28 Feb 2008

FFRA is no more as we have decided to merge with the CVMBA.

28 Feb 2008

27 Feb 2008

Have gotten about 50 feet of the bottom of Space Nugget done since last entry. Using roots as cribs the organic matter is removed and rocks and gravel filled back in. It looks very good and protects that section of trail very well. Pics soon.

Big Log is Finished 23 Feb

The classic legendary log ride on Big Log is complete and renovated. The rot was removed as much as possible and brodged to spread the load down through the new supports into the ground. Each support was set onto a bed of rock and sand and dug down to no less than 18 " deep. There was over 50 feet of new stringers and slats replaced and the rock and crib was resanded and tamped to lock it all in securely. The light rain helped with that too.
The FFRA has recruited two more volunteers for future projects and through meetings with the United Trail Riders of Cumberland and Comox Valley Mountain Biking groups has led to future collaborations between the FFRA and other respected trail builders. The next project to be planned out is the bottom of Space Nugget where erosion has damaged roots and made the trail very battered. Using the roots as cribs, rock will be placed between to protect the trees and to armour the trail.

Feb 22 2008 - The Big Log project has begun!

• The first 20 foot existing section has been repaired and a new armoured entry/exit ramp was carved out of the rotten cedar. The old wood was carved out and replaced with layers of rock bedded in sand with a retaining crib made of treefall and cedar. A new stringer replaced a rotten original and treads were resecured. New supports spread the load away from the rotten filling and down into the ground. The supports were dug in and placed onto a rock foundation before refilling the holes. Only 50 feet to go!

The beginning.....

The Forbidden Freeriders Association has unofficially been created today, the 21st February 2008 by the forbidden freerider as the first member and creator in Courtenay, BC, Canada.

AIMS: The FFRA aims to maintain and create mountain bike trails in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada and to promote the sport of mountain biking through public awareness and public event production featuring the new and existing trail network here in the Comox Valley.

WHAT WE DO: Trail construction techniques utilize environmentally sensitive methods and are built to withstand prolonged abuse and require low maintainance. Materials used in the construction are locally sourced and often part of other trail maintainance, such as wind fallen trees used to create wood stocks for hand-made structures, rather than importing stocks from unsustainable sources.

WHO PAYS? The FFRA is a non-profit organization and seeks funding from local businesses and community members to fulfill it's obligations to maintain a trail network for the local community. The chief costs to offset are nails, wood and transportation. All monies collected from donations and event profits are incorporated into the FFRA's operating budget. Labour is provided by volunteers dedicated to providing the community with trails for walkers, hikers, bikers and for anyone wishing to enjoy the forests, mountains and local historical attractions.

CURRENT ACTIVITIES: The FFRA is in discussions with several sponsor businesses to fund a project within The Cumberland Forest. The trail 'Big Log' incorporates a 75 foot long cedar logride which is in serious need of rebuilding in a safe and strong manner. This particular log ride is used by many young and upcoming mountain bike riders because the structure is designed to safely highlight some of the technical riding skills needed further up the mountain. The structure is built for beginners and those eager to learn the amazing skills needed to freeride successfully. The adjacent trail is frequented by many walkers and will be maintained at the same time.