Construction of a new 4km mountain bike trail in the forest between Ardgowan and Reservoir Rds began last week.
The project was conceived last year by Mountain Biking North Otago club member Rob Connolly.
Permission was sought from the Waitaki District Council for access and $7000 funding was secured to get construction under way.
Mountain Biking North Otago's vision for the Oamaru Reservoir was to provide a recreational facility for mountain bikers of all levels, Mr Connolly, who is co-ordinating the project, said.
Cape Wanbrow had been the most popular reserve in town for mountain bikers, but the clearing of trees took away most tracks and steep topography had limited its use.
''The scope in here is so much more for the average rider, plus, obviously, the more experienced rider will do the same stuff - just quicker,'' he said.
Acknowledging the ''great'' Herbert Forest track, Mr Connolly said it would be good to have a more local recreational area.
''The aim is: it's for the ratepayers, for the people of the town,'' he said.
At the same time, with an influx of cyclists predicted as the popularity of the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail grows, an easily accessible mountain bike track would be another activity for tourists and another reason to stay longer in Oamaru.
Their plan is to construct about 4km of trail through established pine forest and around the reservoir, with ''massive potential'' to expand.
The track is going to be benched in about 1.5m wide, wider than the single-track Herbert Forest network.
Within the reserve, the tracks will predominantly stay away from the edge of the reservoir, but riders will get pleasant views.
There are plans for art installations in places of interest as bikers, and walkers, make their way around the trails.
''The aim of it is to be a nature-based experience,'' he said.
Ardgowan School pupils will be involved in the design of a ''PeeWee'' area for younger children.
Club president Andrew Milne said the reservoir forest was one of the few areas in Oamaru with ''suitably gentle terrain''.
''We are really grateful to Waitaki District Council for their support, and to the other donors who have allowed us to get things under way,'' he said.
''Funding from the [council] and other donors has allowed a digger to be used, which will speed up construction considerably.''
The club is seeking additional help from the public for volunteer labour and supplies such as timber and gravel.
