Ambassadors

Within the overall mission of the TART organization, the goals and objectives of the Trail Ambassador Program shall be to promote the safe, responsible and enjoyable use of the TART Trail system with an emphasis on:

• Representing TART Trails, Inc.


• Informing, assisting, and educating


• Practicing and exemplifying trail etiquette


• Minor trail maintenance and hazard reporting


• Minor mechanical assistance


• Surveying trail users


• Having fun on the trails

The Trail Ambassador Program is a volunteer driven program of trail enthusiasts who wish to contribute to the community, TART Trails, and collaborating agencies/organizations. The Trail Ambassadors will focus on working with the biking, hiking, running, walking, in-line skating and skiing communities, as these groups comprise most of the TART Trail uses.

What is a Trail Ambassador?

There are several opportunities for Trail Ambassadors to choose from including:

1. Roaming Ambassador- Someone who uses the trail frequently, is willing to be identified as a Trail Ambassador and is trained to answer questions from other trail users, report maintenance issues, present a "watchful eye" along the trail, etc.

2. Stationary Ambassador- Someone who volunteers to assist with a trail open house or trailhead day. Duties could include: giving directions, answering questions about the trails and TART's master plan, taking names for our newsletter mailing list, providing snacks or beverages to trail users, surveying users, etc.

3. Trail Maintenance Ambassador- A trained volunteer who checks a specific section for maintenance issues/concerns and performs minor maintenance activities such as trash removal, limb trimming and sweeping.

4. Program/Educational Ambassador- Anyone who can offer a useful service to TART users and members. There are many possibilities limited only by the imagination. Several examples could include:

• A water resources expert who can lead a walk to discuss the transformation of Boardman Lake


• A birder who can identify bird calls on the Vasa Pathway


• A botanist who can lead a hike on the Leelanau Trail to view wildflowers


• A trained professional who could offer a trail etiquette seminar or bike safety & repair clinic


• A trail user who wants to start a running club, ski club, walking club or cycling program (etc.) on the trails.

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