The Rico Trails Alliance board will convene a virtual meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m. to establish goals and objectives for the 2026 trail season and to consider winter fat‑bike trail grooming. The meeting, to be held by videoconference, is part of the Alliance’s planning for the coming year; meeting access details will be posted by the group ahead of time.

Those agenda items carry implications beyond trail maps and grooming schedules. Setting formal 2026 goals and objectives is a planning exercise that will guide maintenance priorities, volunteer deployment, and stewardship activities across the local trail system. Decisions made by the board will influence whether trails remain accessible and safe for residents and visitors, and how resources are allocated throughout the year.

The discussion about winter fat‑bike grooming reflects a growing interest in maintaining year‑round recreational opportunities in Dolores County. Groomed routes for fat‑bikes can expand outdoor exercise options during snowy months, supporting physical and mental health in a rural community where organized fitness infrastructure is limited. At the same time, winter grooming raises questions about shared use of trails, safety protocols, environmental impact, and the costs of grooming equipment and labor.

For a small, largely volunteer‑dependent trail organization, those questions have practical and equity dimensions. How grooming and maintenance are funded and prioritized can affect who benefits from trails and who is left out. If grooming is concentrated on popular segments near lodging and businesses, for example, residents in more remote parts of the county could see fewer improvements to access. Conversely, thoughtful planning can increase year‑round access for low‑income and older residents who rely on nearby recreational resources for exercise and social connection.

Policy and interagency coordination will also matter. Trail goals and grooming plans may require coordination with land managers and local government, and could influence future funding applications or partnerships. The board’s choices will inform outreach needs, volunteer recruitment, and whether the Alliance pursues grants or other funding mechanisms to sustain expanded winter operations.

Community members interested in how these decisions may affect public health, safety and local outdoor economies should watch for the Alliance’s posted access details and consider participating in the videoconference. The board’s planning for 2026 and its approach to winter grooming will shape how Dolores County residents can use and rely on their trail network through all seasons.