North star - IN THIS ISSUE: 2021 NCTA Awards - North Country Trail Association
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Fall 2021 The Magazine of the Volume 40, No. 4
North Country Trail Association
north star
IN THIS ISSUE:
2021 NCTA Awards
Parity Act
Trail Progress in
Vermont
ABOUT THE COVER:
“As summer turned to fall I found that hitting
the Trail provided a much needed release of
stress and a clearing of my mind. My young STAFF
Aussie, Mesa, and I hiked the entire 100 Andrea Ketchmark
miles together - throwing in his first two Executive Director
backpacking experiences in the process.” aketchmark@northcountrytrail.org
Photo: Stacey Ancans Valerie Bader
Director of Trail Operations
vbader@northcountrytrail.org
Nancy Brozek
Director of Development and Communications
IN THIS ISSUE nbrozek@northcountrytrail.org NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Stephanie Campbell Jaron Nyhof, President
Columns Regional Trail Coordinator: New York and Vermont
scampbell@northcountrytrail.org
jnyhof1@gmail.com
Mike Chapple, Vice President
Trailhead..................................................... 3 Matt Davis mike@chapple.org
National Park Service Corner................ 5 Regional Trail Coordinator: North Dakota,
Minnesota and Wisconsin Mark VanHornweder, Treasurer
mdavis@northcountrytrail.org mvanhorn74@yahoo.com
Fundraising Q&A......................................6 Heather Ertle Dennis Garrett, Secretary
Database and Membership Administrator dcgcag@gmail.com
Senator Baldwin Introduces the hertle@northcountrytrail.org Tim Mowbray, Immediate Past President
National Scenic Trails Parity Act...........7 Kate Lemon tmowbray@earthlink.net
Marketing and Communications Coordinator Josh Berlo, At-Large
2021 Fall Leadership Summit................ 8 klemon@northcountrytrail.org joshberlo@gmail.com
New NCTA Events Calendar Coming Tom Moutsos Jerry Fennell, At-Large
Regional Trail Coordinator: Ohio and Pennsylvania
Soon............................................................. 8 tmoutsos@northcountrytrail.org
jeroldvfennell@hotmail.com
Support the Mission..................................9 Alison Myers
Duane Lawton, At-Large
delawton@torchlake.com
Everyone Will Have a Voice.................. 10 Administrative Assistant
amyers@northcountrytrail.org Derrick Passe, Minnesota
Celebration 2021 Recap.......................... 11 derrickpasse@gmail.com
Matt Rowbotham
GIS Program Manager Larry Pio, At-Large
State of the Trail mrowbotham@northcountrytrail.org nalcoman1@aol.com
Kenny Wawsczyk Sharon Ray, At-Large
sharon.ray@sni.org
Trail Progress in Vermont.....................12 Regional Trail Coordinator: Michigan
kwawsczyk@northcountrytrail.org Kevin Russell, At-Large
Awards Abby Whittington
Annual Events Coordinator
kevinrussell@gmavt.net
Jo Swanson, At-Large
awhittington@northcountrytrail.org joannamswanson@gmail.com
National Park Service Awards 2021... 14
Jan Ulferts Stewart, North Dakota
2021 NCTA Awards................................ 15 janustewart@gmail.com
NCT Long Distance Hiker Recognition Jeff VanWinkle, Michigan
rvanwink@gmail.com
and Essays...............................................26
Steve Walker, Ohio
nilesprinting@gmail.com
Trail Maintainer's Quinn Wright, New York
Spotlight wrightquinn4@gmail.com
Remembering Doug Welker................28
Fresh Trail and Boardwalks in the
Jordan River Valley................................30 NORTH STAR STAFF
Designated Camping in Chequamegon. Kate Lemon, Editor, northstar@northcountrytrail.org
Kelly O'Hara, Graphic Designer
..................................................................... 31
Irene Szabo, Lorana Jinkerson, Becky Heise, Joan Young, Tom Gilbert,
Duane Lawton, Kate Lemon, Eileen Fairbrother, Jeff Van Winkle
Editorial Advisory Committee
The North Star, Fall issue, Vol. 40, Issue 4, is published by the North Country Trail
Association, a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, 229 East Main Street, Lowell,
MI 49331. The North Star is published quarterly for promotional and educational purposes
and as a benefit of membership in the Association. All rights reserved. No part of this
publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the North
Country Trail Association.
2 The North Star
TRAILHEAD
Jaron Nyhof,
President
Thank you, please, of service, and are eligible to attend special skills and
please, and thank leadership training. If you or anyone you’re working
you! That may sound with in your volunteer activities has not completed and
a bit repetitive or submitted a Volunteer Service Agreement, you or they
even nonsensical, may not be covered if something bad happens, which
but it’s the outline puts both you and the Association at risk. The insurance
for my article in this coverage is free if you take the brief administrative step
issue, and my mother of completing and submitting the form. If a significant
taught me to use my number of you don’t take that step, the Association will be
manners. A lot. forced, for the sake of prudent management, to use more
The first “thank you” of the hard earned and donated dollars that you all raise
is really thousands of each year to buy commercial insurance in order to protect
thank yous to each our volunteers and to protect the assets of the Association
of you that make from claims. My mother taught me good manners, yes, but
the longest National she also taught me sound financial management. Please
Scenic Trail and take the freely available insurance option that provides
Photo: Vicki Nyhof our North Country federal government insurance coverage at no additional
Trail Community charge, for both your sake and ours.
possible. From the big and obvious accomplishments like The second “please” is to notice a number of opportunities
building new Trail, bridges and improvements, or making you’ll be seeing to support the Association’s work with
or raising donations, to the largely unnoticed things like your financial contributions, as the end of the year
writing thank you notes and cleaning up garbage at a approaches. Over 65% of our annual budget comes from
trailhead. I’m tempted to try to list as many of the things *donated funds and grants, and we simply could not do
that advance our mission as I can think of, but I suspect what we do without them. Every gift matters, big and
that would take several pages (which would violate my small. Seriously. All contributions are tax deductible,
allotted word limit for this space and put me in serious and for those of you that itemize your tax deductions, a
hot water with our editor), and no matter how much significant portion of your donation will offset income
time and thought I put into it, I know I would still miss taxes that you would otherwise have to pay, so you’ll
dozens - if not hundreds - of the things that you all do be helping us a great deal
to make this big, audacious idea possible. The myriad while reducing your taxes.
