Services - Areas of Expertise
Park Staff Training
Let’s talk horse trails! Understanding the nuances and needs of recreational equestrian trail riders promotes safer trails with fewer conflicts, less maintenance, and more positive experiences. We start by traveling back in time (briefly) to explore the role of horses throughout history. Then, we will delve into the unique needs and challenges of horse and rider on trails; multi-use trail conflicts; volunteer standards and expectations; long and short-term maintenance and enforcement strategies.
​
Training typically lasts three hours depending on the number of participants and discussion during and after the presentation. This class was created for all park personnel who wish to have a better understanding of recreational equestrian trails on public land.
​
​Staff Training starts at $1400 - plus travel fees
at your facility or training conference
​
Trail Insights -Impact Statements
Customized content is designed to formally address urgent matters such as reining in rider misuse, trails at risk of closure or repurposing, trails with significant safety concerns, those requiring proper signage, maintenance, or essential amenities.
​
​Reports will include key safety factors such as trail tread integrity, sustainability, and usage patterns. This information serves as a reference to assist in decision-making but generally does not express opinions for or against any issue. The final report will be provided to you in hard copy, with two copies included. To ensure authenticity, I do not send reports or original work via email. Let's create a tailored conflict mitigation plan that addresses your agency's current needs.
Impact Statements start at $1400 -
Onsite visits can be arranged for an added fee.
​
Trail Standards & Audits
Safe trails are the goal no matter what region a trail is located in. Creating trail standards and implementing trail audits are the first line in establishing a safe and enjoyable environment for all users. Together, they serve as guidelines to ensure trails are well-maintained, and accessible, promoting safety, reducing conflict and taking into account the unique needs equestrians.
Developing trail standards and /or completing a trail audit can be billed by the hour or by the project.
Trail audits typically require and on-site visit. Pricing begins at $1300.00
Pathways to Preservation
Advocacy Group Training
A fundamental aspect of developing sustainable and accessible trails is for horseback riders to make informed decisions that promote safer bridle trails, minimize conflicts, reduce maintenance requirements, and enhance the overall trail experience.​
​
During this training we will explore:
-
​Perspectives of recreational equestrians on public land
-
Challenges encountered by both horse and rider on trails
-
Expectations of equestrian trail riders; adhering to park rules and trail etiquette
-
Volunteer standards and expectations
-
Building and maintaining positive relationships with park agencies
-
The advantages and disadvantages of social media
​
​
Training cost for trail group training starts at $1,400 plus travel fees
held at your facility or training conference
2-3 hours needed
I can help...
​
Advisory Committee Guidance
Community Involvement - education, enforcement
Concessionaire audits, contract language review and development
Equestrian Needs on Trails - support facilities, enforcement, signage
Equestrian Inclusion - compatibility with other users, use patterns, impact, conflicts
Equine Behavior - how it affects trail rider experience and interactions with other trail users
Facility Planning Oversight - primitive to elaborate
Impact Statements - addressing a host of issues
Law Enforcement Issues and Strategies - identifying and reining in rider misconduct on trails
Letters of Interest/Concern
Litigation/Expert Testimony
Maintenance Expectations/Issues - trail alignment, hazards, user experience, long/short term
Mediation with Equestrians - identify, build, resolve
Mounted Patrol Operations - creating, implementing, managing, on site audits
Mounted Volunteer Operations - creating, implementing, managing, on site audits
Multi-Use Conflict Resolution - identify conflict then create mitigation strategies
Rules & Regulations - review current rules, create new if needed (with agency legal team)
Strategic Planning Insight
Trail Auditing - on site
Trail Planning - new trails or current trails insight
Training - on site presentation "Successful Element of Horse Trails"
Volunteers - standards, oversight and guidelines