Delta Junction Community Trails Plan FINAL Publication by DJTA

Delta Junction Community Trails Plan Publish Date 2/2016

2015

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN Final

DJTA

907-322-4644

P.O. Box 710

deltajunctiontrails.com

Delta Junction, Alaska 99737

deltajunctiontrailsassociation@gmail.com

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

February 2016 Delta Junction Trails Association

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 INVITATION TO READERS ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 1.0 DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS VISION AND GOALS .................................................................................................. 5 1.1 Vision........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 1.2 Goals ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 2.0 NEED FOR AND BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY TRAILS .................................................................................................................... 6 2.1 Need for Community Trails .................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 2.2 Benefits of Community Trails ................................................................................................................................................................................. 7 3.0 THE PLANNING PROCESS ................................................................................................................................................................................ 8 3.1 Purpose of the Plan ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 3.2 Preparation and Implementation of the Plan ....................................................................................................................................................... 9 3.3 Community Involvement .......................................................................................................................................................................................10 3.4 Trail Evaluations, Prioritization Process, and Results ......................................................................................................................................10 3.5 Selection Criteria......................................................................................................................................................................................................12 3.6 Amending the Plan..................................................................................................................................................................................................13 4.0 TRAIL PROPOSALS ...............................................................................................................................................................................................14 4.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................................................................................14 4.2 Top 14 Community Trails .....................................................................................................................................................................................14 4.3 Big Picture Trail Concepts .....................................................................................................................................................................................16 Quartz Lake State Recreation Area ..................................................................................................................................................................16 Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse) Information Center ..........................................................................................17 Town Trails ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................18 5.0 DETAILED TRAIL PROPOSALS .....................................................................................................................................................................19 Delta River Walk Park Trail at a Glance ..................................................................................................................................................................20 Delta River Walk Park Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ....................................................................................................................22 Delta River Walk Park Trail – Winter Desired Future Conditions .......................................................................................................................25 Liewer Community Trail at a Glance ........................................................................................................................................................................28 Liewer Community Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions .........................................................................................................................30 Liewer Community Trail – Winter Desired Future Conditions ............................................................................................................................33 Bluff Cabin Trail at a Glance........................................................................................................................................................................................36 Bluff Cabin Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions .......................................................................................................................................38 Bluff Cabin Trail – Winter Desired Future Conditions ..........................................................................................................................................41 Delta River Walk South at a Glance ...........................................................................................................................................................................44 River Walk South Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ............................................................................................................................46 River Walk South Trail – Winter Desired Future Conditions ...............................................................................................................................49 Fort Greely Bike Path at a Glance ..............................................................................................................................................................................52 Fort Greely Bike Path – Summer Desired Future Conditions ..............................................................................................................................54 1

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Fort Greely Bike Path – Winter Desired Future Conditions .................................................................................................................................56 Clearwater River Water Trail at a Glance .................................................................................................................................................................58 Clearwater River Water Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ..................................................................................................................60 Lisa Lake Trail at a Glance ...........................................................................................................................................................................................64 Lisa Lake Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................................................................66 Lisa Lake Trail – Winter Desired Future Conditions ..............................................................................................................................................68 1408 Trail at a Glance ......................................................................................................................................................................................................70 1408 Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ...................................................................................................................................................72 Donnelly Dome Trail at a Glance ...............................................................................................................................................................................76 Donnelly Dome Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ...............................................................................................................................78 Nistler Pathway at a Glance .........................................................................................................................................................................................80 Nistler Pathway - Summer Desired Future Conditions ..........................................................................................................................................82 Nistler Pathway – Winter Desired Future Conditions ............................................................................................................................................86 Husky Pup Trail at a Glance ........................................................................................................................................................................................90 Husky Pup Trail – Summer Desired Future Conditions ........................................................................................................................................92 Husky Pup Trail – Winter Desired Future Conditions ...........................................................................................................................................95 5.1 RS2477 MONITORING .........................................................................................................................................................................................98 APPENDIX A ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................99 DETAILED COMMUNITY OUTREACH ACTIONS............................................................................................................................. 100 TRAIL USER SURVEY RESULTS .................................................................................................................................................................. 101 APPENDIX B ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 105 FULL LIST OF INVENTORIED TRAILS ................................................................................................................................................... 105 APPENDIX C ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 106 TRAIL RANKING .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 106 Complete Ranking Spreadsheet........................................................................................................................................................................... 108 APPENDIX D................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 109 TRAIL COSTING ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 109 FORT GREELY BIKE PATH .......................................................................................................................................................................... 109 RIVER WALK PARK TRAILS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 110 LIEWER COMMUNITY TRAIL ..................................................................................................................................................................... 111 NISTLER PATHWAY HARDENING ........................................................................................................................................................... 112 BLUFF CABIN TRAIL HARDENING ......................................................................................................................................................... 113 COSTING DATA ASSUMPTIONS .................................................................................................................................................................. 114 APPENDIX E ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 116 COMMENTS OF THE PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT DELTA JUNCTION TRAILS PLAN ...................................................... 116

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Delta Junction Community Trails Plan got its initial start thanks to the leadership of Mindy Eggleston and Judy Hicks and the efforts of members of the Delta Junction Trails Association:

Melinda Eggleston (Mindy), Chair Judy Hicks, Co-Chair Ellen Clark, Trails Heather Stossmeister, Treasurer Carol Dunlap-Austin, Advisory/Outreach Whit Aillaud, Finance Brandy Baker, Outreach Ellie Mason, Membership Ellie Schneider, Events Audrey Brown, Secretary Andrea Eggleston, Graphic Art DJTA Members & NPS-LRHolzapfel, Photos NPS, Mapping/Steven Staska & Layers/SDSWCD, map data

In addition, other community members stepped-up when needed and assisted on various subcommittees and the effort would not have been so successful without their help. The National Park Service, Alaska Region, Rivers Trails and Conservation Assistance program provided the Delta Junction Trails Association with technical assistance for three years.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

INVITATION TO READERS We now have a plan to guide implementing this vision for trails in our beautiful Delta Junction area over the next 10-15 years. The projects in this plan provide new and lasting outdoor recreation possibilities, including sustainable trails for a variety of trail users and safe trails for year round activities. This plan can be a roadmap to Delta Junction's historic trails reborn. Hope to see you on the trail!

This document contains various maps of proposed trail projects. Please note that, by viewing these maps, no right has been created to access lands with trails. Many trails are not open to the public. Entering an area that is not open to the public subjects an individual to possible sanctions for trespass.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

1.0 DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS VISION AND GOALS

The following vision and goals, developed with community input, will guide future preservation, design and construction of the Delta Junction trails system.

1.1 VISION

Delta: Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s junction to historic trails. Delta Junction offers an opportunity for a community-wide trail system that can provide a place for year-round outdoor recreational activities and trail opportunities for people of all ages, abilities, income, and trail interests in the Delta area. It will encourage a lifetime appreciation of healthy lifestyles, tourism, and safety, protecting public access to trails, land, and water, adventure, building community and wellness, events, sports, partnerships, and freedom to experience solitude.

1.2 GOALS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Offer diverse recreational opportunities for all users, all ages, all seasons Develop a safe system of public trails Protect historic trail routes Improve trails information and maps Enhance community wellness and opportunities for physical activity Provide education on stewardship, trail skills, trail history Provide trail-related programs and facilities Provide opportunity to seek personal solitude with nature

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

2.0 NEED FOR AND BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY TRAILS

2.1 NEED FOR COMMUNI TY TRAILS

Trails have been important in the Delta Junction area for centuries. Early Native Americans used trails in the area following fish and game. The historic roadhouses, still standing, remind us of our early travelers from Fairbanks to Valdez. Miners and trappers created more trails accessing natural resources. These threads of history are still travelled today, connecting Delta Junction to its rugged rural Alaskan lifestyle. Delta Junction has numerous folk trails (unofficial user-created trails), but officially designed and designated trails are few and far between.

Delta Junction offers just one durable and maintained trail that residents can use year-round - a paved separated pathway that parallels the noisy highway through town. Pedestrians, four-wheelers, motorbikes and bicycles all share this space. Besides this, other trail options are user-created, non-maintained trails that are often rutted, muddy, packed with snow, or otherwise difficult to travel. Our highway shoulders are where we see our population running, or biking with families and small children in tow, with ATVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traveling the edge of the road and ditch line. Winter brings an average of 41.5 inches of snow, yet currently, there are no specifically designed winter trails.

Trails are needed not only to provide access and recreational opportunities, but to address growing public health issues. In Delta Junction, and throughout Alaska, obesity, and mental health are of major medical concern. In our modern high tech age there is a need to enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of our community with a connection to the natural world. A local doctor told us, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many young people in our community with health issues are morbidly obese. There is a great need for opportunities to help." Trails provide such opportunities by attracting people to the outdoors and giving them a safe place to engage in physical activities such as walking, bicycling, skiing, ATVing, and more.

The need for community trails has been confirmed through the outreach efforts of the Delta Junction Trails Association (DJTA). The local desire is to maintain access to public land and water, improve and increase trail recreation, lessen environmental impact and enhance physical and mental health.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

2.2 BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY TRAILS

The Community Trails Plan empowers area residents to shape a positive future for the quality of life in the Delta Junction area. Our trails will define our community as being at the heart of a wealth of natural beauty and resources. Our cultural connection to the environment enhances our health, mind, and community, creating a sense of place. Current economic trends indicate that towns with character remain vibrant. According to a 2010 Knight Foundation/Gallup study, “the most important factors that create emotional bonds between people and their community were not jobs and the economy, but rather physical beauty, opportunities for socializing and a city’s openness to all people.” A well-developed trail system can be an avenue for creating this sense of character, physical beauty as well as socializing within this community. According to the 2009-2014 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), “Alaskans place a high value on the availability and quality of outdoor recreation.” This trails plan can become a way of sharing the fact that Delta Junction is so much more than a convergence of two highways.

The Delta Junction Community Trails Plan promotes public safety. Designing and maintaining sustainable trails for specific user groups maximizes the safety of recreation. Clear trail markings increase awareness of potential hazards and direct travelers to stay the course. User group conflicts are reduced with direct communications, such as education, signage, mapping, events and social networking. Also, another safety benefit of trails is giving people travel options other than along road shoulders next to fast-moving vehicle traffic.

To improve American health and well-being the United States Surgeon General recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, nearly every day. Trails are an excellent way to offer community members and visitors opportunities to reinvigorate their physical health and creative spirit, connecting them to the awe inspiring landscape of the Delta Junction area. Centrally located town trails will draw people outdoors, even in the below-zero temperatures of winter, to breathe fresh air, stretch their legs, and take in scenic vistas.

Trails offer a huge community amenity. At a fraction of the environmental impact and cost of golf courses and ski slopes, trails provide a boost to the local economy as well as attract visitors. With an increase in quality of life, we find an increase in the local property values. In addition, Alaska Statutes provide legal protection for adjacent landowners to designated trails (A.S. 09.65.202). That liability protection does not currently exist with the use of “folk trails.” An underlying theme running throughout the trails plan is the specific benefits of trails. Trails can create positive cultural identity, promote public safety, provide economic gain, and enhance health and quality of life.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

3.0 THE PLANNING PROCESS

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

3.1 PURPOSE OF THE PLAN

With the need for trails comes the need for a well-developed trails plan. With the passage of time, we experience land use changes, property development, and land ownership changes. These changes could restrict or even eliminate access to traditional trails; trespassing on private property may occur and conflicts could result. Without focused trail management, even existing trails may deteriorate. This trails plan will lay out the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desire for safe and legal trail access to the Delta Junction area for all trail users: pedestrians, motorized vehicles, bicyclists, horseback riders, skiers, snowshoers, and dog sledders. By identifying officially sanctioned, designed, and community supported trails, this trails plan will ensure that trails are available and managed sustainably for our community to enjoy long into the future. The Delta Junction Community Trails Plan is a guide for creating and enhancing trails in Delta Junction over the next 10 years. The plan presents the vision for the overall trail system and describes in detail each of the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high priority trail proposals. The physical area covered by the plan is consistent with the boundaries of the Delta/Greely School District http:www.realtor.com/local/Delta-Greely-School-District_Delta-Junction_Southeast-Fairbanks-county_AK/education. This plan will be used to market the trail proposals to build support and find the money to put the trails on-the-ground.

3.2 PREPARATION AND IMPL EMENTATION OF THE PL AN

This plan was prepared by the Delta Junction Trails Association (DJTA - http://www.deltajunctiontrails.com ) with input from community members living in the area and other interested parties. Established in 2013, DJTA is an all-volunteer, grassroots organization dedicated to planning, constructing, and maintaining trails in the Delta Junction area. DJTA members represent a diverse range of trail users, including skiers, snowmachiners, snowshoers, skijorers, dog mushers, bicyclists, pedestrians, equestrians, and ATV riders.

Although this trails plan is a critical first step, additional action is necessary to implement the plan. For many of the recommended trail proposals, landowner permission and environmental permits and authorizations will need to be secured. Design, layout, and construction funds must be raised through local entities, grants, and donations. Volunteer assistance will be needed throughout the process.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

3.3 COMMUNITY INVOLV EMENT

With an emphasis on obtaining as much community input into the trails plan as possible, the Delta Junction Trails Association began the trails planning process with a preview to the Delta Junction City Council and the Community Kick-off Event in February of 2013. The kick-off event introduced people to the planning effort then engaged participants in creating an overall trails system vision, developing an action plan, and identifying volunteers to help create the plan. Since this initial kick-off, the DJTA has reached out to the community to solicit ideas and keep people updated on the process through:

       

Hosting monthly DJTA meetings open to the public Posting information on the DJTA website and setting up a blog site to receive comments Printing and distributing a brochure Manning booths at local events Reaching out to the community with our Delta Junction Community Trails Plan Trail User Survey Hosting community outdoor trails-related events Writing articles for the Delta Wind, including the monthly “Trail Talk” Meeting with organizations and individuals, including the Delta Junction City Council

Appendix A provides a detailed list of community outreach actions including survey results.

A key focus of these outreach efforts was to learn about community members’ ideas for existing and desired trails in the Delta Junction area. As a result of this solicitation, over 35 trail ideas were submitted to the DJTA and were subsequently posted for further comment and input on the DJTA website (see 3.4 Trail Evaluations, Prioritization Process, and Results).

3.4 TRAIL EVALUATIONS, PRIORITIZATION PROCESS, AND RESULTS

The Delta Junction Trails Association (DJTA) gathered existing and new trail project ideas from across the community through the public involvement process described above. As a result of this inventory, the DJTA identified a list of 35 trails. For developing project ideas and ranking, we decided to focus on 26 trails nearer the center of the area covered in this plan. The full list of 35 trails is presented in Appendix B. We feel it is important to include the complete list, so we can return to it for new trail ideas once the top priority trails proposed in this plan have been implemented. The DJTA then used an evaluation and ranking process, to narrow down the list of 26 trails to the top 14 priority trails that are fully described and put forward in this plan for implementation.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Trails Map

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

3.5 SELECTION CRITERIA

The goal of applying selection criteria to rank trails in our area is to take the full list of trail project opportunities, and objectively decide which trail projects the DJTA should focus on now in this plan, and which projects should come later. Selection criteria adapted from the Mat-Su Area Trails and Parks Master Plan were used to rank the 26 trails. Through the evaluation and ranking process, 14 priority trail proposals were identified (in bold below) as the focus of this trails plan and are described in detail. The remaining 12 non-priority trails are also listed and may become a focus in future trails plans. 1.

Quartz Lake State Recreation Area

Big Delta State Historical Park (Rikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Roadhouse) Info Center

Town Trails

Delta River Walk Park

Liewer Community Trail

Bluff Cabin Trail

Delta River Walk South

Fort Greely Bike Path

Clearwater River Water Trail

10.

Lisa Lake Trail

11.

1408 Trail

12.

Donnelly Dome Trail

13.

Nistler Pathway

14.

Husky Pup Trail

15.

Clearwater Lake Trail #1

16.

Clearwater Lake Trail #2

17.

Delta River Walk North

18.

Old Pipeline Trail

19.

Clearwater Trail

20.

Coal Mine Road

21.

Donna Lake Trail

22.

MP 1402 Trail

23.

Rainbow Lake Trail

24.

McCumber Creek

25.

Bike Park

26.

J. Fowler Cabin Trails

See a sample of the trail ranking process as well as a complete ranking spreadsheet with data in Appendix C.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

3.6 AMENDING THE PLAN

This plan represents three years of community input and committee work. There is value in following this plan and staying focused on implementing the trails that have been identified as the highest priority by the community. However, DJTA recognizes that there may be unforeseeable events in the future than may necessitate reevaluating the trails plan. Minor changes may be necessary for clarification or consistency. Minor changes are made at the discretion of the DJTA steering committee. The steering committee will meet (with user groups as necessary) periodically to review the implementation of the plan and identify any new or recurring issues or opportunities. The Delta Junction Trails Plan will be formally reviewed approximately every five (5) years to determine if more significant revisions are required. Significant changes will be made with public input. New trail projects will be noted and saved for the next Delta Junction Trails Plan.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

4.0 TRAIL PROPOSALS

4.1 INTRODUCTION

The following pages provide detailed descriptions and illustrations of trail proposals developed to meet the Delta Junction community trails system vision. Of highest priority, and, therefore, described in detail, are the “Top 14” community trails identified through extensive public outreach and evaluation. In addition, a description of RS2477 trails is provided, with a proposal for monitoring these trails to help preserve our “Historic Connection” to the past.

