Podcasts about trails conservancy

At 26, Ian Mackay loved the outdoors, natural sciences, and cycling. While studying as a biology undergrad at UC Santa Cruz, he crashed his bike into a tree on campus and forever changed his relationship with how he – and others like him –  experienced nature. After sustaining a spinal cord injury that would leave him paralyzed from the shoulders down, Mackay was challenged with rehabilitating his body, his mental wellness, and his adventurous lifestyle. In Ian's Ride: A Long-Distance Journey to Joy, author Karen Polinsky traverses both Ian's personal journey to recovery against all the odds and the path his work has cleared for fellow nature lovers. In this intimate memoir brought to life through more than one hundred hours of interviews, journal entries, and more, Polinsky depicts Ian's story with heartfelt honesty. As he adapted to his new life in the Pacific Northwest with the help of his dedicated mother Teena, as well as family and friends, he grew inspired to revisit his bond with the outdoors. After years of personal growth, advocacy, and accessibility research, Ian has become a community leader, an innovator with Apple, and a world-record-breaking athlete. Ian's Ride is an inspirational tale of perseverance and an adventure quest for nature lovers, endurance athletes, and anyone struggling with a life-changing loss or diagnosis. This deftly narrated saga examines the passions and challenges that inform how we exist in our hearts, our bodies, our communities, and our natural world. Karen Polinsky is a novelist and playwright, as well as a former journalist and high school teacher. Her written works include the book Dungeness, the dance drama Heart of Stone, and more than a dozen staged plays. Ian Mackay, a C2/3 quadriplegic, is a nature lover, mobility technology innovator, and endurance athlete. Mackay is the executive director of the nonprofit Ian's Ride, which aims to increase accessibility to the outdoors. He also serves as an ambassador for the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and is a proud board member of The Here and Now Project, a chapter of the United Spinal Association. Kenny Salvini is an award-winning writer and community organizer with a passion for promoting wellness, accessibility, and independence in the disability community. In 2013, Kenny cofounded The Here and Now Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to connect and empower the mobility disability community in the Pacific Northwest. In his free time, Kenny does accessibility advocacy and training on the side and is a part-time contributor to New Mobility Magazine. In 2019, he was recognized by the United Spinal Association as their Advocate of the Year. Kenny graduated with honors from Central Washington University, where he majored in Electronics Engineering Technology, and was a two-time NCAA Division II Academic All-American in Men's Wrestling. He currently lives in Sumner, Washington with his wife, Claire, and their four-year-old daughter, Ila. Buy the Book Ian's Ride: A Long-Distance Journey to Joy Elliott Bay Book Company

In this episode of Without Compromise we sit down with Ryan Chao, President of Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC), to explore the transformative power of trails, not just as places to recreate, but as vital community infrastructure. With a background in architecture and community development, Ryan shares how his personal journey led him to advocate for a nation connected by trails. From biking and skiing with his family to navigating policy and equity challenges, Ryan offers a compelling look at how trails support health, economic opportunity, and environmental resilience across urban, rural, and suburban communities alike.We also dive into Celebrate Trails Day and RTC's partnership with Athletic Brewing through the Two for the Trails program, Athletic's cornerstone initiative that supports trails across the country and world. Whether you're a lifelong trail user or just starting to explore the outdoors, this conversation will leave you inspired to get involved and advocate for accessible, connected open spaces for all.

The Great American Rail-Trail® is the nation's first cross-country multiuse trail, stretching more than 3,700 miles between Washington, D.C., and Washington State, including about 509 miles in Wyoming. In this episode, Pathfinder Bruce and Great American Rail-Trail® Project Manager, Kevin Belle, discuss the potential route in Wyoming, the social/economic benefits of the trail and how collaboration will be key to the success of the project. To learn more about the Rails to Trails Conservancy: https://www.railstotrails.org/about/ To learn more about The Great American Rail-Trail®: https://www.railstotrails.org/site/greatamericanrailtrail/

The Rails to Trails Conservancy aims to build a nation connected by trails and to reimagine public spaces- creating safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors. In this episode, Pathfinder Bruce chats with The Great American Rail-Trail® Project Manager, Kevin Belle about the importance of trails and how trails can foster a sense of connectedness.   To learn more about the Rails to Trails Conservancy: https://www.railstotrails.org/about/ To learn more about The Great American Rail-Trail®: https://www.railstotrails.org/site/greatamericanrailtrail/

Reimagining streets on Willoughby in West Hollywood California and W. 72nd on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, with PhD Transportation Researcher Miriam Pinski and Carl Mahaney, Director of StreetopiaUWS. 0:52 Listener Email: Dan Murphy on hi-viz clothing: a low cost safety measure, or victim blaming? 14:57 The Great American Rail Trail, the nation's first cross-country multiuse trail, will stretch more than 3,700 miles between Washington, D.C., and Washington State. Powell County, Montana Planning Director Amanda Cooley and Kevin Belle, Project Manager at Rails to Trails Conservancy, tell Taylor Nichols all about it. 20:05 Re:ciclos: a program which aims to create wider access to cargo bicycle technology and empowerment of youth in black and brown communities by exposure to fabrication, mechanics, advocacy, outreach, and community. Re:ciclos founder Jimmy Lizama talks with Ava Maria. 38:56 Stacey's Bike Thought 55:23

