features ridable by dif- CRIS CADIZ
ferent skill levels.” Wayne jumped at the chance to help when he
18 Issue 167 Fall 2021SOUTHEASTERN CT
President
BRETT SEVERSON
Vice President
KIM BRADLEY
Secretary
TODD ROMILY
Treasurer
JANET ANDERSEN
SECT NEMBA members enjoyed an amazing summer
riding bikes, working on trails, and hosting group rides and trail
work days!!
Work continues on the Nathan-Hale-Ray Middle School
trail system in Moodus. Volunteers completed a boardwalk
that was the final phase in bridging the river that runs through
the center of the property. The planks are locally sourced and
milled white oak, and getting the very heavy materials from
the parking lot down to the work site was quite an undertaking
- fortunately SECT member Brad Thody not only volunteered
use of his tractor, but is also a very skilled operator!
Students took part in exploring the trails this summer in a
joint effort between the newly formed school mountain biking
club and Airline Cycles Muddy Mayhem youth cycling group.
Weekly rides included over 50 kids on the trails exercising their
skills!!
Work paused during the hot summer months, but has
since resumed in September with new trails added to the sys-
tem along with many improvements and features. The trails
now feature hand-made school-themed trail signs created by
SECT member Christian Beisel! The system now has 6+ miles
of trails, with more planned. Maps, trail kiosks and Trailforks
routes will also be added. Stay tuned for a grand-opening event
this fall!!
The SECT NEMBA Ladies rides continued throughout the
summer when the weather cooperated. It’s been great to have
the rides back this year after the long wait! The Mountain Bike
Adventure Series ride that was originally scheduled for Bluff
Point in August was postponed due to a tropical storm. Many
hours of trail work and event planning went into hosting the
event and fortunately we were able to reschedule to November.
BRETT SEVERSON
Hand-crafted school-themed trail signs by Christian Beisel.
Photo by Christian Beisel
Brad Thody maneuvers a heavy load down tricky trails. Photo
by Brett Severson
Lots of benchcuts needed to navigate the steep terrain. Photo
by Brett Severson
New England Mountain Bike Association 19BELFAST AREA ME
deciduous trees, with some areas of older growth that promote
President a clean forest floor and great site lines. Many volunteers have
CHRIS GARDNER logged countless hours swinging a maddox, working out big
rocks, sculpting berms, and raking it all smooth. Big thanks to
Vice President
Joe Kovaz and his group of students who are enrolled in the
SCOTT HALL
Ecology Learning Center located in Unity. Without the effort
Secretary of this enthusiastic group, the trails would not be in nearly the
DAN GREELEY shape they are in today.
Creating a new local NEMBA chapter is very exciting for
Treasurer
us local riders. Chris has again led the charge. “It was clear from
ROY CURTIS
our first volunteer trail work day that we had a lot of enthusi-
astic people on board, and that we could get a lot done with an
Mountain biking has officially arrived in Belfast! We have organized structure. Looking at the success of our neighbor-
some exciting new single track! We have a strong crew of riders, ing chapters and recognizing that Belfast sits a little past their
and the enthusiasm and potential for much more. range, we decided to approach NEMBA about creating our own
In the spring of 2020, a weekly ride leaving the Frosty Belfast Area chapter.”
Bottom Brewery in west Belfast gained traction. Roy Curtis, October 17 is a big day. We will be hosting a day of riding
master brewer and founder of FBB, hosts the ride. In the tough along with my cousin Max Greeley at Common Hill Farm in
summer of 2020, it took off. We do a 9 mile mixed ride. The Jackson, Maine. For years Max has been curating miles of single
ride concludes with a challenging climb to a spot we call ‘the track. A group ride is planned for 11am, with a 5k (1lap) and 15k
top of the world’. There are incredible views in all directions, option. There will be other fun activities, including the ‘skinny
including a great look at Penobscot Bay. A thrilling down lands ride challenge’ (see photo). There will be two beer sponsors,
us back at FBB. There is a hearty group of riders that will FBB, and Orono Brewing. There may be some food on sight,
continue to do this Wednesday ride, leaving FBB, Hunt Road, but folks should come prepared to feed themselves. Riders are
Belfast at 5:30, until the trails are no longer suitable to ride. encouraged to come early to check out the course. Register on
Lights are already necessary. All are welcome. our chapter's Facebook page. All are welcome, as there is plenty
The exciting new single track, freshly cut just a mile from of space, and it should be a very festive atmosphere!
