published Jun 2022

Assessing the Condition and Sustainability of the Trail System at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

by U.S. Geological Survey

This research assessed the condition and sustainability of the trail system at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, a National Park Service unit that partners with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in the management of this unit.

published Dec 2019

The Influence of Layout on Appalachian Trail Soil Loss, Widening, and Muddiness

by Jeffrey Marion with U.S. Geological Survey, Jeremy Wimpey, Ph.D. with Applied Trails Research

This research investigates the influence of layout and design on the severity of trail degradation.

published Mar 2016

A Review and Synthesis of Recreation Ecology Research Supporting Carrying Capacity and Visitor Use Management Decisionmaking

by Jeffrey Marion with U.S. Geological Survey

This article reviews the most recent and relevant recreation ecology studies that have been applied in wildland settings to avoid or minimize resource impacts.

published Nov 2016

Assessing the Influence of Sustainable Trail Design and Maintenance on Soil Loss

by Jeffrey Marion with U.S. Geological Survey, Jeremy Wimpey, Ph.D. with Applied Trails Research

Results from a review of the literature and three scientific studies are presented to model and clarify the influence of factors that substantially influence trail soil loss and that can be manipulated by trail professionals to sustain high traffic while minimizing soil loss over time.

published Mar 2016

A Review and Synthesis of Recreation Ecology Research Findings on Visitor Impacts to Wilderness and Protected Natural Areas

by Jeffrey Marion with U.S. Geological Survey

This article examines the recreation ecology literature most relevant to wilderness and backcountry, with a focus on visitor impacts to vegetation, soil, wildlife, and water resources.

published Feb 2006

Assessing and Understanding Trail Degradation

by National Park Service

This report describes results from a comprehensive assessment of resource conditions on a large (24%) sample of the trail system within Big South Fork National River and Recreational Area (BSF).

published May 2011

Informal and Formal Trail Monitoring Protocols and Baseline Conditions

by U.S. Geological Survey

This research developed and applied state-of-the-art trail condition assessment and monitoring procedures and applied them to the park’s formal and informal (visitor-created) trails.

posted Jul 12, 2022

How to Develop a Trail Crew Leader Program

This webinar will provide an overview of elements associated with creating a Trail Crew Leader Program.

posted Jul 12, 2022

Traits, Tips, and Techniques for Being a Better Trail Crew Leader

Learn how to be a better trail crew leader and pick up some new tools and fresh perspectives to add to your crew leader toolbox.

posted Jul 6, 2022

Trails for Us: How Trails Benefit Local Communities

Learn how trails benefit local communities and how you can make the case for yours.