Earlier this month, the Biden administration announced $8.2 billion in funding for selected high-speed rail projects across the country. One major rail project that is receiving support will connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles; another will connect several cities in California, including Los Angeles and San Francisco. “America disinvested over the last many decades in our rail systems,” said Pete Buttigieg, secretary of the US Department of Transportation. “We're reversing that trend.” One result of this disinvestment and additional challenges in the rail industry is a large number of abandoned railroad lines. But, although many of these railroad lines no longer carry trains, the lines have been put to new transportational use. In this rebroadcasted episode, host Margaret Walls talks with Peter Harnik, cofounder of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, about grassroots and legislative efforts to repurpose abandoned railroad lines as recreational trails. Harnik discusses why the United States has so many abandoned railroad lines, the process of converting a railroad line into a trail, and the legislation that provides funding for trail projects. References and recommendations: “From Rails to Trails: The Making of America's Active Transportation Network” by Peter Harnik; https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/nebraska/9781496222060/ Rails-to-Trails Conservancy; https://www.railstotrails.org/ “Stolen Focus” by Johann Hari; https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/634289/stolen-focus-by-johann-hari/

In this EMERGENCY BONUS episode, Jason talks with Don Rank of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. Don is the PA Chairman of the BHA and a returning guest. He fills us in on a specific amendment to HB 1300, a state budget bill. This amendment redirects (STEALS) $150 million from the Game Fund and allocates that money for alternate spending. Listen in as Don explains how this is a terrible financial decision for the Pennsylvania Game Commission, hunters, conservationists, and outdoors people of all kinds. Organizations in opposition to the amended bill: Audubon Mid-Atlantic, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Conservation Voters of PA, Ducks Unlimited, Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds, Lancaster Farmland Trust, Natural Lands, PennFuture, Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, Sierra Club PA Chapter, The Conservation Fund, The Nature Conservancy PA/DE Chapter, The Trust for Public Land, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Trout Unlimited, WeConservePA, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, American Sportfishing Association, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Congressional Sportsmen Federation, Delta Waterfowl, Hunters for Sunday Hunting, National Deer Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, Pennsylvania Federation of Sportsmen and Conservationists, Pheasants Forever/ Quail Forever, Ruffed Grouse Society, SCI: First for Hunters...AND GROWING!

Season 2 continues as we delve into Tom's journey to prepare for his next cycling challenge. As Tom ramps up a 10-week program aimed at shedding extra pounds to reduce what amounts to pedaling around an additional 20 pounds, he candidly shares the ups and downs of his progress. While his commitment to the meal aspect of the plan shines, the cycling component proves to be surprisingly challenging, adding a unique twist to his transformational journey.In this week's interview, Tom focuses on a pivotal resource for his cycling—the organization behind his local Rails to Trails route. Brandi Horton, the VP for Communications at the Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC), joins the podcast and expertly addresses all of Tom's inquiries. Brandi brings forth a wealth of knowledge about the captivating history of the rails-to-trails movement. As she provides the background of this impactful initiative, listeners are treated to the remarkable narrative of how disused railway tracks have been ingeniously transformed into vibrant trails, cherished by countless individuals today.Throughout the interview, listeners gain insights into the substantial effort required to preserve these trails and the tangible benefits they offer to communities. Tom's understanding deepens regarding the dedication fueling the Rails to Trails Conservancy's mission, fostering a newfound appreciation for the paths he frequently cycles along.If you've ever ventured onto a Rails to Trails route and pondered the effort behind its creation, this episode is tailor-made for you. Plus, you'll also get to hear about the most unique thing Tom has encountered on the Foothills Trail.LinksPeter Harnich “From Rails to Trails: The Making of America's Active Transportation Network”  nebraskapress.unl.edu/nebraska/9781496222060/Rails to Trail Etiquette: railstotrails.org/experience-trails/share-the-trail/The immensely useful TrailLink: www.traillink.com/Thanks for Joining Me! Follow and comment on Cycling Over Sixty on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyclingoversixty/Please send comments, questions and especially content suggestions to me at tom.butler@teleiomedia.comShow music is "Come On Out" by Dan Lebowitz. Find him here : lebomusic.com

In this week's episode, host Margaret Walls talks with Peter Harnik, cofounder of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, about grassroots and legislative efforts to repurpose abandoned railroad lines as recreational trails. Harnik discusses why the United States has so many abandoned railroad lines, the process of converting a railroad line into a trail, and the legislation that provides funding for trail projects. References and recommendations: “From Rails to Trails: The Making of America's Active Transportation Network” by Peter Harnik; https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/nebraska/9781496222060/ Rails-to-Trails Conservancy; https://www.railstotrails.org/ “Stolen Focus” by Johann Hari; https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/634289/stolen-focus-by-johann-hari/

Our guest today on the Outdoor Adventure Series is Ian Mackay, Executive Director of Ian's Ride.Ian is an outdoor enthusiast and accessibility advocate. He believes nature is the best medicine, and community is instrumental to an individual's success. Ian's Ride is a 501 ( c ) ( 3 ) nonprofit organization that advocates for a more accessible outdoors by offering annual events for people with mobility impairments, demonstrating what's possible for people of all abilities.Topics DiscussedHow he works with Apple to promote accessible tech for folks with severe mobility impairment.What prompted him to create Ian's Ride.What advocacy needs to continue to promote advocacy on our bike trials further.Aha MomentThe excitement after year one of our flagship event: Sea to Sound, a 74 mile, three-day, multi-modal group ride spanning the entire length of the Olympic Discovery Trail. The Olympic Peninsula is the farthest northwest expanse of land one can explore along the US coast. The Rails to Trail Conservancy recently added the ODT to the Great American Rail Trail – making a route from Washington, DC, to the Pacific Ocean here in Washington State.Insight2goThere's a song called The Cape by Guy Clark, which has been very motivating since my injury. The song follows a child growing into adulthood and then old age Who kept jumping off his garage with a flour sack cape around his neck, attempting to fly. The chorus goes: "he's one of those who knows that life is just a leap of faith; spread your arms and hold your breath, and always trust your cape." Then the final line is: "he did not know he could not fly, so he did."Media & Resourceshttps://www.si.com/sports-illustrated/2022/09/14/ian-mackay-wheelchair-daily-coverhttps://www.post-gazette.com/news/health/2022/10/08/great-allegheny-passage-wheelchair-paralysis-spinal-disabilities-access-ian-mackay/stories/202210040094?cid=searchhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JuzRAuQv30Ian's blog: https://www.iansride.com/most-recentRails-to-Trails Conservancy: https://www.railstotrails.org/Great American Rail Trail: https://www.railstotrails.org/greatamericanrailtrail/Olympic Discovery Trail: https://olympicdiscoverytrail.org/Next StepsTo learn more about Ian's Ride, visit their website at https://www.iansride.com/ or their social sites on Facebook & Instagram.FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/IansRideIG Link: https://www.instagram.com/ians_ride/Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/iansride2016The Outdoor Adventure Series is a production of Fox Coaching, Inc.

