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Partners in A.T. and Volunteer Management
A Cooperative Approach to Managing the Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, state agencies, and private organizations known as “Appalachian Trail (A.T.) Maintaining Clubs,” work cooperatively to manage and care for the treadway, area natural resources, and to preserve the scenic beauty that people expect from the A.T. experience.
A.T. partners share the responsibility of the management of the Trail through the Cooperative Management System. This system works through local partner communication, support, and decision-making. Local Management Plans define responsibilities and are useful for planning the work.
Areas of Focus for A.T. Partners
The resources below are for A.T. Maintaining Clubs and aim to centrally locate all the management resources, trainings, and policies that guide the management of the Trail.
Managing the A.T.
Volunteer Management
An engaged volunteer corps is the cornerstone to the future of the Appalachian Trail. Learn about resources for recruiting, training, supporting, and recognizing A.T. volunteers. Find trainings to support your club's volunteer coordinator.
Learn MoreManaging the A.T.
Trail and Facilities
The continuity of the A.T. exists due to the management direction developed by the ATC and its partners. Learn standards for treadway maintenance, overnight facilities, and visitor use management. Find resources necessary to plan, propose, and carry out Trail projects.
Learn MoreManaging the A.T.
Land and Resource Management
Explore policies that guide A.T. Cooperative Management partners in managing natural resources, protecting surrounding lands, considering cultural resources, and responding to non-hiking recreational uses.
Learn MoreMaintaining and Monitoring the Trail
Corridor Stewardship
The sensitive terrain on and surrounding the Trail is subject to misuse and abuse unless consistent attention is maintained. Find resources on the caring for the corridor that hosts the A.T.
Learn MoreCultural Management Initiatives
Initiative
South Mountain Partnership
The South Mountain Partnership is a regional, landscape-scale conservation project in south-central Pennsylvania. This Partnership has emerged to guide efforts within the South Mountain Conservation Landscape, one of seven Conservation Landscapes that the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has identified throughout the state.
Initiative
Kittatinny Ridge Conservation Project
The Kittatinny Ridge (Appalachian Mountains) is a treasured landscape rich in history, beauty, natural resources, and recreational opportunities. It is the largest landscape conservation project in Pennsylvania - stretching from Delaware Water Gap in Northeastern PA and heading southwest on the top of the Ridge to the Mason-Dixon Line. Experience its 'Ridgeness' at the link below.
Initiative
PA Act 24 / ATC Mini-Grant
Act 24 was passed to encourage municipalities to protect the Trail Corridor through stronger planning and zoning regulations. In this way, the Trail Corridor will be integrated further into the community landscape across Pennsylvania. ATC established a mini-grant to help fund these activities. Click the link below for more information.