of things that are necessary to accomplish our mission All contributions are also
What you do for
is truly astounding. “...Develop, maintain, protect, and guaranteed to make you feel or give to the Trail,
promote the North Country National Scenic Trail as the good, because my mom was
premier hiking path across the northern tier of the United right when she taught me whatever that is,
States through a trail-wide coalition of volunteers and
partners..., partner[ing] with the National Park Service to
that it feels better to give is significant.
than to receive.
unite individuals, affiliated trail groups, local Chapters,
corporate sponsors and others linked in support of The final “thank you” is for reading this far and for
building and maintaining the North Country Trail and considering the above two requests. I’m so thrilled to be
telling its story.” I can’t even get my head around it. You all a part of such an amazing collection of volunteers, and to
are amazing! be working shoulder to shoulder with you in the building
of our collective legacy. What you do for or give to the
The first “please” is to ask you to please protect yourself Trail, whatever that is, is significant. It matters, and it
while you’re doing all of those amazing things by contributes to something larger than yourself that will last
submitting a Volunteer Service Agreement, which is far beyond your and my days on this earth. Thank you for
available on our website at northcountrytrail.org/nps- being wonderful! Thank you for loving the Trail.
vip-form. This gives you National Park Service (NPS)
Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) insurance coverage. VIPs are *2020 NCTA Annual Report, Income by Source: 57% donations
entitled to the same injury coverage that NPS employees including membership + 9% grants.
receive, are recognized for their contributions and earn
annual recognition items from the NPS based on hours
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 3
TRAILHEAD
Andrea Ketchmark,
Executive Director
On the road again! Falls. Seven years ago, this location was one of those bad
After a year and sections. Now it’s a beautifully designed route that has
a half of staying been made accessible for all. That’s the work we do and it’s
close to home and all important to take the time to enjoy it.
meetings over Zoom, There is hope. A few years ago, I was hearing from
I headed out on the many of our Chapter leaders that they were worried
road for some much about whether or not there would be others to step up
needed time with into their roles when the time comes. It’s a concern not
our volunteers and unique to us. Nonprofits everywhere have been thinking
partners. I knew I about what will happen when our leadership decides
had missed traveling, they can no longer put in the hours or no longer carry
but I was surprised those tools out into the field. But what I saw on my trip
at how much these was encouraging. At every single event, I saw new and
trips would bring me younger faces. I heard their voices tell me how excited
back to life. they are to be involved, and I watched as the weight lifted
Later in this issue off those that have held too much on their shoulders for
Photo: Andrea Ketchmark you’ll read about our too long. Our collective efforts in recruitment and outreach
trip to Vermont to and support for our volunteers and leaders is paying off,
meet with important partners to move the route forward and this should give us great hope for a bright future. My
and get more Trail miles on the ground. So I will spend other favorite moment on this trip was being present to
my space here with a few thoughts from my trip to celebrate longtime leader Lorana Jinkerson, as she stepped
Wisconsin and the upper peninsula (UP) of Michigan: a down from the Presidency of our North Country Trail
seven-day road trip that took me to 11 waterfalls, allowed Hikers Chapter and nine new leaders of all ages stepped
me to connect with five NCTA Chapters, attend a bridge up into leadership. Our future is bright.
dedication, and celebrate the retirement of one of our Although seven days on the road can wear you down, I
beloved leaders. There are too many moments of this trip found myself driving back energized. On this trip, I was
to share in one page, but I do have two major takeaways able to spend my week hiking in beautiful places and
from my trip: spending time with the people that are passionate about
Enjoy what we have. It’s making a difference. Our places and their passion make
easy to get lost in all that me proud to be part of this community.
we have yet to do, and
there is a lot, but we have
an incredible Trail that is EDITOR’S CORRECTIONS
By Kate Lemon
ready to be explored today.
On my trip to Wisconsin In the Summer 2021 issue, two articles contained
and the UP, I was able to incorrect statements.
visit a few locations I had • In Measuring the North Country Trail by Matt
never visited before, like Rowbotham, a key word was left out of a sentence
Wren Falls, the Black River about Michigan’s NCT mileage. “Michigan’s big miles
Harbor on Lake Superior, carry over to the on-road side as well: It has the
Canyon Falls, and Lake of second largest number of on-road miles at nearly
300.” As indicated in the chart on the same page,
the Clouds in the Porcupine Photo: Andrea Ketchmark
Ohio has the most on-road miles of NCT. (North Star,
Mountains (which is soon Summer 2021, Page 26.)
to be on the route of the Trail thanks to NCTA). I’d been
to each of these areas before, but spent my time visiting • In Privilege of a Lifetime by Lucie Biddinger, Ohio’s
“bad” sections of the Trail that needed a reroute, or Buckeye Trail was referenced as being 900 miles
wandering in the woods to help plan the route that didn’t long. Approximately 900 miles of the Buckeye Trail
exist at all. Although that’s an important part of the job as are congruent with the North Country National
NCTA staff, so is experiencing the joy of hiking our best Scenic Trail, but the Buckeye Trail itself is over 1,400
sections and celebrating the result of our hard work. One miles long. (North Star, Summer 2021, Page 29.)
favorite moment on this trip was visiting O Kun de Kun
4 The North Star
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CORNER
Chris Loudenslager
Superintendent, North Country National Scenic Trail
October 1 marks the Looking ahead to the new year, one of
end of the fiscal year the things I’m most excited about and
for the National Park looking forward to is building on all
Service, and just that we already have in place. In other
like any New Year’s words, it’s my hopeful intent that there will be no big
celebration, there is new changes in store for any of us to have to wrestle
great excitement and with this year. I will acknowledge that minor tweaks to
anticipation of what existing programs or processes may still be needed, and
the coming year will that improvements to what we’re doing or how we’re
bring. But there is doing it will still be important to pursue. But by and large,
also a good deal of strengthening what we now have in place is where the
reflection on what bulk of NPS’s time and energy will be spent.
was experienced and To that end, let me again quote Jaron (thank you very
achieved over the much) and ask you to please protect yourself while you
course of the year are doing all the amazing things you do. Make good plans,
that has come to its work safely, take precautions, and look out for each other.
