This spring/summer we are trying something different so trail maintenance can still occur, AND it is done in a way to keep everyone as safe as possible with socially distancing guidelines followed.
The maintenance activities this spring are meant for partners or small family groups and work can be performed anytime from June 15-August 1.
Safety details:
- The safety of all volunteers is paramount.
- If you do not feel comfortable volunteering this year, don’t. There will always be work in the future!
- If you are not feeling well, please stay home.
- Wear a face mask when you are working around other people.
- Maintain 6 feet from other volunteers or recreators out on the trails.
- Protect yourself from ticks and check yourself when you get home.
Work details:
- Sign up
- Brushing: use loppers, clipper or small hand saws to clear vegetation back from the trail so that all growth is 2 feet back from the tread on either side (4 feet wide) and 8 feet high.
- Waterbar clearing (dips in the tread that encourage water to run off the tread, not down it): use a hoe, rake or pickaxe to clear all leaves, loose soil, and debris out of the depression to allow all water to run freely off of the trail. Clear the entire width of the tread as well as at least 4 feet beyond the tread on the downhill side of the tread so that water does not pool in or around the waterbar.
- Remove loose sticks and rocks from the tread.
- Note any additional maintenance needs like fallen trees, broken bridges, blazes that need paint, or signs that need to be repaired/replaced.
- Please enter these notes in the spreadsheet where you sign up for your route/trail section(s).
- Have Fun!
Sign up for Hartford Town Forest Trail Sections here. You are welcome to sign up for multiple sections!
For any questions and additional information please email or call the Hartford Town Planner Matt Osborn, mosborn@hartford-vt.org or 802 295-3075.