Trail Clearing Notes
Here's some general rules for clearing a trail on a non-state trail.
1. No more than shoulder wide- 18-24 inches is enough. Too wide encourages erosion.
2. If possible, don't cut native plants.
3. Cut low to the ground, straight across. Cutting on a slant 1-2 feet high leaves "punji sticks" which can poke and stab an unwary hiker.
4. Loppers and saws are quick and easy to use. Machete only if you are careful and familiar with them. Used carelessly, they leave punji sticks and sliced legs.
5. On a slope, cut on the uphill side to leave space to provide a bit of safety on the downhill side to prevent falls.
6. Don't get carried away and create H4.
7. Keep a distance between cutters. Five feet apart, or ten feet if using machetes.
8. Be careful. Stop if you're tired; that's when most accidents occur.
Jim Yuen, August 2010
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