Create a Trail

Several things need to happen to create a trail. First, ownership rights have to be established.
Several areas have already done this, such as Ulster County, the Towns of Mamakating and Deerpark and the City of Port Jervis.

Then permission must be obtained to use that part of the trail from the owner.
Most of the trail where the ownership is public is approved for public use. Unfortunately, this constitutes less than one third of the length of the trail.

Next, the trail must be brought to a condition where walking is safe.
Unfortunately much of the trail, even publicly owned, is not passable.

Breaches must be filled or bypassed.
There are dozens of towpath washouts. Some can be repaired, others cannot. Bridges over the breaches or alternate routes are needed.

Rivers and streams need to be crossed.
Smaller streams can be crossed with lightweight bridges. Larger rivers will need more attention, perhaps steel rope suspension bridges.

Maps and signs need to be made.
A trail isn't very good if you don't know where you are going. And a Heritage Trail needs to tell you about what happened where you are walking.

A myriad of other items.
Maintenance, ongoing property rights issues, natural disasters, ensuring proper use, preparing for future problems, preparing for future enhancements, preventing further destruction, etc.

Education

Prepare and give talks about the history of the canal and gravity railroad.
It is a shame that most local students know virtually nothing about the D&H canal.

Build appreciation of the canal and railroad by explaining both its immediate and lasting impact on the entire area.
Many of the towns that currently exist along the path of the canal and railroad are there solely because of it. It not only put this area on the map, it changed the map.

Encourage excitement for a trail by letting the public know what we are doing.
Taking a stroll with a family member or a pet seems to be a lost pastime. We need time to unwind and relieve stress. The Heritage Trail is one answer.

Encourage support of existing organizations and museums.
Several groups are already involved in preserving the canal and gravity railroad. Some have wonderful museums. Visit them; you'll be glad you did.

Inform interested persons on what has been done and what can be done.
When people see forward movement it energizes them. By keeping both the public and governmental agencies informed we can build and maintain momentum.

Remove fear.
Many persons are afraid that a public trail near their home will invite trouble. However, the D&H Conservancy, as well as several other organizations, are working to protect homeowners' rights. And history shows that similar trails actually help reduce crime.

A myriad of other items.
As persons in government change they need to be brought up to speed with what we are doing. As land owners change new agreements must be made. Unexpected problems will arise. And so on.