downtown Belfast, is ready to ride! The new trails are the The future looks great for mountain biking in the Belfast
brainchild of Chris Gardner, owner of CG Bikes, and our new area. Chris speaks about the chapter moving forward:
NEMBA chapter president. Chris talks about his motivation of “Over the winter, we plan on continuing to cooperate with
creating these local trails: Coastal Mountain Land Trust in a quest to link El Depot to
some of their existing land and trails so that we can make it part
of a much larger trail network. We're also looking to put other
“After riding the trails at the Thomaston Town Forest trails in our area on the map and will continue to seek out new
with my then 9-year old daughter Gabi, it was clear that opportunities!”
mountain biking was something we were going to keep Come ride El Depot, I hope to see some of you in Jackson
doing together, and I wanted to have similar trails closer on the 17th!
to home. When looking at some of Belfast's public land
and thinking of places that would make sense for trails,
the old ski area stood out because of its terrain and
proximity to the rail trail and downtown.”
The initial trails were flagged in the spring, and the hard
work of side cutting the steep slopes began. El Depot was open
as a public ski hill from 1966-1973. A hiking trail was cut in the
90’s on this town property.
Chris speaks on the process of getting permission to create
these trail:
“I joined the city's Pedestrian, Bicycling, and Hiking
Committee and used that platform to gain support for
the idea. Parks and Rec was supportive right away. Jack
Shaida from the Land Trust worked closely with me. In
the Fall of 2020, the City Council voted unanimously,
paving the way for the trail work that began in Spring
of 2021.”
Rod Norberg, new Belfast Area NEMBA member and rider
extraordinaire, guides students from the Ecology Learning
The property at El Depot is not huge (19 acres), but it is Center in building the bridge at El Depot. Photo by Chris
interesting and beautiful. There is a mix of coniferous and Gardner
20 Issue 167 Fall 2021CARRABASSETT REGION ME
come out and race. Without all of you there is no event. There
President
was a lot of uncertainty in 2021 around how many racers would
WARREN GEROW
be allowed and when registration would open. For 2022 regis-
Vice President tration will hopefully return to February and a few more racers
EDWARD GERVAIS can attend. Stay tuned to the social media channels for infor-
mation in the new year.
Secretary
September saw the Eastern States Cup enduro event come
LORI GERENCER
to Sugarloaf, which was an awesome addition to the region and
Treasurer went very well. This event also relied on a charge of volunteers
MARK SCHWARZ to produce and operate, big thanks to all that showed up. There
were large crowds on the mountain and around the base area
After a very early start to riding in Carrabassett Valley all weekend, which was super fun to be a part of. It was great to
Region this summer, the season seemed to fly by and it is hard see the parking lots full of campers and riders buzzing about
to believe we are well into the fall now, being reminded of short throughout the weekend. Thanks to the Sugarloaf crew for
days and riding on damp leafy trails. The western mountain making this happen, and now it is onward to hosting the world
area of Maine was very dry this summer, unlike more southerly in 2022 with a stop by the Enduro World Series in August. If
areas. Fall rain was welcomed for the soils and the rivers, which you enjoyed trail building on the mountain this summer, 2022
were very low. will be another building season.
The summer was busy with several big bike events on the Riding in Carrabassett Valley occurs on a vast area of
calendar after a quiet events season last year. The Tuesday night trails covering many square miles. Somewhat unique in New
group ride was very popular and well attended this summer, England, this wide area is owned by just a handful of landown-
with the last ride taking place at the end of September. Thank ers, including the Town of Carrabassett Valley, the Penobscot
you to Spencer Lee and others who coordinated that ride week- Nation, Sugarloaf, the Sanitary District and The State of Maine,
ly and kept the enthusiasm going and thank you to the Hostel among others. We are very grateful for the use of this land and
of Maine for hosting those rides. Similarly, the Wednesday the ability to develop new trails and ride existing corridors. It is
night Spinnin’ Sugar rides were well attended. Many thanks to more important than ever that we respect these lands and treat
the ladies that have kept that ride rolling for many years now. it as if it is your own. Please be mindful of this as you are out
Group rides are a great way for new riders and riders new to the and about, be nice to others recreating and be respectful of the
area to connect with others and learn the trail networks. resources and land.
