Executive Director’s Statement on the MMWD Settlement Regarding Pilot Trails
Executive Director’s Statement on the MMWD Settlement Regarding Pilot Trails
Last night, Marin’s mountain bike community faced a significant setback. A settlement was reached between the Marin Conservation League, California Native Plant Society, and Marin Audubon Society, and the Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD). This decision rescinds the Pilot Trail initiative, which would have allowed bike access to 6.3 miles of singletrack trail. This was a modest step forward out of the 60 miles of trail that MMWD manages..
We are grateful that the two-year pilot study for Class 1 eMTBs was approved and will begin on July 1. However, the loss of the Pilot Trail project is deeply disappointing. Many of us invested years of time and effort into the Recreation Management Plan process, with the hope that it would lead to fair and thoughtful trail access for all users.
The pilot program represented a collaborative effort that included trail users of all ages, from young kids to lifelong riders. Our community attended meetings, volunteered for trail work, and offered real solutions. Together we improved trail safety and sustainability by opening sight lines, fixing erosion, and forming new partnerships with Watershed staff. The energy and goodwill were real and meaningful.
It is frustrating that the very organizations who participated throughout this process ultimately chose to litigate instead of continuing in good faith. At no point during the Recreation Management Plan discussions did they publicly express concern that the 2005 Road and Trail Management Plan was insufficient. Nor did they indicate that they might file a legal challenge if trail access expanded.
Now the result is clear. The community is left with higher fines, more signs restricting bikes, and fewer legal options for trail use. This decision damages the trust that many had in a fair and inclusive process.
Despite this outcome, Access4Bikes remains committed to progress. We believe in trail access that is equitable, responsible, and science-based. We will continue to advocate with data, integrity, and persistence.
To everyone who spoke up, volunteered, and stayed engaged, thank you. Your efforts are not lost. They laid the groundwork for what comes next.
We are not giving up. We are regrouping. We are committed to ensuring that mountain bikers are not just seen, but heard and respected. In the coming weeks, we will share updates and actions you can take to help move us forward. This is a setback, but it is not the end.
Vernon Huffman
Executive Director, Access4Bikes