Berry College officials have released maps for the designated trails on their campus.

In July 2007, the college began looking for a way to be good stewards of the land, balance student and public use and create safer trails. The new trails officially went into effect March 15.

“Our number one goal was to enhance recreation opportunities for students and the Berry community,” said Jeanne Matthews, assistant vice president of public relations for Berry. “We had to make internal decisions as to how to use the property and make it available to the public in a reasonable way, so we established policies for the safety of individuals and the property.”

Horseback riders now have two trail heads with parking areas, 15 miles of designated trails and kiosks for information. Horses are no longer allowed at the reservoir to water, but can be watered at Swafford Hallow Pond near the southern entrance.

All bikers and hikers must enter through Berry’s main gate on Martha Berry Highway.

Matthews said these entrances are important because it allows the college to post information about activities on the campus, whether it’s student research activities such as controlled burns, or animal hunts sponsored by the Dept.of Natural Resources. Information will also be posted online.