Books For Maintainers

Appalachian Trail Design, Construction, and Maintenance: The primary stewardship manual for volunteers who are involved in designing, constructing, or maintaining portions of the Appalachian Trail. Available through the Ultimate A.T. Store (call 888-287-8673 for A.T. maintainer discount).

Appalachian Trail Fieldbook: Field supplement to Appalachian Trail Design, Construction, and Maintenance. Available through the Ultimate A.T. Store (call 888-287-8673 for A.T. maintainer discount).

USDA Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook

Trail Maintainers Corner

Safety first

Keep safety in mind when working on the Trail. Basic safety equipment for all trail work includes a first-aid kit, boots, work gloves, long pants, and appropriate dress for the weather.

The job hazard analyses (JHAs) posted below provide information on potential hazards, safety gear, and safety recommendations for various types of trail work. They are intended as guidelines and may not be comprehensive. Trail Maintenance Tasks, Hazards, and Recommended Safety Gear and the JHAs appropriate to the work planned should be reviewed by all participants before every work trip on the Appalachian Trail.

Remember that individual Trail maintainers have the obligation to say "NO" and walk away from any situation they determine to be an unacceptable risk.

Trailwork Tasks, Hazards, and Safety Gear 
JHA Trailwork 
JHA Chainsaw Operation 
JHA Crosscut Saw Operation 
Riding Mower Checklist 
USDA Forest Service Health and Safety Code Handbook
Interagency Hardhat Inspection Guide (New)
USDA FS Tech Tip Hardhat Inspection and Maintenance (New)
String Trimmer Training (New)

Environmental Planning

Trail projects may require review to assure compliance with federal environmental laws and other regulations. The table below provides information on when to seek review for projects on Appalachian Trail lands. State and municipal regulations also may apply. Consult your ATC regional office for assistance. A project proposal and review form can be found on the Local Management Planning page.

Trail Maintenance and Construction Review and Compliance Guidelines (02-20-2013) (New)

Reference Manuals and Plans

Backcountry Sanitation Manual
Camping Impact Management on the A.T.
Increasing Opportunities for Access on the Appalachian Trail: A Design Guide
Planning and Building a Trailhead Bulletin Board
Food Storage Cables