fruition. As Jaron indicated, signing up as an NPS Volunteer-in-
Photo: Mick Hawkins
One of the Parks (VIP) volunteer is an excellent and easy way to
most compelling ways for me to reflect on what was protect yourself and each other. Having signed volunteer
experienced and achieved is my annual performance agreements in place also protects many of the programs
review with my supervisor, where I have the opportunity and functions that we take for granted. The NPS is able
to share and describe all that was accomplished and give to provide volunteer service awards and recognition,
credit to all those who have contributed to the Trail’s training, protective equipment, and other supplies to
success. I knew it had been a busy and demanding year individuals because we are providing these to official
with lots of challenges, changes, and new initiatives, but NPS VIPs. Similarly, a significant portion of the annual
the scope of all we achieved truly revealed itself as I put funding that we receive is specifically provided to support
it all down in writing as a part of my annual report. And these programs. It is very important to understand that
I know this document only scratched the surface. Fiscal to be considered an official NPS VIP, a person must now
Year 2021 was an incredible year for the North Country be signed up under an individual volunteer agreement
Trail, and the National Park Service (NPS) has you to with the NPS to receive these protections, benefits, and
thank for it! opportunities. Simply volunteering to work on the NCT
As Jaron Nyhof noted in his article, “the myriad of or being a member of one of our partner organizations is
things that are necessary to accomplish our mission is not an alternative pathway to become a VIP. To date, we
truly astounding.” This is a powerful statement worth have already received hundreds of individual volunteer
repeating, and it is without question that it is your agreements, but to ensure that everyone is protected,
hard work, dedication, and contributions that make the our goal is for 100% coverage. If you are out there doing
astounding not only possible, but almost routine. Please work on behalf of the North Country National Scenic
know that your accomplishments are recognized and Trail, please do not hesitate to enroll in the program. For
sincerely appreciated by my supervisor and at all levels more information or assistance about the program, please
of our organization. We couldn’t do it without you, and contact Nic Loiseau, Volunteer Program Manager, at (616)
we can’t thank you enough. I would be remiss if I did 302-9842 or nicole_loiseau@nps.gov.
not also take this opportunity to recognize and thank the Thank you again for all you do, all you accomplish day in
staff and leadership of all our partner organizations, as and day out, and all the incredibly important and valuable
well as my own staff, for their astounding work, support, support you provide to the people who love the Trail or
and accomplishments. The Trail is very fortunate to have are just discovering it for the first time. You make hikers
such a talented and committed team working as one, and happen!
each member contributes greatly in very important and
meaningful ways. I am very proud, and very grateful, to
be a member of such an amazing team.
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 5Fundraising Q&A
By Nancy Brozek
Is the North Country Trail What does the Association’s and memberships should come
Association a cause based raised income from individuals from a place of joy, and all of them
organization? look like? are received in that same way.
Yes, the mission is cause related Every gift makes an impact for our
This data is based on a 2020 audit for the
as it is dedicated to protecting, mission.
NCTA.
building, and maintaining the North What’s the truth behind
Country National Scenic Trail.
2020 Individual unrestricted gifts?
This is accomplished through the
mobilization of volunteers, the
Donor Giving Total A new study, commissioned by
Bank of America and the Indiana
development of Partners, Affiliates, $614,725.26 University Lilly Family School of
land owners, and government Philanthropy shared 2020 giving
relationships, and numerous projects trends of surveyed, affluent
along the Trail. All actions lead to American households. The good
one outcome: the betterment of our news for many organizations,
Trail as a whole. including the North Country Trail
How does the North Country Association, showed donors are
Trail Association fund its moving past project based funding
programs and operations? to cause related focuses, allowing
As a membership based nonprofit, nonprofit leaders to direct money
our revenue comes in the form to what is most needed. The crises
of grants, corporate support, of 2020 provided donors with
and individual giving. Individual opportunity to release restrictions
giving includes memberships and on previous gifts and continue
philanthropic gifts. support through unrestricted giving.
What is the Association’s Founders Circle For the Association, unrestricted
individual giving goal? ($500+): funds are crucial. The annual
Our goal is to have 80% of our budget is set based on trends and
$390,271.96
annual budget generated through projections for this type of gift.
individual giving. Unrestricted gifts are cause driven,
Trail Angels ($250- and provide support to everything
Why is this important?
Consider your personal experience
499): $40,503 the NCTA does. These funds keep
maps free, offer Field Grants to
and the strong bond you have
Trail Scouts ($100- NCTA Chapters four times a year,
with the Trail. This structure helps
us withstand funding challenges 240): $89,286.24 and support programs like the Hike
100 Challenge, Next Generation
outside our control - challenges that
Collection, and Justice, Equity,
may cause corporate and foundation Friends ($1-99):
Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI).
support to temporarily suspend $94,664.06 By keeping your annual support
or waver. For example, in 2020,
unrestricted, you are actually
the Covid-19 pandemic created
making a larger contribution and
financial uncertainty and instability If I can’t make a large gift,
impact to the whole of the Trail.
in those areas, creating a projected does my gift even matter?
decrease of annual support. Absolutely! You are a part of How can I be a part of this?
However, individuals, including you, this Community because of your Make a gift, become a member,
continued to support the cause. The commitment to the Trail, and that or renew your membership:
NCTA came out of 2020 a stronger matters. Give, join, or renew at a northcountrytrail.org/ways-to-give.
community. level that feels right for you. Gifts
6 The North StarWAYS TO GIVE Senator Baldwin
Introduces the National
1 Join
Scenic Trails Parity Act
as a member or renew On October 7, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin reintroduced
your membership. the bipartisan National Scenic Trails Parity Act:
Legislation seeking to bring equity to the National Trails
System.
Previously introduced in the 116th Congress, the Parity
2
Act seeks to clarify the status of the North Country, Ice
Give Age, and New England National Scenic Trails as units
a philanthropic donation. of the National Park System, a move that is critical in
ensuring equity across National Trails managed by the
National Park Service.
“The National Scenic Trails Parity Act is simple and
common sense legislation that corrects an inequity in the
3
management of National Scenic Trails by the National
Become Park Service,” said Andrea Ketchmark, Executive
Director of the North Country Trail Association.
a monthly donor. “The NCTA, representing thousands of partners and
volunteers along one of these forgotten trails, is so
grateful for Senator Baldwin's leadership. Her support
will help ensure the agency does its part to see that these
national treasures get managed properly and in line with
4
Request the National Trails System Act.”
the NCTA through your This bill does not mandate more funding or resources,
but rather provides access to the existing funding,
Donor Advised Fund, IRA programs, and publicity within the agency, putting these
Charitable Rollover, or national treasures on equal footing for consideration.
Closely Held Stock. The bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by Senators
Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Amy
5
Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Murphy (D-
Plan CT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Debbie
to become a member of Stabenow (D-MI).
the Legacy Society by Call your Senators today to ask them to sign on. Learn
naming NCTA in your will, more about NCTA efforts at northcountrytrail.org/
trust, life insurance policy, advocacy.
or retirement plans.
