
What is the Flagstaff Trails Initiative?
The Flagstaff Trails Initiative (FTI), is a forming 501c3 trail-centric non-profit whose mission is to elevate trails in and around Flagstaff from good to extraordinary.
The purpose of FTI is to develop and implement a collaborative, cross-jurisdictional strategy for recreational trails in the Flagstaff region of Coconino County, Arizona that will improve upon the old trail system to create an extraordinary trail network for the community. FTI’s board works in conjunction with land managers, businesses, community members and other non-profits to improve the quality, connectivity, funding and community support for a sustainable trail system that balances the demand for recreation with the community’s vision for conservation, development, and health.
Current Initiatives
One of the most amazing aspects of the Flagstaff Trails Initiative is our ability to create a community network around the trails in Flagstaff. Whether it is a group of trailbuilders, partnerships with business sponsors, relationships with educators or meetings of community stewards, FTI gathers all those who are invested in our trail system. Each plays a part in progressing our mission to take Flagstaff’s Trails from good to extraordinary through an FTI initiative.
Trail Ambassadors
The description of this initiative describes it perfectly well; it is a group of engaged ambassadors of the Flagstaff trail system.
These volunteers help FTI by assisting at tabling events, promoting FTI through handing out our educational materials, helping maintain non-profit partnerships with like-minded organizations, and so much more. If you are not sure what kind of trail work you’d like to get involved with want to get your foot in the door volunteering, this is the perfect place to start.
Subcommittee Volunteering
Community input and guidance is necessary for any trail system to grow in a holistic direction. This is why FTI has three subcommittees: Education and Outreach, Conservation and Restoration, and Financial Sustainability. These subcommittee volunteer groups meet quarterly and assist FTI in taking Flagstaff’s trails from good to extraordinary. Each has its own purpose and goals derived from the Flagstaff Regional Trails Strategy.