FMC News – July 2009

FMC Bulletin Survey

The Federation is planning to contact all clubs and individual members to seek suggestions on how our flagship publication, under the expert editorship of Shaun Barnett, could be further improved. For example: What additional features would you like to see? Have you any ideas about improved format, or even a name change? Expect to receive a survey form shortly.

Topo50 Maps

LINZ has announced that the release date for the new Topo50 Map series is 23 September 2009. All clubs have been sent information directly from LINZ outlining the reasons for the new release and why they should be used from 23 September. If your club has not seen this information then you can download it from our website, www.fmc.org.nz/services/maps. In early September, we will be sending to all clubs an order form so that clubs can order supplies of the new maps through Federated Mountain Clubs at a considerably reduced price. In order to achieve this reduced price clubs will be asked to collate orders from their members and submit one order per club. The more maps a club orders then the cheaper the price per map will be. For further information on the new map codes and map details go to www.linz.govt.nz/topo50

Central Kaimanawa Access

Executive members Viv Milne and Barbara Morris have had a meeting with the Department of Conservation with a view to improving tramping access across the private blocks in the Central Kaimanawas. The Department has undertaken in its management plan to negotiate public access to the park. Any clubs who have had problems with access and those who have obtained satisfactory access across the central private land should contact Viv or Barbara.

Mountain Biking Developments – Consultation on Shared Tramping Tracks and New Bike Tracks

Federated Mountain Clubs is pleased that DOC has listened to both our and MTBNZ’s concerns about consultation processes regarding mountain biking tracks on conservation lands. DOC also plan to let their area staff know that groups such as Federated Mountain Clubs and MTBNZ wish to be consulted before decisions are made on converting walking/tramping tracks into dual-use tracks, or when new mountain biking tracks are planned. We appreciate this action by the department and look forward to an improved consultation process in the future. If you feel this is not happening in your area, please contact Executive member, Barbara Morris.

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