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Empowering Leadership, the new article series for leadership development, by Del Albright -- helping to lead volunteers to victory! |
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Conflicts on Multiple-Use Trails If you are looking for references or help with conflicts on multiple-use trails, I'd like to recommend this publication from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). (This information is taken directly from FWHA Report # FHWA-PD-94-031) The National Recreational Trails Advisory Committee identified trail-user conflicts on multiple-use trails as a major concern that needs resolution (back in 1994). The Committee asked the FWHA to produce a synthesis of existing research to foster understanding of trail conflict, identify approaches for promoting trail-sharing, and identify gaps in current knowledge. As a result, they produced a report that provides 12 principles for minimizing conflicts. Those principles are listed here. |
1. Recognize conflicts as goal-interference - interference attributed to another's behavior. 2. Provide adequate trail opportunities - adequate mileage for a variety of trail experiences. 3. Minimize number of contacts in problem areas - reduce contact especially in congested areas. 4. Involve users as early as possible - preferably before user conflicts arise. 5. Understand user needs - motivations, experiences expectations, norms and causes of conflicts. 6. Identify the actual sources of conflict - get to the root of problems. 7. Work with affected users - strive to find mutually agreeable solutions. 8. Promote trail etiquette - use educational efforts to modify user behavior. 9. Encourage positive interaction among different users - break down barriers and misunderstandings, while building good will and cooperation. 10. Favor "light-handed" management - avoid intrusive design and coercive management. 11. Plan and act locally - garner local support and involvement by those most affected. 12. Monitor progress - stay tuned in to the changes in behavior and trail use. This 70 page report is available online at: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/conflicts/index.htm I highly recommend this report for your library of helpful tools in managing or recreating on multiple-use trails. |