Editor:
In regards to Warren Hansen’s letter last week (“ELF does not speak for mountain bikers”), I oppose his view and misleading comments that mountain bikers in general support logging and look to the Community Forest as support for the recreational community. He has no grounds to speak for the majority who frequent the trails for biking or other outdoor activities.
The attempt to indicate that trails are built better after logging is simply not true. He mentions that the Frogger trail was improved by the Community Forest and that the maintenance issues are due to motorized trail riding. A single-track trail with challenges to stimulate and accommodate mountain bikers would deter this unwanted traffic. Unfortunately a clearcut will invite more motorized vehicles.
The majority of the most beautiful trails are built by mountain bikers who love the experience of riding in these glorious forests. And the hikers and runners who frequent these areas also benefit.
Riding trails that have been interrupted with logging is a most unpleasant experience. I, and the many mountain bikers I know, support ELF’s efforts to preserve our forests for their beauty and diversity. There are other locations for logging that are outside the proposed Elphinstone Provincial Park boundary and our community watershed that will avoid the destruction of the local trail networks and can preserve our drinking water.
Marilyn Olthuis, Roberts Creek
