MTB Legal Victory in MT

Don Amador on OHV Trail

The Recreation HQ believes that MTB, eMTB, and OHV trail access interests have a lot in common and commends the joint effort between MTB , OHV, and OSV interests to mount a legal challenge against recent trail and area closures on the Bitterroot National Forest.

The BRC has posted a statement from the Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists about MTB success in the legal effort where the court directs the agency to review their MTB restrictions.

LINK TO BBC STATEMENT and COURT ORDER

https://sharetrails.org/alert/montana-court-remands-flawed-bitterroot-travel-plan/

Here is a News Article about the Decision

https://missoulian.com/news/local/still-no-snowmobiles-allowed-in-bitterroot-forest-but-bike-ban/article_583b4db3-5296-5200-beaa-9d2c9f85bb2f.html

It's true that OHV and OSV got the short end of the stick on this travel plan, but at least the court is directing the agency to do it over regarding the MTB trail closures.  A win for one of the trail groups could be considered a win for all of the plantiffs in this case. "A rising tide lifts all trails..."

The Recreation HQ believes joint efforts like this between MTB, OHV, and OSV recreation groups could be a growing trend in trail-based litigation.  It is not just the cross-over use between vehicles, but there is a common bond/interest in preserving historic access to public lands.   Working together is more effective and productive.