6 Ask
your friends and family
to join you on a hike, and
share your love for the
NCT.
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 72021 Fall Leadership Summit New NCTA Events Calendar
Coming Soon
By Andrea Ketchmark
In early 2022, the NCTA will launch
Supporting the current network of a custom, interactive, online events
leaders within the North Country Trail calendar at northcountrytrail.org/
Community and creating space for events.
new leaders are critical to ensuring
a strong future for the Trail. NCTA’s At present, the online events
2021 Fall Leadership Summit, a calendar is populated using multiple
series of online workshops held in Google Calendar accounts, managed
October, aimed to bring together by each NCTA Chapter. While this
those in a leadership role in NCTA allows Chapter volunteers to add
Chapters and Affiliate organizations, events at their convenience to a
staff, board members, and our Next publicly viewed platform, there are
Generation Coalition to learn from experts sorting and searching restrictions.
that can help us connect with new communities, For example, it is not currently
the next generation, and have stronger working relationships with possible to search by event type,
each other. like group hikes or trail workdays.
As our Trail Community continues
Dr. Katherine Jeffery is a generational researcher and practitioner to grow and offer more workshops,
who is passionate about guiding companies and organizations trainings, and other events, we want
through the massive leadership transition that is happening in the to ensure everyone is able to easily
world right now. She helped us understand what motivates the access these opportunities.
different generations - where we diverge, but also what can bring
us together. The next generation of this calendar
Dr. Carolyn Finney is a storyteller, author, and cultural will include three separate ways
geographer. The aim of her work is to develop greater cultural to view NCTA events: a map (that
competency within environmental organizations and institutions, includes the NCT line), a list, or
challenge media outlets on their representation of difference, a calendar. All events will be
and increase awareness of how privilege shapes who gets to searchable by date, state, Chapter,
speak to environmental issues and determine policy and action. and event type: Hike, Trail Project,
Understanding these issues is important when we speak on behalf Training, Meeting, or Event (tabled
of the Trail and those who use it. functions, festivals, etc.). Ultimately,
it will be more user friendly, and it
Amy Stork is a consultant and coach and spends her career will highlight events trailwide more
bringing real tools to help leaders, teams, and organizations develop effectively and consistently.
even deeper and more effective ways to work. Her session helped
us explore ideas around leadership, governance, recruitment, and NCTA staff will work with Chapters
succession planning. this fall to fine tune details of event
Together, these three sessions helped us explore how we will submission, RSVP options, sharing
navigate a shift in generations and demographics, and the on social media platforms, and more.
importance of listening to each other in the process. Stay tuned in Visit northcountrytrail.org/events
2022 for more workshops and exciting speakers. in January 2022 to get involved and
see the new calendar in action.
Learn more about our speakers at northcountrytrail.org/
leadership-summit. This program was made possible in part by a grant The NCTA extends many thanks
from the National Park Foundation. to Bell’s Brewery for their support
of this project, and to Lake Effect
Digital for their web development
work.
8 The North StarSupport the Mission
By Nancy Brozek
As the NCTA Director of Development and Communications, you expect me
to talk about fundraising, and I confess, I am always up for the conversation.
I enjoy sharing your stories and connecting the work that is being done for
the Trail because of your support.
Now I would like to speak with you in that role, but also as a fellow NCTA
member and donor to the mission. Giving is a choice, and my role is to #GivingTuesday
present you with opportunities to choose. These come in the form of
appeals (spring and end-of-year), a membership dDrive (fall), and in 2021
monthly membership renewals.
Challenge gift match
As a fellow member and donor, I make the choice to personally give to the coming November
mission. I believe in everything the Trail stands for and know firsthand
what it gives back to people. Annually, I renew my membership to support 30. Can you help us
my local Chapter. I give in appreciation of our volunteers’ hard work. I meet the challenge?
want to protect the North Country Trail, just as you do. I chose to become a 24 hours. One gift.
monthly donor because it allows me to join the Founders Circle in a way that
works within my budget. A small gift on a monthly basis truly adds up!
Twice the impact.
Give or join at
Throughout November and December, you will be given a choice to
participate in our End-of-Year Appeal. As in past years, this appeal will northcountrytrail.org.
include a sizable challenge match gift on #GivingTuesday: November 30.
There are so many ways to be a part of the Trail Community, and I hope you
will consider this option as one of them.
Hike It. Build It.
Love It.
When you buy gear from the
North Country Trail Association
Trail Shop, you are making a
direct and positive impact on
the development, maintenance,
protection, and promotion of
the North Country National
Scenic Trail. Thank you!
shop.northcountrytrail.org
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 9Everyone Will Have Demographics like these are easy to find, and they can
help direct local Chapters to uncharted territory for folks
a Voice unfamiliar with the Trail or potential new memberships.
Before we know anything about a person, the first thing
By Sr. Lyn Szymkiewicz we see is skin color. Kim relayed a story of her studies in
Argentina, which has a long history of Italian descendants.
This is the third installment of an NCTA Justice, Equity, Diversity, She noted that her blackness stood out and she definitely
and Inclusion (JEDI) series by Sr. Lyn Szymkiewicz and it experienced some harassment as a result of it. Having a
includes references to the first and second installments. Read the particular skin color and experiencing negative impacts
first in the Spring 2021 issue of the North Star, and the second in in a social setting, or in our case on the trails, means that
the Summer 2021 issue. black, Latino, or Asian faces have not been “normalized” in
In May 2021, the four NCTA Chapters in Pennsylvania a hiking situation outdoors for these groups.
offered a third online session addressing justice, equity, In emphasizing that point, Kim shared that she was
diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) within the North Country seeking an image
Trail Community, specifically. The national NCTA JEDI of teens to place Having a particular skin
statement encourages all volunteer Chapters to educate onto a promotional color and experiencing
and raise consciousness of its trail community members poster for an outdoor negative impacts in a
locally. activity. Her search
The first session focused on biases and reactions, yielded images of social setting, or in our
vocabulary of JEDI, and personal stories of experiences wholesome white case on the trails, means
youth playing
many of us may never have had on a public trail. The
basketball or casually
that black, Latino, or
second session addressed representation of and barriers
for race, gender, ability, and age, and examined ways of talking with each Asian faces have not been
welcoming and inviting transformation within a club or other, while most “normalized” in a hiking
group like an NCTA Chapter. of the images of
black youth showed
situation outdoors for
This session’s focus was: “Everyone will have a voice full-frame faces and these groups.
regarding identity, classifications and demographics.” gave the sense of
It was again led by Kimberly Refosco, of both KEC what might appear as line-up images for your local police
Consultants and the Pittsburgh network for Outdoor station. How conscious are we of the images and graphics
Afro. The conclusion of the session addressed both we use in our trail photos that we use to promote our hikes
short-term and long-term goals for North Country Trail or our membership? Do they show the real make-up of our
Chapters. groups and the people involved in our activities?
