Your adventure starts near by.
2018 annual report NCTA MISSION: The North Country Trail Association develops, maintains, protects and promotes the North Country National Scenic Trail as the premier hiking path across the northern tier of the United States through a trail-wide coalition of volunteers and partners.
Total miles of Trail off-road in 2018: 3,129
2018 highlights 991 volunteers contributed • Built 51 new miles of Trail and maintained 2,600 more. , representing 66,834 hours • Acquired 24 new Easements and an incredible $1,650,131 Agreements with Landowners. contribution to carrying out • Launched the Next Generation Coalition to engage young Trail the mission of the North supporters. Country Trail. • 1,200 hikers earned their Hike 50 patch, celebrating 50 years of the National Trails System. PHOTOS • Trained 50 new Crew Leaders Top: Wampum, PA Middle: Cazenovia, NY • Released downloadable map series, Bottom: Harbor Springs, MI free to the public.
2 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report From the Executive Director and President of the Board
2018 was an incredible year.
North Country National Scenic Trail Allegheny National Forest Chapter: Map ANF-002 ur volunteers worked harder than ever to build new sections of Trail and maintained thousands of miles of existing Trail. They built new structures, installed new signs, negotiated new easements and led hundreds of hikes to help people connect with the natural world by stepping onto the North Country National Scenic Trail.
NCTA began a new Crew Leader training program to provide the unique skills needed to lead groups of volunteers in the field. We launched the Next Generation Coalition, a group of 18-28 year olds that want to spread the word about the Trail through their networks. We celebrated the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System Act with the addition of a 50 mile challenge to our popular Hike 100 program. And we laid the groundwork for important legislation in US Congress that was passed in early 2019. We released our new
Area 001 - Parking - Camping - POI 002 1/2 mile - NCT technical- On-Road - map seriesOverview 00for3 free download, making them accessible to more people and we continued to expand Intervals 2013 004 - Nearby Trail 50' Contour 007 005 Declination 008 006 Ownership Interval Adjustment 009 010 - Federal our- State - Othenetworkr Projection: UTM 17 NAD8 3of10 .21°trail W 01users,1 partners and supporters which is growing larger every day.
2018 also brought new opportunities to diversify our funding as our donation and grant income continues to grow allowing us to fund more programs and trail projects. Our funding from the National Park Service is steady but our reliance on this funding is continuing to decrease as we grow our other sources of revenue, which gives us more security in an uncertain political climate.
Our donors, partners, volunteers and supporters made all of this possible.
You made it happen and we thank you.
Andrea Ketchmark Tim Mowbray Executive Director President of the Board
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 3 Fulfilling Our Mission
“ I completed part 2 of my three-part section hike of the Superior Hiking Trail. This year I started at Highway 301 trailhead and completed at the Lutsen Mountain Ski Resort.” — Tom Hopper 4 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 5 program highlights
6 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report Volunteerism Trail building Trail protection The North Country Trail simply could not exist and maintenance Our efforts in Trail Protection are growing year without the dedication and passion of the volunteers Maintaining the existing miles of Trail and building after year and we are doing more than ever before to who contribute their time and energy to the Trail. new and increasingly sustainable trail segments is ensure the Trail is permanently protected and future •• 991 Volunteers contributed 66,834 hours in 2018; one of our greatest accomplishments. generations have access to the NCT. a private sector value of $1.6 million. •• We have recorded 3,129 miles of off-road trail, closer •• 24 new Trail Easements and Agreements were •• Over 50 trainees participated in the new Crew Leader than ever to our 4,600-mile goal. established with landowners. Training programs in Minnesota and Michigan. These •• Volunteers constructed 51 miles of new North Country •• NCTA completed the Land Trust Alliance’s ‘Assess new Crew Leaders will help lead Trail work projects and National Scenic Trail in 2018 and improved 2,637 your Organization’ process to get a more thorough train other volunteers. miles of the Trail through maintenance efforts. understanding of the needs and successes of our Trail Protection efforts. •• 23 members joined NCTA’s newly formed Next •• 7,644 feet of puncheon and boardwalk were improved Generation Coalition, an effort to engage Generations during maintenance projects. •• NCTA, NPS and local volunteers celebrated the National Y & Z across the Trail. Park Service’s first land acquisition; protecting 1.5 miles •• 304 new kiosks and signs were installed across the of the Trail in Michigan. Trail, providing better information for Trail users. •• A Memorandum of Understanding was finalized between NCTA, the National Park Service and Michigan Page 6: Allegheny National Forest, PA Department of Natural Resources. Page 7: Left: Butler, PA, Right: Sturgeon River, MI
Develop Maintain Protect Promote
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 7 program highlights
Advocacy Outreach and Trail Use NCTA’s Advocacy Team works across the Trail and in Communication As the nation’s longest National Scenic Trail, the Washington DC to follow important legislation and NCT can be easily accessed in 8 states and provides Sharing our story with the public allows us to issues affecting the Trail. countless ways to enjoy and experience nature. introduce the Trail to new supporters and engage our •• The North Country Trail Route Adjustment Act was community on a deeper level. •• 17 sets of Technical Series maps were published and passed in the House of Representatives in 2018, which made available for free download. The maps were •• NCTA Chapters and Affiliates led 245 hikes and hosted set the stage for its eventual passage in 2019. downloaded 13,487 times in 2018. and attended 125 outreach events to promote the Trail. •• NCTA and partners continue to work closely with the •• NCTA continued the Hike 100 program, encouraging •• NCTA continues to strengthen its online and social Wayne National Forest to ensure the North Country hikers to log 100 miles on the NCT and added a Hike 50 media presence with more content that's more diverse, Trail is considered in their Forest Plan Revision process, program in 2018 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of interesting, and engaging. At the end of 2018, the NCTA setting the standard for other Forests on the NCT. the National Trails System Act. More than 1,000 people Facebook page had nearly 17,000 likes and followers. from 24 states earned their patches for completion and •• We continued to advocate for permanent authorization Our @northcountrytrail Instagram account had 4,000 many more participated in the program. and full funding of the Land and Water Conservation followers and our website, northcountrytrail.org, Fund, a critical program necessary to complete the supported nearly 17,000 active users per month. National Scenic and Historic Trails. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI Photo: Michael Palko Insert photo: Lake Owen Peninsula, WI
8 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report THE NEXT GENERATION The future of the Trail depends on those that come after us.
