After a dispute over whether to build a trail through the Orchard Street Ravine or a self-contained loop trail, Seattle Parks and Recreation decided to have both.

The department intends to hire an outside consulting firm to determine whether 36th or 38th avenue would be better suited as a connection for a through trail at the higher northern side of the ravine.

Parks and Recreation previously recommended against cutting a trail from one side of the ravine to the other because of concerns about the ravine's steep slope. Parks planners recommended a circular trail be made in the comparatively flat bottom of the Orchard Street Ravine.

The loop trail was endorsed by the Seattle Board of Park Commissioners but the board also advised Parks Superintendent Ken Bounds search for money for "a safe through trail to be built there in the future."

After receiving what parks employees called "significant written comments," Bounds met with representatives of through trail proponents - the Orchard Ravine Community Association as well as supporters of the loop trail, Friends of Orchard Street Ravine.

All sides agreed the blackberry and ivy vines that have invaded the ravine will be replaced with native shrubs and plants to improve the wildlife habitat.

The loop trail in the bottom of the ravine will be paid for with money from the Pro Parks levy approved by voters in 2000.

Money for the through trail must be found elsewhere but it looks feasible that the department will be able to come up with it, said Dewey Potter, Seattle Parks and Recreation spokeswoman.

Volunteer work parties are being assembled to uproot invasive vines and put in native plants from early May until midsummer.