Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE) is working in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NC DEQ) to address safety concerns involving several bridges throughout its hiking trail system following recent storms.
Many of the bridges at FENCE provide convenient connections between sections of the property, allowing visitors to explore the organization’s extensive trail network. Following an assessment conducted in partnership with NC DEQ, several bridges were determined to be unsafe for public use. In response, FENCE has removed the affected bridges to prioritize visitor safety.
“Safety is always our top priority at FENCE. We want our visitors to enjoy the property and our trails, and taking these steps is necessary to ensure we are providing a safe environment for everyone who visits.”
Because many of FENCE’s trails are located within a state easement, the organization must follow specific guidelines and requirements regarding trail maintenance, improvements, and construction. FENCE is currently working with NC DEQ to develop plans for new steel bridges that will provide durable, long-term connections throughout the trail system.
FENCE would like to extend its sincere appreciation to NC DEQ for its continued guidance, partnership, and assistance throughout this process. NC DEQ has been a tremendous asset as FENCE works to develop a safe and sustainable solution for its trail system. Their support has been instrumental in helping FENCE move forward with plans to restore these important connections.
The proposed steel bridges will accommodate a variety of users, including hikers, four-legged trail companions, and emergency ATVs. These improvements will help maintain access to additional areas of the property while supporting visitor safety and emergency accessibility.
The bridge replacement project will take time as FENCE works through the necessary planning and construction. In the meantime, visitors are asked to use caution, respect trail closures, and avoid attempting to cross at locations where bridges have been removed.
To help support this important project, FENCE is launching a Trail Capital Campaign to raise funds for the construction and installation of the new bridges. Community members who wish to contribute to the project can make a donation through the FENCE website at fence.org.
“These bridges are an important part of our trail system and help connect visitors to the many natural spaces throughout FENCE. We are grateful for the assistance and partnership of NC DEQ, as well as the patience and support of our community, as we work toward restoring these connections and making our trails accessible for years to come.”
FENCE appreciates the continued support of its visitors, members, and community partners as the organization works to improve its trails and preserve the natural spaces that make FENCE a special place to explore.
For more information about FENCE, its trails, and opportunities to support the bridge replacement project, give us a call! 828-859-9021