A TRAILSNext™ presentation
Wood is sustainable and renewable. We can extend the life of wood far beyond the time it takes to grow a new tree.
by Butch Bernhardt, Senior Program Manager, Western Wood Preservers Institute
Wood has a natural warmth that we as humans connect with. Treating it to last doesn’t change that connection. Wood is strong and resilient, yet light, making it easy to carry to places where it will be used. It’s very workable with basic tools. Yes, some maintenance may be needed for wood. But the small amount of time and work needed to do that pays off in protecting its longevity. Every material will require maintenance at some point. Wood embodies the spirit of our trails and environment more than any other material. Not only do we have a proven record of safe, long-lasting use, there’s just something about wood that we connect with as humans. With treating, we add to that sustainability by making wood last for decades, reducing the amount we need to harvest. We can extend the life of wood far beyond the time it takes to grow a new tree. This is the essence of sustainability and no other material offers this benefit.
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Sustainable Trail Bridge Design
posted Oct 7, 2021
Designing trail bridges based on trail-specific Trail Management Objectives (TMOs) is essential for providing the desired trail experience, for ensuring user safety, and for maximizing bridge longevity.
posted Jun 15, 2020
Guidelines for accessing, designing, and building launch sites for carry-in watercraft.
Hawaiian Island Trail Bridge Re-Opens Trail to Remote Community
posted May 15, 2020
The 3-mile long Kalaupapa Trail is the only access point in and out of the remote community of Kalaupapa on the Hawaiian island of Molokai. When a land-slide took out an old aluminum bridge, cutting off this access point, park officials looked to an FRP bridge for its light weight, corrosion resistance, and design flexibility.
Ramps for Accessible Trails and Shared-Use Pathways
posted Nov 5, 2019
Ramps, typically used for building access, are often provided on trails.
