Tomáš Kvasnička
Interview with Tomáš Kvasnička
He gained experience in strategic trail planning by working extensively with IMBA and Dafydd Davis. Singltrek pod Smrkem is his first opportunity to implement them in Czech context. He has contributed to designing the network, preparing the construction specifications, getting the permissions from authorities and supervising the construction. Presently he is coordinating the preparations for next stages of the project.
Was it daring to bring a concept of purpose built recreational single track trails to a country where there is guaranteed access and where people think there is enough trails?
Many people in the Czech Republic believe that the right to access the Czech countryside is an unalienable public right. In reality it is much more a consequence of unintended historical events. But it is extremely difficult to safequard something that is unintented and un-planned. We need to search for tools that will persuade all stakeholders - especially foresters, conservation agency workers and municipal officers - about the importance of access and outdoor recreation. Singltrek has proven to be such a tool. It shows that our right for access is not determined to be diminishing but that it can also improve and grow from a quality recreational trail infrastructure.
Why do you think you have succeeded in the Frydland region with the plan to develop first ever singltrek trail system in the Czech Republic?
The Frydlant region is lucky to have people who wanted to find new solutions for economic development through sustainable outdoor tourism.Municipalities and foresters recognised the opportunity of singltrek: it can offer valuable experiences to big number of mountain bikers while respecting the fragile beauty of local forested mountain landscapes.
There are various approaches to recreational trail design and planning. Why have you chosen Dafydd Davis to design the trail system rather then working with the Czech civil engineers?
Czech civil engineers do not have the experience we needed. They are used to designing tarmac cycling trails or wide forest extraction roads. They are not experienced in the wider context of trails such as the economy, management, impact on nature, or aesthetics. Dafydd Davis is one of the few experts in the field with capacity to tailor design a trail system in a way that demands of all stakeholders are met.
What reactions on the trails have surprised you most?
I am still surprised how fast the Singltrek pod Smrkem found enthusiast users and supporters. While I have always believed in its success, I thought it was going to take some time before mountain bikers start appreciating its qualities.
What change can singltrek trails bring into the Czech Republic?
I believe singltrek will bring many new people into mountain biking. I also belive it is going to change the way the Czech state and public authorities deal with outdoor recreation. In my opinion, Czech forests deserve many kilometers of trails similar to those under the Smrk mountain. For the time being, however, it is important for singltrack to bring economic
rejuvenation to the Frydlant region.