Model Project Application and Review

Outdoor Recreation Project Application Form

Thank you for your interest in starting an outdoor recreation project in our community. Please complete this form to make sure your project does not harm the environment or the community. The information you provide will help guide your project. The steering committee will use the criteria below to review your proposal:

• The project does not damage or harm natural resources or their benefits.
• The activity fits with current public uses. For example, is outdoor recreation allowed on this land? Is there a conservation easement?
• The project must benefit the public, not just private individuals.
• The project must not create serious safety risks for users or the public.
• The project should match the community’s goals, plans, and rules (such as zoning or state laws).
• The project should not block, harm, or interfere with other existing public uses nearby.
• The project must follow all laws, rules, and regulations.

About the Project

Please answer the questions below as best you can. If possible, include a map, drawing, or site plan showing your project.

What type of project are you proposing? (Choose one):

• Upgrade of an existing outdoor facility (like trail repair or fixing a pavilion)
• Relocation of an existing facility (like rerouting a trail)
• A new outdoor facility (like a new playground or skatepark)
• A change in how an existing facility is used (like changing a hiking trail to a mountain bike trail)

1. Briefly describe your project (3–5 sentences).
2. What is the purpose of this project? Explain why this project is needed and what kind of public support it has.
3. Where will the project be located? Be as specific as you can. If possible, attach a topographic map.
4. If this is an upgrade or relocation of an existing facility, why is the change needed?
5. Describe what the project will look like. Include details such as size, length, width, design, etc.
6. Describe how the project will be built. Include the timeline, equipment that will be used, and any other important details.
7. What kind of maintenance will be needed for this project? How often, what tools or materials are needed, and who will do the work?
8. Who will help with this project? For example: a local trails group, town board, volunteers, etc.
9. Who will use this project, and how often do you think it will be used? For example: hikers, walkers, bikers, families, etc.
10. How will this project affect the visitor experience? Will it make the area more welcoming or enjoyable?
11. Do you expect any conflicts or problems? If yes, how will you address them?
12. Are there any safety risks or concerns during construction, maintenance, or use?
13. How will you manage visitors at the site? For example: trail signs, posted rules, or other features.

Introduction to the Outdoor Recreation Project Application Review Questionnaire

The Project Application Committee Review Questionnaire is used by the steering committee to review applications. It helps the committee evaluate things like environmental impact, long-term maintenance, and possible problems between different users. The committee also checks how well the project protects natural resources, follows good planning practices, and aligns with community and environmental goals. The Outdoor Recreation Project Application Review Questionnaire is also available for download.

Outdoor Recreation Project Application Committee Review Questionnaire

Please answer the questions below about the outdoor recreation project you are proposing. Your project should follow any existing management plans, policies, conservation easements (if applicable), and natural resource guidelines.

Every project will have some impact. This questionnaire will help identify and understand how your project might affect natural resources, other users, and the community. Decisions should be made after reviewing all the questions and considering the overall impact.

1. Does the project meet sustainable design standards? (For example: trail, building, or other facility.)
2. What natural communities are the project site located at or near? A list of New Hampshire natural communities will be provided in the Natural Resources Guide. If the project is near any of the resources listed above, please refer to the Natural Resources Guide. Make sure the project follows the guidelines for protecting those resources.
3. Will the project affect any neighboring properties?
4. Are there best practices, design criteria or other ways to reduce or avoid harm to natural resources or the recreation experience?
5. Is there public interest and/or demand for this project? E.g. Is this project or activity identified in existing plans or community documents?
6. Are there other nearby places where the same activity can happen?
7. Could the project create conflicts with other users or activities? For example, would a new trail interfere with a maple sugaring operation? Or would upgrading a trail to accommodate mountain bikers anger horseback riders?
8. Would this project negatively affect how people currently use and enjoy the area?