4.2 TOP 14 COMMUNITY TRAILS

This plan will document the projects that are top priority to the community. The top three trail proposals (Quartz Lake State Recreation Area, Big Delta State Historical Park, and Town Trails) are big picture concepts. Each of these three projects involves too many sub-projects to be listed here and will require long term planning, funding, and coordinating with Alaska State Parks, Alaska Department of Natural Resources, and the University of Alaska. These trails are described more generally than the remaining priority trails.

For each of the remaining top 11 ranked trails, the following information is provided:      

Trail description Public needs met Cost estimates Trail fundamentals Design drawing(s) when available Map

The term, “trail fundamentals,” refers to a US Forest Service developed list of seven fundamental concepts that are the cornerstones of effective trails planning and management. (For more information, see http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/trail-management/trail-fundamentals/)

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

These seven trail fundamentals have been adapted for the purposes of this planning process and defined as follows:   

   

Trail type – Trail type is the predominant trail surface or trail foundation, and the general mode of travel the trail accommodates. Trail types are terra (soil), snow, and water. Trail class – Trail class is the prescribed scale of trail development, representing the intended design and management standards of the trail. Trail class ranges from Class 1 (primitive) to Class 5 (fully developed). Designed use – Designed use is the intended use that controls the desired geometric design of the trail, and determines the subsequent maintenance parameters for the trail. There is only one designed use per trail or trail segment. A trail may be actively managed for more than one use and various uses may be permitted but it has only one design driver that determines the technical specifications. Managed use – Managed uses are those modes of travel that are actively managed and appropriate, considering the design and management of the trail. This should be a list of all types of use that will occur along the trail that will be accommodated by trail management. Prohibited use – Prohibited uses are the modes of travel officially prohibited. Design parameters – Design parameters are the technical specifications for trail construction and maintenance based on trail class and designed use. These include width, grade, surface character, and other such design elements. Maintenance frequency – the type and timing of trail maintenance requirements.

Trail fundamentals are documented as components of overall “trail management objectives” (TMOs) for the trail. TMOs are the desired future conditions that tier from and reflect planning documents, policies, regulations, and other management direction. TMOs are recorded on a standardized form, thereby synthesizing and documenting in one convenient place the intent for the trail, and providing basic reference information for subsequent trail construction, maintenance, management, and monitoring.

The Plan attempts to consider both summer and winter uses on the pertinent trails. Generally speaking, trails designed for summer use may also be used during winter months, therefore, summer and winter TMOs were developed.

Section 5.0 contains detailed trail proposals for the remaining top 11 ranked trails. Each proposal consists of a 1-page “At a Glance” summary, a map, and the TMOs.

Preliminary trail cost estimates were calculated for four of the proposed trails: Delta River Walk Park, Liewer Community Trail, Bluff Cabin Trail, and Nistler Pathway. These rough estimates, as well as related assumptions, are presented in Appendix D. Costs for the remainder of the trails will need to be estimated as funding and opportunities arise.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

4.3 BIG PICTURE TRAIL CONCEPTS QUARTZ LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA This is the DJTA#1 ranked project area. Quartz Lake State Recreation area already offers our community outdoor recreation opportunities. Some of the reasons this project ranked high are that the area has access to existing public use cabins, existing infrastructure such as parking and outhouses, and surrounding state land available for public use. http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/deltajct/trailgde.htm. Opportunities for hiking and camping, ORV (Off Road Vehicle) trails, equestrian trails and winter snowmachining, skiing and dog sledding trails could be expanded. Existing, infrequently used, trails around the Quartz Lake Recreation Area could be improved and developed. These projects would be established in connection with Alaska State Parks. New winter trails could be developed and groomed in the Quartz Lake and Lost Lake area. Grooming existing trails for crosscountry skiing (Outhouse Trail, Judyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loop, Gladfelder Cabin Trail, Lost Lake Trails) will give our community and the Recreation area an opportunity for a new outdoor experience. There is also interest in developing biking summer and winter (3 inch minimum tire tread) trails. Possibilities include a network of trails for skiing, hiking and biking on the hillside behind the Quartz Lake Cabin. Improvements could be made to Bert Mountain hiking trail with a connecting route to Rikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Roadhouse (a ferry or zip-line across the Tanana). The Quartz Lake Recreation Area holds great potential for meeting the needs and wants of our outdoor enthusiasts.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

BIG DELTA STATE HISTORICAL PARK (RIKA’S ROADHOUSE) INFORMATION CENTER This #2 DJTA ranked project is for Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse). The historic Alaska Road Commission Garage is located at Rika’s. This facility could be an information center that will offer the historical tie that Delta Junction has with the trail system and will include visuals, historical and interpretive information, plus maps to provide information about Delta Junction trails. Information would be kept up-to-date as required. This will be especially useful to newcomers and visitors to our community who are looking for trail recreation opportunities. Ideally, the center would be at a location in the park that is accessible year-round. The original vision for the building, by a local drama group, was to be a theater, so there is potential for that dream. A zip line or ferry across the river would be an adventure destination draw, and possibly a connection to Quartz Lake trails. In keeping with the nod to historic preservation, a telegraph system could be set up between a cabin and Rika’s for visitors to send messages and a swing or period teeter totter would be fun for children. Working with Alaska State Parks can make these dreams come to fruition.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

TOWN TRAILS This is the DJTA #3 ranked project. The area is east and north of the hockey rink and Trans-Alaska Pipeline, between Jack Warren Road and Nistler Road. There are numerous existing trails, some of which are dry enough for summer use, and some of which are well suited for winter use. The purpose of developing this trail system would be to meet a need for an in-town organized trail experience to support youth sports activities, special events and general use for all ages. It would provide cross-country trails for skiing and running, accessible to the school and available to the public for after work trail experiences in town. The management objective would be to have a groomed, lighted, trail system with an interior non-motorized section, and allowing the perimeter to retain current motorized use. The central location and range of possibilities make this project very desirable. University of Alaska is the primary land owner, and it would be very expensive to purchase this property.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

5.0 DETAILED TRAIL PROPOSALS

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

DELTA RIVER WALK PARK TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 

New proposal

Desired Trail Experience 

  

These all season double lane loop trails will meander through 33 acres of mature spruce and birch forest, with both flat and slightly rolling terrain. The trails could also eventually be the main starting point for the proposed River Walk North and South trails. The trails will be constructed of firm, stable conglomerate gravel material for all ages and abilities. The trails will not be paved. During the winter trails will be groomed to allow for use by all ages and skill levels. Trails will provide easy access to safe outdoor recreation close to town; perfect for a quick after work or weekend run, walk or ski.

Proposed Support Facilities     

Parking area Restrooms Trail map Garbage collection Picnic area/shelter

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2. 3.

Provide safe crossing over Richardson highway from Delta State Recreation Site, reduce speed limit Prohibit motorized use on groomed trails Clean up of old dumpsite and shooting range on property

Alignment: between the Richardson Highway and the Delta River across from the Delta State Recreation Site campground. Length: Dependent on trail design Summary: The River Walk Park Trails will give residents and visitors alike an in-town park setting in which to enjoy non-motorized activities such as; biking, walking, running and skiing through the forest with intermittent views of the Delta River and Alaska Range and help make Delta Junction more of a destination for outdoor recreation. The trails also can serve as a venue for community events such as bicycle, running or ski races and orienteering. For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

DELTA RIVER WALK PARK TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Delta River Walk Park Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

To Be Determined

Trail Rank

4th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

No trail design or layout has been done for these proposed trails. The proposed site is located between the Richardson Highway and the Delta River across from the Delta State Recreation Site campground just north of Delta Junction. The overall desire is for the River Walk Park summer trails to be designed as summer non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle trails with a small picnic area. These double lane loop trails will meander through 33 acres of mature spruce and birch forest, with both flat and slightly rolling terrain. The trails could also eventually be the main starting point for the proposed River Walk North and South trails. The trails will be constructed of firm, stable conglomerate gravel material for all ages and abilities. The trails will not be paved. Summer recreational activities can take place close-to-home, provide for incredible scenic views of the Alaska Range, create a great place for out of town travelers to get out and stretch their legs, and provide recreational activities for people camping at the nearby Delta State Recreation Site campground.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

There are no sustainably designed and maintained pedestrian or bicycle trails in Delta Junction, except for a paved separated pathway that parallels the highway through town. The only trails currently available for those who want to walk or bike through wooded natural areas are unmaintained, user-created trails that are often rutted, muddy, or otherwise difficult to travel. There also is no developed parkland directly adjacent to the Delta River that highlights the glorious views of the river and mountains. The River Walk Park Summer Trails will give residents and visitors alike an in-town park setting in which to enjoy biking, walking, and running through the forest with intermittent views of the Delta River and Alaska Range and help make Delta Junction more of a destination for outdoor recreation. The trails also can serve as a venue for community events such as bicycle and running races and orienteering.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 5-Fully Developed* *See comment section



Designed Use

Bicycle



Managed Uses

Bicycle, pedestrian



Prohibited Uses

Motorized, horse

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN



Design Parameters*

o o o o o o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Tread Width (inches): double lane, 8’-12’ with structures ≥ 3’* Turning Radius (feet): 15’-20’ (or actual width to accommodate snowmachine and drag)* Design Surface: Likely imported material and routine grading; uniform, firm, and stable; no protrusions; no obstacles Target Grade (%): 2%-10%* Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to200’ lengths): 15%* Target Cross-Slope (%):0%-5%* Maximum Cross Slope (%): 15%* Clearing Width (inches): 6’-10’, light vegetation may encroach into clearing area * Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’ or height of grooming equipment*

* See comment section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year o Tread Repair: 1 x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year o Brushing: 1 x per year o Condition Survey: 1 x per 3 years o Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events * See comments section

Landownership

The current landowner is the State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources, Division of Mining, Land and Water, but the City of Delta Junction through its municipal entitlements has requested ownership of the property. Trail easements need to be obtained from landowner(s), or letters of concurrence from the State of Alaska during the City’s land selection process.

Support Facilities

Existing: o

None

Proposed: o o o o

Parking (location To Be Determined) Restrooms Garbage collection Picnic area/shelter

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

o o o

Prevent access to trails by motorized vehicles (except for official maintenance purposes) Leave as many trees as possible to reduce potential for windfall trees The property is an old dump and shooting range, so will need to research Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation grants (and other funding) for hazardous waste cleanup. A hydrologist should evaluate the river to help determine the best trail alignment given potential flooding, bank erosion, and overall movement of the river. Provide safe crossing from the Delta State Recreation Site across the Richardson Highway/ reduce speed limit.

o o Potential Partners

o o o o o o o

State of Alaska Division of Forestry City of Delta Junction U.S. Army State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Tanana Valley Watershed Association Delta Nordic Ski Club

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Identify and resolve hazardous waste and related cleanup issues Perform trail design and layout Construct trail

Other Helpful Information

The Alaska Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Recreational Trails Grant Program may have funding, if the funding is continued in the next Federal Transportation Bill. Could talk to Alaska Division of Forestryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Firewise program about helping clear trees for trail construction. Alaska Division of Forestry might be able to harvest deadfall. The Alaska Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation might be willing to offer some technical landscape architects to help evaluate their site in conjunction with this site and the adjoining River Walk trails to provide for a broader range of outdoor recreational experiences. The park and trails provide for an opportunity to share and interpret historic information about the community. The trail could be used as the location of a walking prescription doctors could hand out to patients, or as a fitness or circuit training trail.

Comments (*)

Trail Class. Class 5 bicycle parameters are the best match for winter class 3 cross-country ski parameters, except for grades and cross slopes which are more like class 3 bicycle parameters Designed Use. The Designed Use is bicycle, but the parameters have been significantly modified to reflect winter cross-country skiing needs. Tread Width, Target Grade, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross Slope, Maximum Cross Slope, Clearing Width, and Clearing Height. Design parameters reflect the winter cross-country skiing needs. Note on Trail Width. A wider trail results in a wider canopy opening above the trail. With more canopy opening, falling snow more quickly covers the trail tread â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a benefit to both skiers and trail groomers. Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Maintenance Frequency -Trail Opening, Logging Out and Brushing. Check trails regularly in rainy/windy weather and perform maintenance as required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

DELTA RIVER WALK PARK TRAIL – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Delta River Walk Park Trail (Winter)

Trail Length

To Be Determined

Trail Rank

4th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

No trail design or layout has been done for these proposed trails. The proposed site is located between the Richardson Highway and the Delta River across from the Delta State Recreation Site campground just north of Delta Junction. The overall desire is for the River Walk Park winter trails to be designed as beginner winter non-motorized trails for use by cross-country skiers, winter bicyclists, snowshoeing and pedestrians. These double lane loop winter trails will meander through 33 acres of mature spruce and birch forest, with both flat and slightly rolling terrain. These trails will be regularly groomed by snowmachine to allow for use by skiers of all ages and skill levels. Winter recreational activities can take place close-to-home, and provide for incredible scenic views of the Alaska Range, create a great place for out of town travelers to get out and stretch their legs and provide year round recreational activities for people camping at the nearby Delta State Recreation Site campground.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

An average of 41.5 inches of snow fall in Delta Junction during the winter months, yet there are currently no winter trails designed and maintained specifically for non-motorized activities. There also is no developed parkland directly adjacent to the Delta River that highlights the glorious views of the river and mountains. The River Walk Park Winter Trails will give residents and visitors alike an in-town park setting in which to enjoy skiing, winter biking, snowshoeing and walking on double wide trails groomed for classic skiing on one side and biking, snowshoeing or running on the other through a winter forest, with intermittent views of the Delta River and Alaska Range. The trails could be used for cross country ski events, snowshoe and winter biking events by students, the community or the region.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Winter (Snow)



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed



Designed Use

Cross country ski



Managed Uses

Cross country ski, snowshoe, pedestrian, winter bicycle



Prohibited Uses

Motorized, horse

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN



Design Parameters(design parameters from USFS National Design Parameters)

Maintenance Frequency

o o o o o o o o o

Tread Width (inches): double lane, 8’-12’ with structures ≥ 3’ Turning Radius (feet): 15-20’ (or actual width to accommodate snow machine and drag)* Design Surface: May receive occasional machine grooming for snow compaction and track setting. No protrusions. No obstacles if machine groomed. Target Grade (%):2%-10% Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to200’ lengths): 15%* Target Cross-Slope (%):0%-5% Maximum Cross Slope(%): 15% Clearing Width (inches):6’-10’, light vegetation may encroach into clearing area Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’ or height of grooming equipment

*See comments section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year * o Tread Repair: 1 x per year, or as needed after severe weather events o Drainage Cleanout: As needed during fall, winter or spring thaw or severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year* o Brushing: 1 x per year* o Snow Trail Grooming: Weekly snow machine grooming needed for snow compaction or after every major snowfall approximately 15 X per year * See comments section

Landownership

o o o

Support Facilities

The current landowner is the State of Alaska, but the City of Delta Junction through its municipal entitlements has requested ownership of the property. The old dumpsite is now currently DNR State of Alaska land and is not going to the city. Trail easement needs to be obtained from landowner.

