Procedures for Plan Modification & Amendment

A good plan is a living document that changes with time (hence the 3-ring binder so that we can insert new pages when changes are made). But we don't want to change the course flippantly, so the following procedures are included to ensure that some thought and public notice go into any substantive changes.

There are three types of changes to the plan: amendments, special exceptions, and minor changes. Changes to the plan can be proposed by anyone: a member of the public, students, faculty, or staff. Proposals for changes to the plan must be submitted in writing to the Trails Committee with a copy to the MPC. The proposal must include the reason for the change, what provision of this plan would require modification and in what way, and why the change is in the best interest of the University.

A. Amendments

Plan amendments permanently change the plan by adding to or modifying the basic intent of the plan. Amendments will generally involve significant changes in the physical appearance and/or use of the trails. Changing the allowed or prohibited uses, constructing a new trail, re-aligning an existing trail, or building a permanent trail facility (such as a parking lot or bird blind) are examples that would require a plan amendment.

The public will be notified of the proposed amendment through the Sun Star, the Cornerstone, the UAF website, and the Trails Email List. Following such notice, the Trails Committee will submit their majority opinion to the Master Planning Committee (MPC) and the Chancellor. Based on input from both committees, the Chancellor will make the final decision on whether to amend the plan.

B. Special Exceptions

A special exception allows a one-time limited-purpose variance of the plan's provisions. Special exceptions may be made if complying with the plan is excessively burdensom, or impractical and if the spirit and intent of the plan can be achieved despite the exception. An example would be allowing a use that is prohibited in the plan but which will occur over a short time or in a small area. Using the trails to access a research site with a large drill rig in the winter (which is the best time to drill permafrost soils) would be a specific example. Special exceptions can be granted by a majority vote of the Trails Committee with a copy to the MPC, the Chancellor, and Facilities Services. Approval of the Trails Committee does not imply approval by Facilities Services, the MPC, or the Farm Committee which may disallow the proposed use for other reasons.

C. Minor changes

A minor change does not modify or change the basic intent of the plan. Minor changes may be necessary to clarify the plan, make it consistent, facilitate its implementation, or make technical corrections. Minor changes can be made by the Trails Committee.

D. Periodic Review of the Plan

The plan will be formally reviewed every five years to determine if a revision is necessary. The review will include public involvement to determine what the issues are and public comment on the draft plan. The draft will also be reviewed by the Master Planning Committee (MPC). The MPC and the Trails Committee will both make their recommendations to the Chancellor, who will make the final decision to accept/reject the plan.