Uwharrie National Forest Trail Strategy September 18, 2014

50,814 acres in the North Carolina Piedmont Within a two hour drive of Six million people 2

Who uses the Uwharrie? Recreation  Hiking trails  Mountain Bike Trails  Off-highway Vehicle Trails  Equestrian Trails  Camping  Gold Panning  Fishing  Boating/Kayaking  Hunting (turkey and deer biggest seasons)  Orienteering  Geocache

Horseback Riding 4 Hiking Off-roading Mountain Biking

Other activities on the forest Timber production Prescribed fire Special uses  Military training  Sport events (runs, triathlons, races)  Research  Weddings Firewood collection permits

Uwharrie Land and Resource Management Plan Signed in 2012, sets the course for next 15 years Established three themes for the forest  Restore the forest to a more natural ecological condition  Better manage cultural resources  Provide outstanding and environmentally friendly outdoor recreation opportunities Directs the forest toward designated trail system Targets non-native invasive species for control

Why Designated Trails? Resource protection  Protected species  Heritage resources  Water quality Create sustainable trails that we can maintain Improved experience for visitor Limited funds available for maintenance

Endangered/Locally Rare Species Protection Schweinitz’s Sunflower Georgia Aster Smooth sunflower Courtesy of LTCNC

Heritage Resource Protection Prehistoric Sites Historic Sites

Badin Recreation Area Trails

The Good

The Bad

The Ugly

Better Trails = Better Experience Improved signage Improved access Reduce rider confusion Improved water quality, less erosion Resource protection Reduce trail use conflicts

Courtesy of LTCNC