Existing: o

None

site: o o o o o

Parking (location To Be Determined) Restrooms Garbage collection Picnic area/shelter Trail maps and signs

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

o o o

Potential Partners

o o o o o o o

Alaska Division of Forestry City of Delta Junction U.S. Army Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Tanana Valley Watershed Association Delta Nordic Ski Club

Implementation Steps

1. Raise funds for winter grooming 2. Manage grooming program

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Comments (*)

Note on Trail Width. A wider trail results in a wider canopy opening above the trail. With more canopy opening, falling snow more quickly covers the trail tread â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a benefit to both skiers and trail groomers. Short pitch maximum 15% necessary for bicyclists. Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Maintenance Frequency - Trail Opening, Logging Out and Brushing. If the summer maintenance did not resolve these issues, early winter maintenance is required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LIEWER COMMUNITY TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 

New proposal

Desired Trail Experience      

Classic cross-country ski trail Terrain variety for both novice and experienced skiers Easy to access and easy to use, in-town trail Part of a district-wide trail system for the school ski program Sustainably built and managed trail within a wooded setting Pedestrian trail use in summer

Proposed Support Facilities  

Toilets (exact type To Be Determined) Warming hut

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Obtain legal written permission from landowners for trail easements Prevent access to trails by motorized vehicles Leave as many trees as possible to reduce potential wind throw Leave as many birch as possible for aesthetics Trees cut during development can be building material for a warming hut

Alignment: Looping trail in area bounded by Harper Ave, Kimball Street, Delta High School and Nistler Road. Length: 1.1 miles Summary: This trail will be a 1.1 mile (1.8 kilometer) compacted aggregate dirt trail located on Mr. Ron Liewer’s and Delta/Greely School District property adjacent to Delta High School. The primary use will be as a winter ski trail, to provide snowmachine-groomed, narrow, double-lane classic ski trails with a set track on lighted stacked loops through approximately 10 acres of mature spruce and birch forest. The system will have both flat and rolling terrain to provide skill-building opportunities for novices and a gentle roller coaster type flow for the more experienced skiers. Tracks will also be spaced for winter pedestrian use. There are currently no winter trails designed specifically for classic cross-country skiing in the Delta Junction area. During the summer, the Liewer Community Trail will be managed and maintained for walking by people of all abilities and ages to the greatest extent possible while still providing for its primary use as a ski trail in winter. It will be used for walking, running, nature viewing, and school ecology studies. This trail will provide a safe route to and from school and provide a connecting link between the Delta Junction City Park and Delta/Greely Schools. For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LIEWER COMMUNITY TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Liewer Community Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

~1.1 miles

Trail Rank

5th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

The Liewer Community Trail will be a 1.1 mile (1.8 kilometers) compacted aggregate dirt trail located on Mr. Ron Liewer’s and Delta/Greely School District property adjacent to the Delta Junction High School, in approximately 10 acres of mature spruce and birch forest. During the times of the year when there is no snow on the ground, the Liewer Community Trail will be developed, managed and maintained for walking by people of all abilities and ages to the greatest extent possible and still provide for its primary use as a ski trail in winter. This trail will be developed with double-lane loops and allow two individuals to walk side-by-side.* The system will have both flat and rolling terrain to provide a range of walking experiences. The trail will be constructed of firm and stable native or gravel material so all ages and abilities can use it. The trail will not be paved.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

There are no sustainably designed and maintained pedestrian trails in Delta Junction, except for a paved separated pathway that parallels the highway through town. The only trails currently available for those who want to walk through our wooded natural areas are unmaintained, user-created trails that are often rutted, muddy, built in the wrong location or soil types, or otherwise are difficult to travel on. The Liewer Community Trail will provide an easy to access, easy to use trail right in the center of town. The trail will be used for walking, running, nature viewing, school ecology studies, and to provide a safe route to-and-from school and to provide a connecting link to the Delta City Park and Delta/Greely Schools. The trail also could serve as a venue for events such as running races, orienteering, and geocaching.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 5- Fully Developed*



Designed Use

Hiker/Pedestrian* * See Comments Section



Managed Uses

Pedestrian * See comments section



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters(Design Parameters from USFS Trail Fundamentals)

Motorized vehicles, horses o Tread Width (inches): double lane, 8’-12’ with structures ≥ 3’* o Turning Radius (feet): 15’-20’ (or actual width to accommodate snowmachine and drag)* o Design Surface: Likely imported aggregate material and routine grading; uniform, firm, and stable; no protrusions; no obstacles o Target Grade (%):2%-10%* o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to200’ lengths):20%*

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Target Cross-Slope (%):0%-5%* Maximum Cross Slope(%): 15%* Clearing Width (inches): 6’-10’, light vegetation may encroach into clearing area * Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’ or height of grooming equipment*

* See Comments Section o Trail Opening: 1 x spring* o Tread Repair: 1x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed throughout summer and fall o Logging Out: 1 x per year* o Brushing: 1 x per year* o Snow Trail Grooming: NA o Condition Survey: 1 x per 3 years o Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events * See Comments Section

Landownership

Landowners are: 1. 2. 3.

Support Facilities

Ron Liewer Delta/Greely School District City of Delta Junction (holds a road easement through the parcel)

Existing: o

Parking to be provided at Delta High School

Proposed: o o

Toilets will be necessary (exact type To Be Determined) Warming hut is desired

See Appendix D

o o o o

Prevent access to trails with motorized vehicles (except for official maintenance purposes) Leave as many trees as possible to reduce potential for windfall Leave as many birch as possible to maintain aesthetic value of property Construction and maintenance of a warming hut, bathroom and community parking

Potential Partners

o o o o o o

Delta/Greely School District Eagle Scouts Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Delta Nordic Ski Club & Jr. Nordic Ski Club City of Delta Junction Deltana Community Corporation

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4.

Obtain legal written permission from landowners for trail easements Seek funding for design/layout/construction Supervise and oversee project Coordinate volunteer workforce to complete the project

Other Helpful Information

o o

Trees cut during development can be saved and used to help build a warming hut Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry could help make decisions on “Fire Wise” clearing Youth stewardship; community volunteer youth could be trained to help with ongoing maintenance of trails

Estimated Costs Concerns

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o Comments (*)

Delta High School Building Trades students could design and make the trail signs

Class 5-Hiker/Pedestrian design parameters match Class 3 Skier design parameters the closest. The trail will have lights, to be used in winter. Designed Use. The Designed Use is hiker/pedestrian, but the parameters have been significantly modified to reflect winter cross-country skiing needs. Managed Uses. Bicycle use is neither a managed nor prohibited use. Bicycle use is allowed, but nothing is done to actively encourage or discourage this use. Tread Width, Target Grade, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross Slope, Maximum Cross Slope, Clearing Width, Clearing Height. Design parameters reflect the winter cross-country skiing needs. Note on Trail Width. A wider trail results in a wider the canopy opening above the trail. With more canopy opening, falling snow more quickly covers the trail tread â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a benefit to both skiers and trail groomers. Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Maintenance Frequency -Trail Opening, Logging Out and Brushing. Check trails regularly in rainy/windy weather and perform maintenance as required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LIEWER COMMUNITY TRAIL – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Liewer Community Trail (Winter)

Trail Length

~1.1 miles

Trail Rank

5th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

The Liewer Community Trail in winter will be used as a classic ski trail system, to provide snowmachine-groomed, narrow, double-lane classic ski trails with a set track on lighted stacked loops through approximately 10 acres of mature spruce and birch forest. The system will have both flat and rolling terrain to provide skill-building opportunities for novices and a gentle roller coaster type flow for the more experienced skiers. Tracks will be set along the outer edge of the trails to allow space for winter pedestrian use.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

An average of 41.5 inches of snow falls in Delta Junction during the winter months, yet there are currently no winter trails designed specifically for classic cross-country skiing. With the Liewer Community Trail designed and groomed for classic skiing adjacent to Delta High School, the community will have the necessary trail system to develop a district-wide ski program for Delta/Greely School District students. The trail, located right in the middle of town, can also be used by families and friends to ski together on groomed trails, to learn to ski, and to participate in community ski events.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Winter (Snow)



Trail Class

Class 3- Developed



Designed Use

Cross-Country Ski



Managed Uses

Cross-country ski, pedestrian* *See comments section



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters (Design Parameters from the USFS Trail)



Maintenance Frequency

Motorized vehicles, horse o Tread Width (inches): double lane, 8’-12’ with structures ≥ 3’ o Turning Radius (feet): 15’-20’(or actual width to accommodate snowmachine and drag)* o Design Surface: May receive occasional machine grooming for snow compaction and track setting. No protrusions. No obstacles if machine groomed o Target Grade (%):2%-10% o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to200’ lengths):20% o Target Cross-Slope (%):0%-5% o Maximum Cross Slope(%): 15% o Clearing Width (inches): 6’-10’, light vegetation may encroach into clearing area o Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’ or height of grooming equipment * See comments section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year * o Tread Repair: 1 x per year, or as needed o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year, or as needed during winter thaw or severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year* o Brushing: 1 x per year* o Snow Trail Grooming: : Weekly snow machine grooming needed for snow compaction and single classic track setting, or after every major snowfall approximately 15 X per year 33

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

* See comments section Landownership

Landowners are: 1. 2. 3.

Support Facilities

Ron Liewer Delta/Greely School District City of Delta Junction (holds a road easement through the parcel)

Existing: o

Parking to be provided at Delta High School

Proposed: o o

Toilets will be necessary (exact type To Be Determined) Warming hut is desired

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

o o o o

Potential Partners

o o o o o o

Delta/Greely School District Eagle Scouts Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Delta Nordic Ski Club & Jr. Nordic Ski Club City of Delta Junction Deltana Community Corporation

Implementation Steps

Other Helpful Information

1. 2. 3. 4. o o o o

Comments (*)

Obtain legal written permission from landowner for trail easements Seek funding for design/layout/construction Supervise and oversee project Coordinate volunteer workforce to complete the project

Managed Uses. Bicycle use is neither a managed nor prohibited use. Bicycle use is allowed but nothing is done to actively encourage or discourage this use. Note on Trail Width. A wider trail results in a wider the canopy opening above the trail. With more canopy opening, falling snow more quickly covers the trail tread – a benefit to both skiers and trail groomers. Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Maintenance Frequency -Trail Opening, Logging Out and Brushing. If the summer maintenance did not resolve these issues, early winter maintenance is required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

BLUFF CABIN TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions    

Existing all season, multi-use trail, heavily used by ATV’s, 4x4 vehicles, snow machines. The trail is badly damaged with large, deep ruts and mud holes in many places making travel difficult and unsafe. The damage caused by summer use can also make the trail impassible and hazardous in winter. There is an existing state public easement for the trail under the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADL 400064).

Desired Trail Experience 



Sustainable all season motorized trail riding experience for individuals and families offering scenic views, variable habitats, diverse terrain, fun riding on numerous hills, and access to good fishing, private recreational parcels and hunting areas for small and large game. Decrease conflict with private landowners by maintaining existing trail.

Proposed Support Facilities   

Improved parking area with increased capacity Trail map at the trailhead and signage along the route ATV loading ramp

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2. 3.

Extend existing state easement to connect the trail around the north end of Bluff Cabin Lake to make a continuous loop. Repair existing damage Enforce existing weight restrictions as outlined in existing easement to minimize damage to sensitive areas.

Alignment: Trail begins on Tanana Loop Extension Road and leads to Bluff Cabin Lake and to the Tanana River. Length: 6-12 miles Summary: The Bluff Cabin Lake Trail provides excellent year around recreational opportunities including; fishing, skiing, biking, dog mushing and wildlife viewing. This trail meanders through spruce and birch forests, up and over steep hills and offers scenic views and exciting trail riding for all types of users but is badly damaged in sections by heavy motorized use and is in need of repair to ensure continued use and safe travel. For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

BLUFF CABIN TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Bluff Cabin Lake Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

~ 9 miles

Trail Rank

6th

Existing Historical Desired Trail Description and Experience

The Bluff Cabin Trail is an existing trail that will provide a sustainable all-terrain vehicle (ATV) access to Bluff Cabin Lake and Bluff cabin slough Coho Salmon spawning area on the Tanana River. The trail will run from Tanana Loop Extension Road to Bluff Cabin Lake and connect into a larger network of trails providing access to the Tanana River. The trail will provide an ATV trail riding experience for individuals and families offering scenic views, variable habitats, diverse terrain, and fun riding on numerous hills, and access to good fishing, private recreational parcels and hunting areas for small and large game. Pedestrians, equestrians and bicyclists will also use the trail.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

There is an existing state public easement for the trail, under the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADL 00064). Motorized vehicles heavily use this trail, including full sized 4-wheel drive trucks, outdoor recreational vehicles and ATV’s. The trail is badly damaged with large, deep ruts and mud holes in many places making travel difficult. The trail is becoming badly braided as people leave the established trail to avoid impassible sections of trail. Although short sections of trail have been upgraded by the Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District, the trail needs further improvements and regular maintenance to ensure sustainability. Repairing trail damage will help keep riders on the trail and reduce damage to adjacent private property where riders are forced to leave the trail and ride on private property due to poor trail conditions. Redesigning and reconstructing the trail to meet the trail management objectives described below will ensure safe and sustainable access for summer recreational opportunities.

Trail Management Objectives



Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed



Designed Use

All-terrain vehicle (ATV)



Managed Uses

ATV, bicycle, pedestrian, equestrians



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters (Design parameters from USFS National Design Parameters.)

Off road vehicles heavier than 1500 lbs. o Tread Width (inches): 5’ with structures a minimum width of 6’* o Turning Radius (feet): 8’-10’ o Design Surface: Native with some onsite borrow or imported material where needed for stabilization and occasional grading. Intermittently rough. Sections of soft or unstable tread on grades <5% may be present. Protrusions ≤ 3” may be common, but not continuous. Obstacles with maximum height of 6” may be common and left for increased challenge. Porous pavement installation only as necessary to maintain tread when other materials are not sufficient. * o Target Grade (%):5%-15%

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Landownership

Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to200’ lengths):25% Target Cross-Slope (%):3%-8%% Maximum Cross Slope(%): 10% Clearing Width (inches):5’-6’ Clearing Height (includes feet above normal maximum snow level):6’-8’*

*See Comments Section o Trail Opening: 1x per year o Tread Repair: 1x year o Drainage Cleanout: 1 x per year or as needed after severe weather o Logging Out: 1 x year or as needed after severe weather o Brushing: 1 x per year o Condition Survey: 1 x every 3 years o Grading: as needed Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: o o

Support Facilities

State: Department of Natural Resources and Department of Fish and Game Private

Existing: o

Very limited trail head parking

Proposed: o o o

Signs/trail maps Increased parking area ATV unloading ramp

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

o o o o

Oversized vehicles are using and damaging trail The trail is not designed for sustainable use Continued public access and legal easements may not be protected There are conflicts with landowners and damage to adjacent private property

Potential Partners

o o o o o

Alaska Department of Fish and Game Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Private landowners ATV riders from the greater area City of Delta Junction

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Perform a trail assessment and complete a trail prescription Repair existing trail damage or realign a new section of trail to bring the trail to sustainable standards Conduct education and community outreach to help prevent oversized vehicles from accessing trail Install and maintain signs/trail maps Perform regular on-going maintenance Monitor and reassess trail conditions and sustainable design

4. 5. 6. 7. Other Helpful Information

The Bluff Cabin Trail public easement (ADL 00064) is held by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. The DJTA will contact DNR to ask for assistance to upgrade and maintain the trail.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Comments (*)

Tread width larger in winter, with winter structures requiring a minimum width of 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Summer clearing heights include an additional 2 feet to allow for winter passage on trails.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

BLUFF CABIN TRAIL – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Bluff Cabin Lake Trail (Winter)

Trail Length

~ 9 miles

Trail Rank

6th

Existing Historical Desired Trail Description and Experience

The Bluff Cabin Trail will provide snowmachine access to Bluff Cabin Lake and Bluff Cabin Slough on the Tanana River. The trail will run from the Tanana Loop Extension road to Bluff Cabin Lake and connect into a larger network of trails providing access to the Tanana river. The trail will provide a snowmachine riding experience for individuals and families offering scenic views, variable habitats, diverse terrain, fun riding on numerous hills, and access to good fishing, private recreational parcels and hunting areas for small and large game. Nordic skiers, skijorers, dog mushers, pedestrians and winter bicyclists will also use the trail.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

There is an existing state public easement for the trail, under the Alaska Department of Natural Resources (ADL 00064). With adequate snowfall, the trail is useable and the tread can be established by heavy recreational use within the proper easement. With less than adequate snowfall, the large, deep ruts in the trail caused by summer motorized vehicle users can make the trail impassible and hazardous in winter. To remedy the situation, the trail needs to be improved in summer to create a fairly even and level surface that is easily covered by snow. Redesigning and reconstructing the trail to meet the trail management objectives described below will ensure safe and sustainable access for winter recreational opportunities.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Winter (Snow)



Trail Class

Class 2-Moderately Developed, typically not groomed



Designed Use

Snow machine



Managed Uses

Snow machine, Nordic skiing, skijoring*, dog mushing*, pedestrian, winter bicyclists



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

Off road vehicles heavier than 1500 lbs o Tread Width (inches): 4-6’, typically not groomed o Turning Radius (feet): 8’-10’ o Design Surface: 4-6’, generally no grooming, commonly tread established by use, rough and bumpy.* o Target Grade (%): 5-18% o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to200’ lengths): 20% o Target Cross-Slope (%): 10% o Maximum Cross Slope(%): 18% o Clearing Width (inches): 60” o Clearing Height (includes feet above normal maximum snow level): 6-8’



Maintenance Frequency

*See Comments Section o Trail Opening: 1x per year 41

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o o o Landownership

Tread Repair: N/A Drainage Cleanout: N/A Logging Out: 1 x year or as needed after severe weather Brushing: 1 x per year Snow Trail Grooming: 1 x per year, or as needed Condition Survey: 1 x 3 years

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. 2.

Support Facilities

State: Department of Natural Resources and Department of Fish and Game Private

Existing: o

Limited trail head parking

Proposed: o o o

Signs/trail maps Increase parking area ATV loading ramp

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

o o o

Oversized vehicles are using and damaging trail Continued public access and legal easements may not be protected There are conflicts with landowners and damage to adjacent private property (though the risk of conflict is less likely in the winter as there is less need for users to travel off-trail)

Potential Partners

o o o o o

Alaska Department of Fish and Game Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Private landowners Snowmachine riders from the greater area City of Delta Junction

Implementation Steps

1. 2.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Conduct education and community outreach to help prevent oversized vehicle from accessing trail Maintain signs/trail maps Maintain trail

3. 4. Other Helpful Information

The Bluff Cabin Trail public easement (ADL 00064) is held by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. The DJTA could apply for a snowmobile grant to help groom the trail if desired.

