IMBA/SORBA-CSRA NMBP

[imnav8r]

Just a note to let folks know we are well on our way to re-establishing the IMBA National Mountain Bike Patrol (NMBP) for our local chapter.

Some chapter members are already members of the NMBP and an effort is being made to add to their numbers to make the presence of the bike patrol more visible.

A small group of five took the NMBP Patroller course yesterday provided by SORBA. A few need to be recertified in First Aid and CPR which will take place next month. After successful completion of the NMBP test, we'll have a crew of bike patrol volunteers ready to offer assistance, directions, first aid, and tools for basic repairs to anyone who needs it while riding the local trails.

Another class is planned to be held in a couple of months so anyone who missed this class and would like to become part of the NMBP, please let Charlie Mock, Paul Farrow,or myself know and we'll get you signed up.

For additional information about becoming part of the NMBP or if you'd just like to learn more about it, visit the IMBA/SORBA website at www.imba.com/nmbp/index.html

See you on the trail,
John Liebe

[Sasquatch]

Does NMBP do any Search & Rescue??
Just curious because I really want to get my german shepherd/hound trained for search & rescue. Between the wilderness survival training I've had and Smokie's nose and running distance (about 15 miles running before she is ready to head for the truck) I think we'd be doing pretty good at S&R

[imnav8r]

That's an excellent question and a great idea. But so far, in the material I have read about the NMBP I have seen nothing regarding this topic.

When I get back in town, I'll check with IMBA to see if they have any information about it.

Please let me know if you'd like to become a part of the NMBP. So far I have 4 people interested in taking the training class. When we get the training materials downloaded from IMBA, we'll be ready to schedule a new class within the next few months.

In the meantime, check out the NMBP link at IMBA.com to learn more about the NMBP.

Thanks,
JL

[Sasquatch]

Yeah, I've browsed through that information before. I'd possibly be interested in doing NMBP. Just let me know a few weeks in advance when you are planning to do the classes. My schedule is pretty tight between being a full-time student, working, and trying to find a real job in this miserable economy, but if I have enough advance notice I should be able to make it.

[dgaddis1]

John - I'm interested as well. I'll also need some heads on when the class will be. I'm traveling a lot with work right now. I'm in my 2nd week in Colorado now, got two more here, then I may be going off to Texas for a while. Or where ever there's work

Hopefully I wont have to do this too much longer though...

[imnav8r]

I'll add you to my list guys! I'm glad to hear you both are interested in the NMBP. I'm on the road myself having to spend this week in Scottsdale, AZ. Tough duty I know but I'd rather be home riding my bike! I should be home Friday afternoon. Next month, it's a return trip to El Paso for a week and a half.

And Lander, we can certainly use you on the trails that are closer to your location as well. You are closer to LCHT and HKSP and as far as I know, Greenwood doesn't have a group of NMBP members yet so you can be the first. And certainly come patrol the trails around here too when you can as time and circumstances allow. But first, we'll have to get you trained.

Just keep an eye on this message board and I will give plenty of notice for when the next class will be held.

Thanks again for your interest!

JL

[imnav8r]

After completing and receiving my certificate for CPR/First Aid training, I sent off my NMBP membership application today. I requested the training material used to conduct bike patrol classes and hopefully will receive that within a few weeks.

Then I'll be able to post upcoming training sessions for those interested.

Thanks for your continued interest!

JL

[charlesjm3]

I just wanted to comment on the Search and Rescue. NMBP members have helped out in search and rescues in other areas, the NMBP class does not actually teach the skills involved in search and rescue, but we as the CSRA NMBP can obtain or offer the training if we incorporate it into our group. The more training and assistance we can offer to land managers the better we look.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Charlie Mock

[imnav8r]

I did some digging around on the IMBA/NMBP website today and located this information concerning Search & Rescue.

Mountain Bike Search and Rescue Training Manual
While search and rescue (SAR) is not a primary or required function of a mountain bike patrol unit, it is a valuable skill that patrollers can use to serve their trail community and promote a positive image of mountain bikers. This manual, submitted by the Backcountry Trail Patrol, is a detailed primer on the ways that mountain bike patrols can execute effective SAR campaigns.

There's a .pdf file you can download about it at www.imba.com/nmbp/resources/manuals.html

Hope this helps!

JL