Dates: April 11 - April 12
Cost: $400
Level: Foundational
Maximum Size: 24 students

Schedule:
Saturday, April 11: 9 am-12 pm Classroom session, 12-1 pm lunch, 1-5 pm Classroom session
Sunday, April 12: 9 am-12 pm Field session, 12-1 pm lunch, 1-4 pm Classroom session

Locations: TBD

Instructors:
Michael Shields, Michael D. Shields Consulting, PTBA Member Company
Alex Man, PhD, PEng, Trail Tutors, PTBA Member Company

Description

This workshop provides an overview of the ground systems we build trails across, treating terrain as a dynamic and interconnected structure. Topics include slope stability, soil mechanics, surface and subsurface hydrology, and the roles of bedrock and vegetation—along with how these elements interact. Participants will learn to recognize surface indicators of subsurface conditions and apply this understanding to select trail alignments, structures, and drainage solutions that work with natural ground stability rather than against it.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the ground as a complex dynamic structure having ultimate control over results.
2. Awareness of surface indicators, from topographic shapes to vegetation, of subsurface conditions and processes; how to take and analyze soil samples in the field.
3. Understand the need for trail routing/design to retain or enhance the ground's natural stability if it's to be called "sustainable".