LCRVHC AND BPC  have started a project to map the horse trails in our area. We will identify the trails currently being used as well as those that need work and also those that are not suitable for riding.
 
If you wish to help with this project we have set some guidelines  to follow. See below. Pati Martin will be coordinating our efforts which will be sent on to the CT Horse Council and then to the DEP as part of a statewide plan to designate horse trails in CT as a means to preserve them.
 
You can contact Pat Martin at PJM6680@comcast.net  or 66 Rte. 80, Killingworth, CT 06419
 
Guidelines:
One of the critical issues is to standardize on a map and a scale so that compiling the information will be easier. Our first choice was the DEP map that is located on DEP's web site for North or South Cockaponset State Forest. However, we've found that their maps do not cover all the areas of the Epic trail (our main project for this year), and, of course, only indicate trails on state lands. Therefore, we are considering a combination of their map and google maps. It is a tedious job melding the two, so it may take some time.  If you download a google map on your own, please use the street map or USGS (second choice) and download and print the 2000 ft scale version.
After that the steps will be:
1. Download the map section that corresponds to your area.
2. Make note of the areas on the map as described below.
          A. Existing Trail, no problems.
          B. Existing Trail needs work. Indicate on the map where the problem is located and   
                 include a picture or description of the problem.
          C. Mark a trail as not suitable for horses if there is an obstacle that would be dangerous for
                riding and explain why you think so.
          D. Please use a strong color pen, so it will be easy to distinguish your marks from the map
                 info.
          E. Add your name, address, phone number, email and scan and email or snail mail to Pati.
 
As we are able, we will be updating the maps to show the areas that have already been marked and logged for problems, so check back on the web site or with Pat before you venture out. We have enough area to cover and appreciate your time and effort without duplicating the work. Currently (April 2008) we have walked and made notes of the problem areas for the whole length of the Epic Trail. The next work days will be devoted to fixing some of the problems in the different sections.
 
While we focused on the Epic Trail in order to be finished in time for National Trails Day in June, we are not limited to it only. Our ultimate goal is to mark as many trails in our area as possible.  
Below is the section of the Epic trail from Butter Jones to Rt 80 that has been recorded, so you can see how we've accomplished the task.    This is an ongoing project so maps will be upgraded with more information from time to time. The whole trail has been walked and problem areas have been noted. These have not all been transcribed to the rest of the maps, yet, but I'm working on it.
Butter Jones to Rt 80 Section Recorded