Stonework for Trails

Dates:
Wednesday March 28 (afternoon only)
Thursday, March 29 (lunch provided)
Friday March 30 (lunch provided)
Cost: $400
Instructor: Erin Amadon, Peter S. Jensen and Associates, PTBA Member

Workshop Details

Learn about the process of selecting and shaping stone, moving stone, and installation of multi-tier stone cribbing (retaining walls). Maximum class size is 10 people. 

Part 1 Stone Procurement
This section will focus on acquiring both native and purchased stone, selecting the right stone for the application, and shaping stone (using a variety of methods with hand tools). 

Part 2 Stone Transport
This session will cover how to move stone as efficiently and safely as possible. Stone will be moved with a variety of hand tools. 

Part 3 Stone Installation
This section will deal with the installation of various types of stone cribbing (dry stack retaining walls).

We will provide first aid kits and all of the tools and equipment necessary for the workshop. Participants should plan on bringing hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, and sturdy work boots.
 

Learning Objectives

Participants will show proper retaining wall construction techniques by applying knowledge learned through hands on demonstration throughout the workshop. Participants will receive direct feedback from the instructors on how to improve stone selection, moving, and setting techniques.  By the end of the workshop participants will make professional connections with PTBA member companies, fellow trail builders, supports, and volunteers alike.

What to Bring
Appropriate field gear for the weather. Expect to be outside during this workshop. We will be operating in the Midwest in May. Expect rain and be pleasantly surprised if it stays dry. We will provide dust masks, first aid kits and all of the tools and equipment necessary for the workshop Participants should plan on bringing hard hats, safety glasses, work gloves, and sturdy work boots. 
 

Instructor:

 Erin Amadon, Peter S Jensen and Associates LLC Erin Amadon’s passion for trail work began nearly two decades ago when she first served as a member of a youth conservation corps, and she has been doing trail work ever since. As a founding member of Peter S. Jensen and Associates, LLC, Erin has been immersed in technical trail projects throughout the northeast for the last decade. She is committed to building high-quality, sustainable trails and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to volunteer groups, clients, students, and fellow trail lovers across the country. As a former Trail Training Coordinator for the Maine Conservation Corps’ Trail Training Academy and a current work skills instructor for the Student Conservation Association, Erin is committed to youth conservation work and supporting the next generation of trail builders. When she is not busy working on technical trail projects or teaching trail skills, you can often find her working on home improvement projects.