Comments (*)

Summer trail development and maintenance will enhance winter recreational use. The trail is not designed to accommodate skijoring and dog mushing; therefore, the turns may be too tight for these activities. The design surface parameters reflect the fact that generally no grooming will occur.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

DELTA RIVER WALK SOUTH AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 

New proposal

Desired Trail Experience     

Transform the existing dike into a safe, smooth travel corridor for skiing, biking, snowshoeing, walking and running. Trail would connect to the proposed River Walk Park and River Walk North trails. The trails will be constructed of firm, stable conglomerate gravel material for all ages and abilities. During the winter trails will be occasionally groomed to allow for use by all ages and skill levels. Trails will provide easy access to safe outdoor recreation close to town

Proposed Support Facilities    

Parking area Restrooms Trail map Garbage collection

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2. 3.

The existing dike is well constructed but has an uneven, somewhat rocky surface that limits its use as an accessible trail. A route for snowmachine or winter ATV may be developed as a separated trail to increase safety and provide more opportunity for motorized users Legal easements need to be identified

Alignment: Will run parallel along the Delta River beginning just north of the city delta and continuing south extending past main business district. Length: ¼ mile plus, dependent on trail design Summary: The River Walk South trail will be designed as a safe, all season double lane non-motorized, multi-use trail running along the top of the existing Delta River dike, with vegetation pruned back along the edges to allow for frequent vistas of the river and Alaska Range beyond. Interpretative signs could show names of the mountain peaks and talk about the river and history of the area. The trail also could connect to local businesses in Delta and will provide an easily accessible opportunity to get people outdoors.

For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

RIVER WALK SOUTH TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC Trail Name Trail Length Trail Rank New proposal Desired Trail Description and experience

DETAILS River Walk South Trail ¼ mile + 7th The River Walk South summer trail will be designed as a safe, double lane nonmotorized multi-use trail along the top of the existing Delta River dike. Vegetation will be pruned back along the edges to allow for frequent vistas of the Delta river and Alaska Range beyond. Seating will be provided along the trail to sit, relax and take in the view. Interpretative signs could show names of the mountain peaks and talk about the river and history of the area. This trail will also connect into the proposed Delta River Walk Park and Delta River Walk North trail system. The trail will be constructed of hard, compacted, conglomerate gravel material so that all ages and abilities will be able to use it. The trail will not be paved. A route for motorized vehicles (ATV,ORVS) use may be developed as a separate trail to increase safety and provide opportunities for motorized users.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

The community of Delta Junction is located along the Delta River, yet no trails take advantage of the outstanding river and mountain views. The existing dike is well constructed but has an uneven, somewhat rocky surface that limits its use as an accessible trail. Relatively few people currently use this area as it’s presence and public access routes are not obvious. People that do use the area are locals that are familiar with the area. This area is also sometimes used by young adults as a “party” area and needs to be cleaned up. The River Walk south trail will transform the existing dike into a safe, smooth travel corridor along which visitors and residents can walk, run, and bike, while taking in the outstanding scenic views of the Delta River and Alaska Range. The trail also could connect to local businesses and provide an additional area for visitors to walk from when staying at the nearby Alaska State Parks Campground Delta. The trail could provide for healthy recreation and be used by the local clinic to encourage daily physical activity for residents and youth.

Trail Management Objectives  Trail Type  Trail Class   

Designed Use Managed Uses Prohibited Uses

Summer (Terra) Class 4-Highly Developed Bicycle Bicycle, pedestrian Motorized, horses

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN



Design Parameters*

o o o o o o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Tread Width (inches): double lane, 4’-7’- with structures 4’ minimum width Turning Radius (feet):8’-10’ Design Surface: Native, routine grading with improved sections of borrow or imported materials Stable with minor roughness. Protrusions ≤3” but uncommon and not continuous. No obstacles. Target Grade (%):2%-8% Short Pitch Maximum ((up to200’ lengths):10% Target Cross-Slope (%):3%-5% Maximum Cross Slope(%): 5% Clearing Width (inches): 6’-8’ Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level): 8’-9’

See comments section* o Trail Opening: 1 x per year o Tread Repair: 1 x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year o Brushing: 1 x per year o Condition Survey: 1 x every 3 years o Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events * See comments section

Landownership

Support Facilities

Estimated Costs Concerns

1. U.S Army Corps of Engineers 2. State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources 3. Mental Health Trust Land Office o o o o o o o o

Parking (location To Be Determined) Viewing areas could be sponsor-driven to create seating/interpretive areas every 100 feet or so. Parking Signs/trail maps/interpretive information Restrooms Garbage collection To Be Determined A hydrologist should evaluate the river to help determine the best trail alignment given potential flooding, bank erosion, and overall movement of the river.

Potential Partners

o o o o

Delta Junction Nordic Ski Club Alaska State Forestry City of Delta Junction State of Alaska DNR

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Obtain trail easements and other permissions necessary for the trail Design trail Layout trail Construct trail

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Other Helpful Information

Comments (*)

The Alaska Recreation Trails Grant Program may have funding, if the funding is continued in the next Federal Transportation Bill. o Could talk to Alaska State Forestryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Firewise program about helping clear trees and brush for trail vistas. o Could ask Alaska State Parks for assistance from one of their landscape architects to do a site evaluation and explore possibilities resulting in a design layout to share with stakeholders and the public. o The River Walk South Park and Trail are an opportunity to share and interpret historic information about the community. o The trail could be used as the location of walking prescriptions doctors could handout to patients, or as a fitness or circuit training trail Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag o

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

RIVER WALK SOUTH TRAIL – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC Trail Name Trail Length Trail Rank New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

DETAILS River Walk South Trail ¼ mile + 7th The River Walk South winter trail will be designed as a safe, winter double lane nonmotorized multi-use trail along the top of the existing Delta River dike. Vegetation will be pruned back along the edges to allow for frequent vistas of the Delta river and Alaska Range beyond. Interpretative signs could show names of the mountain peaks and talk about the river and history of the area. This trail will connect into the proposed Delta River Walk Park and Delta River Walk North trail system. The trail will be groomed on occasion to support recreational uses by all ages and abilities for skiing, winter biking, skijoring, snowshoeing and hiking/running.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

A route for snowmachine or winter ATV may be developed as a separate trail to increase safety and provide opportunities for motorized users. The community of Delta Junction is located along the Delta River, yet no trails take advantage of the outstanding river and mountain views. The existing dike is well constructed but has an uneven, somewhat rocky surface that limits its use as an accessible trail. Very few people currently use this area in the winter except for occasional snowmachine passing through. The River Walk South winter trail will transform the existing dike into a safe, smooth travel corridor along which visitors and residents can ski, winter bike, snowshoe, walk and run in winter, while taking in the outstanding scenic views of the Delta River and Alaska Range. The trail also could connect to local businesses in Delta and will provide an encouragement to get people outdoors in winter.

Trail Management Objectives  Trail Type  Trail Class   

Designed Use Managed Uses Prohibited Uses

Winter (Snow) Class 4-Highly Developed Cross-Country Ski Skier, pedestrian, bicycle Motorized, horses

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN



Design Parameters

o o o o o o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Tread Width (inches): Double lane, 12’-16’ with structures ≥ 3’ wide* Turning Radius (feet):> 25’ (or actual width to accommodate snowmachine and drag)* Design Surface: Regular machine grooming for snow compaction. No protrusions or obstacles. Target Grade (%):0%-8% Short Pitch Maximum (%) (Up to200’ lengths): 12% Target Cross-Slope (%):0%-5% Maximum Cross Slope(%): 10% Clearing Width (inches):8’-14’ Widen clearing at turns or if increased sight distances needed Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’-10’

*See comments section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year * o Drainage Cleanout: 1 x per year, or as needed during winter thaw or severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year * o Brushing: 1 x per year * o Snow Trail Grooming: Weekly snowmachine grooming needed for snow compaction or after every major snowfall approximately 15 x per year. * See comments section

Landownership

Support Facilities

Estimated Costs Concerns

Potential Partners

Implementation Steps

Other Helpful Information

1. 2. 3. 4.

U.S Army Corps of Engineers State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources Mental Health Trust Land Office Trail easement needs to be obtained from landowners

Parking (location To Be Determined) Viewing areas could be sponsor-driven to create seating/interpretive areas every 100 feet or so. o Hill for winter sledding o Signs/trail maps/interpretive information. o Restrooms o Garbage collection o To Be Determined o Wind and drifting will affect trail conditions and grooming o Removing enough vegetation to create a better view, but maintaining enough vegetation to keep the dike soil stable o o

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources City of Delta Junction Alaska State Forestry Delta Nordic Ski Club Alaska Mental Health Trust Land Office Identify landowners, request permission for trail Obtain trail easements and other permissions necessary for the trail Design and Layout trail Raise funds Construct trail

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Comments (*)

Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

FORT GREELY BIKE PATH AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 

New proposal

Desired Trail Experience    

All season non-motorized trail, separated from highway traffic Compacted aggregate and natural soil surface Sustainably built and managed trail Safe route between Fort Greely and Delta Junction

Proposed Support Facilities 

Signs

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2.

New constructed trail on the east side of the highway Keep existing rough trail on west side for ATVs and horses

Alignment: Runs parallel to the Richardson Highway between mileposts 265 and 261 between Delta Junction and Fort Greely Length: 4.2 miles Summary: This trail will be a non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle path, 4.2 miles in length, built using compacted aggregate and natural soil. It will connect the communities of Delta Junction and Fort Greely. The trail will provide the user with fabulous views of the Alaska Range and the Delta River area, a safe alternative to walking or bicycling on the highway, a great workout trail for runners, and a relaxing safe route to commute to work. It would be suitable for winter biking, snowshoeing and skiing in winter. Since this trail will likely be located within the highway right-of-way, no motorized vehicles will be permitted. In winter, it will be un-groomed, except for special community occasions. An existing rough trail runs along the west side of the highway, and would remain available for ATVs in summer and snowmachines in winter. For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

FORT GREELY BIKE PATH – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Fort Greely Bike Path (Summer)

Trail Length

4.2 miles

Trail Rank

8th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

The Fort Greely Bike Path will be a non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle trail, 4.2 miles in length, and built using compacted aggregate and natural soil. The non-motorized path will run parallel to the east side of the Richardson Highway between mileposts 265 and 261. It will connect the communities of Delta Junction and Fort Greely. The trail will provide a relaxing safe route to commute to work with fabulous views of the Alaska Range and the Delta River. It will be a safe, separated alternative to walking or bicycling on the highway, and will provide a great workout trail for runners with some rolling terrain and flat stretches. Since this trail will likely be located within the highway right-of-way, no motorized vehicles will be permitted. An existing rough trail runs along the west side of the highway, and would remain available for ATVs.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

The U.S. Army at Fort Greely is one of Delta Junction’s largest employers, but there is no safe pedestrian route connecting the two locations. The bike path will accommodate the commuters that live in town and want to walk, run or bicycle to work. The path would be separated from the highway. For tourists and locals alike it will be a fun, interesting, and safe trail to use while traveling from town to the Fort Greely entrance.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 4-Highly Developed



Designed Use

Bicycle



Managed Uses

Bicycle, pedestrian



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

Motorized vehicles, horse o Tread Width (inches): 6’-8’ * o Turning Radius (feet): 15’-20’ * o Design Surface: Compacted aggregate, mixed with native soils. Routine grading with minor roughness. o Target Grade (%):2%-10% * o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to100’ lengths):15% o Target Cross-Slope (%):3%-5% o Maximum Cross Slope(%): 5% o Clearing Width (inches): 6’-10” * o Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’



Maintenance Frequency

*See Comments Section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year o Tread Repair: 1 x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year o Brushing: 1 x per year

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o Landownership

Snow Trail Grooming: NA Condition Survey: 1 x per 3 years Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. 2. 3.

Support Facilities

State of Alaska (Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Right-of-Way for the Richardson Highway) U.S. Army Bureau of Land Management

Existing: o

Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation provides outhouses, picnic tables, benches and interpretive information at a pullout at milepost 262.6 of the Richardson Highway.

Proposed: o

Bike Path signs

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

o o

Unmanaged use of motorized vehicles on the existing trail moving at high speeds with pedestrians and bicyclists. Obtaining an easement for the full length necessary.

Potential Partners

o o o o

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities U.S. Army Garrison Fort Greely Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Deltana Community Corporation

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Easements Funding Design/Layout Construction

Other Helpful Information

The DJTA supports the current DOT/PF proposal for a 7' shoulder on both sides of the highway. The DJTA supports the concept of a bike path all the way to Donnelly Dome.

o Comments (*)

* Design parameters increased to meet winter trail design needs.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

FORT GREELY BIKE PATH – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Fort Greely Bike Path (Winter)

Trail Length

4.2 miles

Trail Rank

8th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

The Fort Greely Bike Path will be a non-motorized walking, winter biking, snowshoeing and skiing trail, 4.2 miles in length, and built using compacted aggregate and natural soil. It will be ungroomed, except for special community occasions. The non-motorized path will run parallel to the east side of the Richardson Highway between mileposts 265 and 261. It will connect the communities of Delta Junction and Fort Greely. This trail will provide a safe, separated pathway for walking, winter biking, snowshoeing and skiing in winter. Since this trail will likely be located within the highway right-of-way, no motorized vehicles will be permitted. An existing rough trail runs along the west side of the highway, and would remain available for snowmachines.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

The U.S. Army at Fort Greely is one of Delta Junction’s largest employers, but there is no safe way to travel along the route from Delta Junction to Fort Greely in winter, except by using the existing rough ATV trail. By creating a separated pathway for walkers, winter bicyclists, snowshoers and skiers, there will be a safe, alternate route for commuting to work or for recreational purposes.

Trail Management Objectives



Trail Type

Winter (Snow)



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed



Designed Use

Cross Country Skiing



Managed Uses

Cross-Country Skiing, winter biking, walking



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

Motorized vehicles, horse o Tread Width (inches): 6’-8’ o Turning Radius (feet): 15’-20’ o Target Grade (%): 2-10% o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to100’ lengths): 20% o Target Cross-Slope (%): 5% o Maximum Cross Slope(%): 15% o Clearing Width (inches): 6’-10’ o Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level): 8’



Maintenance Frequency

o o o o o o

Trail Opening: 1 x per year Tread Repair: 1 x year Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events Logging Out: 1 x every year Brushing: 1 x per year Snow Trail Grooming: on occasion, as needed after extreme snowfall or for community events

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o Landownership

Condition Survey: 1 x every 3 years

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: o o o

Support Facilities

State of Alaska (Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Right-of-Way for the Richardson Highway) U.S. Army Bureau of Land Management

Existing: o

Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation provides outhouses (closed in winter), picnic tables, benches and interpretive information at a pullout at milepost 262.6 of the Richardson Highway.

Proposed: o

Bike Path signs

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

o o

Unmanaged use of motorized vehicles on the trail moving at high speeds with pedestrians and bicyclists. Obtaining an easement for the full length necessary.

Potential Partners

o o o o

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities U.S. Army Garrison Fort Greely Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Deltana Community Corporation

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Easements Funding Design/Layout Construction

Other Helpful Information

The DJTA supports the current DOT/PF proposal for a 7' shoulder on both sides of the highway. The DJTA supports the concept of a bike path all the way to Donnelly Dome.

Comments (*)

This would be a difficult trail to dog mush because of the amount of heavy duty and semi-truck traffic, and highway speeds along most of it.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

CLEARWATER RIVER WATER TRAIL

AT A GLANCE

AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions    

Some mileage markers missing on the Clearwater River; none on the Tanana River Minimally developed landing facilities at Clearwater Lake No landing facilities at Rika’s Roadhouse Ramp at Tanana Bridge in need of repair and not actively managed by any entity

Desired Trail Experience   

Designated as an official water trail Developed ramp for landing and take-out of non-motorized watercraft at Rika’s Existing ramp at Tanana Bridge for motorized watercraft

Proposed Support Facilities   

Interpretive, mileage, safety, and directional signs New ramp, with associated parking, toilets, and vehicle access at Rika’s Roadhouse Rustic campsites along the river

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2.

