A new chapter of the International Mountain Bicycling Association has been formed to serve Hot Springs and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains area of Arkansas.
Trail Advocacy Coalition of the Ouachitas, or TACO, was established in response to the need for a local group dedicated to the care of local trails, according to Bucky Monreal, TACO chairman.
"Hot Springs and the surrounding area have long been known for their many high-quality trail systems," Monreal said in a news release. "The recent opening of the Northwoods Trail System in Hot Springs has added to the need for a local group dedicated to the care of our area trails.
"After many months of planning and coordinating efforts with trail enthusiasts within the community -- along with initial financial support from Visit Hot Springs -- we are pleased to announce the creation and integration of the Trail Advocacy Coalition of the Ouachitas as the new local International Mountain Biking Association chapter in the Ouachita area."
TACO is "committed to establishing, enhancing and maintaining an exceptional trail experience for all users," he said, noting the organization will coordinate with local trail stewards and volunteers to plan trail work days.
"We look forward to hosting educational workshops," Monreal said. "Group rides, hikes and runs are already being scheduled. Through these activities, we will strive to strengthen our outdoor community, promote trail sustainability and trail etiquette. We look forward to encouraging and developing the skills and confidence of new trail users of all ages in a supportive and fun environment."
Traci Berry, trails coordinator for Visit Hot Springs said VHS "recognizes the value of having a world-class trail system in the Northwoods Trails along with the traditional and long-loved trail systems such as Cedar Glades, LOViT, Little Blakely and more in our city and surrounding area."
"These trails bring people from far and wide, but we can't stress enough what they do for our community -- the people who live and work here," she said. "It is important that we create a sense of place and work to build our already growing trail using community. TACO will do just that. We are excited to have the Monreals taking the lead and look forward to all the great things to come."
For more information about TACO, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/227474337984355 or email [email protected], or call Berry at 501-321-2027.
Local on 06/02/2019