At the Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA) we take the maintenance and construction of sustainable trails seriously. Whether you are an appointed CFPA Trail Manager, a land trust volunteer, or a town manager, the following resources will help expand your trail skill set and acquaint you with the best practices and resources in the field.
Experienced volunteer leaders and staff offer two annual hands-on trail workshops in the spring and fall that are open to the public. Additionally, we lead a one-day indoor training session every winter. There are also regular work parties throughout the year and these are a great way to get involved, learn new skills, and meet fellow trail volunteers.
COVID-19 Safety Documents for CFPA Trail Managers & Volunteers
- Best Practices Acknowledgement Form
- Volunteer & Work Party Re-Start Plan
- Tool Shed Safety Protocols
- Liability Waiver
- Self-Health Assessment (for CFPA Work Parties)
- PTBA- COVID-19 Recommendations for Trail Building
- #RecreateResponsibly
- CFPA's Tips & Resources: Enjoying Outdoor Activities Safely During COVID-19
CFPA Policies & Resources
- Chainsaw Use and Safety Policy
- Building a CFPA Trail Bridge (video)
- CFPA Trail Maintainer Packet
- Trail Sign Request Form
- Volunteer Portal
Additional Trail Maintenance & Management Resources
- American Trails
- Professional Trail Builders Association
- National Park Service Recreation Trails and Conservation Assistance Program
- Connecticut’s Recreational Trails Program
- USDA Trail Construction & Maintenance Notebook
- SCA’s Lightly on the Land
- AMC’s Complete Trail Guide to Trail Building and Maintenance
- Appalachian Trail Design, Construction, & Maintenance
- USFS Wetland Trail Design & Construction
- The Game of Logging
