Ongoing Management and Stewardship

This tool provides resources that put sustainable design elements to work through technical guidance on how to build a sustainable trail network, as well as how to promote stewardship to help maintain and manage these outdoor recreation assets.

As discussed in the Design and Construction of Trails, Assets, and Transportation Amenities tool, incorporating sustainable design practices at the outset of a project can significantly reduce the risk of future issues and minimize long-term maintenance costs. By aligning with best practices in environmental design, such as erosion control, appropriate trail siting, and use of durable materials, projects are better positioned for longevity and reduced ecological impact. However, even the most thoughtfully designed infrastructure will require regular maintenance over time to ensure safety, functionality, and environmental compatibility.

This tool supports that ongoing effort by providing resources to help develop and implement an effective maintenance and management strategy. The resources included here are intended to empower your community with the knowledge needed to care for outdoor recreation infrastructure long after construction is complete.

While not an exhaustive list, this tool offers a curated collection of high-quality resources to guide your efforts. Whether you're looking to establish a long-term maintenance plan, engage the local community in stewardship, or understand the lifecycle of sustainable trail infrastructure, the information provided here will set you on a solid path.

Maintenance Resources

New Hampshire Specific Resources

• NH State Trails Bureau – Trail Information
• University of New Hampshire Trail Maintenance for Volunteers Training Guide
• NH Best Management Practices

United States Forest Service (USFS)

• USFS Trail Maintenance and Construction Notebook
• Backcountry Sanitation Manual (in partnership with the NPS, Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Green Mountain Club)