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.
Introductory Workshop for Potential Collaborators was a Success!
 An introductory workshop was offered in five locations across the Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests, designed to lay the foundation for the upcoming collaborative effort. Through an “all-lands” approach, the group identified opportunities to link lands and communities with and note existing recreation opportunities around adjacent national forest lands. The group defined a quality trail experience for a variety of trail users and offered input on sustainable management of trails.
There were 264 participants in the five workshops representing over 70 organizations along with individuals representing their own interests.
Organizations are choosing a representative to participate in the upcoming public working meetings, the next step in the collaborative process. The meetings will start in mid to late February, 2012.
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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