FARGO, ND (Valley News Live) – After the first snowfall of the year in Fargo-Moorhead, a local nonprofit organization is busy preparing our trails for the rest of the winter season.

Whether you snowshoe, hike, or fatbike, The Trailbuilders has what you need. Since 2010, the volunteer group has maintained trails like MB Johnson, Gooseberry, Horn Park and others.

“Our mission is to build, maintain and promote natural surface trails in the FM region,” said Laurens Robinson, president of The Trailbuilders.

To do this is a very elaborate process. “So what we do is organize a search to find the trail, and then we come in with a final groomer with a snow dog. A snowdog is a machine that is on a single belt, it’s a bit like a snowmobile without skis on it, it just has a track. We stand on a snow groomer platform and ride it! Vice President Tim Krieg explained.

They ride the snow dog and pack down the snow to ensure a smooth journey. “You kind of have to keep it.” It’s different than a summer trail, but once it gets hard and compacted…you could practically ride a Harley on it,” Krieg added.

The organization is currently recovering from a recent theft, in which more than $3,000 worth of equipment was stolen from its warehouse.

The thieves made off with saws, shovels and several other power tools.

A big blow for the small non-profit association.

“Most of the tools that were taken, we use them during the summer months, so it’s not detrimental at the moment that we are short of these tools, but we want to restock them by the time spring arrives,” the vice president said. .

Junkyard Brewing Company will host a Winter Trail Rally at its Moorhead location to help support The Trailbuilders following the theft incident.

The fundraiser will take place on December 5, starting at 5 p.m. Each pint of beer sold at this event will raise $1 for the nonprofit.

In the meantime, they remind you of what you might need to have a successful ride during our cold months.

Robinson said: “It’s important that you have the right clothing and always wear a helmet. It’s also a good idea to have protective glasses. Just be safe and have fun! If you’re going to go, you’re going to have to prepare to be out in the cold for a while! »

In the cold, but still feeling the warmth from the heart of the winter cycling community.

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