Fired up for feedback, UNBC student wants to hear from riders

Atkinson explained that the damage from fires lasts long after they’re over. Wildfires can destroy trails, close highways, and force evacuations. Smoke can stop a ride, and so can work to reduce wildfire risks on the trails.

“It’s also about the chain reaction that happens afterward,” she said. “There are many parts to what happens before, during, and after a fire.”

That chain reaction goes beyond just the trails. Atkinson pointed out that some communities rely on visitors, and when highways close, riders and tourists can’t come.

“Valemount and even McBride were affected by the Jasper wildfire because the highway was closed,” she said. “That’s how they get much of their tourism. It’s not just the riding that’s affected, but also the nature-based tourism these communities depend on.”

The study started as a class assignment. Atkinson said she wrote a research essay in her fourth year, comparing a growing trend with an outdoor activity. She had just begun mountain biking and chose wildfires because they were happening more often.

“My professor thought it was so interesting,” she said. “She asked me if I would do a research project on it. And now she’s my supervisor, Dr. Jennifer Wigglesworth.”

Atkinson said she welcomes riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. Participants will spend about four and a half hours in total, including a two-hour interview, reviewing study materials, and coordinating. Riders can choose a sit-down interview or combine it with a ride-along on the trails. Reviewing the transcript for an hour is optional.

Everyone who does an in-person interview will get a $20 bike shop gift card. Taking part is voluntary, and sessions start in July 2026.

Atkinson said the response so far shows how much riders care. She has posted her research poster in online groups, and it has been shared many times.

“I’m not sure about the numbers, but there’s a big, supportive community,” she said. “There’s a lot of heart here, and many people are interested.”

She hopes the findings will help riding communities and trail crews, and connect outdoor recreation research with wildfire and forestry work. Atkinson said most research like this is done in the U.S., not Canada, so doing it in B.C. is important.

Interviews will continue through September, and Atkinson expects to finish the project by early spring.

Riders interested in taking part can email Atkinson at tatkinson@unbc.ca or contact principal investigator Jennifer Wigglesworth at jennifer.wigglesworth@unbc.ca.

by Dave Branco

Fired up for feedback, UNBC student wants to hear from riders

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