Too often, trail work seems to be done by an invisible “trail fairy” with little tracking, recognition, or coordination. In reality, volunteers make the magic happen. This session shares simple, field-tested systems to better track trail work, improve communication, and recognize contributions. Building on real-world case studies, participants will learn how structured yet lightweight approaches can strengthen volunteer engagement, reduce burnout, and support more efficient and accountable trail operations.
Learning Objectives:
Identify key gaps in current trail work tracking and volunteer communication systems
Describe a simple framework for documenting trail work in the field
List practical ways tracking systems improve volunteer engagement and retention
Presenters:
Udo Blenkhorn, CEO & Co-Founder | DIG !T Executive Board MemberCEO & Co-Founder | DIG !T Executive Board Member, Pixel Trail Inc | DIG !T
Udo Blenkhorn is the co-founder of Pixel Trail, a company specializing in innovative digital tools for outdoor recreation and trail network management. With a background in mechanical engineering and marketing, he blends technical expertise with business acumen to deliver impactful, user-centric solutions. Udo is recognized for his leadership in product innovation and commitment to community-driven projects. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Dig !t Volunteer Trail Builder Alliance, a nonprofit organization supporting trail stewardship through volunteer engagement. His passion for technology, collaboration, and the great outdoors inspires him to contribute to the future of trail development and management.
Pat Pero, COO & Co-Founder | President of the Board, Pixel Trail | DIG !T
For over a decade, Pat has invested his time, energy, and leadership to engage his community in trail stewardship. His local volunteer trail builder organization has played a key role in transforming the Québec City region into an international mountain biking destination. Over the years, he developed a “special recipe” to attract and retain volunteer trail builders. In this webinar, Pat will share his experience and the lessons learned from the challenges he faced, so you don’t have to repeat them. By applying as many of the ingredients from his proven approach as possible, you’ll be better equipped to avoid common pitfalls and help your organization thrive faster.