The Town trail crew spent a good portion of the summer It will not be long before snow flies and talk turns to fat
with maintenance projects. This included larger projects that bikes, winter grooming and Nordic skiing in the Valley. The
saw reconstruction of areas of existing trails that needed atten- CRNEMBA team hopes you are all safe, active and are getting
tion. Typical smaller drainage and general maintenance and outside as much as possible! See you on the trails!
mowing projects also took place as usual. Later in the summer WARREN GEROW
the crew moved back up to the Stoney Brook zone, which is a
challenging multi-year project that straddles Wyman Township
and the Town of Carrabassett Valley on the south side or Route
27. Planning, permitting, and fundraising have been ongoing for
multiple years at this point. Several sections of trail have been
constructed, which eventually will be linked together. This year
some significant bridge and boardwalk projects were under-
taken with more to be completed. Look for more details and
updates on this new development in 2022.
Other significant trail infrastructure was added to the
Valley this summer on Sugarloaf. Enduro tracks were carved
out under the leadership of Adam Craig with help from numer-
ous volunteers on multiple occasions. A few organized volun-
teer events were held and multiple organically formed efforts
took place. Raw gravity trails were added for hosting an Eastern
Photo by topshots.smugmug.com
States Cup event in September, which included an Enduro
and Downhill event. By all accounts the trails were super well
received by the riders and it is nice to see another segment of
riding being introduced to the Valley. More on the events below.
July saw the return of the Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle
Challenge (CBCC), which was host to a sell-out crowed of 350
racers. An all-new course was rolled out this year with a 50k
loop completed twice by the 100k folks and once by the 50k
racers. The word from the field was the course was excellent,
very challenging until the last drop. This event is the largest
fundraiser of the year for CRNEMBA. The event is produced
entirely by volunteers and relies on an army of volunteers for
race day. A big thank you to all of those involved and those that
New England Mountain Bike Association 21CENTRAL ME
President
CHRIS RILEY
Vice President
DISA FEDOROWICZ, FRANK
JALBERT, MATHEW SWAN
Secretary
GARY HINKLEY
Treasurer
LESLIE WILSON
If it’s raining it must be race day, at least that’s how
the summer seemed to go. Both the Central Maine Cycling
Challenge at Titcomb Mountain in August and the 9th annual
Treadfest celebration in September began under threatening
skies. Riders ignored the weather and despite the adverse con-
ditions appeared happy, smiling all the way. This infectious
enthusiasm brought blue skies and warm sun out just in time
for final laps and awards each time. Riding bikes to support the
trails. It doesn’t get much more symbiotic than that now does it.
While the Odyssey is back this year we elected to forgo the
auction this fall. This year's Odyssey lasted 3 days, October 15th
to the 17th. It’s geographic footprint got trimmed back leaving
off Coburn Woods in Skowhegan but picked up Surry Hill in
Fayette. Thank you Lost Valley in Auburn for hosting our end of
season party and providing a spot to camp!
In trail news Piney Loops, just of the Junk Yard at the Res
in Hallowell, is finished and riding to rave reviews. Titcomb
mountain has had numerous improvements to the tread and
the finish to the Miracle MIle is now oh so sweet. Bond Brook
has several new trail sections including an all new downhill
trail. A bridge between Lizard and 6 Back completes the grand
loop making a return to the stadium unnecessary. Additionally
6 Back is getting a bench cut for a more modern appearance.
Quarry Road is under construction. Several new benched sec-
tions have been roughed in along the Messalonskee. This could
end up being one of the prettiest trails in our forest. On a sad
note we will be losing a substantial portion of Pine Ridge in
Waterville to solar farm development near the Airport. You
can’t stand in the way of progress but you can hope for some
extra mitigation funds.
Plans are in the works for developing a trail system on
Surry Hill in Fayette. We hope to have a teaser for this new area
on tap for the Odyssey.
Winter fatbiking continues to grow in popularity. We are
abandoning the shoestring approach and raising funds for two
new, to us, grooming machines. One for the Allen Whitney for-
est where Josh Staples has been using his own equipment and
the other for York HIll where Brian Alexander has been doing
the same. Winter grooming is incredibly time sensitive not
to mention labor intensive. Support our volunteer groomers.
Donations for this effort will be matched 100%, so in addition
to your hearts please open your wallets. Ride Bikes, Smile often.
IAN
Central Maine Cycling Challenge, Titcomb Mountain. Photo by
Ian Ogilvie
9th annual Treadfest Bond Brook Augusta. Photo by Ian Ogilvie
9th annual Treadfest Bond Brook Augusta. Photo by Ian Ogilvie
22 Issue 167 Fall 2021GREATER PORTLAND ME
President
MATT WARNER
Vice President
SAM MORTON
Secretary
KATHLEEN PIGEON
Treasurer
CASEY BROWN
What has GP NEMBA been up to? Well, let’s see, not much
other than bringing on our first employee in chapter history,
using our Signature Grant to build an awesome new flow trail
in Gorham, building and maintaining miles of singletrack
throughout southern Maine, helping launch a new chapter for
mountain bikers at Lowell Preserve, and the list goes on.
