<\/p>\n
To move the ball forward on a 10-year dream for expanded trails at Phil\u2019s World, the Southwest Colorado Cycling Association is digging into its wallet.<\/p>\n
The group has donated $5,000 to the local BLM office to help with archaeological surveys on part of the proposed trail expansion.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe donation is an expression of how dedicated we are to the trail project,\u201d said Phil Ayers, of SWCCA. \u201cWe know they have budget strains.\u201d<\/p>\n
The additional survey is needed to avoid cultural sites on the proposed Little Donkey\/Poquito Burrito trail loops south of Stinking Springs area.<\/p>\n
Keeping that section in play has become more important, Ayers said, since a 4-mile section of proposed new trail had to be dropped in the Cash Canyon area because of a nearby golden eagle\u2019s nest.<\/p>\n
The bike club is proposing to double the size of the popular mountain bike park from 26 miles to 50 miles, but the project is awaiting the release of a draft environmental assessment with alternatives from the BLM. It is expected to be completed by this fall.<\/p>\n
The additional survey will also be mapping out private property to adjust trail routes so they stay on BLM land.<\/p>\n
Bike club member Shawn Gregory said grants are being applied for to build the trails pending BLM approvals, and there will be plenty of volunteer hours as well.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has been a challenge working around all the wildlife and archaeology resources in the area, but we are gaining traction on the project now,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
A vast portion of the area where the proposed new trails are planned has historically been a renegade trash dump, Gregory said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur volunteer group has been working with the BLM to clean up this area to provide a more scenic and desirable place for trails,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The proposed new trails offer riding for all ability levels. They do not interfere with existing motorized trail system in the area.<\/p>\n