Trail Keeper Volunteer Program Expanded at the Big South Fork

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Date: April 13, 2015
Contact: Effie Houston, 423-569-9778
Contact: Matt Hudson, 423-346-6294

Last year the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area successfully completed the first year of the park's Trail Keeper volunteer program. Trail Keepers is a volunteer program for people who love the park's trails and want to help take care of them. The goal of the program is to provide an extended presence in the backcountry and, at the same time, provide the Big South Fork's staff with information on trail conditions.

Individuals who adopt one of the 70 plus designated trails are expected to hike, bike or horse ride their adopted trail at least four times during the calendar year, report on overall trail conditions, pickup any trash, and submit a trail condition report after each hike. Being a Trail Keeper does not involve heavy trail maintenance or the use of any kind of power equipment. Trail Keepers may use a small handsaw to cutout small trees that are down across the trail and may move branches and do light maintenance by hand.

"There are so many people who love to hike, bike,and ride the trails at the Big South Fork. With more than 400 miles of trails to take care of, this program is a great way for folks who have a special interest in a particular trail to help keep it in great shape," said Niki Stephanie Nicholas, park superintendent.

To learn more about the Big South Fork Trail Keeper program, go to https://www.nps.gov/biso/supportyourpark/volunteer.htm or call Effie Houston, the park's volunteer coordinator, at (423) 569-9778.



Last updated: April 14, 2015

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Mailing Address:

4564 Leatherwood Road
Oneida, TN 37841

Phone:

423 569-9778

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