Today I'm joined by Amy Kaap from Rails to Trails Conservancy. Amy has more than 18 years of experience in print and digital content creation, editorial management, and outdoor journalism. Having joined the RTC team in 2014 as editor of Rails to Trails magazine and the TrailBlog, she focuses on telling the story of the impact of trails on America. Facebook Twitter Instagram   The Outdoor Biz Podcast   Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

Craig Della Penna is the Executive Director with Norwottuck Network, an Associate Broker with The Murphys Realtors, Trailside Team, as well as the Owner of Sugar Maple Trailside Inn in Florence, MA. For 12 years, Craig marketed rail freight and operated New England's largest and most successful railroad-owned, transloading facility—Railroad Distribution Services, Inc. For seven years, he worked for Rails-to-Trails Conservancy as their New England Field Representative focusing on the policy end of building rail trails as well as public outreach. Today he is a successful Realtor, the fist realtor in the US specializing in the sale of property near to rail trails. He spoke with us just before their annual conference being held this year in Gilbertville, MA.   In talking about the history and his pivotal role in progressing multiple trails in Massachusetts, we get the story that leads us to this pivotal 'Are We Here Yet?' question: Do Rail Trails Bring Wealth to Neighborhoods.  In countless examples, such as the Erie Canalway Trail the state of New York surmises the completed trail has created $250MM USD per mile of trial of economic development.  By incorporating other important priorities of more sustainable and human-scale development into trialside projects, such as this one in Falls Church, VA, communities are solving middle-market housing challenges as well as bringing important parcels back live on municipal tax roles.  Click here for Norwottuck Network's latest Newsletter Our episode is a trail map of sorts, guiding you on how to optimize your trail space for maximum momentum.   On this episode of SMG's 'Are We Here Yet?' podcast.

Before joining the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy team in 2016 as a trail planner, Kevin Belanger spent many years in the active-transportation world. He received master's degrees in both Environmental Studies and Community and Regional Planning from the University of Oregon, where he wrote his thesis on walking and biking habits in suburban multifamily housing. After completing his formal education, Kevin spent time in the consulting world and then as the bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for a suburb in Maryland. Lately, Kevin is focused on an exciting project I'm so excited to share with you all – it's the Great American Rail-Trail, a signature project of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy to connect the country via a 3,700-mile-long mult-iuse trail between Washington, DC and Washington State. His favorite part of the job is seeing the light bulb go off in people's heads when they see what this trail can do for them and their communities. Today we'll talk about yet another human being who left a job that looked great on paper but wasn't filling up his cup – and how he turned that around into work and a life he is passionate about. We talked about: The importance of active transportation The impact of trails and bike and pedestrian access on individuals and communities Launching a massive initiative with many partners and private landowners So with that, let's listen in and gear up for what's next. Where to find Kevin and other links: Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Great American Rail-Trail Instagram traillink.com Support the Great American Rail-Trail BEFORE YOU LEAVE - If you are enjoying the shows, I hope you'll subscribe, rate, review, and share with your friends!   About Lisa Gerber: Lisa advises CEOs and senior-level management on how to use the power of storytelling and effective communication to influence action and bring ideas to life.   She guides companies through the digital maze of constantly changing tools to build discovery, loyalty, and ultimately help them achieve their own big leaps.   When she is not in her office, she might be out skiing or trail running. This is where she does her best creative problem-solving.   To learn more about booking Lisa for consulting, speaking or workshops, visit www.bigleapcreative.com.

Hello everyone. Welcome back for another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series Podcast. This is your Host, Howard Fox. The Outdoor Adventure Series celebrates individuals & families, businesses, and organizations that seek out and promote the exploration, stewardship, and enjoyment of the great outdoors. Our guest today is Kevin Belanger, Great American Rail-Trail Project Manager for the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.The Rails-to-Trail Conservancy was founded in 1986. Its mission is to build a nation connected by trails. They're reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike, and be active outdoors.Aha MomentThe Great American Rail-Trail is a huge vision to connect the country via a multi-use trail across 12 states and DC. I'm continually amazed at how many people are inspired by the vision to start Bikepacking, especially people for whom big, outdoor adventures haven't always been on their bucket lists.Insight2GoThey didn't teach me in school how important cultivating relationships is to help get things done. We can have the best and biggest ideas that we think everyone should get on board with, but it can only happen at the speed of relationship building. So many doors have opened for me personally and professionally because of the time I've invested in getting to know people - and I can often trace situations where things haven't worked out as I've wanted to relationships that I haven't spent enough time on.To learn more about the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, visit their website at www.railstotrails.orgClick here for more about the Great American Rail-Trail.Link: https://www.railstotrails.org/greatamericanrailtrail/Click here for Trail Maps & Guides for Biking, Hiking, and Running Trails on TrailLink. Link: https://www.traillink.com/Click here to discover ways to participate in Celebrate Trails Day, an annual spring celebration of America's trails.Link: https://www.railstotrails.org/experience-trails/celebrate-trails/To learn more about Kevin and his journey, check out his By Way of the Trail blog at https://www.bywayofthetrail.com/You can also find more information about the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, The Great American Trail, and Kevin, on the following social sites.FacebookLink: https://www.facebook.com/greatamericanrailtrailInstagram - Ihttps://www.instagram.com/greatamericanrailtrailInstagram IILink: https://www.instagram.com/bywayofthetrail/Here are a few additional external links that Kevin shared during our episode:Warrior Expeditions' commitment to the mission of The Great American Rail-Trail.Northern Cheyenne Breakout Legacy Fund to promote the development of the Northern Cheyenne Healing TrailClick here to learn more about the Outdoor Writers Association of AmericaThe Outdoor Adventure Series is a podcast production of Fox Coaching, Inc.

