Illinois Water TrailKeepers

Program Policies

Volunteer Requirements •  TrailKeeper volunteers must be at least 21 years old and •  be able to work outdoors for 3 to 5 hours at a time in a variety of weather conditions •  be able to swim •  be able to paddle a canoe and demonstrate competent boat control skills •  be willing to meet and complete the requirements of the Local Partner, if any, in the county in which the volunteer will work Safety TrailKeepers will make safety their first priority TrailKeepers will follow all TrailKeeper personal and group safety protocols TrailKeepers will follow the safety protocols of Local Partners TrailKeeper Stewards will not use power tools, axes or machetes Environment TrailKeepers will perform all TrailKeeper activities in an environmentally sensitive way; pack out trash, collect and dispose of recyclables separately, etc. TrailKeeper Stewards will limit in-stream maintenance activities to removing human hazards. Legal TrailKeeper volunteers will know and respect the rights of riparian owners. Liability TrailKeeper volunteers will meet the legal and safety requirements of Local Partners. TrailKeeper volunteers will sign the Openlands and/or Illinois Paddling Council's Assumption of Risk and Indemnification form. Partnership TrailKeeper volunteers will work to engage site & riparian owners, paddling clubs and individuals, conservation organizations and local communities in partnerships wherever possible to recognize, enjoy and maintain the watertrail.

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