People of all ages can learn more about nature, culture, or history along trails. This education can be accomplished using signs, brochures, or naturalist led hikes. School teachers can also use trails and the areas through which they pass as outdoor classrooms. Environmental Uninterrupted corridors of vegetation are called greenways. Because trails in public ownership often protect or enhance natural features, the trail corridor becomes or remains a greenway.
Greenways can perform many beneficial functions.
By protecting the vegetation and geography of natural areas, greenways provide habitat for wildlife. A trail corridor can serve as a conduit for animals by allowing them to move between isolated protected areas linked by the greenway. Greenways along rivers or streams can filter excess nutrients from adjacent lands. Greenways can also act as a source of water and food for wildlife. The use of trails can also improve the environment by educating users.