Our guest on this episode is Brandi Horton. Brandi is Vice President of Communications for the Rails to Trails Conservancy, the nation's largest trail advocacy organization and a partner with Sports Backers for the Great American Ride. Brandi shared details on how the Rails to Trails Conservancy works across the country to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors, and how they are completing the vision for the 3,700-mile Great American Rail-Trail that will run from Washington State to Washington, DC. And as a bonus, we even had time to discuss her previous work with Farm Aid and its well-known music festival.Be sure to follow the work of the Rails to Trails Conservancy online at www.RailsToTrails.org, and on social media. The Great American Ride, a virtual team cycling event that follows the path of the Great American Rail-Trail, kicks off on March 19, and team registration is available at www.GreatAmericanRide.org.As always, thank you for tuning in to the On the Move podcast from Sports Backers. Visit us online at www.sportsbackers.org or on social media @SportsBackers to share any feedback on the podcast.

On this episode meet Kevin Belanger, Manager of Trail Planning for the Great American Rail-Trail at Rails-to-Trails Conservancy. Rails-to-Trails is the largest non profit organization related to trails. Since 1986, they have worked to bring the power of trails to more communities across the country, serving as the national voice for the rail-trail movement. Get this, to date there are overt 24,000 miles of rail-trails on the ground nationwide and more than 8,000 miles of rail-trails ready to be built, and their focus is on linking these corridors—creating trail networks that connect people and places, bringing transformative benefits to communities all across the country. Kevin's focus is on the Great American Rail-Trail which is an effort to connect a multi-use trail across the country and so far they are over half done with 2,000 miles completed. Chances are high you have spent some time on a rail-trail and it is nice to know along with local supporters, there is a national organization working hard to help communities create a safe, seamless and scenic pathway which can have big economic benefits too. https://www.railstotrails.org/ https://www.railstotrails.org/greatamericanrailtrail/ https://www.traillink.com/ https://www.bywayofthetrail.com/ www.murphologypodcast.com www.Patreon.com/Murphology

The Great American Rail-Trail, launched by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy nearly three years ago is a proposed network of nearly 4000 miles of off-road trails linking Washington, DC to the outskirts of Seattle, WA. Back in 2019, we chatted with Kevin Mills of RTC to get the scoop on this exciting project and what to expect in the years to come. Originally podcast February 7, 2019.

We are joined today by Kevin Belanger. Kevin is here to share his wisdom, knowledge, and personal experiences on the important conversation of being queer in the outdoor community.Kevin was a guest on Bike Life episode #33, Great American Rail Trail. He is the Manager of Trail Planning with Rails to Trails Conservancy and The Great American Rail Trail, a multi-use cross-country trail under development enabling users to hike or bike across the US on a safe and scenic path.As a queer person, Kevin has a different point of view on biking and the outdoors. There are many barriers to tour cycling, but the best way to overcome these barriers is by educating and bringing the conversation forward. Kevin travels extensively, especially in rural areas, and is grateful to say that he has had very few bad experiences.Kevin was young and not out yet when Matthew Shepherd was murdered in Wyoming just for being gay. Matthew's murder profoundly affected him and always colored his impression of non-urban, less diverse areas. His first work trip took him to Wyoming, and he admits to being very nervous. But fortunately, Kevin met great people on that trip that helped changed his perspective.Kevin does not necessarily present as gay and has the privilege of passing. He is a drag queen on the side; his drag name is Whisky Ginger, and she is a salty redhead. But when Kevin is around a group of straight men who don't know he is gay, he hears many things that he would not typically hear. He finds it fascinating to have a foot in both of these worlds.Kevin feels that the bike community is open and full of love and diversity for the most part. Of course, there is always room for education, but he feels very welcome and accepted while touring. He would like to see more diversity in the outdoors and biking community and is intrigued by the new affinity groups he has read about. These groups create a safe space for people of color, queer people, and various groups to share their interest in the outdoors and cycling. He does not view affinity groups as a place to hide or be separate, but rather a place to share common interests.There are several ways that Kevin feels Warmshowers can help create a more inclusive community. Language plays a key role, especially when asked to identify gender. Also, he would love to see a place on the user profile to indicate that a host is LGBTQ+ and BIPOC friendly. Warnshowers is currently undergoing a technology revision and will incorporate these ideas. The cycling community has been predominately white and straight for a long time, and Warmshowers is actively trying to change that.There is still a lot of work to do around this topic, and some might feel uncomfortable talking about it. If you don't know how to handle a situation, then do some research. Where ever and however you can, be a part of the change and learn to be more accepting of others. There is a place for everyone in this conversation and the bike community. It starts at the individual level, and it's ok to make mistakes along the way. As Kevin says, “as long as you are misstepping in love, you're good to go!”Follow Kevin's travels on his blog By Way of the Trail and learn more about Rails to Trails Conservancy and The Great American Rail Trail.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, or you can reach Tahverlee at tahverlee@warmshowers.org.Follow us on Instagram; @Warmshowers_org