In 2018 the North Country Trail Association launched a “The prioritization and health of public land depends on the Next Generation Coalition to connect a new generation actions taken by the next generation of environmental stewards. of trail lovers with the goal of getting more young people Young people are at such an advantage to live in a time when involved in outreach, volunteerism and advocacy. communication is efficient, and the desire to do something for This initiative provides a peer to peer experience and a cause is fierce. I believe young people will make a positive offers great opportunity for the growth and development difference in an age where media and culture meet nature.” of the Trail and the organization as well as the personal – Delaini Disher and professional growth of members of the coalition. NCTA’s first Next Generation Outreach Intern Next Generation Coalition members are learning how to connect with the NCT community and gain experience in communication, advocacy initiatives and getting boots-on- the-ground exposure on the Trail itself.
“Being involved with the NCTA has allowed “To advance our mission and encourage me to share my ideas for connecting the the involvement of the next generation, next generation to the trail. We are a group we must continue to foster a meaningful of trail advocates looking to make the relationship between our land and the public NCT a part of your next adventure—and by broadening our outreach efforts to include we’d sure be willing to tag along on the diverse populations. Through advocacy, occasion! Together we can Protect, Inspire, partnerships and social media, I believe we Lead & Live by growing and becoming more can expand our Trail community and secure connected. See you on the trail!” the NCT for generations to come.” – Lacie Tryan – Emily Rodriguez NCTA's 2019 Next Generation Outreach Intern “I'm passionate about getting young people outside to experience the natural world— and to do so in a way that treads lightly on the land. The Trail gives us a place to let our minds and feet wander. I’m really excited to help the coalition bring more young people together to care for our amazing Trail.” – Jaron Cramer
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 9 DECADE Member club
10 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report Lake Ashtabula, ND In 1981, the North Country Trail Association was incorporated as the official “friends” organization for the North Country National Scenic Trail. Since that time, thousands of individuals and households have been members. Some of those members have gone above and beyond, maintaining their membership and actively volunteering with the NCTA for decades.
30 Year + Club Members Pat Allen and Mark Miller Lou Ann Johnson Jack Amelar and Ann Ingersoll Kenneth Gackler Charles Axthelm Wayne and Shirley Gross Patrick Delaney Dennis Hansen Donald and Brita Dorn Anthony Haswell Gene Elzinga Barbara Smith Tom and Jan Gilbert Carol Durling Chris and Helen Haller Milton Jones Byron and Margaret Hutchins James Kenning Harlan Liljequist Robert Krzewinski and Sally Allen Lunn Richard Magyar and Lyria Palas Zora Longworth Glenn Oster Margaret MacRae Thomas Reimers Ralph and Barbara Powell James Sprague Michael Reed Gaylord and Marlene Yost Kent County Parks Donald Beattie John and Lynn Seirup Joseph Brennan Robert Suss Robert Campbell Raymond Vlasak Stewart DeWitt Dinger Lynn Waldron Cecil and Joanne Dobbins Marjory Johnston and Doug Welker Donald Elzinga Finger Lakes Trail Conference, Inc. Elwood Ensor
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 11 decade member club 20-29 year Club Members David and Jean Adams Stephanie Black Marilyn Burfiend Kathleen Disque Jeff and Mary Fleming Alan and Lou Adsmond Frank Blumenthal and Elizabeth Callaway David and Cindy Burgan Lon Dobson Jerry Freels Allegheny Outdoor Club David Boboltz Robert Burris James and Maureen Doull Bettina Frisse Jerry Allen and Connie Pausits-Allen Richard and Sue Boettner David Busse Betsy and Steve Duede Laurence and Harlene Galen R. Marie Altenau Bruce Booth Butler Outdoor Club Martin and Kathy Ann Eggener Tom and Judith Garnett Joyce Appel Andrew Todd Borsum Tim Calloway Kathleen Eisele Louis and Mai Geeraerts Daniel and Constance Arnold Brad and Cheryl Bosley Donnan Christensen Loyal and Bonnie Eldridge Daniel and Julie Geiger Lori Baker Ryan Bowles and Lori Skibbe Sara Cockrell Peter and Michelle Eldridge William and Joanne Gerke Steve Barrows Bob and Judith Bredeweg Mary and William Coffin George and Charlotte Elliott Ruth and Dennis Gilgen Deena Barshney Doug and Kathy Brehm David and Jan Conley Jim Elzinga and Linda Halford Anita Gilleo Thomas Bausman Nancy Brucken Joan Conway Lynn and Lon Emerick Chris Gladieux Kevin Bell Jerry and Christine Brucksch Dave and Jan Cornell Barbara Enger Lorna Goshman Dawn Bennett Patricia Brunner DeWayne and Joan Cox Richard and Sharon Engstrom Peter Gradoni Mark Bissell Brian and Barb Buchanan Tom Dandridge and Lynn Martin Amy and Bryon Ennis John and Carol Gregory Vee Bjornson Jack and Elaine Buege John Diephouse Stephen Eno Paul Haan and Julie Nietling
