filed under: conservation
Considerations for B.S.A. Councils
The sustainable management of ATV use is an expensive proposition requiring careful design, construction, and maintenance of ATV trails.
by Jeffrey Marion, Ph.D., Federal Scientist, U.S. Geological Survey
BSA Councils that are considering ATV programs should recognize that research has shown ATV’s to be one of the most environmentally impacting forms of recreational activity. The sustainable management of ATV use is an expensive proposition requiring careful design, construction, and maintenance of ATV trails. Tight regulation of ATV use, including the amount, locations, season, and riding behaviors is also critical. Most federal and state land management agencies have discovered that they lack the expertise, staffing, and funding to sustainably manage ATV opportunities. The BSA is likely less prepared to accommodate ATV riding without high levels of environmental degradation.
Published November 2008
Jeff Marion is a Federal Scientist with the US Geological Survey, and is based out of Virginia Tech as an Adjunct Professor. His research specialty is Recreation Ecology, in which he investigates the environmental impacts of visitor use in protected natural areas, primarily national parks. His research has focused on visitor impacts to trails and campsites and the development of sustainable “Best Management Practices.” He was a founding member of the Leave No Trace Board of Directors, chaired the committee that guided development of the Leave No Trace principles and practices, and authored the LNT Center’s official book “Leave No Trace in the Outdoors.”
Contact: [email protected]
TRAILS SAFE PASSING PLAN: STOP, SPEAK, and STAND BACK
Horses are prey animals and naturally can be afraid of unfamiliar people and objects. Horses have natural "flight“ survival instincts and prefer to move their feet towards an exit route. Therefore, people with horses should pass at a walk while other trail users remain STOPPED until passed.
Volunteers for Outdoor Arizona Crew Leader Manual
This manual has been written to aid crew leaders working with trail work volunteers. It assumes the following priorities, in order of importance, for every volunteer trail work event: 1) Safety, 2) Enjoyment, 3) Quality product, 4) Productivity.
Colorado Trail Foundation Crew Leader Handbook
As a crew leader you represent the CTF. One of your main jobs is to convey the CTF’s thanks to the volunteers for their commitment to making and preserving The Colorado Trail as a national treasure.
Appalachian Mountain Club 2022 Outdoor Leader Handbook
Outdoor leadership skills can be developed and improved over time through a combination of self-study, formal training and experience. Leadership trainings are offered frequently by volunteers and staff of the AMC. The trainings range from a single day to a weekend. If you are looking for additional training, the AMC offers several courses each season through the Guided Outdoors program.