Develop partnership for task of annual maintenance of signs Annual river debris and hazard float coordination

Alignment: Begins at the Clearwater State Recreation Site and ends at either the Clearwater Lake Landing, the Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse), or the boat launch at the Richardson Highway bridge over the Tanana River. Length: 12 miles or 28 miles Summary: This water trail will provide an easily accessible swift water trail for small motorized and non-motorized watercraft. The shorter section can be floated in 4-8 hours, and requires paddling the Clearwater Lake outlet upstream for 1.5 miles. The full float can take 6-12 hours, and is more challenging and dangerous. The Clearwater River is a sparkling spring fed large tributary of the silty, glacial Tanana River. On the Clearwater River and Clearwater Lake opportunities exist for world-class grayling and Coho salmon fishing, and spectacular waterfowl migrations and other birding watching and wildlife observation. The river is also popular for river recreation, paddling and motor boating during normal flow periods. For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

CLEARWATER RIVER WATER TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Clearwater River Water Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

12 miles or 28 miles

Trail Rank

9th

Existing Desired Trail Description and Experience

The first section of the Clearwater River Water Trail is on a moderate sized clear river that runs 12 miles from the Clearwater Campground to Clearwater Lake. The second section of this water trail is from the Clearwater Lake outlet to Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse) on the larger, glacially silted Tanana River, which often has hazardous sweepers to be cautious of. The trail is further described at; http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/deltajct/floatgde.htm This water trail will provide an easily accessible swift water trail for small motorized and nonmotorized watercraft, beginning at the Clearwater State Park Campground boat ramp on the Clearwater River and ending at either the Clearwater Lake boat ramp or Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse) on the Tanana River. Smart buoys or day markers will alert boaters of trail mileage, water hazards, and wildlife information. The Clearwater River is a sparkling spring fed large tributary of the silty, glacial Tanana River, with extensive pristine wetlands. These wetlands provide for healthy populations of grayling and thousands of migrating waterfowl. On the Clearwater River and Clearwater Lake opportunities exist for world-class grayling and Coho salmon fishing, and wildlife observation. The river is also popular for river recreation, paddling and motor boating during normal flow periods. The river offers world-class grayling fishing opportunities and spectacular waterfowl migrations and other birding watching opportunities.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

Recreational boating is a popular activity on this route. Boaters in small watercraft often travel along the Clearwater River, but no effort has been made to support this route as an officially designated water trail. At Clearwater State Campground, the primary launch site, Alaska State Parks provides well-developed launch facilities, parking, and sturdy, clean outhouses. However, facilities and signage and structure are rare along the river route. Parking is available at Clearwater Lake, the first take out point; however, outhouses, seating and shelters are needed for boaters awaiting pick up. At midway point of the Clearwater River Water Trail there is a small island that is used by the public for camping. There is a sturdy shelter built by an Eagle Scout. The site could use some developments i.e.; outhouse, campfire pit, tent site, tie out area for boats (to reduce bank impacts). Boaters traveling on to Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse) on the Tanana need buoys or markers to clearly identify the route. The Tanana River segment can be a dangerous float; boaters need to be informed and aware of hazards. Proper signage for takeout, will reduce bank impacts particularly at Rika’s Roadhouse (Big Delta State Historic Site) where stabilization for fish habitat has taken place. Beyond the historical park, there is third take-out point at the Tanana Bridge, but this ramp is busy and heavily used by motorized boats. This ramp is in need of repair and the area is not actively managed by any entity. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), has offered to repair the ramp, but takes no

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

ownership in the management of that area. ADF&G provides and maintains an outhouse at this location. Designating the Clearwater River as an official water trail and providing related support facilities will improve safety and access, and will reduce beach and bank impacts, particularly at Big Delta State Historic Park (Rika’s Roadhouse). The proposed water trail will improve public safety on the water and enhance the outdoor recreational experiences for all ages. Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Water



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed



Designed Use

Small watercraft



Managed Uses

Small non-motorized watercraft, motorized watercraft



Prohibited Uses

None

Design Parameters

o o



Maintenance Frequency

Landownership

o o o o o

Facilities Supporting the Water Trail: Structures: Smart buoys or day markers to identify route and important navigational or safety points along the trail. Improved facility access, including restrooms and camping, to reduce beach and bank impacts. Well-developed parking and launch facilities at primary access points. Interpretive and informational displays at primary access points. Design Surface: Protrusions may be common, but not continuous. River obstacles will be removed if they create a safety hazard to boaters. Obstacles that do not present significant risk may be left for increased challenge. Design Clearing: River pathway is typically cleared wide enough for ready passage and maneuvering of at least one vessel and usually two-way vessel passage, with only occasional low overhanging vegetation in the main channel. Trail Opening: 1 x year Logging Out: After high water events Brushing: After high water events Condition Survey: 1 x every 3 years Facilities: annual inspection with on-going regular annual maintenance and upgrades as necessary for safety purposes

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. 2. 3.

Support Facilities

State of Alaska Clearwater Lake Boat Ramp and Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s)- State of Alaska Ramp at the Tanana Bridge-State of Alaska, Alyeska Pipeline Service Company, or other private property owner

Existing: o

Boat landing at Clearwater Lake

Proposed: o o o o

Interpretive, Safety and Directional signs at primary access points A new ramp, with associated parking and toilet facilities, will be provided at Big Delta Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse) At Clearwater Campground and Rika’s Roadhouse access sites, construct a picnic/rain shelter with benches to improve comfort for boaters. Rustic campsites along the river

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

o o o

Human waste and lack of toilet facilities at Clearwater Lake boat ramp take out Unsafe access and river bank damage due to lack of a safe boat ramp at Big Delta State Historical Park, (Rika’s Roadhouse) There is a lack of adequate signage for interpretation, safety, and direction

Potential Partners

o o o o o o o o o

Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Alaska Department of Fish and Game Tanana Valley Watershed Association U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (buoy/day markers) U.S. Army or retired staff Boy Scout troops 4-H Youth Bureau of Land Management, donate older facilities Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify a project manager Develop a sign plan for interpretive, safety and directional signs and smart buoys Raise funds to design, build and install signs and smart buoys Annual river debris and hazard float coordination Raise funds to improve river related facility access, possibly a removable small boat dock at Big Delta State Historical Park, including restrooms, to reduce beach and bank impacts.

Comments (*)

o This is the only water trail proposed in our area. o State parks does not mitigate river hazards such as log jams, sweepers etc., as it sets up a public expectation and potential lawsuits. The float is strictly “users beware” of natural hazards. State parks mission is to provide outdoor recreation but they are reluctant to take on additional maintenance work such as mileage markers, channel markers, signage, and outhouses.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LISA LAKE TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 



This is a multi-use, all season trail that is heavily used by ATV’s, snowmachines and non-motorized users to provide access Lisa Lake for fishing and camping at the ADFG public use cabin. The first half-mile trail to the lake is a hardened gravel path, the second half continuing on around the northwest end of the lake to the cabin crosses a wetland, can be difficult to cross in wet weather, and is being damaged by heavy use. An additional unmaintained, sometimes hard to follow trail leads from the cabin to the Johnson River.

Desired Trail Experience 

Sustainable, all season, motorized trail extending all the way around the lake to the cabin and an improved footpath continuing on to the Johnson River.

Proposed Support Facilities  

Trail maps and directional signage ATV loading ramp

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2.

Repair and improve damaged sections Provide a map of the trail at the trailhead

Alignment: Begins on the Alaska Highway at Milepost 1381. Length: 1 mile Summary: The Lisa Lake trail is only a short 45-minute drive from Delta Junction and is easily accessible by foot, ATV or snowmachine. The lake provides excellent fishing opportunities year round and the ADF&G public use cabin located one mile from trail head on the lake is available free of charge. All these amenities make this trail a local favorite among a wide variety of users.

For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LISA LAKE TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Lisa Lake Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

1 mile

Trail Rank

10th

Existing / Extension of existing Trail Description

Lisa Lake is a small 50 acres lake located near Johnson River, a mile west of the Alaska Highway, about 40 miles east of Delta Junction. The Lisa Lake Trail is approximately one mile in length and it starts at the Alaska Highway Mile Post 1381 and has a pull out/parking area. The trail provides access to a Fish & Game public use cabin on the west shore of Lisa Lake. Lisa Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and fishing is often productive, especially just after the ice goes off of the lake in late May. The main trail to the lake has been hardened by Fish and Game and prior damage caused by summer ATV use has been repaired. However, the trail around the northwest end of the lake has not been hardened and is wet and swampy. The wetlands surrounding the lake have been impacted by ATV use and can be hard to cross on foot during years of significant rainfall; this section of the trail needs to be redesigned to prevent further damage. There is also short unmaintained and sometimes hard to follow walking trail from the southwest end of the lake over to the Johnson River which if developed and improved could increase user opportunity and enjoyment.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

The public use cabin is available to the public at no charge and the location and short hike in makes this area very popular for local Delta Junction residents, especially those with children. There are fabulous views of Macomb Plateau and opportunities to view wildlife from the trail. Proper signage, maps, and an improved trail that continues on around the northwest portion of the lake directly to the cabin and possibly to the Johnson River will help to mitigate the trail damage.

Trail Management Objectives



Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed (Single Lane)



Designed Use

All-terrain vehicle



Managed Uses

All-terrain vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

Motorized vehicles weighing over 1500 lbs. o Tread Width (inches): 5’ o Turning Radius (feet): 8’-10’ o Design Surface: Native with some onsite borrow or imported material where needed for stabilization, occasional grading Intermittently rough Sections of soft or unstable tread on grades,5% may be present o Target Grade (%):5%-15% o Short Pitch Maximum (25%)(up to100’ lengths): o Target Cross-Slope (3%-8%): o Maximum Cross Slope (10%): o Clearing Width (5’-6’)(On steep side hills, increase clearing on uphill side by 6”-12”) o Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):6’-8’

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

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Maintenance Frequency

Landownership

o o o o o o o o

Trail Opening: 1 x per year Tread Repair: 1 x per year Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events Logging Out: 1 x per year Brushing: 1 x per year Snow Trail Grooming: NA Condition Survey: 1 x per 3 years Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1.

Support Facilities

State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources

Existing: o o o

Department of Fish and Game Public Use Cabin and outhouse Richardson Highway pull out/paved parking area Pier

Proposed: o o

Trail map and directional signage ATV loading ramp

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

ATV damage and impact on wetlands and trail tread due to poor trail conditions and braiding of trail to avoid damaged trail sections

Potential Partners

o o o

Alaska Department of Fish and Game Alaska Department of Natural Resources Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Funding opportunities Trail Design/Layout Raise funds Construction

Comments (*)

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LISA LAKE TRAIL – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Lisa Lake Trail (Winter)

Trail Length

1 mile

Trail Rank

10th

Existing / Extension of existing Desired Trail Description and Experience

Lisa Lake is a small 50 acres lake located near Johnson River, a mile west of the Alaska Highway, about 40 miles east of Delta Junction. The Lisa Lake Trail is approximately one mile in length and it starts at the Alaska Highway Mile Post 1381 and has a pull out/parking area. The trail provides access to a Fish & Game public use cabin on the west shore of Lisa Lake. The main trail to the lake has been hardened by Fish and Game and prior damage caused by summer ATV use has been repaired. However, the trail around the northwest end of the lake has not been hardened and crosses a wetland. The trail is not groomed in the winter but the trail is flat and winter travel is generally very good. There is also a short unmaintained and sometimes hard to follow trail from the southwest end of the lake over to the Johnson River that could be developed and improved to enhance visitors trail experience. This trail may be impassable in years of heavy snowfall unless improved and maintained. Use of heavy 4-wheeled vehicles during winter months may damage the snow and may make it unpassable to other travelers.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

Lisa Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and fishing is popular for ice fishing. The trail provides the public with a perfect moonlight ski, dog mush, skijor, hike or snowmachine ride in the winter. There are fabulous views of Macomb Plateau and opportunities to view wildlife from the trail. The ADFG public use cabin is available free of charge by reservation and is the perfect place to warm up, have lunch or spend the night.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Winter (Snow)



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed



Designed Use

Snowmobile



Managed Uses

Snowmobile, cross country ski, snowshoe, winter bicycle, Skijor



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

4-Wheel Vehicle 1500 lb weight restriction o Tread Width (inches): 6’-8’ o Turning Radius (feet):5’-8’ o Design Surface: May receive occasional machine grooming for snow compaction and conditioning; frequently rough and bumpy o Target Grade (%):0%-10% o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to100’ lengths):15%* o Target Cross-Slope (%):0%-5% o Maximum Cross Slope(%): 10% o Clearing Width (inches):8’-14’ o Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):6’-8’ (provide sufficient clearance for grooming equipment) *See comments section

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

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Maintenance Frequency

o o o o o o

Trail Opening: 1 x per year * Tread Repair: 1 x per year or as needed after significant weather event Drainage Cleanout: : as needed during winter thaw or severe fall and spring weather events Logging Out: 1 x per year* Brushing: 1 x per year* Snow Trail Grooming: once or twice per year for special events *See comments section

Landownership

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1.

Support Facilities

State of Alaska, Department of Natural Resources

Existing: o o

Department of Fish and Game Public Use Cabin and outhouse Richardson Highway pullout/paved parking area

Proposed: o o

ATV/snow machine loading ramp Trail map and directional signage

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

o o

Legal trapping close to the trail is a risk for pets, and people traveling on a less defined trail in winter. ATV use during early winter snowfall creating ruts

Potential Partners

o o o

Alaska Department of Fish and Game Alaska Department of Natural Resources Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

Implementation Steps

1. 2.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Identify and obtain funds to groom the trail more frequently

Comments (*)

Short Pitch Maximum is reduced to accommodate winter bicycling. Maintenance Frequency -Trail Opening, Logging Out and Brushing. If the summer maintenance did not resolve these issues, early winter maintenance is required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

1408 TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 



Existing multi-use, all season trail heavily used by ATV’s, snowmachines and 4x4 vehicles for hunting, berry picking, wildlife viewing and access to Granite Mountains. The first two miles of the trail is essentially a gravel road then the remaining 4.5 miles to Rhoads Creek is narrower, fairly flat and mostly dirt or gravel with some sandy sections. Existing trail is in fairly good condition and has endured sustained heavy use for many years but there are isolated areas that are damaged.

Desired Trail Experience  

Sustainable, well maintained trail providing safe travel for motorized and non-motorized users during all seasons. Posted trail route complete with maps and directional signs.

Proposed Support Facilities   

Trail maps and directional signage ATV unloading ramp Designated parking area

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2.

Determine land status and protect access. Maintain existing trail and improve damaged sections of trail

Alignment: Begins east of Delta Junction at Milepost 1408 on the Alaska Highway. Length: ~6.5 miles, connecting to many other trails. Summary: The 1408 Trail is the gateway to real Alaska wilderness and has been in existence for years; used regularly by many families for camping, firewood cutting, picnicking, wildlife viewing, biking, berry picking, hunting, ATV and snow machine riding.

For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

1408 TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

1408 Trail

Trail Length

6.5 miles

Trail Rank

11th

Existing Desired Trail Description and Experience

The existing trail provides a 2-mile gravel surface for four-wheel drive vehicles, including recreational vehicles towing trailers; this section is a raised roadbed that cuts a straight swath through young aspen stands to a large dry gravel basin. At the gravel basin the 1408 trail narrows and becomes an ATV trail that traverses fairly flat bottomland at the base of the Granite Mountains for 4.5 miles to Rhoads Creek. The natural glacial outwash gravels underlie portions of this fairly flat trail, which has endured sustained heavy use for many years however some wetter sections have become rutted and damaged.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

The 1408 trail has been in existence for many years and is used regularly by many families for camping, firewood cutting, picnicking, bird watching, biking, hiking, berry picking and ATV riding in summer and an annual “ATV Rally”. The trail is used heavily during MayNovember depending on snow conditions, and especially during hunting season, for birds, moose, caribou, sheep and bison. This trail connects into a larger network of trails that provides access for Dall sheep hunters in the Granite Mountains.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 3-Developed



Designed Use

First 2 miles Four Wheel Drive Vehicles; 4.5 miles ATV and ORV



Managed Uses

ATV’s, bicycles, equestrians and pedestrians



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

The use of motorized vehicles for hunting is prohibited Aug 10-25 in the Delta Controlled Use Area. (Check regulations annually.) o Tread Width (inches): 2 miles at 16’/ 4.5 miles at 8-9 feet o Turning Radius (feet): 2 miles at 15-20’/ 4.5 miles at 8-10’ o Design Surface: native gravel and dirt with some onsite borrow or imported gravel material where needed for tread stabilization. Occasional grading may be necessary. Intermittently rough. Sections of soft or unstable tread on grades 5% may be present. o Target Grade (%):5-18% o o o o o

Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to75’ lengths):20%-25% Target Cross-Slope (%):2 miles at 5-12%/4.5 miles at 3-8% Maximum Cross Slope(%): 2 miles at 12%/4.5 miles at 10% Clearing Width (inches):2 miles at 16’/4.5 miles at 8-9 feet Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):6-8’

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

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Maintenance Frequency

Landownership

o o o o o o o

Trail Opening: 1 x per year Tread Repair: 1 x per year Drainage Cleanout: 1 x per year or as needed after severe weather Logging Out: 1 x per year or as needed after severe weather Brushing: 1 x per year Condition Survey: 1 x every 3 years Grading: as needed

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. 2. 3.

Support Facilities

State of Alaska Private Bureau of Land Management

Existing: o

Rough undefined parking areas

Proposed: o o o o

Signs/trail maps Developed parking areas at highway ATV/snowmachine loading ramp Garbage collection

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

o o o o

Reduced access relating to military training closures Need to protect/ensure continued access Overuse of natural resources and negative impact on watershed and wildlife resources Increased use by heavy recreational vehicles may damage the trail

Potential Partners

o o o o o o o

Alaska Department of Fish & Game U. S. Department of Defense Salcha-Big Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Deltana Community Corporation Dept. of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry; and Land and Water Natural Resources Conservation Service Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Secure continued public access Perform a trail assessment and complete a trail prescription Repair existing trail damage or realign a new section of trail to bring the trail to sustainable standards Conduct education and community outreach to help prevent trail damage Install and maintain signs/trail maps Monitor and reassess trail conditions and sustainable design

5. 6. 7. Other Helpful Information

In 2001, the Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District and Natural Resources Conservation Service excavated, cleared and constructed the Delta-Clearwater River Watershed Project. Although for generations, people have traversed this area en route to the Granite Mountains and for game hunting, the 1408 Trail raised roadbed was constructed as part of the project. 73

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

In 2001, the Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District and Natural Resources Conservation Service, excavated, cleared and constructed the Delta-Clearwater River Watershed Project. In 2009, following a five-year study of the watershed project, NRCS and the Alaska State Conservationist determined that the watershed project was channelizing water, increasing erosion, and flooding some private property. They have applied for funding for the restoration of the entire infiltration basin reshaping it to approximately pre-project contours. Local woody vegetation will be reestablished to minimize erosion on the restored project site.* Comments (*)

Comments (*DJTA has sent NRCS written a recommendation to provide highway parking area to accommodate cars, trucks, large trailers, RVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s etc. and a loading dock for OHVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, ensuring access for existing trail users to the 1408 area).