Manistee River, MI
12 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 20-29 year Club Members Richard and Christine Halbert Stephen Rhodes June E. Thaden Martha Hale Ron Rice Stella and George Thelen Marshall Hamilton Neil and Karen Rinne Charles Thompson Mary and Kathy Hamilton Michael Robinaugh Clinton Tompt Carolyn Sue Hammers Walter and Jodell Rockenstein Michael Trinko Ronald and Kathryn Hand Grace Rudd Turkey's Cafe and Pizzeria Larry and Diane Hawkins Ginny Ruppe Donald Ulsh Carter and Florence Hedeen Jane Ryan Michael E. Unsworth Eric Helfrich Dave and Joyce Salisbury Rudy and Nancy Van Donk Paul Henry Roy Salmon Charles Vannette Denise Herron Michael and Erica SanDretto Werner and Marianne Veit Steven Hicks Daniel Sathre Mary Jo Vent Jim and Gladys Hoogterp Sharaza Saur Leonard and Joan Vetrone Carl and Karen Hooks Mike Schaeffer and Debby Page Jerry and Kathleen Wachter Theodore and Joan Hullar Firman and Cheryl Schiebout Steve and Deb Webster Herbert and Susie Hulls Merl and Pat Schlaack Gary Werner and Melanie Lord Mike Humphreys Bob and Gena Schrems Margaret and Patrick Whaley David Irish Marguerite Schubert Donald and Lynn Wickstra Gary and Cindy Johnson Tony and Richelle Schwaller Arthur Wilkinson Karen Johnson Esther Shaum Kevin Wilson and Robin Raley Paul and Linda Johnson James Siegel Bernie Winter and Cathy Miller Andy Zeek and Peggy Jones Dena Smith and James Wendels Chris Wise Caroline and Robert Jordan George and Patricia Maas Northwestern Ohio Rails-to-Trails Joseph and Karen Smith Dewey and Kay Wobma Sarah and Michael Julien James and Susan Mabee Association Robert and Danielle Smith Rodger and Denise Wolf Jerry and Margaret Keeney Bill Majernik Michael and Virginia O'Keefe Scott Smith John and Kathryn Woodruff James and Joanne Kelly Eugene Majerowicz Eugene Ollila Ted and Alice Soldan Andrew Wright David and Karen Kinnamon Susan Makrianis Ruth Olsen Tom and Liz Solka Duke Yost Peter and Paula Klima Marion Marsh Timothy and Debra O'Rourke Dominic Sosnowski Joan and Omer Young Pollie and Patrick Knight Jim and Arlene Martin Merry Ossenheimer James Spencer Dana and Lisa Zintek Ray and Marj Krumm Arlen and Arlene Matson Rita Oswald Mike and Theresa Stafford Mary Zuk-Domanski Stan and Kay Kujawa Charles and Judith McKay Martin O'Toole Mike and Carol Stasik Shirley LaBonte James McMillan Jeff and Sandra Palmer Bill and Karen Stellema Gordon Lachniet Karen McNew Byron Panasuk Lucy Stopher Al Larmann and Mary Kunzler-Larmann Bill and Donna Menke Bob Papp and Annette Hollister-Papp Margaret Strobel and Bill Barclay John Laughrey Jack Miller and Karen Campbell Peggy Penny Superior Hiking Trail Association Edward and Catherine Lawrence Lisa A. Mink Stephen E. and Kathleen M. Kellan-Pew Marty and Vickie Swank Don Lee Al and Jean Moberly Aaron and Sharon Phipps Robert Swanson John and Pat Leinen Larry and Sophia Morton Gail and Tim Poterack Rolf Swanson David LeRoy Dan and Peggy Mourer Craig and Sue Quimby Janette Sweasy Christopher and Margo Light Richard and Cheryl Naperala Scott and Iola Radtke Irene Szabo Janice Lindstrom Gary Nichols William and Avis Rambo Thomas Szpond Dency Lippert Peter and Deb Nordgren Val Rauceps Bob Tait Ron Lovasz North Dakota Forest Service Thomas Reeber David Tattan Barbara Lyall Edna Northrup Mary Reuchlin Thomas Taylor
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 13 decade member club 10-19 Year Club Members Barbara Abrahamer Remster, Sandy and Cathy Bingham Melissa Cardon Judy Abrams Bruce and Roberta Bishop Theresa Careaga Adams County Travel and Visitors Bureau David and Nancy Blewett Robert and Agnes Carrier Phoebe Alden David Blouin Frank Casenhiser Dave and Judy Allen Mary Jo and David Bobholz Stephen Catherman David and Joyce Anderson Andrew Boddy and Marilyn Chadwick Jane and Clyde Anderson Kimberly Trumbull-Boddy Dave Chalk Louise Anderson Thelma Boeder Steve Chapman Philip Anderson and Valerie Kozlovsky Carl Boesel Jim Charvat, Charvat’s Automotive John and LuAnne Andersson Richard and May Bohjanen Dale and Kathy Chesley Cindy Angerhofer Robert Borak Kay Christensen Raymond Antel Border Route Trail Association Charles