NRTP Board Meeting #1 - 2/9/26

Minutes

Attendees:

Emily Strizich (Chair), Kenny Markwardt (Vice Chair), Nick Bandy, Leo

Schmeltzer(Treasurer), Greg Williams, Ryan Zimmer, Ben Nachlas (Secretary)

The meeting opened with recognition of the unique opportunity NRTP has to fulfill its

mission. Board members introduced themselves and shared their backgrounds and their

“why”.

The Board reviewed NRTP’s origin: formed to unite diverse recreation user groups

(motorized, non-motorized, equestrian, etc.) into a collaborative stewardship coalition.

NRTP does not replace existing organizations but works alongside them.

The Mission Statement was reviewed and unanimously adopted without amendment. Mission

statement is: The Northern Rockies Trail Project unites all trail users—motorized and non-

motorized—to steward public lands through hands-on work. By representing diverse user groups and

streamlining coordination with land managers, NRTP builds durable partnerships, resilient trail systems,

and stronger communities.

The Board clarified NRTP’s relationship with Pend Oreille Pedalers (POP). While each

represent distinct organizations with separate missions, they share values and will

collaborate. In short, POP will continue to pursue nonmotorized grants and the Trail

Project will pursue motorized and multiuse dollars. POP and the interests of cyclists will

continue to be represented in the work the NRTP does as valuable community partners. It

was agreed by all that “a rising tide lifts all boats” and we’ll continue to seek ways to

partner and support POP as we would other user groups like ITA, Backcountry

Horseman, etc. NRTP serves a broader recreation base, including motorized users,

hikers, horseback riders, and over-snow travelers.

IDPR’s grant allocation model is 40% multi-use, 30% motorized, and 30% non-motorized. The organization also aims to help

fill gaps created by reduced federal and state land management funding and staffing.

The Bylaws were presented and unanimously adopted.

The Board discussed refining its “elevator pitch” to better communicate the mission and

agreed to revisit it. Transparency, outreach, and education were identified as foundational

priorities. Communication strategies include the website, social media, newsletters, print

media, and potentially highlighting “local legends” to promote stewardship awareness.

First-Year Strategic Priorities

NRTP aims to build credibility with land managers, develop cross-user partnerships, and

secure funding for operational stability. Three pilot projects were proposed:

1. Canfield – Coeur d’Alene, ID

In partnership with Lake City Trails Alliance, the project begins with planning and

flagging 3 miles of new non-motorized mountain bike trail. Over four years, expansion

includes 10 additional miles of non-motorized trail and 12 miles of motorized trail

extending toward southern Lake Pend Oreille.

2. USFS Partnership

NRTP will partner with the U.S. Forest Service to assemble approximately five trail

ranger crews to survey and clear existing trails across Bonners Ferry, Priest River,

Sandpoint, CDA, and St. Joe. Work includes logging out, brushing, clearing, and

conducting conditional surveys to document trail conditions. Efforts will complement

work by organizations such as Backcountry Horsemen and POP.

3. HooDoo – Priest River, ID

Phase one includes construction and maintenance of 3 miles of multi-use trail on Idaho

Department of Lands property. The system builds on heavily used but under-managed

trails currently suffering from overuse. State funding supports improved parking, safety,

and access.

Organizational Structure & Funding

NRTP operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Existing and potential state and federal grants

were discussed, along with the need for continued fundraising. To clarify its relationship

with Notorious DIG LLC (an independent trail building business), the Board suggested

creating a separate explanatory website.

The meeting closed with reaffirmation of NRTP’s values, review of immediate priorities,

and discussion of subcommittees. The next meeting was scheduled for March 9.

The meeting was adjourned.