4-H And Trails: A Winning Combo

IMBA Trail News
Volume 12, Number 1
March 1999

Youth can learn about trail issues by working with the 4-H Center's environmental stewardship program for trails, "Critical Issues/Critical Thinking." Geared for kids ages 12 to 14, the curriculum focuses on understanding trail issues through critical thinking and decision-making exercises. Lessons explore the definition of trails, define key issues and discuss why children should be concerned about singletracks. Included in the kit is a full-color poster of recreational trails and a timeline tracing the history of trails in America from colonial days to the 1991 National Recreational Trails Fund Act.

Another useful 4-H tool is the Trails Kit, which details steps involved in trail management, design and maintenance and discusses points to consider when building trails. Included is a video and a step-by-step reference book. Other 4-H kits offer information on partnerships and land use issues.

Order kits from National 4-H Supply Service, c/o Crestar Bank, (301) 961-2934. Curriculum sets are $8; Trails Kit reference book and video, $14.95.