Instructions and Safety

Guidance to help you stay safe

Here are some general instructions and safety items that we recommend when holding a Trail Tender event. Remember safety is always the top priority!

Make sure you have scouted out the work location and are familiar with the area and the work to be done.
Coordinate with the Trails & Conservation Director and local landowner for any work that you plan to do in advance.
Have all tools and materials ready to use.
Communicate with your group the essential information of meeting location, time frame, work to be done, and any other critical information.
Remind people to wear clothing that is appropriate for working outdoors. Everyone must wear close toed shoes. Long shirts and pants work best to keep off brush and sun. Bring a water bottle and a snack.
Be aware of the your surroundings including state game lands and forests. Depending on the season you may be near an area used by hunters. It is recommended that volunteers always wear bright colors on the trail for visibility by hunters and other trail users.
Be in contact with the group if the weather looks bad. In case of severe weather cancel the event.

Make sure that everyone has registered as a volunteer online or fills out a paper form.
Have everyone sign in to record their hours on the volunteer time sheet.
Bring everyone together and explain the roles and tasks for the day.
Make sure to give a safety talk. Remind everyone that safety is the highest priority.
- Be careful when working with tools or equipment. Never use a tool that you do not feel comfortable with.
- Be alert to those around you and the work that they are doing.
- Stay alert to the surrounding trail users including fast moving bicyclists, equestrians, dog walkers, and anglers. Reminder to avoid agitating the canal where anglers are gathered, especially during trout stocking season.
- Never put yourself in a dangerous position or risk injury to get work done. Your safety is more important.
- Communicate with others where, when, and what you are doing.
- Have a first aide kit available.
Have more experienced people oversee and help others. Never let children work alone.
Remember to take breaks for water and snacks as needed.
Take photos of the work that you are doing. Before and after photos are great ways to document your impact.
Make sure to thank everyone for their time and effort!

Make sure to submit a complete Trail Tender Report that documents the work you did.
Turn in the completed volunteer time sheet to the Trails & Conservation Director.
Follow up with the local landowner or Trails & Conservation Director about any important information.
Communicate with the group a follow up thank you for their work.