GP NEMBA took a big step this summer by bringing on
our first ever employee. Matthew Keast became a regular sight
on the trails around Blackstrap and Gorham this summer,
always with one trail tool or another in hand. His tenure was
short lived as he departed for school in September, but a big
thank you to Matthew for his hard and to all our members for
the funding that made it happen.
Next, led by Sam Morton and Rob Lavoie, we’ve been
furiously building, improving, and tweaking the new Signature
Trail in Gorham, funded in large part by the NEMBA Signature
Trail Grant. This trail, around and adjacent to the pump track,
is already seeing a lot of love even as improvements continue.
It’s fun for all ages and all levels, so we’ll see you out there.
Our chapter has also been working closely with
Presumpscot Regional Land Trust and the Town of Windham
to reinvent Lowell Preserve as yet another destination for rid-
ers. For those who haven’t checked it out, Lowell has always
been a fun place for some old school (read: rocky, rooty) single
track. Now, PRLT and the Town are dedicated to expanding the
options for mountain bikers, and we’ve been working with them
to make this happen. Stay tuned for some trail days in the com-
ing month or two, and other opportunities to lend a hand.
Finally, Scott Libby, Mike Sandora and Andy Haynes have
been leading regular group rides all summer with awesome
turnout and great feedback. We’re planning on a couple more
weekend rides before the seasons turn altogether so, again,
check out our Facebook page for announcements on group
rides.
The new Signature Trail's gonna take a whole lot of dirt.
Photo by Sam Morton
Looks like we put all that dirt to good use.
Photo by Sam Morton
This is just a really awesome action shot. Photo by Peter Caty
New England Mountain Bike Association 23MIDCOAST ME
and we’d love your input! We want to know about your crazy,
President pie-in-the-sky ideas, and your “Two guys, two Rogue Hoes, two
TREVOR MILLS hour” ideas to improve the trail experiences of all users, both
local and visitors, and families to experts. If you’d like to col-
Secretary laborate on the planning process in anyway, whether its a quick
DARBY UREY idea, or to participate in the plan writing, please reach out to:
Treasurer
STACEY KEEFER
tmills@nemba.org
It's hard to believe fall is already here. As I write this, we
just finished Camden Snow Bowl Trail Fest, in collaboration . We’d also love to add you to our team in other ways as well: a
with our friends at Baxter Outdoors, Trail Runners of Midcoast Board member, a volunteer trail project leader, trail mapping
Maine and Coastal Mountains Land Trust, with impressive rides guru, Trail Forks administrator, social media czar or maybe a
by all, but the Camden Hills High School Mountain Bike team weekly ride leader! If you have an inkling to pitch in, let me
blazing their home rocks and roots, lightly greased for enjoy- know and we’ll find the right fit!
ment by all. Lights are on the charger for the early morning
dawn patrols or the post-work cruise. The changing (and falling)
leaves are already starting to change the visual cues on trail and
as often happens around here, the puddles are draining a little
slower and the ground is a little softer and the rocks are a lit-
tle slimier. You’ve probably noticed that trails seem to dry out
slower in the fall than the summer, but ever wonder why? The
largest factor is the trees are beginning go dormant for winter,
and the trees are generally responsible for removing much of
the surface water we experience while riding. Lack of sunlight
and heat, as well as leaf clogged drains are a factor as well.
This year, MCNEMBA’s focus has been primarily been
maintenance and planning. No new trails were built this year
(except for our partners at Coastal Mountains Land Trust
who are close to opening another segment of the Round the
Mountain trail), but new partnerships and relationships have
been forged. We’ve worked closely with Sidecounty Trails to
coordinate their trail crew and our local riding communities
priorities. We’ve brought our land managers along so they
understand what new opportunities exist with the extra band-
width that Sidecountry Trails brings to the table.
Together, McNEMBA and Sidecountry Trails coordinated
for a full re-tune of the pump track at the Camden Snow Bowl-
after 10 years, it was due. Special thanks to Chris Rogers and
John Anders for leading each of our organizations to get this
highly visual and popular attraction fully tuned, drained and
riding better than ever while demonstrating our commitment
to the Town of Camden to complete high quality projects in
environmentally sensitive areas. Special thanks to all the mem-
bers of our community who contributed time or finances to
the efforts, and thanks to the folks at IMBA for the Dig-In grant
opportunity in the first place!