As has been Kim’s practice at each session, she begins the When you invite those from different groups onto the
group’s time together by acknowledging those peoples Trail, do you think about offering activities that might
who have stewarded the land before us: the Onondaga help people feel more comfortable? This question for Kim
(Seneca), the Haudenosaunee, and Susquehanock from addressed multiple areas of diversity:
the New York section of the North Country Trail.
• Do you do land acknowledgements?
The group next looked at demographics from the Beaver
County area. This Pennsylvania county is 90% white • Have you asked someone from your roster to
with few black, Native American, Asian, Pacific Islander, pronounce their name or did you attempt to
Hispanic, and Latino groups. Then the group looked at try pronouncing it yourself?
McLean County, North Dakota. McClean County has
similar demographics but the Native American population • Did you introduce yourself with your preferred
is greater than the black population. What does that pronoun?
have to do with the Trail? When you see the groups
represented in your area’s demographics, especially those • Did you pack feminine hygiene products that
of lesser numbers, the NCTA Chapters learn who they might be needed in an emergency on a hike?
should begin forming relationships with. Kim encouraged • Did you pack extra water?
the group to find ways to get these groups out on the Trail.
10 The North Star• Did you ask why they decided to join you for
the day? Celebration 2021 Recap
By Andrea Ketchmark and Abby Whittington
• When you come to a private property sign,
did you discuss if that is a part of the Trail? We had another successful Annual Celebration this
• If you offer a snack or meal, do you include year with a total of 349 participants registered. On
vegan or nut-free options?
average, there were 30-40 participants for each
live event and 26 people said this was their first
• Before you started the hike, did you mention Celebration. We are so happy you could join us.
if it was hunting season? Kicking off with a social hour, this year’s event was
• Did you ask if there were any medical issues a celebration of the strength of our community even
when we can’t be together in person. For two weeks
that might be relevant for this activity?
we connected online, but also encouraged hiking
• Do you have planned stopping areas to allow locally and sharing your stories on social media. It
for a break or allow for multiple levels of was fun to see so many photos of hikers in green
hiking ability? t-shirts connecting to the Trail and each other, and
then sharing your experiences back with the group.
• Do you identify benches or resting areas on
A wide variation of topics across the 17 separate
your trail maps? events this year helped keep participants refreshed
• Do you consider your hike “children friendly?” in the virtual environment. Topics included hike
planning, cultural resources, trail ethics, map tools,
All of these questions simply call local Chapters to a and trail planning. There was a Next Generation
greater awareness and consciousness of who may be Coalition panel, a writer’s workshop, and our time
using the National Trails System, of which even local to honor our volunteer leaders in our National Park
segments of the North Country Trail are a part, and how a Service and NCTA Award ceremonies. Keynote
local group might best keep the Trail safe and accessible to speaker Heather “Anish” Anderson read from her
everyone. newest book, Mud, Rocks, Blazes: Letting Go on the
Visit outdoorafro.com to learn more about the organization, Appalachian Trail, and we heard from Jo Swanson
and pnts.org/new/resources/diversity-and-inclusion- about her 94 nights on the Superior Hiking Trail.
resources for a robust resource library curated by the Our favorite moments were simply connecting with
Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS). each other during the discussion times and breakout
sessions.
One benefit of the virtual environment was the ability
As part of the North Country Trail to record events and offer them to Trail Community
Association’s commitment to justice, members who were unable to attend the live events.
All recordings from 2021 Celebration can be found at
equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) on
northcountrytrail.org/celebration/schedule until
the North Country Trail, the NCTA now Spring 2022. They will remain on YouTube after
offers JEDI Mini-Grants. These mini-grants that: youtube.com/northcountrytrail.
of up to $1,000 are awarded on a rolling Thank you to Susan Giering and the Clarion County
basis, and are intended to support JEDI- Chapter for your work helping us pull together a
focused affinity groups or individuals great event. And thank you, everyone, for showing
leading experiences on the North Country up online and for proving once again how resilient
Trail. Learn more at northcountrytrail. we are as a community.
org/grant-and-financial-management or We hope you’ll join us in October 2022 - in person!
contact jedigrants@northcountrytrail.org. - in Walker, Minnesota. Event details will be posted
at northcountrytrail.org/celebration throughout
2022 as plans solidify.
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 11STATE OF THE TRAIL
Mountain Club (GMC), and the
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
(ATC). Agency partners from the
National Park Service (NPS) and U.S.
Forest Service (USFS) also joined
in a meeting hosted by the Green
Mountain National Forest.
The partners discussed roles and
responsibilities in how the North
Country Trail is managed. We
considered current trail routing and
potential new trail segments across
the National Forest, easements
and private lands. The group also
discussed plans for the Eastern
Terminus at Maine Junction where
Representatives from Green Mountain Club, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and Green Mountain the North Country Trail, Appalachian
National Forest (GMNF) met at the GMNF Rochester Ranger Station to discuss the expansion of the Trail, and Long Trail meet.
NCNST in Vermont.
Photo: NCTA Chris Loudenslager, NPS
Superintendent for the NCNST,
Trail Progress in Vermont shared, “I am so impressed and
appreciative of the level of energy,
By Stephanie Campbell and Valerie Bader interest, and expertise that each
person and each organization
Since the eastward extension of the North Country National Scenic Trail brought into our discussions. I’m
(NCNST) into Vermont in 2019, NCTA has been working to build partnerships very grateful that the future of the
with local land managers, land owners, volunteers, and partner organizations North Country National Scenic Trail
in the Green Mountain State. In 2019, a team of stakeholders from nonprofits in Vermont is so well assured with
and land management agencies met virtually, but Covid-19 halted travel plans all these great partners.”
to meet in person until recently. The following day, the group
In August spent a productive field day hiking
2021, Stephanie prospective segments of the NCT.
Campbell, NCTA MALT showcased a possible route
Regional Trail from East Middlebury where the
Coordinator NCT could connect across private
for New York land to the National Forest’s
and Vermont, Moosalamoo National Recreation
organized Area. GMC and the USFS staff
an in-person guided the team on the Forest’s
stakeholder Sucker Brook Trail, which connects
meeting. NCTA to the famed Vermont Long Trail
staff eagerly and will serve as the future route
traveled to of the NCT. The lush forested
Vermont and landscape offers many opportunities
were joined by for an incredible hiking experience,
partners from one sure to be enjoyed by many
the Middlebury Middlebury Area Land Trust staff and volunteers showcase the newly future NCT hikers.
