American River Parkway Bike Patrol Hits the Trails
Aug 12, 2020 12:00AM ● By By Ken Casparis, Sacramento County
The American River Bike Patrol will help maintain a safe and enjoyable trail for all visitors. Photo: American River Bike Patrol
SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - This past February, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors voted to authorize the establishment of the American River Bike Patrol to watch over the bike trails on the American River Parkway. The volunteer Bike Patrol, organized by the National Ski Patrol (NSP), has recruited and trained members and began patrolling the trails in July.
The patrol’s 55 volunteer members were trained by the NSP in first-aid, CPR and basic bicycle repair. Regional Parks Rangers helped to train volunteers on expected trail etiquette. All volunteers are required to wear a volunteer bicycle patrol uniform, distinguishing themselves from regular users of the trail. NSP coordinates bicycle trail volunteer schedules with Regional Parks.
“We are excited for these volunteers to hit the trails to help teach trail users about trail safety and etiquette,” said Liz Bellas, Director of Regional Parks. “We have seen an increase in new trail users this year and these new users don’t always know proper trail etiquette, which can be dangerous for other trail users. The Bike Patrol members will be great educational resources.”
“We are delighted to be part of the Parkway team and our agenda focuses on safety; safe cycling, safe walking and family enjoyment on the trail,” said Jim Cheng, Bike Patrol Representative.
Members of the Bike Patrol will act as trail ambassadors providing directional advice, equipment assistance, safety insights and bike safety programs, assistance with events and first-aid services.
Similar volunteer trail programs exist throughout the state, including the American River Parkway Equestrian Patrol, Fort Ord Friends, East Bay Regional Park District Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol, Oakland Bike Patrol, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area Mountain Bike Patrol, Marin Open Space Bike Patrol, and Tahoe Bike Patrol.
If you see one of the Bike Patrol members while out on our trails, make sure you wave and say hello as you pass! For more information on the bike patrol, visit their website.
