Trail Security: Going Forward

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At the 2006 Annual Conference this March, the Florida Trail Association hosted Bob Gray, Chief Park Ranger of the Appalachian Trail, who presented a program on Trail Security. Bob is on temporary detail to the FTA/National Forests in Florida partnership in order to assist in developing a Trail Security Program.  The presentation at the 2006 Annual Conference gave us a first glimpse at what will be developed.

As in most new programs, communication is the key.  The program will focus on communicating Trail Security to Florida Trail members, and the hiking community.  The other communication component will be effectively communicating with local and regional law enforcement agencies to provide these agencies with a better understanding of what the Florida Trail is and where it is located in their areas and to inform them the FTA Staff, local FTA Chapters, and local Section Leaders are resources available for assistance and information.  Local agencies can then take the Trail and its surrounding resources into consideration when dealing with any Trail Security situations.

 This new program is not just about personal security.  It is also about protecting the Florida Trail itself.  If law enforcement agencies are aware of the land management regulations regarding the Florida Trail, they will be better able to assist in educating the public and assisting in enforcing the regulations.  This will result in better community relations, more understanding about the Florida Trail, and increased security for both hikers and the Florida Trail itself.

How will this be accomplished?  Just as the trail is being built through partnerships with the USFS, land management agencies, volunteers, and staff, so shall the new Trail Security program.  Partnerships between the USFS, FTA, law enforcement agencies, and volunteers will help ensure the success of the new program.

While the details of the new program are being worked on, there are many things hikers can do right now.  The Safety First article in the March-April 2006 edition of the Footprint went into specific detail on individual hiker safety.  Local chapters can emphasize security at Chapter meetings and other events, include security-related articles in chapter newsletters, and even invite local law enforcement officers to attend chapter meetings.

Help us to spread the word…hike safely!

 

Deb Blick @ March 1, 2006