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Assistive Technology Webinar

Brought to you by Michigan’s Assistive Technology Program at MDRC.

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About the Webinar

Use the chat function on the right hand side.

Questions and comments are encouraged and expected!

The session is being recorded. We will start recording now.

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Kathleen Laurin, Ph.D.University of Montana Rural Institute -

MonTECHMissoula, MT

February 17, 2011

Increasing Access and Participation in Outdoor

Recreational Environments

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Montana – The Treasure State

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Montana Public Lands

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Montana has extraordinary natural assets that include:320 state fishing access sites50 State Parks6 National Parks and MonumentsLewis & Clark and Nez Perce National Historic

Trails9 National Forests13 National Wildlife Refuges18 designated Wilderness Areas (3.3 million

acres)24 Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

Recreation sites953,574 acres of lakes, reservoirs, rivers and

streams

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No one resource that provides accessibility

information

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Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities (MARO) project Pilot project funded by the DBTAC Rocky

Mountain ADA Center

Create a one-stop resource for comprehensive accessibility information for Montana public recreation lands within a 100 mile radius of Missoula

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Montana Accessible Recreation Opportunities (MARO) project

This included approximately one hundred recreation areas that are managed by state parks, national forest, and/or BLM

We have expanded beyond the initial identified area and have currently completed assessments of 164 sites

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ProcessGathered user input from persons with

disabilities, families, friends, and recreational land use professionals

Identified database fields to provide relevant information

Met with regional State Parks, Bureau of Land Management, and National Forest Service personnel to establish an awareness of the project and to acquire existing data.

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Process, continuedCompiled additional information from

maps, guide books, internet, and other resources

Created an accessible searchable SQL database

Potential users reviewed database Made adjustments based on reviewer

commentsCreated data dictionary for Trimble UnitBegan inventory and assessment field work

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Data Collection Criteria for MARO

U.S. Access Board Draft Accessibility Guidelines for Outdoor Developed Areas

Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guideline (FSORAG)

Forest Service Trails Accessibility GuidelinesUniversal Design Guidelines

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Access Board GuidelineOutdoor Developed AreasProcess began in 1997 when Board created

the Outdoor Developed Areas Regulatory Negotiation Committee

Regulatory Negotiation Committee presented its report to the Board in 1999

Board published proposed guidelines for Federal outdoor developed areas in June 2007

Comment period for final draft ended December 18, 2009

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Access Board GuidelineOutdoor Developed Areas, continued (2)Guidelines will address trails, camping

facilities, picnic facilities, viewing areas, outdoor recreation access routes, and beach access routes

Will apply to outdoor developed facilities that are constructed or altered by or on behalf of the federal government

Will initially apply to sites developed or altered by Federal land management agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and Army Corps of Engineers

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Access Board GuidelineOutdoor Developed Areas, continued (3)

Future rulemaking will apply guidelines to facilities constructed or altered with federal grants or loans

Board intends to develop similar guidelines for outdoor developed areas controlled by non-federal entities at a future date

Guidelines can be found at http://www.access-board.gov/outdoor/

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Why does the FS have their own guidelines for trails and outdoor areas?In April 2000, the FS began a policy of

using the Draft Access Board guidelines.By 2001 the Access Board was estimating 3

to 5 years before their 1999 Draft guidelines finished their rulemaking/approval process to be final guidelines.

FS got a legal challenge for following the Draft Access Board guidelines before the guidelines had been out for public comment.

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USDA attorneys told FS to either:1. Stop all new construction and alteration in

outdoor areas and on trails; or2. Follow only UFAS/ADAAG, even for trails;

or3. Develop FS guidelines, to apply within

National Forest System boundaries, and take them through the FS approval process (put them out for public comment).