Church Jim Antonson Evert Bos Blake Michael Clark Patricia Arvilla Chris Botkin and Holly Jennings Mary Jo Clark Richard Ashbacker Robert and Constance Bouchard Peter, Beverly and Timothy Clover Deven Atkinson Jeff and Freya Bowen Suzanne Cohen Larry and Karen Baar Jon and Kathy Bowen Donald Collins Loren Bach and Dave Martus Leslie Bowen Mike Collins and JoAnn Brede Brian and Elizabeth Bachynski Zach and Ben Braunel Del Compton John and Sue Backes David Brewer Thomas Cook Steve and Karen Bade Clayton Brillhart Bob Cooley Sonja Baertsch Dale Brokaw Teresa and John Coolman Greg and Laurie Bailey James A Bronson Donald Cornue Ken Ballema Barbara Brown Bill Courtois and Anne Finlayson Terry Ballinger Bob and Ruth Brown Robert Courtois William and Jennifer Bandy Charles and Janet Brown Bob Covey John and Nancy Barrows Keith and Dorothy Brown Gayle Coyer Patt Bartig Robert Bruce James and Miriam Crandall Gene and Liz Bavis Mike and Bonnie Brunett Tom and Jeanne Crosby Sondra Beach Kristen and Glen Bruxvoort Marian Crossman Jeriel Beard James and Annette Brzezicki William Currie John R. and Kay Beguhn Joanna and Mike Buboltz Diane and Larry Dahl Donald and JoAnn Belanger Phyllis Buchwalder Carl Daiker Bill Belitskus Robert Buerki Roy and Laurie Dando Laura DeGolier Tim and Janice Donahue Elizabeth Bell James and Sharon Buhr James Darabi Kathryn Denhouter James and Debbie Donaldson Robert and Thurza Bender Dorothy Buquo Bill and Margie Darooge Roland Derksen Ruth and Dan Dorrough Bob and Nancy Benham Frank Burditt Cameron Dasch Jacob and Carol Detrie Michael Doyle Betty Benson Terry Burns and Claire Duquette Verl Dasher Charlene and Marvin DeWitt Roy Dray Gerry and Deb Berg Bruce and Julie Busta Bruce and Sandra Davis Roderick and Barbara Dibble Eric and Kathleen Dreier Jan Berg Butler County Tourism and Mary and Bill Davis Donald Dickmann and Kathleen McKevitt Skip and Lori Duchesneau Mary Berube and John Schrock Convention Bureau Matthew and Stacy Davis David Diephouse John Dulik William Beute James Byrne Robert and Barbara Davis Garrett and Sydney Dill Michael and Pam Dundas Jan P. Bilden Jonathan Call Robert Davis David and Carol Dixen Tom and Marianne Duvendack Bill and Paul's Sporthaus Joe and Sharon Callahan William and Kathleen Davis Ted and Melissa Dohnal Jan Ealy Anne and Greg Billiard Raymond and Sara Camilli Don and Bonnie Dealing
14 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 10-19 Year Club Members M.J. Eberhart James Garthe Maribeth Helgesen Bette Jackson Allan M. Kelly Fred and Jean Eckel Duane Gebhard and Jennifer Alan Herdzik Donald and Donna Jacobs Arnold Kepple Henry Eckhardt Therkilsen-Gebhard Charlene Herron-Jordan Randall Jacobson John and Barb Kersey Scott and Terri Edick Patti Gehring Gerard Hilferty and Jackie Fokes Darleen Jarman Robert Kibbe Carolyn Edmunds Connie Geinert Bobbie Hineline Neil Jeddeloh Thomas and Debra King Fred Elmore Amanda Gibson Bill Hinton and Sharon Simons Ken Jeffery Steve and Ann Kinne Cheryl Emoto James Gilkey Raymond Hoag Mark Jenness and Cheryl Lyon-Jenness Donn and Kristine Kipka William Endres John E. Gilrein Margo Hodder William and Robin Jindra Peter Klaver Lynnette and Gordon Engdahl Curtis Glasoe Marc and Christine Hoeksema Lorana Jinkerson Peter and Lonhilt Klose Jacque and Douglas Erdman Curt and Shelley Gledhill Alicia, Chris and Stephanie Hoffarth Bruce and Linda Johnson Gary Kocher Randy Eshenroder Mark Glendon Carolyn Hoffman Deanna Johnson A.A. Koeller Lynn and Jim Evans Lynn Glesne Matson and Deborah Holbrook Gerald Johnson Bobby and Deb Koepplin Paul and Sherri Ewing James Glockner Bill Holland and Kim Steffes Kirk Johnson Cheryl Konkol-Broullire Harold and Eleanor Fairbanks Donald and Lynn Godfrey Mark Holm Mark and Mary Johnson David Kotzian Eileen Fairbrother Daniel Gold Marilyn Holmes Dale and Harriet Jones Charles and Verle Krammin Alan Fark Aubrey Golden Tim and Beth Holst Daniel Jones Sue Kranz Francis and Laura Farwell Dave Goodman Alice Holwerda Tom Jones Donald Krause Dennis and Verna Fay Timothy Goodman Lori Honrath Lois Judd Joseph J. Kravetz John and Patricia Fey Joan Gossner Marilyn Hoogstraten Thomas Kaiser Cheryl and Mark Kreindler Frank John Fishman Morgan Grasso and Linda Jindrich James and Tena Hop Martin J. Kalishek Andy Krell Douglas and Catherine Flanagan Richard Gray Jan and Katherine Horak John Kanieski John Kroha Nancy Fleming and Bob Smallwood James and Jane Gregoire Tom Hord and Mary Wieter-Hord Carol and Hans-Peter Kappus Joseph and Cindy Krueger Peter and Laurel Fleszar and Krista Cessna Jim and Brecken Gries Jim and Kaye Houk Eileen Karnavas Kurt and Lori Krueger Charles