Standing Together for California’s Trails: Navigating the Government Shutdown
Here in California, our shared passion for mountain biking is deeply tied to the health and accessibility of our incredible public lands. As you have likely heard, the U.S. federal government shut down at midnight on October 1. While far from ideal, the government shutdown calls for solidarity and a renewed commitment to responsible stewardship.
Now is the moment to step up and show what our community is made of.
What Does the Government Shutdown Mean for Our Trails and Public Lands?
The immediate effects of a government shutdown can be confusing. The good news is that most of our vital riding spots on National Forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands are generally expected to remain open. Even the gates at our beloved National Parks have been ordered to stay open, a welcome change from past shutdowns.
The catch? Crucial services and personnel will be severely limited or nonexistent:
- Staffing: Most federal staff, from rangers to trail crews, will be furloughed.
- Visitor Services: Information centers and permitting offices will likely be closed.
- Maintenance: Basic maintenance, like restroom cleaning and trash collection, will cease.
- Safety: Search and Rescue (SAR) capabilities may be significantly reduced or delayed.
OCT 2 UPDATE: Volunteer Duties Deemed Essential – All volunteer activities, including trail work, have been reauthorized on our National Forests.
Our Call to Action: Responsible Stewardship
In the absence of our dedicated agency land managers, the responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of riders, hikers, trail runners, and all other recreational users. This is where our trail community shines.
During the government shutdown, we ask every mountain biker and trail steward to elevate their level of personal responsibility:
- Recreate with Extreme Care: With limited SAR resources, every ride must be planned with extra caution. Ride within your ability, check your gear, tell someone where you’re going, and consider riding with a buddy. A moment of caution now can prevent a major incident later.
- Practice Superlative Leave No Trace: Treat every trail, every parking lot, and every rest stop as if you were the only person responsible for it. Pack out ALL trash – yours and anything you find. Carry extra waste bags.
- Respect Infrastructure: In past shutdowns, unstaffed areas have been vulnerable to vandalism and damage, including to toilets and vegetation. We must be the eyes and ears on the ground. Report serious issues when the agencies reopen; for now, focus on protecting the site. If a gate is closed, respect it.
Protecting Our Shared Future
The reality is that our federal land management agencies are already stretched thin. Leaving them unstaffed, even for a short time, risks long-term damage to the places we ride and steward. As a coalition, we stand with our national advocacy partners, like the Outdoor Alliance, in urging lawmakers to swiftly pass appropriations bills that fully fund our public lands and the people who care for them.
This isn’t just about ending a shutdown; it’s about providing the stability and resources necessary for sustainable trail management, effective conservation programs, and continued access for our sport.
Mountain bikers and trail stewards are inherently resilient and resourceful. By committing to greater stewardship during this time, we aren’t just reacting to a situation – we are proactively safeguarding the trails we love. Let’s ride responsibly, look out for one another, and be the best advocates and stewards our public lands could ask for.
What steps are you taking on your next ride to ensure you leave the trails better than you found them?
