Join us for an engaging presentation by Charlie Dundas, a trail-building legend with over 60 years of experience. Charlie, has been a pivotal figure in constructing trails, pedestrian bridges, and recreational infrastructure across multiple states. Known for his gruff humor, professorial insights, and captivating stories, Charlie will take you on a journey through the evolution of trail building, from hand tools in the 1950s to modern mechanized equipment. His tales are not only entertaining but also packed with practical wisdom. Attendees will leave laughing, nodding in agreement, and equipped with a deeper understanding of sustainable trail development and project management.
This session will explore how trail-building techniques have transformed alongside changing user demands, from pedestrian paths to multi-use trails accommodating mountain bikers and families. Charlie will share lessons from his extensive career, including the business of professional trail building and the importance of efficient project management to maximize volunteer and professional efforts. Expect to hear funny yet poignant stories that underscore critical points about time management, sustainable construction, and the value of professional expertise in creating lasting recreational infrastructure. This presentation will inspire and inform your approach to building resilient, community-focused trails.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the historical evolution of trail-building techniques and their impact on modern trail design.
- Gain insights into the business operations of a professional trail-building company, including cost efficiencies and project management strategies.
- Learn practical lessons from real-world stories that highlight effective volunteer management and sustainable trail construction.
- Explore the role of mechanized equipment in enhancing trail-building productivity and its implications for urban and rural trail networks.
- Develop strategies for integrating diverse user needs (e.g., pedestrians, mountain bikers, families) into trail planning and design.
