Youth Trail Crew Completes Project at Appomattox Court House NHP

Youths build a wooden trail in the woods.

NPS Photo

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park recently hosted a youth crew from the Appalachian Conservation Corps who provided improvements to the park trails. The two-part project included installing steps on a 30-feet long slope and building a 250-feet long puncheon (planked walkway) over a seasonally wet section of trail. The crew did an outstanding job on these projects that will provide greater accessibility for visitors on park trails.

The park received special project funding to support this seven-person youth crew to complete work that benefits the park and provides job skills and training for the participants. The Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC) partners with land management agencies and organizations to accomplish critical conservation projects while providing young adults an opportunity to learn about land management issues and challenges. Participants from across the United States have been working together throughout the summer on a variety of assignments on public lands including the trails at Appomattox Court House NHP.

Their work will eliminate erosion and safety hazards in two locations along the park’s Southside Connector Trail, part of the park’s extensive trail network. Recent increased use of the park’s trails reflects greater access to park stories and recreational opportunities for visitors and community members. The youth crew’s work enables the park to provide critical trail improvements and access for visitors who want to take a hike!

Learn more about the park’s hiking trails at https://www.nps.gov/apco/planyourvisit/hiking-trails.htm and youth employment opportunities with the ACC at https://gavcc.org/.