Fletcher Ro and Kay Grignon Patricia Hudelson Roger Karsten Reginald and Lucia Krueger William and Barbara Fletcher Richard Grossman Pete Hudelson David and Nancy Kauppi Norman Kuchar Mark Fodness Ed and Rennae Gruchalla Brian Huschle Mike Keeler and Sherry Hayden Quinton and Pat Kuebler Kathleen Foote Gary and Soonok Gulish Dawn Ishida Brenda Keener Ronald Kustra Foothills Trail Club Edsel and Lorraine Gunderson Barbara Isom and Charles Todd Robert and Carol Keller Ray Kuzia Geoffrey Force Mark and Sarah Halvorsen Marge Forslin Dan and Margaret Hamilton Teri Foust Harvey Hanna Jr. Ken Fowler Roger and Laurie Hanson Dwight and Janet Fox Howard Hardy Joanna Frank David and Susanna Harper Mark Frankland Harvey Harris Doug and Cheryl French Tim and Ellen Hass Mervin and Rachel Frey Myron Hawkins Charles and Anne Frihart Lee Hayes Amy Froiland Patrick and Mary Hayes Jackson Alexander Fry Walter Hayes Catherine Gadbaw Andy and Kelley Hazel David Galbreath John Heiam and Lois Goldstein Tom and Pam Gardner Keith Hein Earl Garn Phyllis Heinze Dennis and Cathy Garrett Becky and Daryl Heise
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 15 decade member club 10-19 Year Club Members John and Kathy Kwapinski Charles Otis John and Karen LaFond Barbara and Don Owens Scott and Mary Lagaard Scott Parker Cal and Jean Lamoreaux Brian Parks Harold Lane Richard Parks Paul Lane Derrick and Cheryl Passe Bruce and Stacy Langlois Deborah Patterson-Whelsky John Larch and Mary Campbell Bob and Janet Patton Gayle Larson Brian and Barb Pavek Shemaya Laurel Viviana Pawlick Duane Lawton John and JoAnn Pearson Robert Lazar Scott and Donna Pendleton Robert and Jane Leedle Mark and Heidi Pengra Edwin and Judith Leonard Mary Peters Laura Leso Dennis and Jennifer Peterson Mary Letts Kim Peterson Dick Lightcap Dale Petty and Jeannine Palms Gene and Shirley Link Heather Peyton Eric Longman Larry Pio and Suzanne Darling Terry Lowery Robert and Ellen Pisor Hank Ludtke Cindy and Jim Polega Lorraine Lund Chuck Polonowski Bill Lundberg Robert and Connie Pond Mike and Donna Lynch Dennis and Roxanne Potter Frank Lynn Richard and Elizabeth Pratt Mary MacDonald Paul Praus Dennis McCurdy Steve Miller Gary Narum Pierre MacGillis Thomas and Cathleen Prieto Michael McGraw Allan Mills Peter and Lynne Nason Edward Mackus John and Patti Prusila Chris McIntyre Mike Minium Travis and Mink Neely Judy Malaski Daniel Raish Tamara McLain Tom and Mary Moberg Bob Nesheim Sheila Malleis Eric Ramstad Patrick McNabb and Ann Yokiel Tom Mohler Helga Neugebauer Melanie Mantos Patricia Rathmann Robert and Pat McNamara Patrick Monahan Stan Newill Jerry and Karen Marek Mary Ann and Larry Rebert Scott McNaught Diane Morand James Nici Rebecca Marjonen Robert Reeves Marjorie McRoberts Jean-Pierre Moreau Erik Nielsen Pat Martin John Regenhardt Peter and Natalie Melcarek Bethann Morgan Eric and Kendra Nordgren James and Sydney Massee Daniel Rehner Connie Mendyk Roger Morrison Todd Nordgren and Elliott Post Jim and Norma Matteson Rick and Deb Reis Larry Meyer and Sharon Schaafmeyer Edwin Morse Kent and Jill Nordin Bruce and Linda Matthews John Rethman Emily Meyerson David Moscatello and Ann Dixon John and Ann Norlund Willis Mattison James and Mary Richards Richard and Jeanne Micka Timothy and Sue Mowbray North Dakota Game and Fish Dept. Ted and Jane Mauger Christina Rizzo Paul Miedona Craig and Kathi Mulder Jaron Nyhof Dave Maxwell R. Quincy Robe Jean Miewald George and Judith Mullison Connie Lou Ogg Dan and Mary Mayhew Keith and Ardath Robertson Carl and Nancy Miller Mark Murphy Roger Olsen Fred and Kathy Maynard Michael Robinson and Donna Daines Don and Joan Miller Barb and Scott Myckowiak Prudence Olson Curt and Betty McCabe Barb and Mike Rodenberg Eeva and Bob Miller Tom and Peg Myers Ric Olson and Pam Iacullo Maureen McCarthy Anthony Rodriguez Josephine Miller Andrew and Elwira Mytys Richard and Carol Ostheimer Chuck and Bev McCready Dan and Betty Rogalla
