However, there is one fundamental aspect that is often overlooked: the paths. Without them, we would have nowhere to put our wheels.
With this interview to Edoardo Melchiori of IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association), we want to inaugurate a path of study on a key figure for our enjoyment: the Trail Builder.
In recent years, this profession has evolved significantly, in parallel with the growth of MTB as a resource for the tourist development of many locations. If once the volunteer with blower and rake took care of cleaning pre-existing trails, today the trail builder is an increasingly specialized figure, who must interface with municipal administrations, tourist boards, natural parks and other institutions.
We chose to start with IMBA because it represents a point of reference to better understand the current situation of this fundamental sector.
Interview with Edoardo Melchiori of IMBA
How do you judge the evolution of trail building in recent years?
Hi Marco! IMBA has been operating in Italy for 10 years and in this time we have witnessed a great evolution in the MTB world. Today the sector is more mature and aware of the opportunities it offers. The approach to our courses has also changed: initially, the questions were focused on how to build jumps and banks, while now there is a greater attention to bureaucratic aspects, permits and trail maintenance management. In short, the awareness of how important it is to have a broader vision of trail management is growing.
Why is it important to have a well-done trail building project?
A well-designed trail guarantees more harmonious, safe and sustainable trails over time. One of the most common mistakes is to build trails without an adequate strategy, which leads to a greater need for maintenance due to soil erosion and water runoff.
How important is the relationship with institutions?
Fundamental. Having a good relationship with the institutions helps to overcome bureaucratic obstacles, manage any conflicts with landowners and access funding. Furthermore, it can be useful to raise awareness among those who still see MTB as a problem rather than an opportunity.
Has the number of professional trail builders increased over the years?
Yes. When we started, in Italy there were no professionals dedicated exclusively to this activity. Today things have changed and the trail builder can choose between two paths: work as an employee for a location, alternating summer trail building with other winter activities, or undertake a freelance career. The latter is certainly more stimulating, but involves a more nomadic and uncertain life.
IMBA is often criticized because its rules are thought to require “flat” trails and limited slopes. What do you say?
This is a misunderstanding. Following our guidelines does not mean using a bulldozer or leveling the ground. Rather, it is about designing trails with minimal environmental impact, capable of standing the test of time without requiring constant maintenance. Of course, on very steep slopes it will be difficult to create a trail accessible to all, but with the right precautions, a sustainable route can still be achieved.
How do you rate the new civil liability rules in the Aosta Valley?
This is a step forward. Civil liability on trails has often been used as a pretext to hinder the spread of MTB. In reality, cases of complaints against landowners have been very rare. This rule removes an alibi for those who oppose trails and we hope it will soon be extended to the entire national territory.
One of the main problems is to quantify the economic impact of a bike area. How can this be done?
Where there are ski lifts it is easier, but elsewhere it is more complicated. An effective method is the use of advanced pass counting systems, which distinguish between bikers, pedestrians and animals. This data allows us to estimate the flow of visitors, plan investments and demonstrate the economic value of MTB for the territory. However, in-depth studies are still lacking to precisely quantify the economic impact of each euro invested.
This interview highlights how the trail building has become a key element for the development of MTB, not only from a sporting point of view but also from an economic and touristic one. The growth of this discipline passes through the professionalization of the trail builders, the collaboration with the institutions and a greater awareness of good management practices.
Stay tuned for more insights on this topic! 🚵♂️
For information on courses: https://www.imba-italia.org/