We are joined today by Kevin Belanger. Kevin is the Manager of Trail Planning for the Rails to Trails Conservancy and the Great American Rail Trail.The Great American Rail Trail is the flagship project of the Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC). RTC was formed in 1986 with the mission to convert unused railway lines into hiking and biking trails. There are many miles of abandoned railway trails across the country, and RTC reimagines public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike, and be active outdoors.Currently, the route is 53% complete, with just over 2,000 miles of trail across the country. RTC works with state and local officials throughout the country to complete more of the trail. Each of these projects happens on a regional scale, and RTC relies heavily on advocates on the ground. They focus on linking these corridors to create trail networks that connect people and places to transform communities across the country, from Washington, DC, to Washington state.The trail is called the Great American Rail Trail because RTC wants it to have a railroad feel. The unused railways in the eastern part of the country are relatively flat, broad, and pass through many small communities. As a result, many people can benefit from these trails, not just conditioned athletes. The western part of the country presents a bit of a challenge as the terrain is rougher, and many railways are still in use. So, RTC is working with trail planners to create a system of trails that follows highways, canals, and utility corridors, to name a few.RTC has a companion website and app called TrailLink, which maps all of their known trails. When you are looking for your next adventure, The TrialLink app can help you find trails near your location. Whether you're planning an itinerary or have just found a great trail, you can save all your favorites and track your completed trails. It is an excellent resource, with hundreds of miles of newly discovered trails added each year.Kevin calls himself a “certifiable trial nerd” and has biked since he was a child. He says that the best part about his job has been talking with cyclists, trail planners, state officials, and trail advocates across the country. He has been privileged to visit every state that the trail runs through, and although he has not had the opportunity to bike the entire trail, he has spent a lot of time on the eastern leg (Pittsburgh to DC). His ultimate goal is to bike the whole completed trail someday.You can learn more about Rails to Trails on their websites; Rails To Trails, Great American Rail Trail, and Trail Link. Follow Kevin on his blog By Way of the Trail.Join our community at Warmshowers.org, or you can reach Tahverlee at tahverlee@warmshowers.org.Follow us on Instagram; @Warmshowers_org

Craig Della Penna worked in the railroad industry, and wrote a series of books on the history of old railroad lines converted to walking and biking trails. Craig also worked at the New England Rails-to-Trails Conservancy to prevent bad policy at the state and local level, “parachuting” into rail trail wars in the northeast. He is the Executive Director of the The Norwottuck Network, a non-profit org that supports the Mass Central Rail Trail. Craig is also a realtor specializing in properties near rail trails. https://www.nnnetwork.net/ www.Gs2021.org https://www.traillink.com/

This Memorial Day weekend on America Outdoors Radio features interview with several veterans who love outdoors adventure.  One of them is Alyson Rausch.  She served as an Army medic and is now back home in Central Wisconsin where she embraces new hunting and fishing adventures while blogging at MissPursuit.com, a website empowering women to enjoy hunting, fishing and more outdoors.   Two other veterans we'll talk to are Sean Gobin and Allison Garrigus.  They'll tell you about a bike ride Allison and four veterans are taking across the nation on along the route of the Great American Rail Trail this summer.  It's being put together by Gobin, the founder of Warrior Expeditions, with help from the Rails to Trails Conservancy.  Memorial Day is also about camping and Ryan Neeley with Camp Chef is back with some advice about how too cook food in or over a fire that tastes better than a burnt hot dog.  Finally, Memorial Day weekend is also about the opening of boating season and Kriston Frohnhoefer, President of Sea Tow Services International, has some interesting data from a recent survey showing boating is going to be a very, very popular activity this summer!   http://www.americaoutdoorsradio.com 

This week, we get to talk about one of our favorite things, the bike trails! We sat down (virtually) with Ken Bryan, Florida State Director of the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy. Did you know that the paved bike trails are mostly made where the old railroad tracks used to be? Ken tells us all about the trails, the Conservancy, and how you can find the very best bike (and walking) trails, no matter where you are. Check it out!    -Rails To Trails Conservancy -Donate to Rails-To-Trails -TrailLink: Find The Best Trails -FL Greenways & Trails System Plan & Maps -Van Fleet Trail -Sideways Farm and Brewery, NC -Swamp Rabbit Trail. NC    

