Teri’s Notebook: Trail results in; microscope funded

I wrote in October about the process the The Eagle Valley Trail Committee was going through to survey the community about existing and new trails in the area. The results are in, and I thought you’d like to know them. From the committee:

Usage

Survey results indicate the majority of Carson City trail users are hikers, dog walkers, mountain bikers and runners, with many users actively participating in all four.

Equestrian and OHV use placed a bit lower in usage based on the data collected. Exercise and relaxation were the two most popular reasons for users getting outdoors.

Condition

The survey asked users which trails they use and to rate the condition. Trails were broken up into three areas, North (Centennial Park), East (Prison Hill, Silver Saddle Ranch, Riverview Park) and West (C Hill, Kings Canyon, Ash Canyon, V&T). Though all of the area trails see use and are in need of maintenance, most of the trail users perceive the trails to be in good condition.

Trail Types and Information

More loop trails, longer trails and more advanced trails are important to Carson City trail users. Surprisingly though the majority of those polled being hikers, an overwhelming majority of respondents would like to see a mountain bike skills park for youth in Carson City.

Although the community as a whole has a strong desire for the above mentioned aspects, the most important items include:

Regional trail connections; increased trail networks and connectivity; improved trailheads; improved trail information including signs and maps; improved maintenance

Etiquette

Though trail users were generally satisfied with trail courtesy they did recognize a lack of trail etiquette. And users are unsatisfied with pet owners not cleaning up after their pets.

Conclusion

The Eagle Valley Trail Committee would like to thank everyone in the community for providing input during the trail survey and public forums. If you would like to see more details about the survey or learn more about the Eagle Valley Trails Committee, go to carsoncitytrails.org.

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Speaking of updates, I wrote last week about Riverview Elementary School teacher Jill De Pasquale needing a digital microscope for her class.

She sent me this message:

“That article posted and my project was fully funded,” she said. “My kiddos get a microscope!”

It’s such a pleasure for me to work in a community that’s so supportive of one another. It’s an honor to be the messenger.

Teri Vance is a journalist, freelance writer and native Nevadan. Contact her with column ideas at terivance@rocketmail.com.