This webinar will describe the three most common forms of trail impact, identify the most influential factors to develop and maintain sustainable trail networks, and discuss methods for rating trail sustainability.
Presented by:
Jeffrey Marion, Ph.D., Federal Scientist, U.S. Geological Survey
A “sustainable” trail or campsite can accommodate the intended type and amount of use over time without unacceptable levels of degradation or maintenance. This webinar will briefly describe the three most common forms of trail impact (trail soil loss, widening, and muddiness) and share findings from trail science studies conducted on the Appalachian Trail and other protected areas. These will focus on identifying the most influential factors that can be manipulated to develop and maintain sustainable trail networks, including trail grades, trail alignments (fall line vs side-hill), tread substrates, and tread drainage. Methods for rating trail sustainability will be presented, along with sustainable trail “Best Management Practices.”
Learning Objectives:
Understand the three most common forms of trail impact
Discover the most influential factors to develop and maintain sustainable trail networks
Learn methods for rating trail sustainability
Trail Competencies
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Trail Construction
- • Construction Specifications
- • Water Management/Drainage Features
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Trail Maintenance
- • Maintenance Specifications
- • Drainage Features/Water Management
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Project Planning and Design
- • Define Purpose, Need, and Feasibility of Project
- • Land Use Plan Alignment
- • Trail Specifications
- • Field Design: Trail Alignment Identification and Marking
- • Trail Plan Development
- • Implementation Plan
- • Trail Inventory and Assessment
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Program Administration
- • Education and Public Outreach
- • Inspections/Monitoring
- • Visitor Use Management
- • Policy/Directives/Law
- • Partnership and Collaboration
Relevant Trail Types
Learning Credits and CEUs
Learning credits will be available to attendees and are included in the registration fee. The length of the session will determine the number of hours/credits given. In order to obtain credits, attendees must fill out an evaluation survey for each session they attend, as well as complete a learning credit tracking form noting each session they are requesting credits for (or a quiz if virtual). This form (and complete instructions) will be available online as well at registration. Email the conference host or [email protected] with any questions.
American Trails is a certified provider and can offer the following learning credits and continuing education opportunities: AICP CM, LA CES (most HSW approved), NRPA CEU Equivalency Petition, and CEU/PDH Equivalency Petition for other accepting organizations.
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