For Nan Calvert's November visit to the Morning Show, we explore the work of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, which helps to facilitate the transformation of abandoned railroad lines into publicly accessible trails - and the statewide network of such trails known as the Route of the Badger. Our guest is Willie Karidis, who is project manager for the Route of the Badger.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy's Kevin Belanger joins us to talk about the "Great American Rail-Trail" and how bent riders can benefit from this exciting new national venture. Mel Birge from Recumbentpdx will tell us all about the Pacific Trike Fest coming up in Portland this October. John Williams brings us his experience riding to and participating in the World HPV Championships last month in Nandex, France. Finally we'll check in with Jon Hodkin AKA InnerTuba as he finishes up his month long tour of Iowa which included RAGBRAI. Some exciting news from TerraTrike and viewer submissions round out our very full agenda.**Here is a Table of Contents for this month’s video. Just click on the section of the video you’d like to jump to:00:00:00 Intro00:00:45 What’s on Today’s Show00:02:45 Panel Introduction00:05:50 Sponsor Introduction00:08:00 Pacific Trike Fest with RecumbentPDX’s Mel Birge00:17:00 Rails to Trails Conservancy’s Kevin Belanger00:57:00 Innertuba update with Jon Hodkin01:16:30 World HPV Championships with John Williams01:41:10 Sports Report with Denny Voorhees01:51:10 Sponsor Thanks01:52:08 Announcements01:58:52 Viewer Submissions02:00:25 Coming up next month**Links Mentioned in this webcast:Thanks to our great sponsorsTerraCycle https://t-cycle.com/Trailside.bike https://trailside.bike/Cruzbike https://cruzbike.com/Lightning Cycles https://www.lightningbikes.com/*Pacific Trike Fest*Pacific Trike Fest https://recumbentpdx.com/pacifictrikefest/"Trike50" discount code for LBR viewers-50% off tickets!Recumbent PDX https://recumbentpdx.com/Email questions to: fun@pacifictrikefest.com*Rails to Trails Conservancy*Rails to Trails Conservancy website http://www.railstotrails.org/RTC trail guide site and app http://www.trailink.com/Kevin Belanger’s email Kevinb@railstotrails.orgGreat American Rail Trail email grtamerican@railstotrails.org*Jon Hodkin*Innertuba https://innertuba.org.uk/Ragbrai https://ragbrai.com/*John Williams*World HPV Championship in France http://bit.ly/2K5FZaLVelo-ads channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKU3VJzRAMqoHVpnAAZ8JqQWorld Championship 2019 video Part 1 https://youtu.be/UD1NRnpcI4c*Sports Report*Arkansas Senior Games http://arseniorolympics.org/National Senior Games https://nsga.com/Bacchetta Cycles Senior Game offer https://www.bacchettabikes.com/seniorgames/Nebraska Senior Games https://www.nebraskaseniorgames.com/Wyoming Senior Olympics https://www.wyseniorolympics.com/Broadmoor Pike Peak Grand Fondo Hill Climb http://bit.ly/2OZSMyKMichigan HPV Rally http://bit.ly/2KHWPfaParis-Brest-Paris http://bit.ly/2ZemkfP*Announcements*TerraTrike/KMX Karts http://bit.ly/2KSbenBPTF https://recumbentpdx.com/pacifictrikefest/RCC https://www.recumbentcyclecon.com/*YouTube Videos Recently Posted*Velo Rides with Tour de France Interview https://youtu.be/xk5AwcupSpwInnerTuba and the Bents of RAGBRAI https://youtu.be/vxiFsPjKABs*Viewer Submissions*Send submissions to laidbackbikereport@gmail.comSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/laidbackbikereport)

In this episode, recorded over Zoom during the Covid-19 Pandemic, we discuss the importance of Greenways and Open Space in development, and how the landscape has changed in the ways that Greenways, Parks, and trails are now viewed when it comes to amenities in large scale developments and cities around the country. Our guest Chuck Flink has forgotten more about Greenways than I will ever know. Hear all about these linear parks coming to Chatham Park in this episode!Notes and Links:The Greenway Imperative: Connecting Communities and Landscapes for a Sustainable Future, Charles A. Flink, University Press of Florida, March 2020 (Amazon.com)(https://www.amazon.com/Greenway-Imperative-Connecting-Communities-Sustainable/dp/1683401158/ref=pd_rhf_pe_p_img_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=P37ZJ9V5ZNWHWV9FP9FT)American Trails (americantrails.org)Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (railstotrails.org)East Coast Greenway (greenway.org)#ChathamPark #HawRiver #Greenways #Covid-19 

Samantha Pearson, Director, Lewisburg Neighborhoods, Walk it! Bike it! Coordinator, Elm Street Manager, on social distancing and the great outdoors. We’ll talk about the latest guidance from the PA Recreation and Park Society, DCNR and Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership, Middle Susquehanna Active Transportation Committee and Walk it! Bike it! Lewisburg.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas - A groundbreaking was held recently for the Battlefield Trail Extension, which adds 1.8 miles to City of Brownsville’s Historic Battlefield Trail.Among those attending the ceremony were representatives from, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, the City of Brownsville, the National Park Service, the UT School of Public Health, the City Harlingen, the City of Port Isabel, the City of South Padre Island, the City of Los Fresnos, the City of San Benito and the Town of Rancho Viejo.It is the first phase in a plan to connect Brownsville with Los Fresnos by trail and is a project intended to increase access to public lands in the region. The extension to the trail ties in with Challenge-RGV, a county-wide effort to inspire healthy eating and active living among residents.The Battlefield Trail Extension was funded with a $2 million grant from the Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation (Legacy Foundation) to jumpstart Cameron County’s efforts to create new opportunities for physical activity and active transportation in a part of the country facing significant rates of chronic disease and poverty. It is the first of six Caracara Trails catalyst projects that are intended to accelerate development of the 428-mile trail network, which is poised to deliver significant health and economic benefits to the region. For example, the development of the trail network is expected to generate a 22 percent increase in physical activity to Cameron County residents and an annual health care cost savings of as much as $12.3 million. Construction of the trail network alone is expected to deliver a total economic impact of more than $173 million.“As we break ground on the Battlefield Trail Extension, we’re marking a turning point for the health, wellness and economic potential of our region,” said Rose M.Z. Gowen, M.D., Brownsville city commissioner and a board member of RTC. “The Caracara Trails vision is already bringing new investment to Cameron County in the form of federal and private grants. Already, you can see families and friends out on the trails, having fun while building new routines in their lives around physical activity.”Soon, Gowen said, a trail will connect Brownsville to Los Fresnos, with the new extension part of the project.“Our trail network vision and all that it can deliver for the health and economic growth of our region is being realized with each investment, each mile of trail built and each person who gets out for a walk, a run or a ride.”The above podcast features all the speakers at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Elizabeth Thorstensen with the Rails to Trails Conservancy shares news about the development of the Great American Rail Trail, a multi-use trail for hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders that upon completion will be a transcontinental rail trail stretching across the United States. www.northwesternoutdoors.com https://www.railstotrails.org/greatamericanrailtrail/

