Resource Protection and Monitoring Skills and Competencies

Specific skills used in management of natural resources that host trails and greenways: monitoring impacts of visitors and natural processes; acquisition and protection of trail corridors; conservation and restoration of habitat and natural areas.

by American Trails Staff

Working on solving a drainage problem that is causing erosion and resource damage

Skills for Resource Management

  • Identifying impacts of trails and related facilities natural resources and habitat
  • Identifying, monitoring, and controlling invasive species by appropriate methods
  • Document and preserve historic trails' cultural properties, artifacts, and traditions
  • integrating outdoor recreation planning with natural resource conservation at federal, state and local levels

Skills for Corridor Monitoring

  • Reviewing proposed development for compatibility and potential impact
  • Monitoring the condition of cultural, historical, and archaeological resources
  • Using tools such as GIS and GPS to accomplish effective resource monitoring

Skills for Acquisition and Protection of Trail Corridors

  • Identifying opportunities for corridor acquisition or trail protection
  • Collaborating with landowners, agencies, and organizations to acquire land, easements, or other protection for trails
  • Working with land trusts and conservation organizations
  • Using basic mechanisms for controlling and managing land ownership and land uses
  • Monitoring rights of way and conservation easements for compliance
  • Monitoring other land use adjacent to corridor to evaluate it effects on trail use and purpose

Skills for Habitat Conservation

  • Identifying critical habitat areas and species of concern
  • Measuring levels of visitor use, impacts on resources, and carrying capacity
  • Conducting vegetative treatments, including fire management, to enhance natural ecosystems

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