Central ND News

North Dakota Parks and Recreation will host the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) for a three-day Trail Care School in Bismarck from September 2 to 5, 2025. The event is designed to provide local trail partners with education and practical training on sustainable trail design and maintenance.

The program will bring together volunteers, club leaders, land managers, and nonprofit partners. Participants will attend classroom workshops followed by hands-on field training at the trail near Chief Looking’s Village in Bismarck. IMBA instructors will lead sessions focused on modern trail construction, drainage strategies, and assessment methods.

"The goal of IMBA Education is to empower you, Trail Champions, with the knowledge and tools to lead sustainable trail development, foster strong collaborations within your communities, and collectively build & maintain great places to ride mountain bikes for generations to come,” said IMBA Education Manager Joanna Fetherolf.

IMBA’s Trail Care Schools are part of its broader mission to encourage sustainable stewardship of trails across the country.

“Programs like this give trail leaders across our state the tools and hands-on experience they need to protect and improve our trails, ensuring these outdoor spaces remain vibrant and accessible for everyone,” said Tony Hillig, recreation chief for North Dakota Parks and Recreation.

A range of partners from federal, state, local, tribal, and private organizations are expected to participate in the training. These include the US Forest Service; North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department; North Dakota Forest Service; Bismarck Parks and Recreation; Mandan/Hidatsa/Arikara (MHA) Nation; North Country Trail Association; Save the Maah Daah Hey Trail Association; Maah Daah Hey Trail Association; Turtle Mountain Trails Association; Central Dakota Cyclist Club; and Badland Conservation Alliance.

The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department states its mission is "to enrich generations through experiences that connect people and places."

According to IMBA's description of its work since 1988, it has led efforts in mountain bike advocacy with a focus on increasing access to trails throughout the United States. The organization promotes low-impact riding practices as well as collaboration among different groups using trails. More information about IMBA can be found at https://www.imba.com/.