Revolutionizing ATV/OHRV Trail Hardening in Alaska
Alaska’s vast and rugged wilderness offers an unparalleled adventure for all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and off-highway recreational vehicle (OHRV) enthusiasts. However, maintaining these intricate trail networks in the face of challenging environmental conditions is no small feat. Enter GeoTerra Structural Matting—an innovative solution that has significantly improved trail hardening efforts across the state, with over 32 miles of GeoTerra mats already in the ground.
Trail Hardening with GeoTerra Mats
GeoTerra mats are a game-changer in the realm of trail hardening. They provide a durable, stable surface that can withstand heavy traffic and harsh environmental conditions. By reinforcing trail surfaces, GeoTerra mats prevent erosion, rutting, and other forms of trail degradation, ensuring that trails remain passable and safe for all users.
Durable and Reliable
GeoTerra mats are renowned for their robust construction and exceptional performance in harsh environments. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), these mats offer high crush and flexural strength, making them ideal for supporting heavy equipment and construction traffic. They have proven to be an economical and effective alternative to traditional timber or heavy composite mats.
Easy Installation
One of the standout features of GeoTerra mats is their ease of installation. Their lightweight design eliminates the need for heavy handling equipment, making them safer and quicker to deploy. Mats can be preassembled offsite for rapid on-site placement, saving valuable time and resources. This installation efficiency is particularly beneficial in remote areas of Alaska, where logistical challenges can complicate trail construction efforts.
Environmental Benefits
GeoTerra mats offer several environmental advantages that make them a sustainable choice for trail hardening. The open-cell design allows for water infiltration and exfiltration, minimizing water accumulation and reducing soil saturation. This feature helps maintain natural drainage patterns and prevents harmful pore pressure build-up. Additionally, the mats promote vegetative growth through their cells, protecting the root zone and allowing the surrounding ecosystem to flourish.
Proven Success in Alaska
GeoTerra mats have been instrumental in various projects across Alaska, including the remote village of Kwigillingok (Kwig). In cooperation with the Western Federal Lands Highway Division and local authorities, GeoTerra mats were used to improve the Kuicuaq Slough subsistence trail—a critical link for hunting and fishing areas. The mats provided a stable, durable surface capable of supporting heavy ATV traffic, even in thawed tundra conditions.
The installation of GeoTerra mats in Kwig demonstrated their ability to withstand significant wear and tear, withstanding over 50 passes of ATVs carrying heavy loads without showing signs of damage. This project, along with numerous others, has showcased GeoTerra’s capability to enhance Alaska’s trail networks, ensuring they remain accessible and environmentally friendly.
Conclusion
GeoTerra Structural Matting has revolutionized trail hardening in Alaska, offering a durable, easy-to-install, and environmentally friendly solution that meets the unique challenges of the state’s rugged terrain. With over 32 miles of GeoTerra mats installed, the benefits of this innovative product are clear. Whether you are a local community member, a construction professional, or an ATV enthusiast, GeoTerra mats provide the reliability and performance needed to maintain and improve trail networks across the Great State of Alaska.
For more information on GeoTerra Structural Matting and how it can benefit your trail hardening projects, contact the team at GeoCHEM Inc. and discover the difference GeoTerra can make.