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

DONNELLY DOME TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions    

Unimproved, native-surface hiking trail with multiple braids Unmanaged use of the trail Non-sustainable route with steep grade and soil erosion causing resource degradation Land use conflicts with military training

Desired Trail Experience    

Summer trail for hikers Sustainably built and managed trail that reduces trail erosion Improve safety Balance increased accessibility for a greater range of hiker ability with a challenging level of difficulty

Proposed Support Facilities   

Parking area off of the Richardson Highway Trailhead kiosk Restrooms

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1. 2. 3.

Obtain a Memorandum of Agreement with the Army for land management and trail improvements Work with the military to increase access opportunities through the RAP system Provide up-to-date information on military closures and procedures at the kiosk

Alignment: Begins and ends at the Richardson Highway. Length: 2.9 miles, round trip Summary: This popular trail provides recreationists with a challenging hike that offers 360-degree views from the top on a clear day. The main access point for the developed trail will be from one of two turnouts off of the Richardson Highway that provide access up the east and southeast sides. There will be ample parking with safe entry and exit off the Richardson Highway. A kiosk at the trailhead will provide information on the military’s Recreation Access Permits (RAPs), a trail map, and history of the Dome. For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

DONNELLY DOME TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Donnelly Dome Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

2.9 miles, round trip

Trail Rank

12th

Existing Desired Trail Description and Experiences

This popular trail provides recreationists with a challenging hike that offers 360-degree views from the top on a clear day. The main access point for the trail will be from one of two turnouts off of the Richardson Highway that provide access up the east and southeast sides. There will be ample parking and safe entry and exit off the Richardson Highway. There will be a gate that can block access to the trailhead when military training is taking place. An information kiosk at the trailhead will provide a trail map and history of the Donnelly Dome. Information can also be posted detailing the military’s Recreation Access Permits (RAPs), military closures, and the checkin process.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

Hikers have trouble identifying an actual trail as it heads up the Dome. The routes now in use are steep and not clearly defined in all sections, and they are easy to lose. Some of these branches go straight up and are very steep and eroding. The existing trail(s) up Donnelly Dome are not sustainable and are continuing to erode even as more alternative branches are being created. Developing a sustainable trail that incorporates proper grade and/or steps and other erosion control features would vastly improve the erosion and sustainability issues, and would provide a safer route for a greater number of interested hikers. The military’s land use restrictions that occasionally close the area are an access situation that the DJTA would like to improve. It is discouraging for would-be hikers and frustrating for local residents who used to go to the Dome at any time.

Trail Management Objectives



Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 2 –Moderately Developed



Designed Use

Hiker/Pedestrian



Managed Uses

Pedestrian



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters,



Maintenance Frequency

None o Tread Width (inches): 24”-48” o Turning Radius (feet):2’-3’ o Design Surface: native, ungraded. may be continuously rough o Target Grade (%):5% - 18% o Short Pitch Maximum (%)(up to100’ lengths):35% o Target Cross-Slope (%):5-20% o Maximum Cross Slope(%): 25% o Clearing Width (inches):≥ 2’-4’ Some light vegetation may encroach into clearing area o Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):6’-7’ o Trail Opening: 1 x per year (spring, after breakup) o Tread Repair: 1 x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 1 x per year or as needed after all severe weather events o Brushing: 1 x every year o Condition Survey: 1 x every three year

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Landownership

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. 2.

Support Facilities

State of Alaska U.S. Army (long-term withdrawal from Bureau of Land Management)

Existing: o

Parking area off of the Richardson Highway (needs improvements)

Proposed: o o

Trailhead kiosk Restrooms

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

o o o o

Closures due to military training. Reducing negative impacts to natural resources Improving public safety Developing the trail as minimally as possible yet still achieving a sustainable tread

Potential Partners

o o o o

U.S. Army (Fort Wainwright and Fort Greely) Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Geocaching groups

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Apply for grant design/layout/construction Supervise and oversee project Hire contractor for construction Coordinate volunteer workforce to help maintain the trail over time

Other Helpful Information

Different Army departments may be involved with the portion of this trail on Army land. U.S. Army Alaska, G-3 Ranges control the military training schedule and openings/closings of the area. Fort Wainwright Garrison, DPW Environmental, manages recreational use and coordinates permits and NEPA that may be required to do this project. Both Fort Wainwright and Fort Greely FMWR directorates advocate recreational opportunities for Soldiers, families and civilians working on post and could provide support and partnership for the project.

Comments (*)

Design Parameters. Some sections of the trail will require moderate development to achieve the TMO, and some sections will only need minimal development. These will be determined during the design and layout stages. Design Surface, Target Grade, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross-Slope, Maximum Cross Slope. The parameters reflect the desire to keep the trail as close to its current challenge level and wilderness feel, while becoming more sustainable.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

NISTLER PATHWAY AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions 

New proposal

Desired Trail Experience 



Build a pedestrian and bicycle pathway to include a highway crosswalk to connect the Delta High School to the Delta Elementary School. Enhanced walkability and safety for summer recreational activity participation for students and families of all ages and abilities. The entire trail will be constructed of hard, compacted gravel conglomerate material.

Proposed Support Facilities 

Lights along the trail

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1.

Provide safe trail crossing over unofficial fourwheeler trail, to ensure pedestrians and bicyclists can cross the unofficial four-wheeler trail in a safe manner Power line guy-wires need to be clearly identified with yellow-alert covers to avoid collisions of people with wires.

Alignment: Parallels Nistler Road on the High School side of the road connecting DHS to DES. Length: 0.24 mile Summary: This quarter mile non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle pathway will include a highway crosswalk and will serve both a utilitarian and recreational purpose by connecting the Delta High School to the Delta Elementary School. Where the trail parallels Nistler Road on the High School side of the road, this trail will be separated from both the road and the existing four-wheeler trail by trees and other vegetation.

For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

NISTLER PATHWAY - SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Nistler Pathway (Summer)

Trail Length

0.24 mile

Trail Rank

13th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

This quarter mile non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle pathway will include a highway crosswalk and will serve both a utilitarian and recreational purpose by connecting the Delta High School to the Delta Elementary School. Where the trail parallels Nistler Road on the High School side of the road, this trail will be separated from both the road and the existing four-wheeler trail by trees and other vegetation. To enhance walkability and summer recreational activity participation for students and families of all ages and abilities, the entire trail will be constructed of hard, compacted gravel conglomerate material. The trail will not be paved.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

Up to 10-20 students walk or bicycle daily between Delta High School and Delta Elementary School as they travel to and from their homes. During daily school outdoor education or exercise programs, or during special events, as many as 250 students cross Nistler Road to access one school or the other. The only existing trail currently available for students to use is an unofficial four-wheeler roadside trail that is not a safe route because of the potential for accidental collisions with the four-wheelers. There is only one official striped highway crosswalk between the two schools, but few students use it because it is not on their direct line of travel between the schools. Instead, students cross the road at random points along Nistler Road, in multiple locations, creating a safety hazard. Drivers cannot anticipate where they might find children in the road. The Nistler Summer Pathway will provide a safe and direct pedestrian and bicycle route between the Delta High School and the Delta Elementary School and will enhance community walkability overall. Students, families, and others traveling along the trail will feel safe and separated from automobiles and four-wheelers as they move along the trail from one location to the other. The new crosswalk will provide a better direct and convenient safe crossing between the schools.

Trail Management Objectives



Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 4-Highly Developed



Designed Use

Hiker/Pedestrian Accessible



Managed Uses

Bicycle, pedestrian



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

Motorized, horse o Tread Width (inches): Double lane, 4’-6’ with structures ≥ 3’ wide o Turning Radius (feet):>25’ (or actual width to accommodate snowmachine and drag)* o Design Surface: Compacted conglomerate of mixed gravel and fines to create a firm and stable surface for accessibility. Tread obstacles ≤ 2” high. Protruding objects cannot extend into clear width area more than 4”. Routine grading required to maintain drainage. * o Target Grade (%):≤ 5%* o Short Pitch Maximum (%):

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

o 5%-8.3% for 200 feet maximum between resting intervals o 8.33%-10% for 30 feet maximum between resting intervals o 10%-12% for 10 feet maximum between resting intervals o NOT TO EXCEED grade of 8.33% for more than 30% of total trail length * Resting Intervals: o Between each trail segment any time running slope >5% o ≥ 5’ long and at least as wide as the widest segment of trail tread leading into it if interval is within trail o ≥ 5’ long and ≥ 3’ wide if interval is beside trail o Comply with ABAAS Section 304.3.2 if interval adjacent to trail tread o Resting interval may serve as turning and passing space if ≥ 5’ in diameter or is Tshaped with minimum 5’ x3’ arm and minimum 3’ x 2’ long base o Interval slope ≤ 5% in any direction* Passing Spaces: o ≥ 5’ clear tread width required for 2 wheelchairs to pass o If clear tread width <5’, provide passing spaces at least every 1,000 feet; passing space must be ≥ 5’ wide (including trail width) by 5’ long* Target Cross-Slope (%):≤ 5%* Maximum Cross Slope(%): 5%* Clearing Width (inches):4’-6’ Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’-10’

* See comments section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year o Tread Repair: 1 x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year o Brushing: 1 x per year* o Snow Trail Grooming: NA o Condition Survey: 1 x per every 3 years o Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events * See comments section

Landownership

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Support Facilities

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Nistler Road and associated rightof-way) Alaska Department of Natural Resources (land between road and high school beyond road right-of-way) Golden Valley Electric Association (power line easement parallel to Nistler Road) Delta Junction School District (school property on Elementary School Side)

Existing: o

Parking is available at both schools; no additional parking is needed

Proposed: o

Lights along the trail

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

Power line guy-wires need to be clearly identified with yellow-alert covers to avoid collisions of people with wires. Building support from the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities to obtain approval and restriping of an improved pedestrian crossing to better align with the Elementary School Ensure appropriate pedestrian crossing distances from road intersections and paralleling the Elementary School Road to prevent further accidents.

o o

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Provide safe trail crossing over unofficial four-wheeler trail, to ensure pedestrians and bicyclists can cross the unofficial four-wheeler trail in a safe manner.

Potential Partners

o o o o o o

Delta High School Delta Elementary School Alaska Department of Transportation Alaska Department of Natural Resources Golden Valley Electric Association Delta Junction Ski Club

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Identify landowners, request permission for trail Obtain trail easements Design and layout the trail Raise funds Construct trail On-going maintenance

Other Helpful Information

Community volunteer with an understanding of state and federal highway funding may research other funding options. The Alaska Safe Route to Schools Program may have expertise and funding for trail design and construction, if the funding is continued in the next Federal Transportation Bill. The Recreation Trails Grant program may have funding, if the funding is continued in the next Federal Transportation Bill. Dan Burden, www.Walkable.orgprovides information about pedestrian access options.

Comments (*)

Design Parameters. The design parameters are a mix because of the need to design the trail as a hiker/pedestrian accessible trail in the summer/shoulder seasons and as a groomed cross-country ski trail in the winter. Tread Width and Clearing Width. Though used for cross-country skiing in the winter, the trail tread width and clearing width are based on the narrower widths of class 4 hiker/pedestrian design parameters to ensure the trail fits between the power line poles and the existing trees and vegetation and so as not to remove minimal vegetation. Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Design Surface, Target Grade, Resting Intervals, Passing Spaces, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross Slope, Maximum Cross Slope. The parameters reflect the desire to make the trails accessible where practicable and feasible by applying US Forest Service Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails (see http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility/pubs/htmlpubs/htm12232806/index.htm) Clearing Height. The clearing height reflects winter design needs for cross-country skiing. Maintenance Frequency -Brushing. If additional vegetation is planted to increase the vegetative buffer that separates the pedestrian pathway from the ATV trail, more frequent brushing may be required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

NISTLER PATHWAY – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Nistler Pathway (Winter)

Trail Length

0.24 mile

Trail Rank

13th

New proposal Desired Trail Description and Experience

This quarter mile non-motorized pedestrian and cross-country ski pathway will include a highway crosswalk and will serve both a utilitarian and recreational purpose by connecting the Delta High School to the Delta Elementary School. Where the trail parallels Nistler Road on the High School side of the road, this trail will be separated from both the road and the existing four-wheeler trail by trees and other vegetation. To enhance walkability and winter recreational activity participation for students and families of all ages and abilities, the entire trail will be constructed of hard, compacted gravel conglomerate material. The trail will not be paved.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

Up to 10-20 students walk daily between Delta High School and Delta Elementary School as they travel to and from their homes. During daily school outdoor education or exercise programs, or during special events, as many as 250 students cross Nistler Road to access one school or the other. The only existing trail currently available for students to use is an unofficial four-wheeler roadside trail that is not a safe route because of the potential for accidental collisions with the four-wheelers. There is only one official striped highway crosswalk between the two schools, but few students use it because it is not on their direct line of travel between the schools. Instead, students cross the road at random points along Nistler Road, in multiple locations, creating a safety hazard. Drivers cannot anticipate where they might find children in the road. The Nistler Winter Pathway will provide a safe and direct pedestrian and ski route between the Delta High School and the Delta Elementary School and will enhance community walkability overall. Students, families, and others traveling along the trail will feel safe and separated from automobiles and four-wheelers as they move along the trail from one location to the other. The new crosswalk will provide a better direct and convenient safe crossing between the schools.

Trail Management Objectives



Trail Type

Winter (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 4-Highly Developed



Designed Use

Hiker/Pedestrian Accessible



Managed Uses

Ski, pedestrian



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

o 8.33%-10% for 30 feet maximum between resting intervals o 10%-12% for 10 feet maximum between resting intervals o NOT TO EXCEED grade of 8.33% for more than 30% of total trail length * Resting Intervals: o Between each trail segment any time running slope >5% o ≥ 5’ long and at least as wide as the widest segment of trail tread leading into it if interval is within trail o ≥ 5’ long and ≥ 3’ wide if interval is beside trail o Comply with ABAAS Section 304.3.2 if interval adjacent to trail tread o Resting interval may serve as turning and passing space if ≥ 5’ in diameter or is Tshaped with minimum 5’ x3’ arm and minimum 3’ x 2’ long base o Interval slope ≤ 5% in any direction* Passing Spaces: o ≥ 5’ clear tread width required for 2 wheelchairs to pass o If clear tread width <5’, provide passing spaces at least every 1,000 feet; passing space must be ≥ 5’ wide (including trail width) by 5’ long* Target Cross-Slope (%):≤ 5%* Maximum Cross Slope(%): 5%* Clearing Width (inches):4’-6’ Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):8’-10’

Landownership

Landownership needs to be confirmed and access agreements obtained. Owners may include: 1. Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (Nistler Road and associated right-ofway) 2. Alaska Department of Natural Resources (land between road and high school beyond road rightof-way) 3. Golden Valley Electric Association (powerline easement parallel to Nistler Road) 4. Delta Junction School District (school property on Elementary School Side)

Support Facilities

Existing: o

Parking is available at both schools; no additional parking is needed

Proposed: o

Lights along the trail

Estimated Costs

See Appendix D

Concerns

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o

Ensure appropriate pedestrian crossing distances from road intersections and paralleling the Elementary School Road to prevent further accidents. Provide safe trail crossing over unofficial four-wheeler trail, to ensure pedestrians, bicyclists and skiers can cross the unofficial four-wheeler trail in a safe manner.

Potential Partners

o o o o o o

Delta High School Delta Elementary School Alaska Department of Transportation Alaska Department of Natural Resources Golden Valley Electric Association Delta Junction Ski Club

Implementation Steps

1. Identify landowners, request permission for trail 2. Obtain trail easements 3. Design and layout the trail 4. Raise funds 5. Construct trail 6. On-going maintenance

Other Helpful Information

Community volunteers with an understanding of state and federal highway funding may research other funding options. The Alaska Safe Route to Schools Program may have expertise and funding for trail design and construction, if the funding is continued in the next Federal Transportation Bill. The Recreation Trails Grant program may have funding, if the funding is continued in the next Federal Transportation Bill. Dan Burden, www.walkable.org provides information about pedestrian access options.

