LINCOLN, MA—Based on its years of experience in designing trails to engage people with disabilities, regional conservation leader Mass Audubon has been chosen to develop guidelines to assist like-minded organizations nationwide in building accessible pathways.

The federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) selected Mass Audubon to undertake its All Persons Trails Guidelines Project, and funded a detailed "how-to" manual and support materials. The guidelines project emerged from an ongoing Mass Audubon initiative—also made possible in part by IMLS—to develop "state of the technology" Sensory Trails at its sanctuaries across the state for visitors with a full range of functional abilities.

A chief goal of the project is to enable many more individuals, families, and groups to independently enjoy experiences along interpreted, accessible trails all over the country.

As design and overlay elements have evolved, "universal-access" trails now feature an array of improvements for visitors with sensory, motor, and other neurological challenges. Advances include development of routes and surfaces that are more wheelchair and walker friendly; signage that includes Braille text and other tactile information to describe specific points of ecological interest; and trail "tours" that can be experienced through cell phones and other smart devices.

Numerous conservation nonprofits as well as government agencies and private enterprises have already requested the guidelines, which will be available online at no cost.

"Mass Audubon has clearly made inclusion a central part of its mission. With its Sensory Trails, the conservation organization's network of wildlife sanctuaries and nature centers has created a richer, more accessible experience for all visitors," said Paula Gangopadhyay, IMLS Deputy Director of Museum Services. "We are delighted that, with IMLS funding, Mass Audubon is now sharing a set of tools and resources so its best practices can be adopted widely by other nature centers and museums."

Mass Audubon President Gary Clayton thanked Ms. Gangopadhyay for the pivotal support of IMLS, "because strong collaborations are vital to the most successful initiatives, such as this one.

"The All Persons Trails guidelines further Mass Audubon's commitment in encouraging people of all abilities to connect with the natural world," Clayton said. "And this project underscores the importance of partnering with organizations nationwide seeking to develop and interpret trails that provide accessibility for everyone."

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Mass Audubon works to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife. Together with more than 100,000 members, we care for 35,000 acres of conservation land, provide school, camp, and other educational programs for 225,000 children and adults annually, and advocate for sound environmental policies at local, state, and federal levels. Founded in 1896 by two inspirational women who were committed to the protection of birds, Mass Audubon has grown to become a powerful force for conservation in New England. Today we are respected for our sound science, successful advocacy, and innovative approaches to connecting people and nature. Each year, our statewide network of wildlife sanctuaries welcomes nearly half a million visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds and serves as the base for our work. To support these important efforts, call 800-AUDUBON (800-283-8266) or visit www.massaudubon.org.