Stewards debate clearing standards and suitable tools for trail maintenance

During stewardship reports members raised the question of whether the commission should adopt a consistent standard for trail clearing and maintenance to ensure cut brush is moved off the tread and not left as a tripping hazard. Several stewards said they favor a simple method and suggested rakes or light powered trimmers for efficiency.

Speakers discussed the tradeoffs of using string trimmers, battery-powered hedge trimmers and weed whackers; one steward stressed that small cuttings should be raked to the side rather than left on the trail because of trip hazards. The group agreed to develop a basic recommended practice and to remind volunteer crews to push cut material aside after trimming.