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 controlling erosion on-site and protecting downstream water quality
• Mitigate preexisting 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 irresponsibly
• 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