The city of Rifle’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board has just implemented a way for locals to help with keeping their trail systems healthy, called Adopt a Trail.

“It’s kind of the same idea as Adopt a Highway, so our Parks and Recreation Advisory Board was discussing trail maintenance and how to reduce the staff load,” said Austin Rickstrew, the Parks and Recreation Director. “We came up with starting this program.”

Rickstrew said the idea came to them about a year ago and after working through details and planning, they’re finally ready to release it to the public. 

Rickstrew said there are 10 total trails in need of adoption: five gravel, two paved and three dirt trails.

• CMC Connector Trail
• Colorado River Trail
• Graham Mesa Trail
• Highland Trail System
• Morrow Draw Trail
• Murphy Trail
• Raynard Ditch Trail
• Rifle Creek Trail
• Rifle Heights Trail
• South Rifle Trail

“We just ask that you come pick up trash four times a year and you’ll get a sign at the entrance of the trail for recognition,” he said. “We provide the gear, like gloves and trashbags, so then you can leave the trash at the trailhead and we’ll come pick it up.”

Since the program began earlier last week, Wamsley Elementary and a family have already agreed to take care of two trails. 

“Any group can adopt a trail, non-profits, schools, individuals, businesses,” Rickstrew listed. “The only requirement is that four times a year for one year, you pick up the trash on the trail. There’s no requirement for the amount of trash and after one year, you can renew your agreement.”

For anyone interested in the Adopt a Trail program, contact Rifle’s Parks and Rec department at 970-665-6480 or visit their website at rifleco.org/75/Parks-Department for an Adopt-a-Trail form.