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