Comments (*)

Design Parameters. The design parameters are a mix because of the need to design the trail as a hiker/pedestrian accessible trail in the summer/shoulder seasons and as a groomed cross-country ski trail in the winter. Tread Width and Clearing Width. Though used for cross-country skiing in the winter, the trail tread width and clearing width are based on the narrower widths of class 4 hiker/pedestrian design parameters to ensure the trail fits between the power line poles and the existing trees and vegetation, and to keep as much vegetation buffer as possible. Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Design Surface, Target Grade, Resting Intervals, Passing Spaces, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross Slope, Maximum Cross Slope. The parameters reflect the desire to make the trails accessible where practicable and feasible by applying US Forest Service Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails (see http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility/pubs/htmlpubs/htm12232806/index.htm) Clearing Height. The clearing height reflects winter design needs for cross-country skiing. Maintenance Frequency -Brushing. If additional vegetation is planted to increase the vegetative buffer that separates the pedestrian pathway from the ATV trail, more frequent brushing may be required.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

HUSKY PUP TRAIL AT A GLANCE AT A GLANCE Existing Trail Conditions  

Hard, compacted gravel trail Suitable for running, walking, bicycling, or skiing

Desired Trail Experience  

 

All season non-motorized trail Sustainably built and managed trail that provides an outdoor location for students to exercise Provide appropriate snow trail grooming in winter Prevent unauthorized motorized vehicle and horse use of trail

Proposed Support Facilities 

None

Site-Specific Recommendations and Actions 1.

Create partnership for maintenance and winter grooming of the trail

Alignment: Begins and ends at the Delta Elementary School Length: 0.24 mile Summary: This existing quarter-mile non-motorized pedestrian, skiing, and bicycle trail runs along the back of the Delta Elementary School building and yard, between the yard and the natural wooded area beyond. The Husky Pup Trail provides students an opportunity to get outdoors to have fun and run, walk, bicycle, or ski in the fresh air even when school is not in session. The trail will help children to connect with wellness, nature, and conservation as well. The trail provides students and families with a location for daily physical activity even in winter - important to keeping a low obesity rate among the students.

For a complete description of the trail management objectives (TMO’s) see following pages.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

HUSKY PUP TRAIL – SUMMER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Husky Pup Trail (Summer)

Trail Length

0.24 mile

Trail Rank

14th *

Existing Desired Trail Description and Experience

This quarter-mile non-motorized pedestrian and bicycle trail runs along the back of the Delta Elementary School building and yard, between the yard and the natural wooded area beyond. The entire trail is currently constructed of hard, compacted gravel material for use by all ages and abilities. The trail is not paved. In the summer, the Husky Pup Trail allows children to reconnect with wellness, nature, and conservation. It provides students an opportunity to get outdoors to have fun and run, walk, or bicycle in the fresh air as part of class, as an afterschool activity, and even when school is not in session during summer holiday. The trail provides families with a location for daily physical activity.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

The Delta Elementary School has a very low obesity rate, and the district works hard to keep it that way. The physical education teacher credits the low obesity rate to the commitment of our school district to provide physical education in our schools. It is so important that elementary children and their teachers go out and play even at 20 below temperatures. Parents and teachers are committed to an education outside that includes playing outside and developing a healthy lifestyle.

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Summer (Terra)



Trail Class

Class 5-Fully Developed



Designed Use

Bicycle



Managed Uses

Bicycle, pedestrian



Prohibited Uses

Motorized vehicles, horse



Design Parameters

o o o o o o

Tread Width (inches): Double lane, 72”-120” with structures ≥ 36” wide Turning Radius (feet):>25’ * Design Surface: Compacted conglomerate of mixed gravel and fines to create a firm and stable surface for accessibility. Routine grading required to maintain drainage. * Tread Obstacles: ≤ 2” high. Protruding objects cannot extend into clear tread width area more than 4”. Target Grade (%):≤ 5%* Short Pitch Maximum (%): o 5%-8.3% for 200 feet maximum between resting intervals o 8.33%-10% for 30 feet maximum between resting intervals o 10%-12% for 10 feet maximum between resting intervals o NOT TO EXCEED grade of 8.33% for more than 30% of total trail length* Resting Intervals: o Between each trail segment any time running slope >5% o ≥ 5’ long and at least as wide as the widest segment of trail tread leading into it if interval is within trail o ≥ 5’ long and ≥ 3’ wide if interval is beside trail o Comply with ABAAS Section 304.3.2 if interval adjacent to trail tread o Resting interval may serve as turning and passing space if ≥ 5’ in diameter or is T-shaped with minimum 5’ x 3’ arm and minimum 3’x2’ long base o Interval slope ≤ 5% in any direction*

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Passing Spaces: o ≥ 5’ clear tread width required for 2 wheelchairs to pass o If clear tread width <5’, provide passing spaces at least every 1,000 feet; passing space must be ≥ 5’ wide (including trail width) by 5’ long* Target Cross-Slope (%):≤ 5%* Maximum Cross Slope(%): 5%* Clearing Width (inches):5’-6’ Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):6’-8’

* See Comments Section o Trail Opening: 1 x per year* o Tread Repair: 1 x per year o Drainage Cleanout: 2 x per year and as needed after all severe weather events o Logging Out: 1 x per year* o Brushing: 1 x per year* o Condition Survey: 1 x every 3 years o Grading: Annually and as needed after all severe weather events * See Comments Section

Landownership

Landownership: o

Support Facilities

Delta/Greely School District (school property on Elementary School Site)

Existing: o o

Parking is available at the school. School restrooms will be available during school hours or during events.

Proposed: o

None

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

Keep tread maintained by controlling vegetation growth, regrowth of alders and removal of invasive plants, and grading. Additional conglomerate gravel materials (to meet accessibility standards) will be needed to keep the trail sustainable and accessible over time. Education, outreach and signs needed to prevent unauthorized motorized vehicle and horse use of the trail.

o o Potential Partners

o o o o o

Delta/Greely School District Delta Nordic Ski Club Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Delta Lion’s Club City of Delta Junction

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3. 4.

Maintain the trail by grading and removing invasive weeds and vegetation from the tread Brushing of vegetation in the forest to keep it from encroaching upon the trail tread Re paint/protect the trail sign over time. Upgrading of surface materials as necessary over time.

Other Helpful Information

The width should be checked and a clear edge to the trail should be established. A plumb line can be run along both sides of the trail to mark the actual tread width. The management intent is to leave a four-foot wide border of flowers and natural vegetation on each side of the actual tread. A sign has been made and posted “HUSKY PUP TRAIL” donated by Delta Industrial Inc. and Salcha-Delta Soil & Water Conservation District.

o o

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Comments (*)

o o

o o o

Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag in winter. Design Surface, Target Grade, Resting Intervals, Passing Spaces, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross Slope, Maximum Cross Slope. The parameters reflect the desire to make the trails accessible where practicable and feasible by applying US Forest Service Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails (see http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility/pubs/htmlpubs/htm12232806/index.htm) Clearing Height. The clearing height reflects winter design needs for cross-country skiing. Maintenance Frequency -Trail Opening, Logging Out, and Brushing. Check trails regularly in rainy/windy weather and perform maintenance as required. Husky Pup Trail was initially overlooked during inventory and ranking. The steering committee decided it would rank high enough to be in the top priority trails, and placed it just above the â&#x20AC;&#x153;cut lineâ&#x20AC;?.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

HUSKY PUP TRAIL – WINTER DESIRED FUTURE CONDITIONS TOPIC

DETAILS

Trail Name

Husky Pup Trail (Winter)

Trail Length

0.24 mile

Trail Rank

14th *

Existing Desired Trail Description and Experience

This quarter-mile non-motorized pedestrian, skiing and winter biking trail runs along the back of the Delta Elementary School building and yard, between the yard and the natural wooded area beyond. The entire trail will be groomed in winter to provide for use by all ages and abilities. In the winter, the Husky Pup Trail allows children to reconnect with wellness, nature in winter, and conservation. It provides students an opportunity to get outdoors to have fun and run, walk, bicycle or ski in the fresh air in winter as part of class or as an afterschool activity. The trail provides families with a location for daily physical activity even in winter.

Public Needs Met (Situation and Solution)

Trail Management Objectives 

Trail Type

Winter (Snow)



Trail Class

Class 5-Fully Developed



Designed Use

Skier, Accessible



Managed Uses

Pedestrian, bicycle



Prohibited Uses



Design Parameters*

Motorized vehicles, horse* o Tread Width (inches): The trail will be groomed to a width of double lane, 6’-10’ with structures ≥ 3’ wide o Turning Radius (feet):>25’ (or actual width to accommodate snowmachine and drag)* o Design Surface: Compacted snow. Tread obstacles ≤ 2” high. Protruding objects cannot extend into clear width area more than 4”. Routine grooming required. * o Target Grade (%):≤ 5%* o Short Pitch Maximum (%): o 5%-8.3% for 200 feet maximum between resting intervals o 8.33%-10% for 30 feet maximum between resting intervals o 10%-12% for 10 feet maximum between resting intervals o NOT TO EXCEED grade of 8.33% for more than 30% of total trail length * o Resting Intervals: o Between each trail segment any time running slope >5% o ≥ 5’ long and at least as wide as the widest segment of trail tread leading into it if interval is within trail o ≥ 6’ long and ≥3’ wide if interval is beside trail o Comply with ABAAS Section 304.3.2 if interval adjacent to trail tread o Resting interval may serve as turning and passing space if ≥ 5’ in diameter or is Tshaped with minimum 5’ x 3’ arm and minimum 3’ x2’ long base o Interval slope ≤ 5% in any direction* o Passing Spaces: o ≥ 5’ clear tread width required for 2 wheelchairs to pass o If clear tread width <5’, provide passing spaces at least every 1,000 feet; passing space must be ≥ 5’ wide (including trail width) by 5’ long* 95

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

o o o o



Maintenance Frequency

Target Cross-Slope (%):≤ 5%* Maximum Cross Slope(%): 5%* Clearing Width (inches): 5’-6’ Clearing Height (feet above normal maximum snow level):6’-8’

* See Comments Section o Snow Trail Grooming: Weekly bobcat or grooming needed for snow compaction on or after every major snowfall * o Snowmachine with drag: as needed between snowfalls to keep trail within accessible standards * See Comments Section

Landownership

Landownership: 1.

Support Facilities

Delta/Greely School District (school property on Elementary School Site)

Existing: o o

Parking is available at the school. School restrooms will be available during school hours or during events.

Proposed: o

None

Estimated Costs

[To Be Determined]

Concerns

Summer and fall maintenance needs to be adequate to allow for early grooming of winter tread. Education, outreach and signs needed to help prevent unauthorized motorized vehicle and horse use of the trail.

o Potential Partners

o o o o o o

Delta High School Delta Elementary School Delta Nordic Ski Club Salcha-Delta Soil and Water Conservation District Delta Lion’s Club City of Delta Junction

Implementation Steps

1. 2. 3.

Requires bobcat grooming to set snow after each heavy snowfall Regular routine grooming required to maintain accessibility standards. Removal of tree limbs and debris after storms

Other Helpful Information

o o

Comments (*)

Turning Radius. The turning radius reflects the need for winter grooming with snowmachine and a drag. Design Surface, Target Grade, Resting Intervals, Passing Spaces, Short Pitch Maximum, Target Cross Slope, Maximum Cross Slope. The parameters reflect the desire to make the trails accessible where practicable and feasible by applying US Forest Service Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails (see http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility/pubs/htmlpubs/htm12232806/index.htm)

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Maintenance Frequency -Trail Opening and Brushing. If the summer maintenance did not resolve these issues, early winter maintenance is required. Administrative use of a snowmachine with a drag allowed to groom the trail. Husky Pup Trail was initially overlooked during inventory and ranking. The steering committee decided it would rank high enough to be in the top priority trails, and placed it just above the â&#x20AC;&#x153;cut lineâ&#x20AC;?.

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

5.1 RS2477 MONITORING History of Historic Trails in Delta Junction Delta Junction enjoys a rich history of trails leading to an understanding of human movement across our local landscape. Historically, Alaskans tracked caribou migrations across taiga and tundra and moved to the rivers for seasonal fish harvests. Hunters and trappers followed animal foot paths seeking meat and furs for subsistence and markets. Prospectors and miners traced outcroppings of gold and silver. Trappers and traders transported goods and people, navigating rivers laden with gravel bars in the summer and pocked with springs and overflow in the winter. The U.S. Army blazed a telegraph connection to the continental U.S. and advanced a “highway” to the Last Frontier. All of these activities contributed to the founding of Delta Junction long before the establishment of the State of Alaska in 1959. In 1866, U.S. law granted right of way access to public lands. Section 2477 RS (revised statute) states, “The right of way for the construction of highways over public lands not reserved for public uses is hereby granted.” In 1916 an amendment was enacted to, “…provide that the United States will aid the States in the construction of rural post roads, and for other purposes.” In 1976, RS2477 was repealed, yet permitted rights-of-ways previously established to remain valid. Trails, roads, and waterways established access across public lands. http://www.blm.gov/ut/st/en/prog/more/lands_and_realty/rs2477_rights-of-way.html Although Delta Junction has many traditional trails, the following list indicates trails in the region for which legal evidence formally was submitted to qualify them officially with RS2477 status. By providing information to the public about these trails, the public will gain both awareness of trail locations and connection to local history. DJTA may use interactive programs, such as Click Fix or the DJTA website, to receive reports from the public on trail problems and locations, which will assist in the monitoring of our local RS2477 trails. Resources for monitoring and maintaining these historic trails may be available through community development, volunteerism, and grant opportunities. For more information the Alaska Department of Natural Resources publishes a useful factsheet on RS 2477 Rights of Way.

TRAIL NAME

RST #

Delta River Trail

1674

Donnelly Dome – Old Valdez Trail

695

Donnelly – Washburn Trail

46/64

Fielding Lake North Shore, South Shore

1722,1723

Goodpaster River Trail

449

Hajdukovich Horn Mountain Trail

613

Hajdukovich – Macomb Plateau

Jarvis Creek Trail

687

Little Gerstle River – Sheep Creek Trail

480

Michigan Creek Trail

500

North Fork of Forty Mile – Big Delta

379

Ober Creek Trail

686

Redmond Creek – Banner Creek

782

Richardson Highway – Gerstle River Trail

1609

Richardson Telegraph Station Ridge Trail

781

Shaw Creek Lodge – Tenderfoot Creek Trail

783

Tanana Crossing – Grundler Trail

333

Trail 52 Black Mountain Trail

392

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

APPENDICES

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

APPENDIX A DETAILED COMMUNITY O UTREACH ACTIONS        

                        100

February 5, 2013- City Council Meeting - Introduces Community Trails Plan concept to Council February 2013-KDHS live radio interview about a vision for the Community Trails Plan February 13-14, 2013-Delta Junction Community Trails Plan Kick-Off Event February 13th 6:30-8:00 Open House at Delta Elementary School February 14 Work Group Organizational Meeting; radio, newspaper, Delta News Web, posters Monthly community work group meetings-5:30-7:00 Co-Op Extension Conference Room Feb 21, 2013-present Brochure created Survey to the public created Rallied Resolutions and letters for Support- securing support for a Community Trails Plan from our community and partners Presentations about the Plan: Deltana Community Corporation, Delta Chamber of Commerce, Delta/Greely School District, Delta Sportsman Association, Delta High School student body. Conversations with 4H, Mud Boggers, neighbors, residents close to proposed trails June 6, 2013-Friendly Frontier Days- Farmers market outside booth with trail examples Donnelly, River Walk, Liewer Trail, surveys Facebook Delta Junction Trails June 2013-Quartz Lake trail clean up (was that June or July) Tee Shirt Sales July 2013– Deltana Fair Booth with maps, binder of trail projects and descriptions, surveys January 1, 2014-1st Hike Walk of Lights DJTA-100 Community Members took the walk plus a Letter to the Editor of Delta Wind, thanking all involved for their support “Trail Talk” monthly articles in the Delta Wind (started Jan’14 to present) Membership kickoff begin offering membership in DJTA January 2014-Launched Website with mapping and trail projects January 27, 2014-Trail Use and Trapping Workshop March 7, 2014-Daily News Miner article about DJTA and the Delta Junction Community Trails Plan by Tim Mowry March 8, 2014-Celebrate the Sun-Quartz Lake free community event with snowshoeing, skiing, skijoring, dog mushing, ice fishing, cooking outdoors! Shared brochures and trail visions. March 2014-connection with Tanana Valley Watershed Association Fairbanks April 5, 2014-Delta Power Sports Open House at the local motorized business to promote Trails Plan April 2014-Alaska Trails Conference Anchorage- shared information with public in “Trail Talk” Business Cards created and printed for Steering Committee Summer time invited our “Interested Trail Users” to come out and meet up with Click Bishop our local Senator to express the public’s support for trails June 9,2014-Rendezvous at Rika’s 6-8:00 Geo-Cashing, Art in the Park, Face Painting, and Dinner-Trails Plan Booth, surveys July 12, 2014-Donnelly Dome Hike with assistance offered with preregistration for military access permit (RAP) August 21, 2014 5-7:30-DJTA Open-House Sullivan Roadhouse – View projects, come give input to trails plan (See Appendix E) January 1, 2015 – 1st Hike/Snowshoe/Ski @ Quartz Lake DJTA – 80+ Community Members January-March - Membership Drive with drawing for a donated fur hat March 22, 2015 – Celebrate the Sun – Quarts Lake free community event with snowshoeing, skiing, curling, dog mushing, ice fishing, food truck! Shared brochures and trail visions. Drawing for fur hat held. April 27-May 27, 2015 - Public Review Draft Delta Junction Trails Plan (See Appendix E)

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

TRAIL USER SURVEY RESULTS

1. For the activities listed below, indicate how often you or your family enjoys each activity during the appropriate season. The top four most popular trail activities were: hiking, ATV riding, running and road biking. (The yellow bars represent the sum of daily, monthly and weekly use. Responses of “rarely” or “never” were not included on this graph.)

