Student Conservation Association (SCA)

Lightly on the Land

The SCA Trail Building and Maintenance Manual, 2nd Edition

Summary

In addition to conservation crew leadership and risk management, Lightly on the Land presents the nuts and bolts of trail construction and maintenance.

Overview

For half a century, the Student Conservation Association (SCA) has inspired people of all ages to take part in projects that enhance the environment. In settings from city parks to backcountry wilderness, the practical skills presented in its pioneering handbook have been tested in the field by volunteer and professional work crews throughout the nation. Their input enriches every chapter of the new edition with fresh approaches, new ideas, and modern applications of traditional skills.

• New chapters on arid lands restoration and involving conservation volunteers
• The latest in effective management of work crews of all ages
• How to build "sustainable" trails to fit dwindling park maintenance budgets
• For weekend volunteers, youth group leaders, outing club members, and anyone involved in caring for the land

In addition to conservation crew leadership and risk management, Lightly on the Land presents the nuts and bolts of trail construction and maintenance; building with rock; felling and buckling; building with timber; bridge construction; and environmental restoration. It gets down and dirty with tools, knots, and rigging. Throughout, it teaches how to build pathways and reshape existing routes to require a minimum of attention over the years-essential in this era of shrinking park budgets.

Trail Types Covered

General. All trail types are relevant.