Area Land Trust constructed boardwalk on the Trail Around Middlebury. To close out the time in Vermont,
(MALT), Green Photo: Stephanie Campbell
NCTA staff were fortunate to visit
12 The North Starthe Trail around Partnership
Middlebury
(TAM), the The National Trails
first certified System Act, which paved
segment of the way for our nation’s
the North National Scenic and
Country Trail in Historic Trails, specifically
Vermont. MALT recognizes the importance
volunteers and of local volunteers and
staff highlighted communities in ensuring
a boardwalk these nationally significant
project that was treasures are created with
recently funded local input and cared for
by an NCTA Field in perpetuity. This local-
Grant: The 96- level focus and cooperative
foot boardwalk spirit calls for a slower
NCTA, Green Mountain Club and Green Mountain National Forest was improved paced approach to build
(GMNF) staff scout a potential NCT route where the dam is being by MALT staff the relationships and trust
rebuilt at the Sugar Hill Reservoir in the Moosamaloo National with the help between partners. This is
Recreation Area, GMNF. necessary to ensure the
of local youth
Photo: Stephanie Campbell
volunteers. This correct parties are included
new boardwalk and feel heard.
is now safer and more user friendly, and better protects the surrounding
wetland environment. In implementing the North
Country Trail extension
Ken Hendrickson, NPS Trail Manager for the NCNST, commented, “We all into Vermont, NCTA’s
know that National Scenic Trails are built on partnership and collaboration. collaborative approach is
Our meeting in Vermont was an important next step in building the echoing the intent of the
foundation that will complete the NCT.” National Trails System
The true progress of the trip was being able to build relationships and to lay Act: Respecting local
the groundwork for future conversation. Hopefully, with this new foundation, knowledge and leadership,
we will have more on-the-ground progress to share soon! while providing the
guidance and support
necessary to produce an
outdoor experience that
will be enjoyed by trail
users near and far for
generations to come.
View from Mt. Moosamaloo summit on the NCTA's Valerie Bader and Stephanie Campbell
NCT in the Moosamaloo National Recreation visit the Don and Peggy Arnold Bridge over
Area, Green Mountain National Forest. Otter Creek on the Trail Around Middlebury/
Photo: Stephanie Campbell NCT with Middlebury Area Land Trust staff
and volunteers.
Photo: John Derick
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 13AWARDS
National Park Service
Awards 2021
By Nic Loiseau, NPS Volunteer Program Manager
In 1970, the Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP) program started Brian Hanson 100 hours
with a few hundred volunteers. Today, hundreds Tena Hop
of thousands of volunteers donate their time, skills, Neil Kirby Carole Bard
and talents to the National Park Service every year. Marjorie Krumm Bob Berg
John LaFond Carol Bertucci
Volunteers with the North Country National Scenic
Ken Mattson Karen Campbell
Trail are included in this amazing group of individuals. Sarah Collier
Tom Melnik
Whether you have contributed an hour, 100 hours, or Jake Deal
Jaron Nyhof
thousands of hours, we thank you for your contributions! Jim DeKett
Doug Seaney
Brad Slagle Daniel Geiger
“When a VIP agrees to share his talents, skills, and
Susan Stover Kristin Dahl
interests with the National Park Service, he is paying us
John Diebel
one of the highest compliments possible by offering a Rick Duemling
most valued possession - his time.” (George B. Hartzog,
Jr. Director, National Park Service, 1964–1972)
200 hours Cathy Flory
Jim Fogarty
Peter Bennett Paul Foley
We’d like to recognize the volunteers who have reached Ryan Bowles Theresa Hirakis
cumulative hour milestones this year. Hope Bradley Ralph Horvath
Dan Caviston James Howell
Richard Chamberlain Jonathan Hughlett
Brian Charleson Paul Ignatowski
10,000 hours 1000 hours Michael Daly Steve Kickert
Lorana Jinkerson Tom Dahle Richard Eiler Nancy Kreft
Dennis Fay Don Feola Michelle Lackey Olsen
Ed Gruchalla Duane Gebhard Cal Lamoreaux
4000 hours Eric Gustafson Connie Geinert Pat Leary
Steve Hatting John Gerty Matt Long
Jacob Detrie Barbara Jauquet-Kalinoski Nicole Halgrimson Doug Mangold
Dennis Garrett Jane Leedle Stephanie Hogan Dave Matz
Joe Hardisky David Miller Don Hoppe Donna Menke
Harlan Liljequist Richard Ostheimer John Larch Heather Moyer
Bill Menke Debby Page Jim Lindberg Teresa Nelson
Peter Nordgren Allan Schroden Annie Matz Mary Lee Nielson
William Schultz Glee Mayer Dennis Olsen
2500 hours Jan Ulferts Stewart James Mellen David Peterson
Patty Warner Marcia Mellen Jerry Pio
Carol Detrie Keith Myrmel John Pitale
Deb Koepplin Trana Rogne Tom Podlesny
Mary Ann Rebert 400 hours Sandi Sanderson Ethel Resh
Mike Toole George Schmit Thomas Rossberger
Danny Austin Michael Sekely James Smart
Jan Berg Connie Sherry Arlene Steimle
Terry Bernhardt Bill Smith Nate Thompson
Laura DeGolier Brad Stewart Jeanne Sekely
Grant Fenner Heather Turner Robert Traczyk
Fred Gewirtz Jim Waters Shawn Weishaar
Michael Loscheider Jacqui Wensich
14 The North Star2021 NCTA Let us recognize our volunteers, members, and friends who contribute
above and beyond to the growth of our North Country Trail. The Awards
Awards Committee is pleased to recognize the following award recipients, as
nominated by those who work with them.
THOMAS L. GILBERT LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Mike Stafford
Mike joined the Heritage Chapter in 1999 and has been an active member since, despite
living in the Milwaukee area, over 300 miles from the Heritage Chapter’s Trail section. For
22 years he has traveled this distance, while maintaining his interest, enthusiasm, and
energy to fulfill his volunteer responsibilities to the Chapter. He served as Treasurer from
1999-2011, and President from 2008-2020. A true jack-of-all-trades, Mike has organized
hikes, coordinated media and outreach efforts, built and maintained trail, recorded GPS
data, provided financial guidance, and so much more.
