RI-NEMBA began in August of 1997 when about 30 concerned mountain bikers met at a local bike shop to discuss what we needed to do to keep our favorite trails in Arcadia Management Area open. We organized and created a unified voice for RI mountain bikers. Over time we have developed positive relationships with the AMA land manager and other user groups especially the local AMC chapter. At this time these positive relationships have helped to keep our favorite trails open. Currently we are 80 members strong and growing. We attract members from all over RI and from Southeastern Connecticut.

One of our favorite places to ride is the Arcadia Management Area in Southern RI. Arcadia includes great trails for all levels of riders. In addition to riding these trails, we have logged over 300 trail maintenance hours in Arcadia. Our first project was in June of 1998 when we built a bridge on Sand Hill Trail. Since then we have put in seven additional bridges including two during joint workdays with AMC. We also enjoy riding in Big River and Burlingame and are looking forward to expanding our trail maintenance efforts to these areas.

We hold an EFTA/NEMBA arrowed fun ride in May and have started a few weekly ride series. In 2001 we hope to expand our weekly ride series to include more ride leaders and additional riding areas. In September, we hold an Annual Meeting/Fun Ride/Cookout for members and potential members. This event was a huge success in 2000 that we hope to build on in 2001. Check out our web site over the summer for additional information about this event.

In August of 1999 the RI-NEMBA Patrol was created to patrol the Arcadia Management Area. After a successful year with a small group of patrollers we are looking to expand the patrol so we can have more people on the trails during peak riding times.

Hunting Season is every day from the second Saturday in October until the last day of February. To ride in RI you need to wear 200" of orange (Yes even on Sundays).