Forest Service picked option # 3

http:///www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/accessibility

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Universal DesignDesign of products and environments

usable by the broadest public to the greatest extent possible

Intent of universal design is to simplify life for everyone by making products, communications, and the built environment usable by as many people as possible

Universal design means taking into consideration the needs of as many people as possible without the need of adaptation or specialized design for specific groups

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Universal Design, continued.Benefits of universal design are safer and

more welcoming parks and trails for allUniversal design guidelines permit

flexibility, if equal or greater accessibility can be provided by a different or more creative design solution

In the best of all possible worlds, the concept of universal design would guide the creation of all facilities and programs

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Principles of Universal Design as Applied to Parks 1. Equitable use: parks are accessible to all users, provide

the same means for all users, identical where possible, equivalent when not;

2. Flexibility in use: parks accommodate a wide range of individual preferences and abilities, provide choice for all;

3. Simple and intuitive: understanding the park and context should be easy, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language, or skill;

4. Perceptible information: information is communicated effectively to the user regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities;

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Principles of Universal Design as Applied to Parks, continued5. Tolerance for error: hazards and the adverse

consequences of accidents are minimized (most used elements are the most accessible, hazardous elements are isolated or eliminated, provide warnings);

6. Low physical effort: the design can be used efficiently and comfortably with a minimum of fatigue; and

7. Size and space for approach and use: appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, regardless of user’s body size, posture, or mobility.

(Adapted from North Carolina University:  The Center for Universal Design http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/)

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Data Collection for MAROTools

Level (Smart Level)Measuring Wheel (DigiRoller)Tape MeasurePressure Gauge

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ToolsHandheld GPS Device (Trimble Handheld

Computer)Data Sheets Digital CameraLivescribe Pulse Smartpen

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Web Page

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Database and Website-Search Page

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Search Page

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Search Results

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Database and WebsiteGeneral information gathered:

Contact information for land managerLand manager’s Internet siteDirections to the siteInformation about the settingInformation about other (non-

accessible) recreation opportunities at the site

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DatabaseAccessibility information gathered:

Accessible activities available at each site.We defined 12 broadly categorized accessible

recreation activities that may be available at a siteProvide detailed information (such as

maximum slope, minimum trail width, and surface type) for each accessible activity available at the different sites to help users determine if the activity is accessible and desirable to them.

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Information about a Site

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Data Sheets/GPS Data CollectionInformation can be collected either by filling

out the data sheets or the same information can be entered into the GPS hand held computer using an electronic form with drop down menus and text boxes.

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Recreation Activities Camping Hiking (Trails) Biking (Trails) Fishing (Access) Boating (Launches) Playing (Playgrounds) Scenic/Wildlife

Viewing

Picnic/Day Use Sites Swimming/Water

Access Hunting Visitors’ Center Learning Opportunities

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Data Collected – All ActivitiesParking

Marked Accessible (type and number of stalls) Parking Space Dimensions SlopeSurface Type (firm and stable)

Access Routes from Parking to Activities or Facilities Running Slope and Cross SlopeWidth Tread ObstaclesSurface Type

New website design will allow for comments by the assessor to be entered for each activity

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Data Collected – All ActivitiesInformation Signs/Bulletin Boards

Height of informationFont Size/ContrastApproach to Sign/Boards

Restrooms/Toilets located near an accessible activityAccessible Route and DistanceMeets standards for door width and

turning radiusGrab bars/toilet seat height and

placements

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Hiking/Biking Trail DataHiking/Biking

Length of Accessible TrailType of Trail (Destination or Loop)Trail UsersMaximum Running Slope and Cross SlopeTread Obstacles (Height)Minimum Width of TrailPassing IntervalsResting Areas/BenchesSurface Type

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Campsite DataParking Pad Surface and DimensionsOutdoor Recreations Access Routes (ORARs)

to campsite amenitiesSlopes, Tread Obstacles, Firm/Stable Surface

Picnic Table Dimensions, Clearance, and Pad Surface

Tent Pad Dimensions (if available) Fire Ring/Grill Dimensions and ClearanceAccessible Routes to Drinking Water (Slopes,

Tread Obstacles, Firm/Stable Surface)

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Picnic/Day Use Areas DataNoted type of picnic area (group, single, sheltered)Outdoor Recreations Access Routes (ORARs) to

each type of picnic area (Slopes, Tread Obstacles, Firm/Stable Surface)

Number of Accessible Picnic Tables to total for each type

Picnic Table Dimensions, Clearance, and Pad Surface

Fire Ring/Grill Dimensions and ClearanceAccessible Routes to Drinking Water (Slopes, Tread

Obstacles, Firm/Stable Surface) Note other activities in day use area (eg. Horse

shoe pits, volley ball courts, etc)

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Fishing Access & Boat LaunchFishing Access

Water Access (Shore, Pier, Fishing Platform, Dock, etc.)

