Project RIDGERIDER was developed by the Allegheny Ridge Corporation and its partners to offer to a combined approach to two issues in Pennsylvania.

Reclamation of abandoned mine lands(AML)
Responsible multi-use trail development

RIDGERIDER Envisions New Possibilities

Reclamation and Recreation

By coupling two concerns that are not usually thought of in the same frame of reference, Ridge RIDER envisions new possibilities for supporting AML reclamation while improving the region's recreational resources and helping curb the problem of motorized trail riding in inappropriate areas.

With an ever-growing population of off-highway vehicle (OHV) users who are willing to pay to recreate on legal riding areas, there is potential to accommodate this demand in such a way that will create economic growth and environmental benefit in Pennsylvania.

With proper design and management, multi-use riding areas could be developed on (AML) sites in such a way as to:

Minimize the impact of motorized trail use by controling erosion on-site and protecting downstream water quality

Mitigate pre-existing abandoned mine drainage(AMD) and/or erosion problems

Re-vegitate AML Sites (where applicable) with native flora and fauna

Improve on-site habitat for native species

Educate OHV users about their role in environmental stewardship and the potential damage their sport can cause when exercised irresponsibily

Provide fun and challenging trails which will encourage riders to utilize intended sites instead of disturbing environmentally sensitive or restricted areas

Create opportunities for 'coal patch' communities to grow by providing services and accommodation to to trail users

Environmentally Sensitive OHV Trails

Creation of A Statewide Alliance

Since 1999, Project Ridge RIDER has worked hand-in-hand with the OHV and conservation communities to provide a positive, greener future for Pennsylvania. To date, Ridge RIDER has:

Raised widespread awareness about the many potential benefits of developing environmentally sensitive OHV trails on abandoned mine lands. This innovative solution has been well-received by the media, at various meetings of diverse organizations throughout the state, at the Ridge RIDER 2000 Conference, and in the Pennsylvania Legislative Assembly.

Facilitated the creation of a statewide alliance of Pennsylvania OHV clubs, known as the Pennsylania Off-Highway Vehicle Association, which will partner with Ridge RIDER in developing opportunities for OHV-user education and safety training. Also, this partnership will conduct public relations efforts which focus on the positive aspects of safe, environmentally responsible OHV use.

Conducted the Ridge RIDER 2000 Conference, a public forum which brought together conservationists, recreation specialists, AML experts, wildlife biologists, and OHV enthusiasts together under the same roof for the first time ever in Pennsylvania. At Ridge RIDER 2000, the groundwork was laid for a long-term partnership between conservationists, state agencies, and the OHV community.

Other Allegheny Rigde Corporation Projects Allegheny Ridge Education and Outreach Pittsburgh-Harrisburg Greenway Altoona Heritage Discovery Center