2019 Hop-Ev Work Parties
MVTR Volunteers rebuild bridge and install GeoMat at the Hopkinton Everett Riding Area
On May 16, 2019, a work crew of 15 from the Merrimack Valley Trail Riders rebuild a major bridge at the Hopkinton Everett OHRV Riding Area. Damaged from repeated flooding, the bridge was raised to a greater height on new steel I-beams. The bridge is also utilized by the Weare Winter Wanderers snowmobile club trail groomer – a significant load!
The work crew also installed GeoMat to stabilize sections of trail prone to spring time flooding. GeoMat is matrix manufactured of recycled plastic that permits the flow of water, promotes drying of soil, controls erosion, and supports the weight of light vehicles such as trail bikes and ATVs. GeoMat will help keep riders “on the trail” after a summer rain. GeoMat is manufactured here in NH by GeoMatrix, LLC.
The riding area is owned by the Army Corp of Engineers as a flood control facility and leased by the State of New Hampshire for use as multi-use area for both summer and winter use, including OHRV riding. The Corp closes the area during spring flooding and mud season. The Merrimack Valley Trail Riders have maintained the riding area in conjunction with both Weare Winter Wanderers and the state after they developed the area in the early 1980s.
