Learn how a grassroots trail organization is working to close inclusivity and accessibility gaps in their most popular trail network. After implementing an Inclusive Spaces Audit in Cady Hill Forest, Stowe Trails Partnership is taking small but mighty steps to tackle identified areas for improvement with the help of landowners and land access partners. Explore the audit process and how collaborative thinking can make trail networks more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to all.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the Inclusive Spaces Audit and how it can be used to assess inclusivity and accessibility in trail settings.
Examine how Stowe Trails Partnership applied the audit tool to evaluate a high-use trail network.
Identify practical, incremental actions that can improve inclusivity when supported by strong community partnerships.
Presenters:
Kelsie Sibbald, Trail Manager, Stowe Trails Partnership
I am a newcomer to Vermont and my upbringing and education is rooted in Upper Michigan. I began growing professionally in the US Forest Service throughout the American West in wildland fire and trails, recognizing the importance of equitable and accessible recreation for the public. I furthered my education to develop a framework of where recreation fits into broader land management applications, working anywhere from alongside community members to land management agencies to do so. Here in Vermont, I am using these skills to manage and expand accessibility of multi-use trail networks in Stowe, while enjoying everything this unique space and community has to offer.