Access Route to Fishing Area/Boat Launch (Slopes, Tread Obstacles, Surface Type)

Transfer Device available for Boat Launches

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Playing and SwimmingPlay Areas

Surface typeAccessible play equipment availableAccess into play area (width, tread obstacles)

Swimming Areas Water Access (Shore, Beach, Dock, etc.)Access Route to swimming area (Slopes,

Tread Obstacles, Surface Type)

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Scenic/Wildlife Viewing & Learning OpportunitiesType of Viewing Area (pedestrian, from vehicle)

Access Route to viewing area (Slopes, Tread Obstacles, Surface Type)

Height of railing (will it obstruct views)Telescope Height and clearances

Type of Learning Opportunity (Signage, Interpretive Programs, Special Events)Access Route to Learning Opportunity

(Slopes, Tread Obstacles, Surface Type)Wheelchair Seating available for programs or

events

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Visitor Centers Parking (marked spaces, dimensions and number of spaces) Access Route to Entrance (curb cuts/slopes) Entrance Dimensions (tread obstacle, width, pressure to

open door, door handle type and height) Exhibits and Displays

Location of displays, display height, and clearancePaths of travel between displaysFont Size and Contrast of Text with backgroundDisplay Controls Operable with a closed fistClosed Captioning for video displays

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HuntingType of gameType of area

Established blinds, only open to persons with disabilities, behind-gate vehicle access with permit, etc…

Access Route to hunting area (Slopes, Tread Obstacles, Surface Type)

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Database - GPSGPS coordinates of sites to allow users

to preview sites within Google Earth and/or enter the coordinates into their own personal navigation systems to assist with trip planning and navigation.

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Google Earth

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Pictures and Descriptions of the Recreation Sites

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Database – User CommentsAccessibility information gathered:

Comment feature that provides opportunity for users to share their experiences at a site or with an activity so that future users may be better aware of unique or changing conditions

Users may voluntarily provide their email contact information so that they can directly contact each other for additional information

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Future Plans/ImprovementsDifferent icons to denote accessible

featuresDynamic web map with the MARO

websiteBetter feature identification in Google

MapImprovements in website general design

and navigation

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Partnerships & ProjectsDBTAC: Rocky Mountain ADA

CenterCommunity ParksState ParksNational ForestsNational ParksAvista Utilities

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DBTAC: Rocky Mountain ADA CenterCollaborative Partnership in which we

serve as members of their research committee and ADA Network

Provided funding for Pilot Project and helped support training efforts

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CommunityThree Forks Community Trail

Evaluation

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StateFish, Wildlife, and Parks Department

Assessment of five State Parks and two fishing access sites on Flathead Lake

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U.S. Forest ServiceWorking with Northern Regional Office

and Individual National Forests on multiple efforts regarding assessments, trainings, and inventories

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FederalNational Parks

Glacier National Park - Two-day field trip looking at Glacier’s accessible opportunities and discussion of future plans.

Yellowstone National Park – Utah Youth Conservation Corps

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Avista UtilitiesHelp maintain and improve

multiple recreation sites in areas that they use for energy production

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Montana Access To Outdoor Recreation (MATOR)

A project which promotes participation in wildlife-associated recreation through the use of Assistive Technology and other supports.

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MATOR BackgroundFunded by the Rehabilitation Services

Administration

Began October, 2008 and Ends September, 2011

Draws on Montana’s heritage of outdoor recreation

Increases participation in wildlife-associated recreational activities by people with disabilities and those who are aging

Promotes participation in integrated settingsWill be self-sustaining beyond grant cycle

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Benefits of participation in recreational activitiesEnhanced mobilityIncreased socializationIncreased independenceImproved self-esteem & self-efficacyCommunity involvementEnhanced pathways to employment

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MATOR PartnersMonTECH/Montana Assistive Technology

ProgramMontana FWP (Wildlife & Parks divisions)Montana Vocational RehabilitationMontana Independent Living CentersUS Forest ServiceIndividual volunteers & sporting groupsPrivate businesses and corporationsEquipment developers & vendors

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MATOR ServicesEducation & AwarenessDemonstration EventsEquipment LoanVolunteer Network

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Education and AwarenessProvide awareness through outreach

Literature, website, activities, trainingshttp://recreation.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/mator

