IMBA releases new management book

IMBA released a 256 page book this week called "Managing Mountain Biking: IMBA's Guide to Providing Great Riding," to guide mountain bikers seeking solutions to common trail management problems. The book covers topics like planning for a successful trail system, building successful partnerships, minimizing user conflict, reducing environmental impact, and managing risk and liability, and tips for providing technically challenging trails.

With 270 color photos and 25 illustrations, the book details a collection of best practices for planning, designing, and managing successful trail networks and bike parks. More than 50 experts including land managers, recreation ecologists, professional trailbuilders, and experienced advocates contributed to the book, and success stories from around the globe provide examples of effective trail management.

The book expands on "Trail Solutions: IMBA's Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack," which was published by IMBA in 2004. While that book focused on trail construction, "Managing Mountain Biking" focuses on solving mountain biking issues through trail design, effective partnerships, and visitor management strategies.

The project was supported by a grant from the U.S. Federal Highway Administration's Recreational Trails Program (RTP) along with sponsorship from the National Park Service Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance program and the states of Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Minnesota. The book is available exclusively through IMBA and costs $35. Discounts are available to IMBA members and those purchasing higher quantities.