Equipment and technology transfers that help get work done on the ground.
by J. Scott Groenier, PE, Project Leader, Structures, USDA Forest Service, Robert Wetherell, Recreation Program Leader, USDA Forest Service, Janet Zeller, National Accessibility Program Manager, USDA Forest Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program has supported the Forest Service Trails Program for many years with equipment and technology transfer that help get work done on the ground. In partnership with FHWA, our results are available to everyone. We have several newly-completed and on-going projects to tell you about, including the new Accessibility Guide For Outdoor Recreation and Trails (AGORT), New U.S. Forest Service Standard Trail Drawings and Specifications, Hands-On Log Cabin Restoration Guide, Single Track Trail Groomer, Stopping Sight Distance For OHV’s And Snowmobiles, Effects Of All-Terrain Vehicles On Forested Lands And Grasslands, and much more. This session will introduce you to these products, and tell you how to obtain the reports and DVDs at no cost.
View Forest Service Technology Presentation Online
View Standard Trail Plans Presentation Online
posted Sep 11, 2023
The tools shown here are those used most often by Forest Service trail crews. They are categorized into tools for sawing, chopping, grubbing, digging and tamping, pounding, and hammering, lifting and hauling, peeling and shaping, and sharpening and rehandling. Each tool is described along with helpful techniques for use and maintenance.
Tools for Trails: Measuring and Surveying Tools
posted Nov 8, 2022
Before trail builders start digging, they first have to lay the trail, flag the line, and more to ensure a grade that not only matches the terrain but also is well throughout to prevent erosion.
posted Aug 8, 2022
Let’s talk about grubbing and raking tools! You might have heard the term grubbing before, but if you’re new to trail building, it may be unfamiliar. Grubbing is when you are removing earth and topsoil. Basically digging into the first while removing vegetation in the process. Trail builders may also call this process hogging.
posted Jun 8, 2022
There are a few options for striking tools that you may see out on a project. Some like the sledge hammer will be seen more, while others may only be pulled out for special projects.
874 views • posted 02/19/2018