Volunteer Spotlight: Peg Sullivan

NPS/C. Sill

Peg Sullivan developed loyalty, quick-thinking, and courage as a nurse. She now brings these skills with her to the park.

Wearing a bright yellow vest and cap for visibility, Peg Sullivan hits the trails of Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. She loves to walk, and while her patrols usually last 3 hours, she would probably walk all day if she could! She’s an experienced hiker who can even summit Mount Tom in winter. Peg’s favorite trail is the Summer Pasture Road, due to its beauty in summer. She knows so much about each trail and its quirks that it’s hard to believe she’s only been a volunteer for three years.

Trail Ambassadors like Peg carry backpacks containing maps and dog leashes for visitors who need them (dogs are welcome at the park but must be leashed), and a radio and first-aid kit in case of emergencies. With a 'clicker' in hand, she counts each visitor she encounters and notes how many people are on skis, snowshoes, or just walking. The park uses this information to understand how people use its resource and how to support their recreational activities.

Peg hails from nearby Hartford, Vermont. Her life outside of the park is just as busy, and just as rewarding with three beloved rescue dog. Dougal and Smokey are around 14 years old, and have some trouble moving…though this doesn’t mean they don’t still cause mischief! Just weeks ago, Smokey angered a skunk and got himself sprayed, which, as you can imagine, was not fun for Peg! Sky is a puppy and was extremely shy when she first arrived at Peg’s place. In just two days, she became a real "cuddle-bug". Raising these fluffy friends can be difficult, but for Peg, the positives far outweigh the negatives. Come to think of it, that same thing can be said of her volunteer service.