In cyclocross, competitors race bikes over rough terrain – mud, sand, snow, or steep pitches – in short loops for several repeating laps.

Rosalyn Shepherd, a fourth-year Environmental and Resource Science student at Trent, is researching how these races impact the local environment, such as the effects on grass and soil, and whether the ruts from the bike tires are increasing erosion, with the aim to make these events more eco-friendly.

Rosalyn is conducting a community-based research project in collaboration with world-renowned bike component company Shimano, which frequently organizes cyclocross events. The project was launched after municipalities had alerted race organizers about the condition of the race sites following sporting events.

“I am working with Shimano on an environmental assessment to see what can be done better, in terms of managing the environment, during the race and after,” said Rosalyn, who is a Champlain College student. “Some organizations do a bit of site remediation after the race, and typically, based on observation, the vegetation recovers by the next spring. But lately, more concerns have been raised by stakeholders about the state of the race site after organizers and participants have packed up and left.”

Rosalyn’s research has taken her out into the field, where she attended races at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene and in Toronto. She took photos of the post-event landscape, such as large ruts in the race path, and took soil samples to analyze how different surfaces, such as grass, sand, and clay, are affected by riding. Part of her future research will involve re-seeding various areas to see how any grass damaged or removed by the racing will re-grow the following spring.

Getting in the dirt and beyond the classroom

Getting out of the classroom and applying textbook knowledge to a real-world scenario has built Rosalyn’s confidence and helped her acquire new professional connections.

“Hands-on learning is my favourite kind of learning,” explained Rosalyn. “I am getting comfortable reaching out to high-level athletic organizations, community members and other researchers across the country for comment and insight. I’m learning a lot about the intersection of science, politics and social aspects of environmental restoration in the real world, a perspective I wouldn’t fully experience in the classroom.”

As a varsity rower at Trent, Rosalyn says the project has also brought together multiple passions: sport, community and the environment.

This spring, Rosalyn will revisit sites to investigate the results of the revegetation and will compile a final report and manual on best environmental practices for Shimano.

“I would be thrilled if my assessment can help this style of racing have a smaller impact on the environment and continue its community building, which is so important.”

Learn more about Trent’s Environmental & Resource Studies/Science programs and community-based research.