Iron County is one of the least populated in Wisconsin, and a very difficult place to find trail volunteers. But because of
Mike, Chapter membership has sustained and has grown locally. He also partnered with Northland College to establish
an intern program for students to volunteer. Thanks to his planning and financial prowess, many miles of new Trail
have been built and permanent easements have been acquired. He has been a Chapter pillar and mainstay.
THOMAS L. GILBERT LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Richard Naperala
Dick Naperala joined the Grand Traverse Hiking Club (GTHC) Chapter in 1994 and
immediately became very active in Chapter activities. He has served as Chapter President
then Trail Coordinator. During his time in the latter position, he spearheaded numerous
Trail relocations that eliminated roadwalks, separated the NCT from the Michigan Shore-
to-Shore State Horse Trail, and moved the Trail away from pipelines.
Of the Chapter’s 107 miles of NCT, about 70 are on new routes different from those we
originally maintained in 1994. Dick coordinated large-scale outreach efforts around the
Traverse City area, approached land managers, scouted new routes, created many crucial partnerships, and directed
Trail construction. He also identified and collaborated with community leaders in Fife Lake and Kalkaska, working the
towns’ (current) NCTA Trail Town designations. Dick Naperala has been the heart and soul of the GTHC Chapter, and it
would be difficult to imagine what this section of NCT would be like without his efforts.
THOMAS L. GILBERT LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Mick Hawkins
Mick was recruited to the Chief Noonday Chapter by his brother Larry in 2002 because
“he needed to get out more and meet new people.” Though he lived nearly an hour away
from the Chapter area, he participated in many activities. He became Chapter Webmaster
in 2005, creating the Chapter’s online presence and developing email communications
for members and friends of the Chapter. These major efforts won him an NCTA
Communicator of the Year Award in 2007. He has also served as Chapter Secretary, Trail
Adopter program lead, and unofficial liaison to the Michigan DNR, and he has received a
number of NPS awards for his thousands of service hours.
Mick put in endless miles on the Trail to collect GPS data - much of the early NCT mapping work in Barry County was
done by him. His high-quality maps were often featured (and maintained by him) at trailhead kiosks in three counties.
He has been a prolific photographer for both the Chapter and NCTA at a national level, and continues to put much effort
into training, coordinating, and celebrating other Trail Adopters.
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 15AWARDS
FRIEND OF THE TRAIL FRIEND OF THE TRAIL
Eric Peterson, Iron County Forest Kathy Baer and Todd Frerichs,
Approximately 30 miles of Audubon National Wildlife Refuge
Wisconsin NCT passes through
or is planned in the Iron U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
County Forest. In his role as (USFWS) staff at the Audubon
Forest Administrator for the National Wildlife Refuge in
county, Eric has approved new North Dakota, primarily Kathy
Trail segments and multiple Baer and Todd Frerichs,
campsites, and applied for DNR were instrumental in the
water permits. But perhaps development of a new 12-mile
most significantly, he helped segment of the NCT within
the NCTA complete the 112-foot Bill Thomas Bridge in the Refuge between 2018 and
2020 - a structure desired since 1992. This bridge has 2020. Through three Eagle
opened up isolated territory, creating new Trail and Scout projects, 52 volunteers
eliminating 10 miles of roadwalk. Eric tracked finances, contributed over 400 hours.
managed permits, and oversaw construction. Kathy and Todd let volunteers
use the visitor center and
FRIEND OF THE TRAIL maintenance shop during non-
work hours for equipment
Greg Bernu, Carlton County storage and Carsonite post
Efforts to move Trail off-road preparation, accommodating
near the Minnesota-Wisconsin even during the pandemic.
state line were stalled for 10 Kathy and Todd have gone
years until 2020. When a above and beyond with outreach efforts, as well. The
Brule-St. Croix Chapter leader NCTA anticipates a long-term relationship with them
noticed a strategic parcel that benefits the NCT, the Refuge, and the American
for sale, they approached public.
Greg, Carlton County (Minn.)
Land Commissioner. Greg TRAILBLAZER
then collaborated with Eran Andrew Schlegal, Great Miami
Sandquist of Pheasants Forever, and through a grant and
a match, Pheasants Forever acquired the property. Greg
Outfitters
agreed to manage the area long-term as non-motorized, Great Miami Outfitters of
and gave the NCTA an easement for the Trail to cross the Dayton, Ohio has been a huge
property. He is currently developing a formal agreement supporter of the Trail and
between the county and NCTA to ensure continued adventure sports in the Miami
cooperation. Without Greg’s efforts, this would have Valley for years. Whenever
remained a roadwalk with little prospect for an off-road we have requested donations
connection. or sponsorships for various
events, the answer has always
been “sure, how much?” They
have consistently donated
merchandise and held fundraising events for the
Buckeye Trail Association (BTA) on their own, without
asking. It is not unusual to receive a call from them,
stating they raised money from a promotion and asking
where to send the check. They always offer meeting
space and assistance, and keep NCT maps handy for the
local hiking community.
16 The North StarSWEEP SWEEP
Bob Cooley John Fomusa
Bob is the Chief John is the Chief Noonday
Noonday Chapter’s tool Chapter Vice President of Trail
“Quartermaster,” attending a Management (as of 2020),
majority of Chapter workdays, as well as a Trail Adopter
outreach events, and meetings, and often, group hike sweep.
and regularly serving as group With coordinated efforts, John
hike sweep. He was also a Trail organized sawyer certification
Adopter for two public parks classes for volunteers,
in Calhoun County (Mich.) communicated with work
and for years, mowed trail crews, led construction of a
and serviced the DR mower as needed. He tirelessly uses new puncheon walk, and assisted the NPS in managing
his own time to work on specific projects, like building invasive species in Augusta, Mich. - all during a
benches in his home garage or using his pickup truck to pandemic that caused widespread restrictions. John
deliver trail supplies. Bob doesn’t ever seem to frown or spearheaded updating and expanding the Chapter’s
raise his voice or even appear frustrated. He is always an outreach efforts to include social media promotion and
upbeat inspiration to those who meet and work with him. attendance at unique events. He is dedicated to trail
construction, maintenance and building, and his fellow
SWEEP Chapter members.
