Woodland - Spring 2013 - (Page 19)

© moRgAN lANe pHoTogRApHY/SHUTTeRSToCK.Com features make your trail fit for fun American Trails—a nonprofit group that supports greenways and represents the interests of all trail users—recommends the following steps to make a recreational trail system: 1. Determine who will use the trail. 2. Select the corridor, then refine it by walking the land and referring to photos and maps. 3. Determine the existing features of the corridor that impact the route, such as points of interest, existing trails or roads, physical obstacles, at-risk species, and ownership boundaries. 4. Plan the trail, not only its direction and length, but also its width, surface, clearance height, grade, water crossings and what you’ll see along the way. Do you cross a railroad, a public road, a right-of-way? Don’t forget to obtain the required permits, if any. 5. Mark the route using surveyor’s tape and colored stakes. 6. Clear the path, starting with saplings and shrubs, then the limbs of larger trees and finally the trees themselves. Then remove stumps and oversized rocks. 7. Finish the surface so that it is smooth and durable enough for its intended users. 8. Construct water bars, bridges, steps and ladders where needed. 9. Add signage at the trailhead(s) and along the way to lessen the chance of someone getting lost. 10. Maintain the path. signs of a good trail system A properly marked trail system not only keeps people on the right track but also adds to the fun, depending on what you post. Here are the basics: • Trailhead sign—Provide the trail name, a map with a locator (“you are here” arrow), allowed uses, warnings and information on how to contact the landowner and emergency services. • Trail markers—Show the way using either paint on a tree or a colored marker. If you stand at one marker, you should be able to see the next one. The markers for a particular trail should be one color. • Intersection signs—Indicate the direction and give the distance to a landmark or the next junction. • Warning signs—Notify users about a hazard, such as a cliff, or a sensitive plant or animal, and give instructions for what to do or avoid. woodland • Spring 2013 19

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Woodland - Spring 2013

Woodland - Spring 2013
Contents
Overstory
On the Ground
Faith and Forestry
Take a Hike!
Tools and Resources
Forests and Families

Woodland - Spring 2013