The RMC Trail Adoption program is part of a three-pronged trails maintenance approach and complements the work carried out by the RMC Trail Crew and the weekly volunteer work trips conducted by the Trail committee.
The Trail Adopters provide ongoing maintenance of trails throughout the hiking season. Their responsibilities fall into four buckets:
1. Adopters perform maintenance tasks to keep their trails in good condition, such as clearing fallen branches or debris, trimming overgrown vegetation, and advising their administrator about damaged trail blazes and or signs that need replacement. Adopters participate in trail clean-up events to remove litter or other trash along the trail to protect the natural environment.
2. RMC Adopters serve as a point of contact between trail users and the overseeing organization. They may report trail conditions, maintenance needs, or safety concerns to the appropriate authorities or volunteer coordinators.
3. Adopters may engage in educational initiatives to raise awareness about trail etiquette, environmental stewardship, and responsible hiking practices by providing relevant information to trail users and emphasizing the importance of adhering to Leave No Trace principles and respecting the natural environment.
4. Adopters may assist in recruiting other volunteers for trail maintenance or clean-
up activities and provide instructions and guidance to ensure that tasks are completed effectively and safely. In addition, Adopters will be charged with educating hikers about RMC and encouraging them to support the RMC.
Trail Adopter Eligibility
Trail Adopters must be physically fit, have extensive hiking experience, and have demonstrated the ability to work independently in
a backcountry environment. Prior trail adopter experience is a plus but not required.
Training and Support: Adopters must meet with RMC trail crew members for an orientation to RMC trail maintenance practices.
RMC, as an ATC partner, will make available online and video-based ATC-developed training for selected individuals without prior trial adopter experience; these materials focus on trail maintenance techniques, safety protocols, and navigation skills.
Safety and Liability
Trail adopters are responsible for their safety while working on the trails. They must execute a liability waiver releasing RMC from all liability concerning an adopter’s activities.
Recognition and Incentives
- Adopters are eligible for a New Hampshire State Parks parking pass after sixteen hours of service.
- After 20 hours of service, Adopters will qualify for a 20% discount on items in the RMC store.
Program Evaluation
To make the RMC Trail Adopter Program a success, the club hopes for extensive constructive feedback to continually know what improvements to the program will make a difference. This program is new for the RMC and makes possible a three-pronged approach to trail preservation and ensures the long-term viability of RMC’s 100+ mile trail system for generations to come.
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