NWTA recently hosted a special “Ride with a Forester” group ride at Rocky Point Trails in the Tualatin Mountain Forest, led by Jake Barker, Oregon State University Extension Forester. The event brought riders together for a unique opportunity to experience the forest from both a recreational and ecological perspective.
Throughout the ride, Jake guided participants through multiple forest stands of varying ages, encouraging riders to observe and discuss the differences between them. Along the way, we explored how forest age influences everything from understory development and plant diversity to overall ecosystem health. Riders learned to identify areas with dense understory vegetation, compare them to stands with little understory growth, and consider how different management practices shape the forests we ride through.
Jake also shared the rich history of land use in the Tualatin Mountain Forest. While much of the recent history has been shaped by timber management and extraction, he emphasized that Indigenous peoples stewarded and utilized these lands for centuries prior to European settlement. Understanding this long history provided important context for the landscape we see today.
The discussion also covered the evolution of forest management practices, including differences between former land managers Longview Fibre and Weyerhaeuser and the current management approach of Oregon State University’s College of Forestry. Participants gained insight into how management goals influence harvest practices, forest structure, and long-term ecological outcomes.
One of the key themes of the ride was the importance of biodiversity and maintaining a variety of forest stand ages within a single landscape. Jake explained how diverse forest conditions create habitat for a wide range of species, including migratory birds, insects, small mammals, and larger wildlife. This diversity contributes to a healthier, more resilient ecosystem and highlights the value of thoughtful, long-term forest stewardship.
The ride also sparked conversations about the dynamic partnership between NWTA and OSU. Recreation plays an important role in the forest, not only by providing opportunities for mountain biking and outdoor enjoyment, but also by creating meaningful connections between people and the natural world. Experiences like this help deepen our understanding of the landscapes we care for and ride through.
NWTA is grateful for our partnership with Oregon State University and for Jake’s willingness to share his expertise with our community. We look forward to future collaborative learning opportunities that continue to connect recreation, stewardship, and education in the forests we all enjoy.
Events like Ride with a Forester are made possible through the support of NWTA members. Membership dollars help fund educational programs, stewardship initiatives, trail maintenance, advocacy efforts, and opportunities that connect our community more deeply with the forests and trails we love.
If you value experiences like this and want to support the continued growth of trail stewardship, recreation, and outdoor education in our region, please consider becoming an NWTA member. Your support helps us build stronger partnerships, care for our trail systems, and create meaningful opportunities for riders to learn, explore, and give back.
Together, we’re building a stronger trail community and a healthier future for our forests.