Safe Use of the Eastern Trail During the Virus

WHILE RECREATING ON THE EASTERN TRAIL – KEEP IT SAFE; KEEP IT HEALTHY

We are pleased so many people are enjoying the Eastern Trail for mental and physical therapy; however, sad to say, there can be too many people using it at the same time in certain areas!

If you find the parking lots are full, please do not park on the roads or in the neighborhoods. Try to visit the trail at a different, less crowded time. Our neighbors are very important to us, as are the local municipalities.

We do not want towns to close the trail, as they have done with some parks and beaches.

With your help and careful social distancing, we can keep the trail open for all to use safely in these trying times.

Thanks for your support!

We have organized on this page links to some very helpful resources that will help you determine how to safely recreate on the Eastern Trail.

1) THREE STEPS FOR MAINERS TO FOLLOW BEFORE HEADING OUTDOORS

This Press Release (April 2, 2020)  was prepared by from several nature and outdoors-oriented organizations (Maine Trails Coalition, The Nature Conservancy in Maine, the Appalachian Mountain Club and others) provides good information on how you can go outside and still be safe.

Pedestrians and cyclists share the Eastern Trail in Scarborough Marsh on April 19. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

2) PLAY IT SAFE WHEN ENJOYING THE OUTDOORS

This article, by Rich Bard of the Scarborough and our own Carole Brush of the Eastern Trail Management District, appeared in the Scarborough Leader on April 11, 2020. It provides three rules to follow when going for a hike during the current pandemic.

3) SHARING THE TRAIL – IMPORTANT NOW MORE THAN EVER!

This resource provides a video and some basic information from the League of American Bicyclists about trail sharing etiquette, so important now as we follow recommended safety provisions while recreating on the trail, especially social distancing.

4) As the weather warms, land trusts struggle with crowds

This article, by Deirdre Fleming appeared in the Maine Sunday Telegram on April 26, 2020. It addresses how Land trusts in southern Maine are determined to keep trails open, but managing crowds during the pandemic has been a struggle.

5) The COVID-19 Pandemic is Changing the Way People Recreate Outdoors

This 1-page pictograph illustrates the results of a survey of 1,012 outdoor recreationalists in early April. It provides valuable information for managing the changing recreation use of public lands, predicting spikes in recreation, and offering insight for land managers as they work to protect the natural world.

6) Social Distancing in Public Parks and Trails

This 1-page pictograph from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) illustrates some basic social distancing practices and recommendations. The NRPA prepared a statement in support of the safe use of parks and open spaces during the COVID-19 outbreak. As of March 27, 2020, more than 1,000 organizations have signed on to voice support – more information on the East Coast Greenway site.