New York State agencies strive to incorporate inclusive access to accessible trails while maintaining the sustainability and natural environment of state lands.

The Department of Environmental Conservation, in conjunction with the Adirondack Park Agency and the Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, recently hosted a forum on how to incorporate environmental sustainability into accessibility.

Sustainable trail design is a growing method of building and rebuilding trail networks. Janet Zeller, retired US Forest Service National Accessibility Program Director, was the keynote speaker. She said the design focuses on maximizing accessibility while protecting the unique natural setting.

“The emphasis on trails being built these days is on durability, low maintenance, and that they serve all people within reason. Sustainable trail design is the design of trails that ensure they are appropriately located within the environment so that the natural resources and character of the setting are maintained.

Zeller cited 2010 census figures showing that 57 million people have a disability — a large group that is willing to support integrated trail accessibility. She also noted that an aging population with reduced mobility also promotes integrated access to trail networks.

Zeller noted that one of the main benefits of sustainable trail design is accessibility.

“The standards maximize accessibility while maintaining the character of the trail setting. Slopes and cross slopes are also essential in the standards. Dealing with drainage without using structures makes the entire trail easier, and a firm, stable surface with the proper tread width means a clear path for all hikers. Thus, well-designed sustainable trails are more accessible trails. Sustainable design and accessibility go hand in hand.

Lia Akins, ADA’s statewide accessibility coordinator for the Department of Environmental Conservation, described some of the accessible places, trails, and programs available in the Adirondacks and Catskills.

“The DEC Accessibility Program, we have ADA coordinators in each of our nine DEC regions across the state. We also facilitate a public advisory committee. What we do is give advice, also go on site visits and talk to the managers and designers of the facilities.

Taconic Resources for Independence Executive Director Lisa Terricone is a member of the DEC Accessibility Advisory Committee.

“Our advisory board is comprised primarily of people with disabilities, allowing us to provide our personal experiential perspectives when formulating inclusive design recommendations for DEC recreation sites. DEC has targeted inclusive design as one of its main objectives in the redesign of existing outdoor venues and the construction of new venues. And it really gives people with disabilities, with all kinds of disabilities, the opportunity to connect with nature in deeply forested environments, which we don’t often do on rail trails or bike paths, conventional bike paths.

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This story is reported by WXXI’s Inclusion Office.