Take a dive into the history of trail building in the Northeast and learn about old and new innovations being used ensure the longevity of trails into the future.
Behind the famed network of hiking trails that forms the core of outdoor recreation in the mountains of New England lies an increasingly difficult problem – the problem of long-term maintenance of aging and over-loved trails. Join Dylan Summers from the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests as he takes a dive into the history of trail building in the Northeast, looking at the problems of how early hiking trails were designed and built, and how the trail workers of the present are looking to old and new innovations in design to ensure the longevity of trails into the future.
Dylan Summers grew up in New Hampshire, and in childhood developed a deep love of nature and an understanding of the importance of connecting with it. This led him into a career in building and maintaining the trails that facilitate that important connection. He has built and maintained trails professionally in New Hampshire, Utah and Colorado, and now works for the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, managing trail maintenance and recreation infrastructure projects across 200+ properties owned by the Forest Society. When not on trail with tools in hand, he can be found both on and off trail on foot and skis, exploring the landscapes of the Northeast.
The Natural NH Winter Series is generously sponsored by anonymous donors. These donors coordinated and produced the events. PTL is very thankful to them for their dedication to providing educational opportunities to our community in the areas of environmentalism and conservation.
This program is free and open to all. Please note that library parking is not guaranteed. Patrons who are able are encouraged to take advantage of Peterborough’s walkable downtown by parking in the Depot Square or Riverwalk lots.
Peterborough Town Library, located downtown at the corner of Main and Concord/Rt 202, has a large meeting room, study rooms, classroom, and a board room available to the public.
