Bedford was once so small that informal, verbal agreements with local organizations regarding the use of town property were enough to hold the groups accountable and protect the town property. That is changing.

The Bedford cross-country ski team uses Legacy Park in the winter, as do other hikers, walkers and skiers. The team, which had a verbal agreement with town officials from long ago, did some trail work at the park. It was not authorized by any town official, and it upset some residents.

Instead of ousting the club, as some towns might have done, Bedford officials came up with a one-year lease that spells out what club members can and cannot do. As part of the deal, the club has to restore the trails to their previous condition.

It’s a shame that such arrangements have to be so formal. But the town has to protect its property, and a short-term lease is a good option in this case.