Sidecountry Trails has led our local efforts at Thomaston
Town Forest, putting significant time, money and love in. These
are where our true beginner trails lie. They’ve been fixing
drainage and sight lines to make it enjoyable in more weath-
er conditions and improve safety of all users, and keep the Pump Track Overhaul. Photo by Chris Rogers
flow flowing! The next building phase in Thomaston is being Pump Track wrap up. Photo by Chris Rogers
planned as we speak, and will improve connectivity to other
trail systems as well explore some amazing terrain, unlike any
of other local trails!
We’ve also been working closely with our land owners and
land managers to plan out what comes next. The local commu-
nity is a strong supporter of mountain biking and is excited to
see and build the future. The McNEMBA Board is working hard
on coming up with a 10 year plan for our local community,
24 Issue 167 Fall 2021PENOBSCOT REGION ME
President Support Local for Local Change
CARSON CARNEY
PRNEMBA held its September chapter meeting at a local
Vice President
brewery (“Not unusual,” you say). Orono Brewing Company is a
DEB MERRILL
rider favorite in the area being practically trailside, and recently
Secretary brewed the “One Bike IPA” for co-owner and PRNEMBA mem-
MICHELE BENOIT ber Abe Furth’s “One Bike Can…” fundraiser with the Bicycle
Coalition of Maine. Abe will ride his mountain bike from
Treasurer
Orono, Maine to Washington D.C. in an effort to raise $50k to
STAN MACARTHUR
fund an earn-a-bike program in our area, as well as support the
standing earn-a-bike program in Portland. Our chapter decided
Summer hitting its peak in Maine spilled into good riding to donate to this cause, matching beers sold on meeting night
and trail days in PRNEMBA territory. Here’s our back-to-school towards the fundraiser.
essay about how we spent our summer vacation.
As we look ahead into a change in seasons and riding
University Trail Day through the beautiful fall foliage New England is known for, we
find ourselves eager to keep building momentum in creating an
Six riders spent a July evening pedaling around with lop- inviting riding community and consistently improving the trails
pers poking out of their packs clearing downed trees on some we all know and love. Board elections are poised for November,
of the regions oldest and most popular trails at the University of giving board members a few quieter months while the sun sets
Maine DeMerritt Forest in Orono. Some trees were cleared by early to hunker down and create a game plan for the spring
eager volunteers wielding handsaws on Novocaine and Gateway, thaw, ensuring the next riding season is even better than the
and others were large enough to warrant a reroute on Voodoo. previous. Until then, we have flannels and lights to don, leaves
A few turns that had been long forgotten were made obvious to both ride through and blow off the trail, and plans to set for
again, and we trimmed back branches that hung throughout our winter grooming to keep tires rolling as the snow begins to fall!
University loops. Others worked to beat back weeds and sap-
lings on a private land access trail connecting to a popular trail
network in Orono. We worked and rode until twilight when the
mosquitoes became too feisty; standard fare in July.
Group Skills Rides Return
In late August, long-time PRNEMBA member Emmy
Monahan (a.k.a, the Duchess of Dirt) led a group of 12 riders
on a skills ride. Emmy’s own words capture the scene. “Today’s
skills ride was a success! Twelve riders participated, ranging
from beginner to advanced, and including gen-z through
boomer. An awesome, enthusiastic, fun loving group! We cov-
ered position & balance, how to maintain cadence for efficien-
cy, and trail scanning, and took each skill to the trails to apply
the technique.” Emmy enjoyed leading the skills ride so much
that she has committed to leading another this fall!
Caribou Bog Conservation Area Trail Days
As September came, temperature and humidity levels fell,
creating great working conditions for double header trail days.
PRNEMBA members and new volunteers worked closely with
Orono Land Trust members to make improvements to a trail
connecting Bangor Hill to Newman Hill in the Caribou Bog
Conservation Area. A Thursday evening well into the dark, and
a Sunday morning fueled by coffee and doughnuts were spent
creating fresh tread and functional drains to divert water away
from the trail tread, as well as fixing problematic areas. These
efforts took an existing trail and revitalized it with options to
excite both old school root and rock hoppers and those search-
ing for flow. The trail still offers up classic New England tech,
plus a new skinny to rock roll A-line for more advanced riders,
but a smoother tread now weaves through and around all the
technical trail features CBCA is known for, creating a B-line Putting the "All Terrain" in All Terrain powered wheelbarrow.
appealing to a much larger swath of riders. Photo by Carson Carney
New England Mountain Bike Association 25You can also read
