Trail Talk – August 2026

IT’S A frustrating reality that we have to once again consider the insidious occurrence of vandalism in our local woodlands (Jacksonville Woodlands and Forest Park). Since the first of the year, some illicit activities have been a reminder that park patrons, especially our citizenry (who indeed are the “owners” of our parklands) are called upon to report any instances of said damage. These areas are a resource for folks to enjoy. Regulations regarding park usage are posted at park entrances and also printed on the paper maps and the Avenza download.

Signs are posted throughout the parks to guide visitors along their desired routes. A recent spate of destruction saw multiple signs and posts removed throughout the Woodlands. Informational and directional signage has been destroyed in both the Woodlands and Forest Park.

Unauthorized trail construction has also occurred. Any trail modifications are undertaken by volunteers who are under the guidance of Jacksonville’s Public Works Department. Many of these unauthorized trails are often shortcuts across route reversals (switchbacks) that create unnecessary erosion and eventual closure or replacement of the trail. Where traffic is redirected from heavily eroded or areas prone to erosion, limbs and brush are placed, and often new vegetation is encouraged to take root. On many hiker-only trails, stepover logs are placed to deter any unauthorized wheeled traffic. Removal of these limbs, brush, and/or logs is against park regulations. If a fallen tree is impeding a trail, it should be reported to park volunteers or Public Works.

And lastly, trash has no place in our woodland areas. Dumping is prohibited. Our parks are “Smoke-Free” so cigarette butts and vaping cartridges should never be present. “Gu”-style energy packets should never litter trail sides and empty beverage/water containers are to be packed out. We are all in this together, and we are reminded that our freedom to use this amazing resource comes with the responsibility of it being used appropriately.

There’s any irony that the original Vandals, while sacking Rome in the 5th century, took care not to destroy infrastructure. Their goal was the removal of wealth from the Imperial City. In fact, the term “vandal” was not used as such until the French Revolution.

So, let’s take care of our parks and remember that this sense that things are good as they are is at the heart of the mindfulness that we engage in so often during our time in wild areas. We’re reminded of the cultures that thrived in our area for thousands of years, not concerned with greed or the accumulation of wealth, but comfortable in their environment. Theirs was not a culture interested in hustling to bring new technologies into play, i.e. there was no growth for the sake of growth. Tradition ruled their lifestyle, and storytelling reinforced their ties to their environment, being in their world, not on their world. So, in the tradition of the Celts, maybe some wild swimming is called for. Or the Scandinavians with Nature Bathing. Perhaps a bit of British fells running or trekking? Let’s get out and foster our sense of place.