16 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 10-19 Year Club Members Gail T. Rogne Thomas Shaffer and Carol Hegland Jo Taylor Cynthia Warren Andrew Zbikowski Kathleen Rollins Nessia Shafransky and John Fugelso Lawrence Taylor Jay and Darlene Warren Robert Zeilenga Edward Ronkowski Tim and Mary Shepardson Thomas Tefft Nancy Warren Richard Zeman Sandra Roobol Greg Sheridan William Tennant Cindy Webreck Paul Zielinski and Sharen Furman Peggy Roth and Kenneth Coon Randy Shoemaker and Anne Guyot Christine Tews Kris Wegerson and John Ipsen Cindy Zientarski James Rowe John Shreves Doug Thomas Jim Weiske Kenneth Zimmer E. Alan Rumbaugh Frederick Silver Susan Thompson John and Lynn Wellinghoff Lynda Rummel and Rolf Zerges Linda Singer Scott Tichy Frederick and Catherine Wenn Gregory Russo Martha Sjogren David Tonnies Jacqui Wensich Mike and Pamela Ryan Curt Slabaugh Mike and Tina Toole James Wessel Walker and Donna Walker Patricia Ryan Ann and Mark Smith Ken Trana and Dale Carmen Steven Wester Bill (Soupie) and Merriam Ryding Edwin Smith John Tremore Western UP Convention and Arthur and Paula Saari Julia Smith Jocelyn Power Trepte Visitors Bureau Ronald Saccol Martyn Smith Mike and Cheryl Trieschmann Greg Westrick Ron and Nancy Saeger Nancy Smith Fred and Chris Tritschler Ted and Nancy Weyerhaeuser Larry Sampson Mary Snitgen Jerry and Beth Trout Steven A. Whistler Ruth Saunders David Snoek Peter Trussell Neil Whitbeck Michael Saxton John Sobaszko and Margaret Ann O’Brien Daphne Turner Donald Whitney Daniel and Nancy Schiebel JoEllen Sokoloski Karen Tuttle Paul Wiedeman Kurt H. Schindler Stephen and Betty Sondrol Roger and Rebecca Tuuk Michael and Linda Wilkey Lewis Schlanbusch Ronald and Linda Sootsman William Twiddy John Williamson Douglas Schleef Betty Jo and Wes Sorenson Robert and Gail Ulrich Larry Willis and Robyn Ellis Robert and Jennifer Schlick Michael Springer and Valley City Convention Visitors Bureau Channan Willner Lona Schmidt Michele Moran-Springer David A. Van Baak Jack and Sanda Willsey John and Marge Schmitt Patrick St. Germain and Maggie MacDevitt Gail Van Haren Gene Wimmer Dennis Schoenick St. Ignace Visitors Bureau Sarah Van Leer and Bruce Roth David Wingrove and Ann Borkhuis John Schroeder Jim and Nancy Stamm Douglas and Debbie Vandenberg Vince and Antoinette Winklerprins Walter and Mardene Schuiling Clifford and Nancy Stammer David VanderBee Todd and Jennifer Winnell Michael Schultz Mark and Cynthia Stange Mark and Rachel VanHornweder Diane Winston Willliam and Donna Schumell Robert Steeneck Tim and Nancy VanNest Chad Wise John and Ann Schuster Alice Stehle Vincent Vannicola David and Jennifer Wissink Mike and Cindy Schwehr Robert Stein Phillip and Betty VanNoord John and Patti Wojtowicz Bruce Schwenke and Paula Young Karen Stenberg David and Theresa Vanveelen Mike and Barbara Wollmer Sieglinde and Horst Schwinge Mary Stenberg and Rick Pomerleau Jeffrey and Nancy VanWinkle Douglas and Barbara Wood Lee and Polly Scotland Ellen H. Stephenson Tammy Veloski James and Shirley Wood Ed and Norma Jean Scurry Susan Stimmel Lewis Vespoli Dave Wright Ernest Mahlke and Heide Seaman-Mahlke Pam Stonehouse Richard Wade Gary Wright Doug Seaney Jan Stowman John and Mary Jo Wagar Quinn Wright Peter and Linda Seed Gary Strand John and Sandra Wagner Ronald and Laurie Wurst Lake Ashtabula, ND Jeffrey Seiple Michael Streibel Wahpeton Visitors Committee Peter Wybron Stephen Selden James and Cristina Sunstrum George and Dorothy Wallace Jack Wykoff Scott and Nancy Sellers Richard Swanson Jon and Judy Walter Mary Kay and Stephen Wysham Bernard and Phyllis Senske Douglas Szper Thomas Wappes Chris and Amy Yoder Perry Severance Dick Taylor Jeffrey and Danielle Ward John Zadvinskis Gary and Susan Sexton Jay and Christine Taylor Jerry Warner Walter Zarnoch
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 17 funding Our MISSION
Superior Hiking Trail, MN
18 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 19 major Giving
Superior Hiking Trail, MN
20 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report Funding the tremendous mission of the North Country Trail Association takes many generous and faithful supporters and partners. As we seek to fulfill our goal to make the North Country Trail the premier footpath across America’s northern heartlands, we sincerely appreciate the sacrificial and thoughtful support of all of our donors. $25,000 and up Colcom Foundation Lux Foundation National Park Foundation REI Foundation
Founders Circle Trail Champion Trail Guardian $10,000-$24,999 $2,500-$4,999 Lorana Jinkerson Peter Bennett and Julie Davey Tom and Mary Moberg Butler County Tourism and Nicholas Funds Convention Bureau Partnership for the National Trails System Mike* and Renee Chapple The Outdoor Foundation John Heiam and Lois Goldstein John and Cyndi Woollam Bruce and Linda Johnson Margaret MacRae Trail Leader Melinda and Jerry McCarty $5,000-$9,999 Timothy* and Sue Mowbray Anonymous Elizabeth Nickel Larry Bell Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Inc. Betty A. Lewis Environmental Lynda Rummel and Rolf Zerges Charitable Trust Jan Ulferts Stewart* and Jim Stewart Laura DeGolier Raymond Vlasak Jerry* and Nancy Fennell Walmart Foundation Cheryl* and Mark Kreindler Quinn Wright* Jim and Eleanor Mitton * Indicates a NCTA Board Trustee Scheels
