PAST CONFERENCES
Our conference theme was "Trails for All: Equity, Access & Inclusion".
2020
Click here for conference materials.
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Click here for a video of the conference.
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Trails for All: Access
Brandon Gonzalez and Cailin Henly - Alta Planning + Design
Description: Introduction to equity from a broader perspective and how it relates specifically to Pierce County. The speakers will provide an overview of the numerous health benefits of trails and how those benefits are inequitably distributed. They will also introduce an equity analysis as a trail planning and implementation tool.
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Economic Impacts of Trails
Wendy Brown - Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
Description: Washington’s outdoor recreation is a driving force for the state’s economy, creating jobs and supporting rural businesses. It also is a way of life in the Pacific Northwest. We’ll learn how Pierce County benefits from our outdoor spaces and trails.
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Walking and Talking: Lessons for Building Better Outdoor Partnerships
Allie Trip - Washington Trails Association
Description: GirlTrek, WTA, and the USDA Forest Service PNW Research Station came together to learn about mutual interests in trails, health, and inclusive outdoor spaces, with an interest in getting more people outside enjoying the benefits of time in nature. Learn how your community can benefit from this successful community program which included meetings, focus groups, and walking together outdoors.
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Equity Assessment Tool and Action
Brandon Gonzalez and Cailin Henly - Alta Planning + Design
Description: Speakers will describe the equity assessment tool in greater detail and provide examples of some of its different input categories. They will discuss how the tool can be utilized for trail planning and implementation and highlight how the Parkland Trail is an example of an equitable trail investment.
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Trail Project Updates & Trail Awards
Description: Each conference we present updates on trail projects all around the county (and sometimes outside it too). Also we recognize individuals, agencies, organizations, and local governments that make a significant contributions to trails of all types.
2019
In 2019, our theme was "Sustainability & Stewardship" and we were pleased to have guidebook author Craig Romano as our keynote speaker. His presentation featured trails in his new book Urban Trails Tacoma.
Additionally, the conference had:
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Panels on Trail Safety & Sustainability and
Youth Involvement -
Updates about Pierce County trail projects
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Trail-oriented displays from conference sponsors
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Presentation of our Annual Trail Awards
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Downloads:
Conference Keynote Speaker:
Craig Romano, Guidebook Author