NFsNC Non-Motorized Trails Strategy
 In 2012, trail enthusiasts and others with knowledge of non-motorized trails in North Carolina will have a chance to provide input on the US Forest Service trail planning process.
This effort, referred to as the Non-motorized Trails Strategy, gives partners the opportunity to identify sustainable trail systems in the four national forests.
A wide variety of partners and volunteers, many of whom have worked to enhance forest trails over the years, will have the opportunity to provide input in this transparent and inclusive process. Partnerships that promote nature-based tourism will also play a role in development of the Non-motorized Trails Strategy.
During work sessions held near the national forests in 2012, collaborators will:
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Share the types of trail experiences that are enjoyable to them.
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Identify a larger landscape and recreation context into which existing trails fit on national forest and non-forest lands.
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Identify how quality trail recreation will be sustainably and collaboratively managed.
The result will be recommendations for sustainable, quality trail systems that:
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Offer a variety of high quality experiences for a variety of users.
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Is ecologically sustainable that reduces or avoids impacts to other resources.
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Provides improved networks of trails and trail complexes, including loops and connectors, to meet user interests.
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Informs the US Forest Service management process.
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Increases volunteer support in the management and sustainability of forest trail systems.
Working Meetings Underway
 An introductory workshop was offered in five locations across the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests in January, 2012. Nearly 270 participants attended, representing over 70 organizations. Through an “all-lands” approach, participants identified opportunities to link lands and communities with national forest lands. They also defined a quality trail experience for a variety of trail users and offered input on sustainable management of trails.
The next phase of the process is now underway. A meeting for each forest was held in early spring, identifying key collaborators and defining trail complexes on each ranger district to be addressed in detail. Meetings are scheduled thru spring 2012, to address individual trails on each ranger district. Please see the “Related Links” box to the right for more information and to register for district-specific meetings.
To get involved and follow the process, watch for meeting notes to be posted to this website monthly. Offer your input directly via email to nctrailstrategy@gmail.com. Your comments will be shared with the collaborative group.
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