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 21 major giving Founders Circle
Trail Blazer Trail Builder $1,000 - $2,499 $500-$999 Pat Allen and Mark Miller Anonymous Randy Eshenroder The Gear Junkie Brian and Elizabeth Bachynski 3M Foundation Family of God Community Church Toledo Refining Company Mel Baughman Ken Adams David Galbreath Anne Torrey Nemer and Eli Nemer Mary and William Coffin Adirondack Mountain Club - Onondaga Chapter Tom and Jan Gilbert Mike and Cheryl Trieschmann Dave and Jan Cornell Amazon Smile Foundation Great Lakes Endurance, LLC Jerry and Beth Trout Ruth* and Dan Dorrough Jamie and Chris Anderson Dan and Margaret Hamilton Roger and Rebecca Tuuk Skip and Lori Duchesneau Loren Bach and Dave Martus Sarah and Michael Julien Mark* and Rachel VanHornweder Tracy Dulak and Dominic Bragg Mike and Bonnie Brunett Andrea Ketchmark# Jeffrey* and Nancy VanWinkle Carol and Ron Enger John and Sandra Wagner Finger Lakes Trail Conference, Inc. Rob and Janet Carr Family Foundation Lands End Inc FM Area Foundation Julie Caswell and Richard Rogers Karen Larsen and Colin Alworth Stephen* and Karen Walker Fun Corps LLC Civil Design Solutions, Inc. Robert and Jane Leedle Wampum Chapter NCTA Dennis* and Cathy Garrett Bob Cooley Louis and Nellie Sieg Fund, LoPrete Family Foundation Gary Werner and Melanie Lord Carter and Florence Hedeen Jane and Cliff Denay Molly, Quentin and Lydia McMullen-Laird Pamela and Ryan Campbell Bob Jennings and Barbara Bott Garrett and Sydney Dill Dan and Peggy Mourer Todd and Jennifer Winnell Dale and Harriet Jones Roy Dray Gayle Newman Everest and Chip Everest Joseph and Cindy Krueger Marjorie and Charles Dumanois Northwest Bank * Indicates a NCTA Board Trustee David Olsen and Michelle Lackey Olsen Robert and Patti Dunning Thomas and Jane Norton Bill# and Donna Menke # Indicates a NCTA Staff Member Lance and Pam Ebenstein Rita Oswald Noquemanon Trails Network Brian and Barb Pavek Dennis Pace and Anne Grofvert Ron Rice Penn Soil RC & D Council John and Marge Schmitt Larry Pio* and Suzanne Darling Richard and Leslie Platte, Jr. Jeanne and Michael Sekely Suzanne and John Riley James and Cristina Sunstrum Steve and Tiffany Scheel Mark Sylstad Paul and Lori Spoelstra T & C Markets IM, Inc. Clifford and Nancy Stammer John and Tracy Texter The Tassell-Wisner-Bottrall Foundation Doug Thomas Traverse City Track Club We are grateful for all of our supporters United Refining Company who helped make 2018 the successful Werner and Marianne Veit year it was. Without you we would not be able to share all the great William Vogt and Claire Eberwein accomplishments celebrated in this report. Jim Weiske Thank You
22 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report CONTRIBUTORS $100-499 Anonymous (17) Alison and David Edgerton Judy Abrams John Edmands David and Jean Adams Gregory Edwards Agile Defense Inc Sandy and Mark Ehlert Akeley Township Kathleen Eisele Robin Alanen-Mosher and Larry Mosher Jim and Jill Eisele Phoebe Alden Loyal and Bonnie Eldridge Dave and Judy Allen Cheryl Emoto Jack Amelar and Ann Ingersoll Jacque and Douglas Erdman American Refining Group Inc Steven Eriksson Ameriprise Financial Paul and Sherri Ewing Randall Ames Harold and Eleanor Fairbanks Bruce Anderson Grant Fenner and Renee Dodea Roberta and John Anderson Catherine Ferguson and Jim DuBay James and Jane Anklam John and Patricia Fey Mark Anstaett Kathy Fisher Raymond Antel William Fisher John Archambeault and Lynn Barry Frank John Fishman Julie Ann Arneth Jeff and Mary Fleming Daniel and Constance Arnold Nancy Fleming and Bob Smallwood Arlyn and Sandy Aronson H. Robert Foerster Alannah Atley Foothills Trail Club Tom and Barb Auer Russell and Colleen Ford-Dunker Charles Axthelm Terry and Lori Foster Jordan Bach Sara and Gordon Bolan John and Christine Clement Jr Mary and Bill Davis Joanna Frank Joe Baldino Rick Bothwell Fred and Mary Clinton Robert and Barbara Davis Mark Frankland Ken Ballema Gregory Boyer Timothy and Mary Clulo Matthew# and Stacy Davis William and Barbara Franz William and Jennifer Bandy Philip Brandt Donald Collins Robert and Patricia Davis Charles and Anne Frihart John and Nancy Barrows Gail Brayden Jim E. Colten Grace M. Davis David Fry Sarah Bass Patricia Brewer and Kenneth Betz Bob and Louise Conradi John and Dove Day Shelby and Daniel Gangloff Bavarian Haus Lakefront Inn Lynn Broaddus and Marc Gorelick Joe and Ann Constance Dayton Foundation Depository, Inc. GE Foundation Gene and Liz Bavis Keith and Dorothy Brown Douglas Cooper DC UL Backpacking Robert and Judy Geisler Dave Beadle and Joanie Wiersma Cindy Brown Dar Costello and Marj Green Jeffrey and Susan