Hello Gardeners, I'm Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow. Railroads were the backbone of American growth but in recent years shipping by truck has supplanted their use. According to the rails to trails movement, by 1984 from 4000 to 8000 miles of track were being abandoned each year. This left corridors that went through neighbors, down busy city streets, and through miles and miles of agriculture and timberlands unused. In Washington, DC, a group of people interested in history, cycling and walking, railroad aficionados and representatives of environmental groups started a brown bag lunch campaign to design adaptive uses for these many miles of steel tracks. Eventually, the Rails to Trails Conservancy dedicated to I'm quoting here “recycling of a whole transportation system.” The goal was to create safe places for walking, cycling, running and skating that would unite different parts of communities and areas of the country.

You can celebrate trails in the Quad Cities today with the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, the Quad Cities Bicycle Club, Visit Quad Cities, Ride Illinois and the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. Rails-to Trails Conservancy Vice President of Communications Brandi Horton and Florida State Director Ken Bryan joined AM Quad Cities!

Eric Oberg of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy talks about Ohio's key role in the proposed Great American Rail-Trail.

For episode 2 of the I Bike Kansas Podcast, I interview Scott Allen of the KANZA Rails to Trails Conservancy.  The Conservancy is responsible for the Flint Hills Nature Trail and the Landon Nature Trail.  These Rails-To-Trails projects cover over 150 miles (and growing) of trail across the Flint Hills of Kansas.  I talked to […]

Our guest is Eli Griffen, Manager Trail Development Resources for the Rails To Trails Conservancy.  Who's mission is creating a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors to build healthier places for healthier people.   Find A Trail By Clicking Here  

Dust off your bicycle, pull on your hiking boots. Tomorrow the nonprofit Rails to Trails Conservancy is hosting its annual ‘Opening Day for Trails,’ a chance for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the Jones Falls trail and celebrate nature.Jim Brown, manager of trail development, tells us about the festivities planned and describes how a coalition of community groups and city agencies are working to create a loop of easily accessible trails around Baltimore. The goal: to bridge the gaps between neighborhoods and to repurpose abandoned land.

Topic:Smart growth and the real estate industry Guest & Organization:Hugh Morris has practiced urban planning for twenty-five years with a focus on transportation issues. After graduating from UCLA with a Masters in Planning, he spent five years with a transportation consulting firm working on transit plans, travel demand forecasting models, and travel surveys. He spent the next two years working for an energy efficiency think tank where he focused on transportation issues, including investigating the real cost of our transportation system. The next ten years were spent working with the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy helping communities convert abandoned railroad corridors into hiking/biking trails. His principle area of focus was urban trails that were used for trip making as well as recreation. He has spent the last twelve years with the Smart Growth Program at the National Association of Realtors where he helps local Realtor associations around the country to become advocates for smart growth style development in their communities. He has had two papers presented at and published by the National Academy of Science’s Transportation Research Board. Additionally, he has contributed to the American Planning Association’s publication titled “Planning and Urban Design Standards” as well as “Trails for the 21st Century: a planning, design, and management manual” published by Island Press. Resources: https://www.nar.realtor/on-common-ground (On Common Ground – smart growth magazine from the National Association of Realtors) http://realtormag.realtor.org/commercial/feature/article/2018/01/how-become-small-scale-developer (How to Become a Small-Scale Developer – by Meg White) https://www.lgc.org/ (Local Government Commission )  