Darleen Warren TRAIL BUILDER
Darlene and her husband
joined the Grand Traverse Duane Lawton
Hiking Club Chapter in 2006. Duane has been a catalyst
They became Trail Adopters for much of the Jordan
at that time and continue to Valley 45° Chapter’s trail
maintain the same section 14 building efforts for well
years later. Darlene became over a decade. From route
a Board member; Chapter identification and planning,
Treasurer in May 2008 and to scouting, to pursuing
has held that position for 12 landowner agreements, to
years now. She has organized the Chapter’s biggest trail construction, he has
fundraiser for the past five years at the Bay Shore been integral. Duane is an
Marathon in Traverse City: She schedules about 12 inspiration with his dedication, willingness, enthusiasm,
volunteers to staff the parking lots at the event every engineering know-how, and construction experience.
Memorial Day weekend. All of that has fostered the creation of many miles of
amazing Trail. He is capable, thoughtful, and methodical.
He is the Chapter’s “Trail Builder Extraordinaire!”
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 17AWARDS
TRAIL BUILDER TRAIL BUILDER
Jamie Guy Bob and Jane Leedle
Jamie was instrumental In 2007, Jane signed Bob up
in planning the Old Man’s for a Wisconsin Roving Trail
Cave section of the Buckeye Crew event, at which the
Trail (BT)/NCT to be moved crew built a large, two-log
completely off-road. As the bridge in the Rainbow Lakes
property steward for the Wilderness and used primitive
Pretty Run Preserve in Vinton trail skills. Soon after, Jane
County, Ohio, Jamie single joined too. Most often, they
handedly built the first ever choose to participate when
moldering privy on the BT/ the construction of a large,
NCT and constructed, by himself, a new backpacking complex structure is on the schedule: They’ve helped
shelter. Most recently, he helped develop and lay out the build six large, A-truss bridges and several stretches
new BT/NCT route through two state nature preserves of puncheon, hundreds of feet in length. Together,
and state forest in Hocking Hills, getting more Trail off- they’ve accumulated over 2,500 volunteer hours. Bob is
road. His impact on the Trail in this region will be felt a crosscut saw aficionado and has advertised trailwide
and seen for the next 60 years of the Buckeye Trail’s to perform sharpening services. One recent winter, the
existence. Leedles stored a crew trailer at their home and spent
many hours repairing and upgrading it at their own
TRAIL BUILDER expense. They have also made a number of generous
Jack Miller donations to the NCTA, and have supplied the Roving
Jack has been an active Trail Crew with many tools, enabling them to function
member of the Central New more efficiently.
York Chapter for more than
TRAIL MAINTAINER
22 years. He has served
faithfully, with distinction, and Chuck Church
without reservation in several This 82-year-old gets the
capacities: Chapter President, crew out every week, first
Treasurer, and voting board visiting the Trail on his own
member/director. He is to prioritize work. When
currently a director-at-large. returning from a day of hot,
He participated in nearly all work hikes that created muggy, bug-infested trail
the Chapter’s section of NCT in the late 1990s and early maintenance with chainsaws,
2000s, and continues to do so with skill and motivating mowers and clippers, Chuck
attitude. He serves on multiple Chapter committees, and spends a couple more hours
played a critical role in Canastota, N.Y. becoming an sharpening chains and blades.
NCTA Trail Town. He has been an active steward since During the winter, he uses a snowblower to maintain
the Chapter’s chartering, monitoring and maintaining access and parking at trailheads. He speaks with local
numerous sections with diligence and willingness. Jack county commissioners about funding and ensures all
shares his love for the environment and the outdoors kiosks are maintained with literature. Volunteer safety
with spirit and zeal that is an inspiration to all who join and wellbeing are his priorities, and he takes his role
him. seriously.
18 The North StarTRAIL MAINTAINER TRAIL MAINTAINER
Brian and Deb Charleson Lawrence Eisinger
Together, Brian and Deb Lawrence was first a member
coordinate trail maintenance of the Minnesota Waters and
across the Wampum Chapter’s Prairie Chapter and now,
NCT range. They recruit the Itasca Moraine Chapter.
and equip maintainers, For many years, Lawrence
communicate with them has been maintaining and
throughout projects, and even relocating Trail, chainsawing,
take on maintenance tasks and building bridges and
themselves on un-adopted puncheon. Since 2018 he has
miles - sometimes spending been mowing and maintaining
entire weekends ensuring the Trail is in great shape. almost 10 miles of Trail His ingenuity is deeply
Brian maintains the Chapter’s equipment. Deb is the lead appreciated: In 2015 while helping the Star of the North
for the PA Hike 50 program for the entire state, tracking Chapter maintain trail, one mower broke down. With no
completion sheets and ensuring patches and certificates tools to fix it, Lawrence solved the problem by mowing a
are delivered. The Charlesons also implemented the couple miles pulling the mower backwards. In addition,
Chapter’s Mile Marker program, installing Carsonite Lawrence purchased his own DR string trimmer/mower
posts along the Trail in Beaver County to aid navigation for trail maintenance and provides his own fuel. He’s
and maintenance efforts. They have been consistent always willing to mow when another adopter is unable to.
contributors to Chapter outreach activities, as well. Last year he said he loved being out on the Trail so much
that he would pay for the privilege.
TRAIL MAINTAINER
Jerry Marek TRAIL MAINTAINER
Jerry joined the Grand Joe Kravetz
Traverse Hiking Club Chapter Joe has been a trail
about 24 years ago. For 22 maintaining dynamo for the
years he has been a sector Heritage Chapter for 15+ years
coordinator overseeing Trail but he really impressed us in
Adopters for 15.5 miles May 2020 when the pandemic
of the NCT north of the caused travel restrictions. Joe
Manistee River, and a Trail is one of the Chapter’s few
Adopter himself for 2.5 of volunteers that lives close to
those miles. He is the trail the Trail. He spent 14 days
crew coordinator, scheduling work sessions along the on the Trail, accompanied by
Chapter’s 100 miles of Trail. He leads the Chapter’s Bethany Thomas for 12 of those days. They managed to
mowing crew and schedules the use of the three mowers. maintain the entire Chapter’s NCT section. Joe attends
As if that’s not enough organizing, Jerry is also the nearly every Chapter work weekend, except once when
contact for Scouts seeking projects on the Trail. Jerry he had surgery. Sometimes he will finish off projects
is currently on the Chapter board, and keeps track of that the Chapter starts: A couple years ago, they ran
volunteer hours at the local nature center to “pay” for the out of time to complete a reroute during a scheduled
use of the facility for Chapter meetings. He is a regular work weekend. Joe hiked over a mile in and completed
at the Chapter’s Michigan Department of Transportation the section on his own over several different days. The
Highway Clean-Up project and the Chapter’s annual Chapter was then able to start a different project the next
fundraiser at the Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, work weekend.
Mich.
northcountrytrail.org Fall 2021 19You can also read