Integrate information into FWP modulesFWP online & other education materials

Dissemination through other entities

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Demonstration EventsShare information about programs &

possibilities, display equipment, and allow participant trials

Planned regionally to reach more participants

Will occur throughout the funding cycle

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Equipment Loan ProgramGathered user input to identify

equipment

Purchased:Off-the-shelf devices

Modified devices

Specially designed devices

Accessories that have applications for accessibility

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Equipment Loan ProgramRecreational AT available

for loan within MontanaView & request a loan

onlineAvailable throughout &

beyond grant period

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OpticsFocus-free & image

stabilizing binoculars

Spotting scopes & scope camera display

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Mounts, Stands & TripodsMounts/supports with adapted

options

Easy-grip & quick release

Offset tripod for wheelchair access

Attach to most surfaces

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Mount’n Mover by BlueSky DesignsUniversally adaptableMounts to mobility devicesSupports many types of

devices, including recreational equipment

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Navigation EquipmentObstacle detectors: blind/low vision

personal navigation

GPS units & 2-way radio; audio output

Digital talking compass (English/Spanish)

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Adaptive Fishing Rods & ReelsElec-tra-mate fishing reel drive

Multiple switch adaptation options

Modified standard reels

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More Adapted Fishing Rods

C5-6 & C4-5 quad rods

Hand-powered cast

Spring powered cast

Sip and Puff rods

Sip-cast, Puff-retrieve

Power Caster

Sip and Puff or chin control

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Fly-fishing Complete SetupsTemple Fork Outfitters (TFO) NXT

comboIncludes rod, line, manual reel,

and caseMartin automatic fly reels

Aids limited dexterity & endurance

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Fishing AccessoriesTurbosetStrong ArmAngler’s Aid3rd GripEZ Cast

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Adaptive Shooting SportsBe Adaptive HQ100

Adapted aim & fireBe Adaptive LM100

Rifle support/stabilityCompound Bow Draw-Loc

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Viewing/Hunting BlindsAccessible wildlife

viewing/hunting blinds

Easy Assembly

Bush in a bag: covers body, head, & wheelchair

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Trekking PolesIncreases stability

and balance

Decreases fatigue

Flip locks, twist locks, anti-shock

Various grips/handles

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RipPod Trekking/Shooting stickLightweight trekking

pole for balance & endurance

Becomes shooting stick with magnetic attachment

Attachment accessories for firearms & archery

Planning to produce camera attachments

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Off-Road Manual Wheelchair

Axess IM

Single, 12” fixed front tire

Basket to carry gear

Optional accessories

www.axessoutdoors.com

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Other Wheelchairs for Off-roadQuickie 2 manual folding &

rigid frames Invacare CrossfireOutdoor tires and impact

guardsCommon child & adult

widths

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Trail BuddyRickshaw-like device

Attaches to front or back of wheelchair

Facilitates assisted off-road navigation

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FreeWheel Quick attachment /detachment for most rigid

frame manual chairsElevates casters & becomes front wheelHandles rough terrain

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Accessible CampingEureka Freedom Tent

Sliding door; no threshold

Wall Tent with frame

Most accessible

Accessories:

Raised cot, remote lantern, accessible cook station

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Camping AccessoriesRemote battery-powered

lantern Mr. Heater propane heaterColeman camping cook

station

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Photography & Videography Switch adapted digital & video

cameras

Motorized pan & tilt head with remote

Advanced cameras and lenses

Tripods with mounting arms & brackets

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Adapted WatercraftCataraft with custom frame

Standard frame with custom seats

Applied ramps & access sites

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Water Sports AccessoriesInflatable PFD’sStandard PFD’sOars & complete rafting

accessoriesMister personal cooling

devices

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Much, much more equipment…All equipment is available via the

website for use in MontanaView & search equipment; request a

loanCall for assistance

Additional equipment to be purchased through September 2011

* Users asked to suggest equipment they like & will use

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Volunteer NetworkRecruit sportsmen/women

Assist with a variety of project activities

Partner match provided upon request

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MonTECH ServicesConsultingTraining (on-site and distance)PresentationsCustomized Assessments and ReportsCollecting GPS DataMapping

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Contact InformationMonTECHhttp://montech.ruralinstitute.umt.edu/klaurin@ruralinstitute.umt.edu406.243.5769

For questions relating to the recreation database and data sheets email:

Jillian Jurica at jjurica@ruralinstitute.umt.edu

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Questions?

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Thank you!