Ranger Corps report and growing e-bike concerns prompt board referral for study

Directors heard a written Ranger Corps update from staff covering recent trail management work and education programs, and spent substantial time discussing trail safety concerns related to e-bikes.

Miss Huber's update summarized ranger activities over recent months: increased rattlesnake sightings and related relocations and education; Trails Education Days that bring fourth graders to Wildwood Park to learn trail etiquette and natural-history lessons; volunteer trail workdays and Earth Month projects; and staff participation in multi-week Natural Resource Interpretation training and trail-building courses.

Board members asked about the impact of recent nearby fires; staff said no agency property burned but neighboring parcels were affected and some areas were closed briefly to support emergency operations.

In board comments, Director Nichols relayed community reports that equestrians are avoiding some trails because higher-speed or unregulated electric bicycles and electric motorcycles can startle horses. Directors discussed options including expanded education, regulatory approaches, and enforcement; Director Huffer asked the agency attorney to clarify whether e-bikes are legally motorized. Agency counsel Mr. Brick cautioned that classification depends on e-bike class and recommended staff agendize a formal study involving law enforcement so the board can consider evidence and enforcement options.

No formal action was taken tonight; directors asked staff to return with a properly agendized item that includes legal and enforcement perspectives.