In the world of outdoor conservation, maintaining and building trails isn’t just about preserving nature—it’s about creating safe, accessible paths for everyone to enjoy. However, these projects come with inherent risks, from volunteer injuries to equipment theft in remote areas. That’s where specialized insurance steps in. Conservation United, a leader in tailored coverage for conservation groups, offers comprehensive Trail Maintenance & Construction Insurance designed specifically for nonprofits, trail alliances, and outdoor enthusiasts. This policy ensures that your passion for the environment doesn’t come at the cost of financial ruin.
Whether you’re a small volunteer group clearing paths in local parks or a larger organization constructing extensive hiking networks, having the right insurance is crucial. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Conservation United’s offering stand out, including its key coverages, benefits, and unique programs launched in 2025.
Understanding Trail Maintenance & Construction Insurance
Trail maintenance and construction involve hands-on work like clearing debris, building bridges, installing erosion controls, and grooming paths for various users, including hikers, bikers, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. These activities expose organizations to liabilities such as bodily injuries, property damage, or even environmental claims. Generic insurance often falls short because it doesn’t account for the unique challenges of rugged terrains and volunteer-driven efforts.
Conservation United addresses this gap with policies crafted by experts who understand the field—many of whom are former trail workers familiar with tools like pulaskis, rock drills, and chainsaws. Their insurance is adaptable, scaling from solo projects to large-scale builds, and is available nationwide across all 50 states.
Key Coverages Provided by Conservation United
Conservation United’s Trail Maintenance & Construction Insurance includes a robust suite of protections to safeguard your operations:
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General Liability: This core coverage handles third-party claims for injuries or damages, such as a passerby slipping near a work zone or property issues during trail repairs. It covers medical costs, legal fees, and settlements, giving you peace of mind during active projects.
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Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions): Ideal for groups offering trail design or consulting, this protects against claims of negligence, like accidents from flawed planning or inadequate drainage systems.
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Workers’ Compensation and Volunteer Protection: Essential for covering injuries to paid staff, contractors, or volunteers—think sprains from heavy lifting or cuts from machinery in challenging environments. It includes medical expenses and lost wages.
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Equipment and Inland Marine Coverage: Specialized tools and machinery, from portable generators to trail grooming equipment, are protected against theft, damage, or loss, even during transport to remote sites.
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Environmental and Additional Endorsements: For sustainability-focused work, this covers pollution or habitat disruption claims. Options like railroad protective liability (for trails near tracks) and event-specific coverage for workshops add flexibility.
These coverages are negotiated with A.M. Best-rated carriers, ensuring reliability without excessive premiums.
Benefits of Choosing Conservation United for Your Trail Insurance
What sets Conservation United apart is their deep-rooted expertise in conservation risks. Founded in 2014, they’ve partnered with organizations like the Society for Ecological Restoration and American Trails to refine their offerings. Here are some standout benefits:
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Customizable and Affordable Plans: Policies are tailored to your group’s size and activities, with no collateral required for short-term needs. This makes it accessible for grassroots nonprofits facing budget constraints.
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Streamlined Quoting Process: Get an express quote by answering about 20 simple questions online—smaller groups often receive responses the same day, while larger ones wait just 1-2 business days.
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Risk Management Support: Beyond coverage, they provide free resources like safety guides on equipment use and webinars to prevent claims, potentially lowering your premiums over time.
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Support for Climate-Resilient Projects: With rising extreme weather events, their insurance enables quick repairs to damaged trails, ensuring ongoing accessibility and environmental protection.
By choosing Conservation United, you’re not just buying insurance—you’re investing in sustainable trail stewardship that aligns with your mission.
Spotlight on Unique Programs: Nationwide Trail and OHV Insurance
Conservation United has introduced innovative programs to meet evolving needs:
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Nationwide Trail Insurance Program: This combines general and professional liability into a flexible, affordable package, perfect for diverse trail projects from urban bike paths to wilderness routes.
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Exclusive OHV Insurance Program: Tailored for OHV clubs, it covers trail building, maintenance, and stewardship in rugged terrains, addressing risks like equipment mishaps and land access issues.
These programs extend to nature-based activities through initiatives like NatureGuard, supporting everything from volunteer cleanups to professional restorations.
How to Secure Trail Maintenance & Construction Insurance with Conservation United
Getting started is straightforward. Visit conservationinsurance.com to fill out a quick form detailing your organization’s size, activities, and tools. Their team will craft a personalized policy. For OHV-specific needs, check out their dedicated program details. Remember, proactive risk management—such as training volunteers on safe machinery handling—can enhance your coverage and reduce costs.
In an era where trails face threats from climate change and increased usage, insurance from Conservation United empowers you to focus on what matters: building resilient, inclusive outdoor spaces.
If you’re ready to protect your trail projects, contact Conservation United today and unlock the peace of mind that comes with expert-backed coverage.
