BOARDWALK NATURE TRAILS: A STRATEGY TO MITIGATE THE NEGATIVE IMPACT OF HUMAN ACTIVITY ON THE LANDSCAPE

Abstract

Urban natural areas provide critical opportunities for recreation, education, and human-nature connection, but their high usage also presents major challenges to ecological sustainability. This thesis explores the need to establish a balance between recreational use and environmental conservation. It focuses on the design and implementation of sustainable trails that preserve ecological integrity while enhancing accessibility. Using Lake Roland’s Field Loop Path in Ruxton Maryland, this design thesis proposes a boardwalk trail that will minimize soil compaction, erosion, and prevent the spread of invasive species, all of which are common consequences of unmanaged trail use and off-trail trampling. The literature review examines trail-induced ecological disturbance, the spread of invasive species, the impacts of weather and soil types on trial durability, and best practices for sustainable trail design. The central research question investigates how landscape architects can create accessible nature trails that support community use while effectively mitigating environmental degradation. Findings support the boardwalk as a viable solution that offers both ecological protection and inclusive access, representing a practical balance between human use and the conservation of our natural environments.