PATC Policy
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club favors trail routing that allows for safe and enjoyable use of the trail by hikers. To the maximum extent possible, the Tuscarora Trail will avoid paved or well-traveled roads and will follow the ridge line. Relocations of the Tuscarora Trail will be avoided unless required to protect the physical resource or to take advantage of corridor land acquisition that allows the trail to be moved off roads and onto safer and more aesthetically pleasing ground. All relocations of the Tuscarora Trail will be coordinated in advance with any affected partner. The Club will also amend the guidebooks and maps of the Tuscarora Trail that it sells to the hiking public to include an accurate trail description.
Partners’ Policies
USDA Forest Service
Jefferson & George Washington National Forest
All new trail construction or relocation must be coordinated with and approved by the Lee Ranger District.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
Bureaus of Forestry and State Parks
Although PATC takes the initiative for the planning and construction of a relocation, the responsible Bureau must approve a relocation prior to construction. Since the Bureau of Forestry contracts with private parties for the sale of timber, it cannot accommodate a trail relocation when it conflicts with an existing contract or planned management activity.
Game Commission
The Commission regulates hunting in Pennsylvania. In general, it discourages trails on its lands. Camping is prohibited. Trail relocations require the approval of the Commission.
Department of Transportation
Approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is required when relocations raise safety concerns or when a roadway access permit is anticipated. The Department will help the Club select roadway crossings so that safety concerns are adequately addressed.
Maryland
Department of Natural Resources
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is involved with the Tuscarora Trail through its Wildlife & Heritage Service, which oversees the Indian Springs Wildlife Management Area. The trail mainly follows a road through this area. Trail relocations require the approval of the Department.
West Virginia
Division of Natural Resources
All new trail construction or relocation must be coordinated with and approved by the Wildlife Manager of Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area.