Howdy Joyriders! WELCOME TO SEASON THREE! I'm joined on episode 31 by reformed backpacker-turned-bikecamper Dana Kroeck of the blog Blisters and Bugbites! We chat about her love of rail trails, a magical car-free island in..Michigan, and the most unlikely group ride you can possibly imagine. But first.. UPDATES:  Bikequity: Money, Class, and Bicycling I'm honored to have been included with some excellent voices in Elly Blue's 14th installment of her feminist bicycling zine Taking The Lane called Bikequity: Money, Class, and Bicycling: Bicycling has the radical potential of equalizing our transportation system, creating more equitable opportunities from the personal to the societal, and being a vehicle for protest and social justice. But that isn't how it always works. The contributors to this volume of Taking the Lane zine tackle of the potentials and realities and unintended consequences of trying to create a better world using human-powered transportation. Edited by Elly Blue and featuring work by Tamika Butler, Adonia Lugo, Do Jun Lee, Gretchin Lair, V.K. Henry, Lauren Hage, Tammy Melody Gomez, Phill Melton, Cat Caperello, Joe Biel, Julie Brooks, Kassandra Karaitis, Katura Reynolds, Rebecca Fish Ewan, Rhienna Renée Guedry, and Adrian Lipscombe. Order it direct from Microcosm Publishing! (If you insist on ordering through Amazon, click here.) The Pedalshift Project: Episode 100! Big thanks to Tim Mooney from the Pedalshift Project for the invitation to join him and the guys from the Sprocket Podcast for a live recording at Stream PDX for the 100th episode of the Pedalshift Project! I was starting to get suuuper sick (hence the jar of orange/ginger/turmeric elixir) but still had a great time chatting with the Tim, Aaron, Guthrie, and Brock (not pictured, on account of him being the photographer) about type 2 fun, bike-it list items, and the future of bike touring. Check it out and let me know what you think!   Inspired to Ride Inspired to Ride follows the inaugural TransAm bike race from Oregon to Virginia which took place in 2015. It is an ultra-endurance self-supported race across the entire country. It's mind-blowing what these athletes do to themselves. Y'all. In digging up the trailer for this I discovered that Mike Hall was killed in 2017. He's prominently featured in the film and trailer below. He strikes me as a guy who did exactly what he wanted. May we all have the power to harness our own capabilities. Also the gal who I referenced as a BADASS WOMAN ON A BIKE in the pod is named Juliana Buhring, the Guinness World Record for being the fastest woman to circumnavigate the world on a bicycle and she wrote about Mike in this article for Outside. Here's the trailer. Ride in Peace, Mike.   Joyriders, Meet Dana Kroeck Friends, t Topics & Links Berks County, Pennsylvania http://bikebuckscounty.com/ Lancaster County, Pennsylvania https://lancasterpa.com/bicycling/ Rail Trails! A rail trail is the conversion of a disused railway track into a multi-use path, often including cycling and sometimes horse riding. Rail trails are typically flat and long, frequently running through historical areas, parks, or string together several of each kind. The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is a 501(c)3 non-profit here in the States that is dedicated to working with communities to preserve unused railways and convert them into to rail trails and trail networks. Good stuff! Here's a great resource they made for finding a railtrail or multi-use trail near you.  PA Rail Trails https://www.traillink.com/trailsearch/?state=PA York County Heritage Rail Trail https://www.traillink.com/trail/heritage-rail-trail-county-park/ Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath https://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm Pedalshift Project's C&O Canal guide Molly Futterman's Joyride Episode JR003: http://thejoyridepodcast.com/2016/03/23/joyride003/ MapMyRide http://www.mapmyride.com/app/ Strava http://www.strava.com Here's a feminist POV on Strava's privacy settings. Megan Hottman's Joyride Episode JR019: http://thejoyridepodcast.com/2017/01/20/joyride019/ Presta bike valve adapter http://amzn.to/2ABmrlw Free Classes at REI https://www.rei.com/learn.html   Dana's Mom's “Famous” Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup oats 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup butter, room temperature 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup canned pumpkin 1 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 large egg 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels PREHEAT oven to 350° F. COMBINE flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in medium bowl. Beat butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar in large mixer bowl with electric mixer on medium until well blended. Add pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract. Mix on low until combined. Stir in flour mixture. Batter will be soft. Fold in morsels. Drop by tablespoon onto ungreased baking sheets about 2 inches apart. BAKE for 15-20 minutes or until edges are firm. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Store what you don't NOM NOM NOM in an airtight container. Jim Thorpe Jim Thorpe was the first Native American to win a Gold medal for his country. In Pennsylvania, there is a town named for him with controversy surrounding the circumstance. http://visitpa.com/pa/jim-thorpe/outdoor-recreation/biking Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail http://poconobiking.com/the-trail/ Mackinak Island Check out Dana's great blog post https://blistersandbugbites.com/2017/12/06/mackinac-island/ KymNonStop https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM6cd0hPii_FJOzZaxqGj7w Bill Nye http://bigthink.com/in-their-own-words/why-i-bike Ed Pratt http://www.worldunicycletour.com/ Great Allegheny Passage (GAP Trail) https://gaptrail.org/ Ohio's Tour de Donut!! https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/TROY/TourDeDonut Bike MS: City to Shore Ride 80 miles from Cherry Hill to Ocean City, New Jersey http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/PAEBikeEvents?pg=entry&fr_id=29704 Big thanks to Dana for hanging out and sending her mom's cookie recipe over!! Also, here's a pic of her dog Jojo. I can't wait to take Ziggy bike camping this summer. Make sure you check out her blog and follow her up on all the socials! Here are links to her Instagram and Twitter. Let her know you enjoyed the show! Friends, you know I believe in the transformative power of the bike, in our personal lives, our communities, and the world at large. I would be super grateful if you'd leave a rating or review in iTunes, Stitcher, or via whatever method you listen. It helps more gals find the show, and I believe the more stories we share, the more women who ride, we make this world - both our internal and external worlds - better with every revolution. Also, I read 5-star reviews out on the show because I love you. Ratings and reviews help with that, but nothing is better than a personal referral, it'd be rad if you would share the show with even just one woman who you think might dig it. Never forget, "Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." Keep moving forward and until next time I hope you enjoy the ride. Forever Forward, ~C  

Eno Greg and BB&K Greg took the show on the road this week at NLC's City Summit 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. After presenting to city leaders about the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies, we turned the microphone to mayors and city council members to learn about their experiences on the ground. We first spoke with Council Member Kathryn Wilemon of Arlington, Texas - which used to be known as the largest city in the U.S. without a public transit network until a few years ago. Arlington is now leading the charge in testing automation in transit after it leased two EasyMile driverless shuttles to connect residents and visitors with its thriving entertainment district. Next we spoke with Mayor Patrick Wojahn of College Park, Maryland about automated vehicles and dockless bikeshare. In addition to being Mayor of College Park, Wojahn is also the Director of Government Relations for the Rails to Trails Conservancy, which is looking at the impact that AVs will have on active transportation - particularly the "heaven and hell" scenarios for AVs. Stay tuned for part two, featuring a wide-range discussion about mobility, regional collaboration in transit planning, and livability with Mayor Jake Spano of St. Louis Park, Minnesota. **A special thanks to Brittney Kohler and the National League of Cities for inviting us to speak and the opportunity to record these episodes with innovative city leaders.**

Deb Hubsmith, director of the Safe Routes to School National Partnership, advocates for and promotes the practice of safe bicycling and walking to and from schools throughout the United States. So what are the benefits of walking and biking? Deb cites a new report that the Rails to Trails Conservancy released to Congress entitled Active Transportation [...]