Leading The Way: The FAST Trail Leader Program
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Sioux Falls, a hidden gem awaits all nature enthusiasts and mountain biking aficionados—the Falls Area SingleTrack (FAST) trails. These trails offer a thrilling experience for outdoor adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while indulging in the thrill of mountain biking. But every trail system requires diligent upkeep to ensure that its charm remains intact. This is where the FAST Trail Leader Program steps in, shaping dedicated member volunteers who play a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing the trail network.
The Role of a Trail Leader
At the heart of Falls Area Singletrack lies the role of the Trail Leader, whose primary responsibility is the maintenance of the trails within their assigned park(s). From grass and tree trimming to feature repairs and trail tread maintenance, a Trail Leader takes on the challenge of keeping the trails safe, enjoyable, and visually appealing for all visitors.
Trail Maintenance: More Than Meets the Eye
Trail maintenance goes beyond routine tasks like grass and tree trimming. It involves a holistic approach to ensure that the trails remain sustainable and enjoyable for years to come. Trail Leaders engage in activities like feature repairs, which might include fixing obstacles and challenges that make the trails exciting for bikers. Moreover, they tackle trail tread repair, which involves addressing erosion, choosing better lines, and managing fallen obstacles. The result is a network of trails that provides a thrilling adventure while also preserving the surrounding environment.
Walking the Talk: Monthly Trail Assessment
One of the key expectations from a Trail Leader is to conduct a thorough assessment of the trails at least once a month. This hands-on approach ensures that no issue goes unnoticed. By walking or riding the trails, Trail Leaders identify areas in need of maintenance or improvement, ranging from minor repairs to larger-scale trail rerouting due to erosion or other factors.
Planning for Success: Trail Improvement Activities
Once issues are identified, the Trail Leader takes the initiative to plan trail maintenance and improvement activities. Collaboration with the FAST Board is essential during this phase. Trail improvements can involve rerouting sections of the trail for sustainability, enhancing line choices, and addressing fallen obstacles. The Trail Leader works closely with the FAST board on any trail changes to ensure that the trails maintain their quality and character.
Bringing the Community Together: Group Work Activities
Trail maintenance and improvement often require teamwork. Trail Leaders have the responsibility of determining whether a task can be managed individually or requires a group effort. If it's a solo or small group task, Trail Leaders take the lead in organizing and executing the work. For larger projects, engagement with the FAST Board helps spread the word through social media and other channels, mobilizing a team of dedicated volunteers to contribute to the cause.
Leading by Example: Annual Group Work Activity
A cornerstone of the Trail Leader role is the annual leadership of a group work activity. This activity not only showcases the commitment of the Trail Leader but also serves as an opportunity for community members to get involved and contribute to the preservation and enhancement of their beloved trails. The FAST Board assists in coordinating and organizing this event, ensuring its success and impact.
The Falls Area SingleTrack (FAST) Trail Leader Program is more than just a role; it's a commitment to preserving the natural beauty and excitement that the FAST trails offer. Trail Leaders stand as the custodians of these trails, dedicating their time and effort to ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking and the serenity of nature. Through their diligent work and community engagement, these leaders shape not only trails but also a shared sense of responsibility and appreciation for the outdoors.
The following individuals are our trail leaders for the 2023 summer season:
Andrew Hoy - Dunham & Legacy Parks
Andrew Moore - Tuthill Park
The Lechtenberg Family - Spencer & Pasley Parks
Clay Austin - Leaders Park
We are so grateful to these individuals for stepping up and helping us stay on top of all of the maintenance needs for the summer.