Grant Writing and Budget Development

We know what the true cost of trail projects are, and we know how to get them funded. We start with the most important question: What are the goals of the grantor or donor? We then develop a project scope that maximizes the impact of those goals which we communicate through an engaging written narrative that is informed by expertise in project management, trail construction, and environmental conservation.

GIS, Mapping, Cartography

We’ve created dozens and dozens of maps for all stages of trail projects. Some of our GIS services include:

  • Conducting trail and recreation resource inventories and assessments

  • Map creation for grant attachments or RFP’s

  • Digital and interactive apps for online way finding and public communications

  • Conceptual maps and digital assets for development, outreach, and initial permitting

Community outreach and public engagement

Connecting people to the outdoors and each other is one of our favorite things. We bring experience, enthusiasm, and patience to every conversation we have with stakeholders on behalf of a client. We understand common concerns and pressure points of trail projects, and we have the toolkit to ensure everyone is heard while continuing to move the project forward.

  • Organizing and moderating public meetings

  • Creating and distributing surveys

  • Preparing projects for government public review processes like NEPA

Education, Workshops, and skills trainings

We love sharing our passion for trails with others. That’s why we’re happy to offer the following educational opportunities:

  • Technical Trail Skill Trainings: Basic trail construction, Stone work for trail building and stone wall construction

  • Mapping and GIS trainings

  • Trail concept planning and community engagement talks

Design, Permitting, Feasibility

The early stages of any project are the most important. Investing in getting it right in the beginning will save money and headaches down the road. Whether it’s developing a conceptual plan for early stakeholder feedback, submitting permit materials to land managers, or flagging a trail prior to going out to bid for construction, the devil is in the details.

Contractor Procurement and Oversight

Many trails these days are completed with help from trail contractors. Hiring, communicating with, and overseeing these trail professionals can be a lot of work, and it can help to have a 3rd party consultant lend a hand and increase your capacity as an organization. Services include:

  • Writing and Managing Request for Proposals or Request for Quotes

  • Cost evaluations and comparisons

  • On-site contractor oversight and progress reports

Project Management and Reporting

Once a trail project is funded, permitted, and a contractor has been selected, now the work really begins. Tracking invoices, documenting any issues, and reporting on progress to grantors and other stakeholders isn’t glamorous, but it’s important work that can sometimes slip through the cracks. Perhaps the plan is to have volunteers supplement the paid labor, but who’s going to manage them effectively? Services include:

  • Construction project management

  • Documentation and reporting for grant requirements

  • Volunteer coordination and work day planning