TRAIL USE FREQUENCY daily

weekly

monthly

Total

Number of Users

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

Activity Type

Three people added additional activities in the comments; 2 snow shoe and 1 sledding.

2. If more trails were available in our area would you participate in the above activities more frequently? Yes (75) Unsure (11) No (3) Blank (4)

If yes, specify which activities. Bike (24) Ski (19) ATV/ORV (6) Hike/walk (21) Horse (2) Run (6)

3. Which trail characteristics are most important to you? The top three most important trail characteristics were: Access, length, and signage 101

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

(Responses of “not important” were not included on this graph).

DESIRED TRAIL CHARACTERISTICS Most Important

Very Important

Important

Total Importance

90 80

Number of users

70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Trail grooming

Access

Length

Maps Signs Trail Characteristics

Amentities

Lighting

Single use

4. How often does your interaction with other types of trail users diminish your experience? Frequently (12) Seldom (60) Never (18) Blank (1)

5. Describe (or draw on back on this sheet) the location of the trail you currently use the most often. Individual responses listed below: 1. Four mile hill/bluff cabin 2. AK hwy, triple H area 3. Biking on hwy 4. Bluff cabin, Donnelly 5. Bluff point near lost lake, Donnelly 6. Clearwater lake area 7. Clearwater trail 8. Clearwater trail, 33 mile loop 9. Cross country team trails 102

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

10. Donnelly, Bluff Cabin, Coal Mine, Quartz 11. GVEA and AK pipeline 12. Highway/roadside biking/ Rikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rd/Tanana loop ext. 13. Jack Warren/Clearwater Lake area 14. Meadows Road 15. Nistler to Jack Warren 16. Pipeline and Mil-Tan 17. Pipeline trails 18. Private trails 19. Remington Rd to pipeline 20. Remington trails from clinic to Souhrada 21. Road rails, cabin access, Donnelly 22. Tanana Loop area, Bluff Cabin trails 23. We have trails?? 24. West side Clearwater Lake to home

6. Please give any comments that will help create a great Community Trails Plan. Individual comments listed below: 1. Work with all users, stay positive 2. More wide trails (6-8ft) for mt. biking/running 3. Use ag tract for future park Tamarac E to Harris W Jack Warren N to Remington S 4. More trails geared toward all types of users 6. Need trail from school to Clearwater for bike, run, strollers etc. 7. Ski GVEA line between Nistler and Jack Warren 8. Would like a small area with groomed trails for running and skiing. 9. Sledding better without worrying about snow machines or 4 wheelers 10. Ski loop/bike trails close to town 11. Scenic trails are a big draw 12. Protect historic trails 13. New to area looking for new things 14. More trails for skiing, close to Delta 15. More parking at trailheads 16. Link trails for inc. length 17. Keep up the good work!! 18. Improve biking safety, large shoulders on road 19. Encourage geocaching on trails 20. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like ATV rutted trails 21. Remington trails from clinic to Souhrada 103

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

22. A track for racing with jumps would be nice 23. I Like wooded, gravel, even paths for running 24. I would love the delta river walk and more easy access trails for walking 25. Improve trails from Clearwater boat landing to old airstrip 26. New to area donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know of any trails in the area 27. Want to learn how to ski! 28. Thanks to all who are organizing this, happy that action is being taken to create trails! 29. I run on Remington, Clearwater, Nistler to Souhrada 30. I wish there were paved trails for road biking. 32. Bluff Cabin trails are in serious need of repair, badly damaged from motorized use 33. Non-motorized trails connection 4 corners of Delta

7. What is your gender? Male (48) Female (43) Blank (3)

8. What is your age group? <15 (3), 15-35 (21), 31-45 (25), 46-65 (22), >66 (7), Blank (16)

Total surveys received= 93

104

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

APPENDIX B FULL LIST OF INVENTORIED TRAILS RANKED TRAILS 1.

Quartz Lake State Recreation Area

Big Delta State Historical Park (Rika’s Roadhouse) Info Center

Town Trails

Delta River Walk Park

Liewer Community Trail

Bluff Cabin Trail

Delta River Walk South

Fort Greely Bike Path

Clearwater River Water Trail

10.

Lisa Lake Trail

11.

1408 Trail

12.

Donnelly Dome Trail

13.

Nistler Pathway

14.

Husky Pup Trail

15.

Clearwater Lake Trail #1

16.

Clearwater Lake Trail #2

17.

Delta River Walk North

18.

Old Pipeline Trail

19.

Clearwater Trail

20.

Coal Mine Road

21.

Donna Lake Trail

22.

MP 1402 Trail

23.

Rainbow Lake Trail

24.

McCumber Creek

25.

Bike Park

26.

J. Fowler Cabin Trails

NON – RANKED TRAILS o

Harris Trail

Craig Lakes

Bear Creek

Susie Q Creek

Michael Creek

Castner Glacier Trail

Red Rock Canyon/Canwell Glacier

Rainbow Mountain South Trail

Gulkana Glacier Trail

Rainbow Ridge Trail

105

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

APPENDIX C TRAIL RANKING

The list below shows each of the seven criteria we used. Under each criteria heading are questions we considered when ranking each trail project for each criteria. These component criteria scores were given on a scale of 1-5. Some criteria are more important than others, so the scores were also weighted according to importance. These weights are noted in the criteria heading.

Small DJTA working groups ranked the list of 24 trails over a period of several weeks in early 2014. An example of this process for one trail (Donnelly Dome) is provided after the list of criteria. 1. Opportunity (x2)    

Do we have a legal easement? How easy is the access? Is it centrally located? Is it economically feasible?

2. High Local Community Value (x2)     

Does the project improve safety? Does the project preserve or lessen user impacts on the environment? Is it a historical resource? Does it contribute to improved wellness in the community? Can it be an educational resource?

3. Community Support (x2)  

Is there a local leader or group championing the project? Does the project promote financial partnerships?

4. Connections (x1.5) 

If appropriate, does the project connect trail systems or communities?

5. User Diversity (x1.5) 

Does the project contribute to a package of priorities that together serves a diverse range of user groups?

6. Near Term Vulnerability (x1) 

Is this trail at risk of being lost or converted to an unrelated (i.e., non-trail, non-recreation) future use?

7. High Economic Impact (x1) 

106

Will the project generate local revenue, jobs and business opportunities by attracting out-of-town visitors, including Alaska, Lower 48, and international groups?

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

Donnelly Dome: 1. Opportunity (x2) Score: 4 (Weighted Score: 8)    

Do we have a legal easement? The trail lies on reserved Military land and on State land. How easy is the access? Very easy – access via the Richardson Hwy. Is it centrally located? No, it is 18 miles south of town. Is it economically feasible? Unsure – depends on exactly what we propose to do.

2. High Local Community Value (x2) Score: 5 (Weighted Score: 10)     

Does the project improve safety? It could. Does the project preserve or lessen user impacts on the environment? Yes Is it a historical resource? Yes Does it contribute to improved wellness in the community? Yes! Can it be an educational resource? Yes

3. Community Support (x2) Score: 4 (Weighted Score: 8)  

Is there a local leader or group championing the project? Yes! Does the project promote financial partnerships? It could

4. Connections (x1.5) Score: 1 (Weighted Score: 1.5) 

If appropriate, does the project connect trail systems or communities? No

5. User Diversity (x1.5) Score: 2 (Weighted Score: 3) 

Does the project contribute to a package of priorities that together serves a diverse range of user groups? This trail is limited to hikers due to the topography.

6. Near Term Vulnerability (x1) Score: 2 (Weighted Score: 2) 

Is this trail at risk of being lost or converted to an unrelated (i.e., non-trail, non-recreation) future use? It is only minimally at risk due to the potential for Military limitations. On the other hand, the entire trail is on public land that is not at risk for a change in ownership.

7. High Economic Impact (x1) Score: 3 (Weighted Score: 3) 

Will the project generate local revenue, jobs and business opportunities by attracting out-of-town visitors, including Alaska, Lower 48, and international groups? This is a tourist attraction for adventurous visitors. It is noted in hiking guides and visitor guides of the Delta Junction area. The project itself will not likely generate much revenue in the form of jobs.

The total score is then added from the weighted scores: Donnelly Dome: 8+10+8+1.5+3+2+3 = 35.5

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DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

5. User Diversity (x1.5)

49.0

48.0

Town Trails

47.0

Delta River Walk Park

47.0

DGSD Liewer Nature Ski Trail

45.0

Bluff Cabin Trail

42.0

Delta River Walk South

41.0

Bike Path to Greely

41.0

Clearwater River H2O Trail

39.5

Delta River Walk North

38.0

1408

37.5

Lisa Lake

37.5

Donnelly Dome

35.5

Clearwater Lake Boardwalk

35.0

Sidewalk to Elem School

35.0

Old Pipeline

34.0

Clearwater Trail (Historic)

31.0

Coal Mine

29.5

Donna Lake

29.5

1402

27.5

Rainbow Lake

27.0

McCumber Creek

26.0

Bike Park

23.0

J. Fowler Cabin Trails

20.0

7. Economic Impact (x1)

4. Connections (x1.5)

Rika's Info Center

6. Near Term Vulnerability (x1)

3. Community Support (x2)

Quartz Lake Area

PROJECT

1. Opportunity (x2)

RANK

108

2. Local Community Value (x2)

COMPLETE RANKING SPR EADSHEET

Total

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

APPENDIX D TRAIL COSTING

Preliminary trail cost estimates were calculated for five of the proposed trails. These rough estimates, as well as related assumptions, are presented below.

FORT GREELY BIKE PAT H Summary Description    

Bike path adjacent to The Richardson Hwy, ensure that the replacement bridge across Jarvis Creek is wide enough to accept a separated path An alignment along the south bound lane is preferred for the vista opportunities; ensure space on opposite side for continued ATV/snowmachine use Trail length is 4.2 miles (8' tread, w/ 10' clearing, Class 4) No costing data provided since it falls within the ADOT right-of-way. DJTA should start immediate discussions with the state to insure that their input is included in any future highway expansion.

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DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

RIVER WALK PAR K TRAILS Summary Description       

Vegetation is mature white spruce and paper birch of moderate density Designed use is mountain biking (IMBA difficulty level green) Trail length (designed miles): 2.03 8’ tread width, with 10’ clearing width Full bench cut trail on native soils No hardening is expected due to soil conditions (silty loam or very fine sandy loam). Support facilities: pavilion, waterless restroom, kiosk, bear resistant trash container, bollards (x4), picnic tables (x4), and signs (x6)

Project Budget Cost Category

Cost Per Foot

Cost Per Mile ($)

Job Total ($)

Percent of Job Total

Design Trail Design

0.12

633.60

1,286

Permits Storm Water Pollution Protection Plan Permits& NEPA Process

2,500

0.20

1,056.00

2,144

Layout

0.25

1,320.00

2,680

Clearing

1.50

7,920.00

16,078

Construction (Mechanized)

3.05

16,204.00

32,691

16%

Hand Finishing

1.20

6,336.00

12,862

Supplies, miscellaneous

0.05

264.00

536

1,000

Romtec Pavilion

30,000

15%

Romtec Restroom

60,000

29%

Signs (x6)

900

Kiosk

1,800

Bear Resistant Trash Container

1,300

Picnic Tables (x4)

4,800

Bollards (x4)

1,600

Layout & Construction

Equipment Mobilization/Demobilization Support Facilities

Other Project Management @ 5.0%

8,609

Estimating Contingency @ 10.0%

17,218

Escalation @ 4.0%

6,887

TOTAL COST

110

204,890

DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

LIEWER COMMUNITY TRAIL Summary Description       

Vegetation is mature white spruce and paper birch of moderate density Designed use is X-C Skate Ski (USFS Class 5) Trail length (designed miles): 1.35 8’ tread width, with 10’ clearing width Full bench cut trail on native soils with minimal out sloping to accommodate grooming equipment No hardening is expected due to soil conditions (silty loam or very fine sandy loam). Support facilities: warming hut, kiosk, bear resistant trash container, signs (x6), and porta-potty

Project Budget Cost Category

Cost Per Foot

Cost Per Mile ($)

Job Total ($)

Percent of Job Total

0.12

633.60

855

2,500

Design Trail Design Permits Storm Water Pollution Protection Plan Permits& NEPA Process

0.20

1,056.00

1,426

Layout

0.25

1,320.00

1,782

Clearing

1.50

7,920.00

10,692

11%

Construction (Mechanized)

3.05

16,204.00

21,740

22%

Hand Finishing

1.20

6,336.00

8,554

Supplies, miscellaneous

0.05

264.00

356

1,000

Romtec Warming Hut

30,000

30%

Signs (x6)

900

Kiosk

1,800

Bear Resistant Trash Container

1,300

Project Management @ 5.0%

8,609

Estimating Contingency @ 10.0%

17,218

Escalation @ 4.0%

6,887

Layout & Construction

Equipment Mobilization/Demobilization Support Facilities

Other

TOTAL COST

98,657

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DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

NISTLER PATHWAY HARD ENING Summary Description     

Vegetation is mature white spruce and paper birch of moderate density Designed use is pedestrian (urban setting) Trail length (designed miles): 0.24 6’ tread width, with 8’ clearing width, following an existing social trail Requires a 6" lift of D1 material for uniformity

Project Budget Cost Category

Unit*

Cost Per Unit ($)

Job Total ($)

Percent of Job Total

1,262.00

1,262

n/r

1,262.00

1,262

Design Trail Design @ 10% Permits Storm Water Pollution Protection Plan Permits& NEPA Process Trail Mitigation Site Prep

0.50

423

Geofabric Install

3.10

2,625

15%

Material & Transport to Site

30.00

4,233

23%

Placement & Compaction

5.43

766

50.31

1,183

Labor, basic x3

28.52

2,012

11%

Labor, supervisor

58.60

1,378

n/r

Equipment (skidsteerer)

Equipment Mobilization/Demobilization Support Facilities - None -

Other Project Management @ 5.0%

757

Estimating Contingency @ 10.0%

1,515

Escalation @ 4.0%

606

TOTAL COST * SY = Square Yard, CY = Cubic Yard, Hr = Hourly

112

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DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

BLUFF CABIN TRAIL HARDENING Summary Description     

Vegetation is mature white spruce of moderate density Apparent use is ATV, Class 4 (USFS), trail exhibits an 8’ tread with 10’ clearing width Approximately 400-600’ requires a 12” lift of pit-run (2” minus) to mitigate damaged sections; existing alignment will be used so no layout, clearing or construction costs are calculated Signage to educate users (“Stay the Trail :: Adjacent Land is Private”) and bollards to limit access to OHV less than 1,500lbs also recommended Support facilities: kiosk, bear resistant trash container, bollards (x4), signs (x6), and porta-potty

Project Budget Cost Category

Unit*

Cost Per Unit ($)

Job Total ($)

Percent of Job Total

Design Trail Design @ 10%

1,535.00

1,535

n/r

1,535.00

1,535

Permits Storm Water Pollution Protection Plan Permits& NEPA Process @ 10% Trail Mitigation Site Prep

0.50

267

Geofabric Install

3.10

1,653

Material & Transport to Site

21.49

3,820

13%

Placement & Compaction

5.43

965

50.31

2,236

Labor, basic x3

28.52

3,803

13%

Labor, supervisor

58.60

2,604

n/r

Signs (x6)

900

Kiosk

1,800

Bear Resistant Trash Container

1,300

Bollards (x4)

1,600

1,201

2,402

961

Equipment (skidsteerer)

Equipment Mobilization/Demobilization Support Facilities

Other Project Management @ 5% Estimating Contingency @ 10% Escalation @ 4% TOTAL COST

28,582

* SY = Square Yard, CY = Cubic Yard, Hr = Hourly

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DELTA JUNCTION COMMUNITY TRAILS PLAN

COSTING DATA ASSUMPTIONS

A preliminary site survey was conducted on 19 September 2014. In general, soil conditions represented silty loam or very fine sandy loam. Topography is comprised of glacial moraines as well as alluvial deposits from the Delta and Tanana Rivers are present.

Construction cost estimates for full-bench trails on native soils are derived from recent trail projects in Alaska and assume two equipment operators using a trail dozer and mini-excavator.

Estimates are suitable for conceptual planning, but detailed data points will be required for bid documents and financial planning.

575-ANIMAL TRAILS AND WALKWAYS PAYMENT SCHEDULE (USDA-NRCS, 2014) A 6 foot wide, 2000 foot long, compacted gravel fill type trail installed on level or rolling topography. The gravel lift thickness is typically 8 inches and the side slopes are 2H:1V. In the typical scenario the trail is underlain by a woven geotextile fabric. This trail is suitable in areas with an adequate supply of gravel, and in locations that make the gravel transportation and placement viable. This scenario typically addresses the following resource concern: "Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife-habitat degradation".