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How recreation contributes to conservation
This article was recently posted on MTBA. The first couple paragraphs say a lot:
A body of empirical, scientific studies now indicates that mountain biking is no more damaging than other forms of recreation, including hiking. Thus, managers who prohibit bicycle use (while allowing hiking) based on impacts to trails, soils, wildlife or vegetation are acting without sound, scientific backing.
The wisdom of prohibiting particular user groups in order to satisfy the desires of other groups is a matter for politics rather than science.
Full article is here:
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What a great article, this should be compulsory reading for everyone that has control over the use of public land.
Two points that really stand out for me are,
1. That about 40% of MTBers are over 40 years old, all these fit mature folk will help to take the strain off the health system, so this should be encouraged, with more access MTB would certainly grow.
2. Copied from the link Rob posted
" The 7stanes project is seven locations in southern Scotland offering a total of 400km of trails
attracting 400,000 visitors by 2007 spending $9.29 million in the region. www.7stanes.gov.uk"
"Rotorua centrally located in the north island of New Zealand has 65km of purpose built mountain bike
trails attracting 6,500 visitors annually who spend $4.35 million in town. www.riderotorua.com"
It would great to know the cost involved in setting up and maintaining the single track in Rotorua.
Whatever it was, it sounds like a great investment!
Oh but we couldn't do that here, could we?
John.
Our Ruddy govt and Rees govt talk of nation building - and all they do is build roads, announce train lines with no funding, insulate houses, but miss the point - nation building is about building infrastructure that generates income, raising the productive capacity for the mid to long term.
Seems other countries like NZ, wales, scotland, canada, get it. While Rudd is out there talking carbon capture, like a flea talking to dogs. grrr.