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Trail Building 101

1. DO YOU HAVE PERMISSION? On Galbraith, this means getting the WHIMPs approval.

2. Is there a need for a trail where you want to build it?

3. Look at the trail line. Flag the trail line. Let it sit in your mind and come back another day.

4. Do all steps of #3 again to make sure you have it right.

Seek a second opinion. Remember that the largest contribution to trail degradation is poor trail design. Design of the trail, as with most things, is the most important thing in trail building (other than getting permission).

5. Follow as closely as possible IMBA trail standards.

6. Think in terms of years. How long will your trail last? Will your kids be able to ride it too?

7. Keep track of your work hours. Many available grants are based on work history and matching hours.

8. Have fun.

A great and comprehensive book, and a necessity for any avid trail builder, is "Lightly on the Land-The SCA Trail-Building and Maintenance Manual.", Published by the Mountaineers. Village Books in Fairhaven usually has a copy or two on hand.