August 4th, 2008 by

adam

Take Action

Dear Gregg,IMBA celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Two decades of advocacy have resulted in numerous successes for our sport, driven by our family of tireless, passionate advocates. But don’t kid yourself — mountain biking still faces substantial threats. Consider the assault that was recently published in an environmental science journal, just months ago: “Whether it be by means of legislation to ban mountain bikers from forests permanently, at the cost of major fines or worse, or by means of freeriders getting this message from forest advocates like myself, something needs to change.”Numerous threats like these are why I am asking for your help today. IMBA needs your voice and your contribution to help argue our case in the halls of government and arm our legal team with scientific research to defend against ill-founded claims that mountain bikers cause excessive environmental impact. Join us in protecting your right to ride today by donating to IMBA’s Legal Advocacy Fund. Your gift will help support critical projects like these:

Negotiate for bike-friendly land protection. IMBA believes trail access for mountain bikes and land protection are compatible—even synergistic.

Send IMBA’s professional advocates to the halls of Congress in Washington, DC, during the next president’s transition into office, to build relationships with officials that will affect land use, trail funding and ultimately access for mountain bikers.

Use scientific research to demonstrate that mountain bicyclists are compatible with other trail users and do not pose a liability risk.

IMBA has led the fight for fair trail access for the past 20 years. We’ve laid the political groundwork and are in the midst of a crucial time for protecting our public lands and mountain bikers’ legitimate access to trails. We go to Washington, we draft legal arguments and we testify before Congress. Shaping federal policies requires a professional approach to legal advocacy — and your critical support.

Your donation to IMBA’s Legal Advocacy Fund will help expand and improve our role as mountain biking’s champion. We’re confident you’ll feel your tax-deductible donation is a wise investment in the future of our sport.

Thank you for your continuing generosity,

Mike Van Abel
Executive Director