As Storm Darragh fades into the myriad of storm names mostly forgotten it is becoming evident the longer-term damage caused and what we can do to help. 

The good news is a few weeks on, most forest access routes within the Welsh Government Woodland Estate impacted by Storm Darragh have now been cleared, thanks to recovery efforts led by Natural Resources Wales’ (NRW) land managers and partners. When it comes to MTB trails the story is not so rosy:

Brechfa is still shut and it could be months + (if lucky before opens). NB the volunteers don’t have the right level of permissions due to health and safety to help with the clearing and NRW will have some bigger priorities for a bit. NB Forests need to ensure access is safe and often as commercial entities, they need to protect logging and economic activities. 

Afan is also still shut (latest here) and many trails like Penmchno have diversions in place. Dalby has some trails open and some shut (latest here) so it isn't just Wales impacted. 

Only in December was the full opening of the  Lonesome Pine Trail at Kielder Forest 3 years on from Storm Arwen in November 2021 and Falla Brae Red a popular section in Glentress has only just opened this week since closing in October 2023 when Storm Babet took its toll.

Clearly, with climate change, we can expect more mountain bike trails to be impacted. Also, the erratic and increasingly unpredictable nature of the weather means even smaller-scale storms close trails and bike parks  (often at short notice) to the public making planning a sustainable income harder each year. This weekend is a good example where we aren't quite into the ferocity of named storms but Revolution Bike Park and BikePark Wales have shut for safety. 

Trail associations play a major part in helping maintain and protect our trails and some have the ability to remove dead wood prior to storms which reduces storm damage but many are more restricted. Also, some can access land to help clear post damage whilst others can't. Again some can use proper tools to clear and others it is less permissible. 

There are good reasons for all that but seems like an opportunity for land managers to work closer with trail associations as they both have this vested interest in protecting the land for users. 

The best way to help is of course to get involved with your local trail association. Our MTB Event Calendar has lots of dig day opportunities all across the UK so go get involved in the clean-up and sustaining our trail network.