Secure long-term protection of the Trail across private land and effectively partner with our public land management agencies.
The North Country Trail crosses 160 different land management units on its way from North Dakota to Vermont, so the NCTA must work with many different Partners to make the Trail a reality. The NCTA and National Park Service staff focus on the national and state level, while volunteers build crucial relationships at a local level. Relationships with private landowners are key to the development and long-term protection of the Trail. Reference the NCTA Trail Protection Handbook and the Introduction to Trail Protection slideshow to learn how to approach landowners, what trail protection methods are preferable, and how to maintain relationships over time.
Resources
As of 2024, the Trail Protection Handbook is under revision. The Options for Landowners brochure provides the latest professional guidance to volunteers on current North Country Trail protection options for private landowners, including trail use agreements, trail right-of-way easements, and the sale or donation of land or conservation easements. Included are an extensive FAQ section to help answer common questions landowners may have. Physical copies of the tri-fold brochure are available to NCTA Chapters via request to NCTA. There is also an 8.5 x 11″ version available for download and/or print.
- Introduction to Trail Protection (slideshow)
- Trail Protection Grant Guidelines and Application
- Trail Protection Project Form
- Trail Protection Project Form, short version
- Prospective Landowner Outreach Letter Template
- What Are Recreational Use Statutes?
- Find Your State’s Recreational Use Statutes
- Chapter Leadership Handbook
Federal Land Management Partners
Header photo by Dove Day