Dean C. Mitchell and Jeane George Lori and Kacey Bean Gary Brown Michael Costello JoAnn and Terry DeBey John and Lori Gerard Donald Beattie Bret and Allison Brummel Bill Courtois and Anne Finlayson Robert and Sally Decker William and Joanne Gerke Rebecca and Eric Beck Kristen and Glen Bruxvoort Robert Courtois Bruce Dennis Fred and Elaine Gewirtz Scott Beckett Buckhorn David and Anita Cowles Dale Marie DeZeeuw Amanda Gibson Katherine Bemish Larry and Nancy Buege Jay and Page Cowles Donald Dickmann and Kathleen McKevitt James Gilkey Steve Bender and Carolyn St. George Paul and Debra Bush DeWayne and Joan Cox John and Jeanne Diebel Jean Ginop Bob and Nancy Benham Butler County Chapter NCTA Laura and Stephen Crowley David Diephouse James Glockner Betty Benson Michael and Marie Byars William Currie Jennifer and Dan Doan Timothy Goodman Josh* and Megan Berlo Edward and Linda Calhan Bill Curry Charles and Barbara Dobis Janet Krueger and Bruce Goodman Lisa Bertolasio Dana Callihan Susanne, Kim and JJ Cyranoski Donald and Brita Dorn Rick Gotts Janet Bewley and David Saetre Denny Caneff John Daberkow Paul and Mardy Dovre Peter Gradoni Bill and Paul's Sporthaus Caterpillar Foundation Joe Dabes and Kathy Brennan Eric and Kathleen Dreier Richard Gray Norm Bistodeau and Andrew Mitchell Causecast Foundation Kristin and Jeff Dahl Michael and Pam Dundas Great Lakes Adventure Club Mark Blanding Michael Cecil Tom Dahle and Karen Oby Bruce and Kathy Dziadzio Great Lakes Electrical Plus David and Nancy Blewett Jonathan Chorle Carl Daiker Ron Dziurda and Jane Bellezza-Dziurda Jim and Brecken Gries Jack Bley Lynda and Richard Chudy Philip and Diana Danielson EarthShare Ro and Kay Grignon Thelma Boeder Mary Jo Clark Bill and Margie Darooge Henry Eckhardt Carol and Jeff Groth
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 23 major giving CONTRIBUTORS $100-499 Ed and Rennae Gruchalla Linda Mansfield Arlin Nikolas Gunflint Lodge and Outfitters Pamela March Gail and Jerry Noller Robert and Sheridan Haack James and Sydney Massee Peter and Deb Nordgren John and Cindi Haag Pam Masterson Jack Norland Paul Haan and Julie Nietling Jim and Norma Matteson North Country Brewing Co. Wendy Hahn Bruce and Linda Matthews North Dakota Game and Fish Dept. Chris and Helen Haller Phyllis Matthews Daniel Nydick Mary and Kathy Hamilton Willis Mattison Gail O’Connor Marshall Hamilton Dan and Mary Mayhew Connie Lou Ogg Nancy Hamlin Fred and Kathy Maynard Wendy Ogilvie Kristen Hands Michael and Pam Mazor Thomas Oliphant Hannah, Brett, Isaac and Betty Harriman Elena and Eleftheria Mazur Ric Olson and Pam Iacullo Harvey Harris Wallace McAnlis Timothy and Debra O'Rourke Thomas Miller Harris and Cynthia Harris William McCain and Ingrid Tanner Michael Osborne Lisa Harris Steve and Linda McCallum Charles Otis Allison Hart-Young Chuck and Bev McCready Charles and Lori Palumbo Tarin# and Bob Hasper Tammy McGaughey Bob Papp and Annette Hollister-Papp Steve Hatting Jim McInnis Parkers Hardware, Inc. Larry and Diane Hawkins Kerry McKenney Brian Parks Myron Hawkins Michael and Susan McKiernan Alan Gillotte and Paige Patterson Greg Hazle Susan McPhee Matthew and Kimberly Patterson Clyde and Debby Hecox Gary and Cindy Johnson Jeffrey and Margaret Landon Linda McReynolds Mary Ann Patti and Andrew Hancock Randy Heldt Robert Johnson John Larch and Mary Campbell Marjorie McRoberts Carolyn and Christopher Patullo Richard and Roberta Henderson Kenneth Johnson Harry and Lynn Larsick Andrew Mehan Jr. Viviana Pawlick Debbie Hendrickson Andy Zeek and Peggy Jones Lara Larson Dale Meindertsma Scott and Donna Pendleton Michael Hennrick Lois Judd Harold and Pam Lassers Peter and Natalie Melcarek James and Debbie Penley Sarah Heppenstall Carol and Hans-Peter Kappus Edward and Catherine Lawrence Chris Melfi Anne Pettigrew Denise Herron James and Joanne Kelly Duane Lawton Megan and Jeff Meyering Chester and Lori Pflugrad Dakota Hewlett Linda Kendrick Robert Lazar Janet Miller Aaron and Sharon Phipps Barry and Karen Hill Janice and Clay Kessler Mary Leff Steve Miller James and Karen Pierce David Hoffmeyer Kelley Ketchmark Kathleen C. Leh Eeva and Bob Miller Piragis Northwoods Company, Inc. Bill Holland and Kim Steffes Michael and Laurie Kibler Bruce Lemmons and Anna Belu Susan L Miller Stephen R. Plaisted Elizabeth Holland and Mike Choate John Kiczek and Christine Seuffert Damian Leonard John Miller Charles and Lynn Poat Jesse Holle and Wendy Vidlak Steve and Ann Kinne Christopher and Margo Light Michael and Mary Mishou Portage Brewing Company Jim and Gladys Hoogterp Tom Kittel Dick Lightcap Bruce Money Samuel and Denise Porter Alan Hopp and Madison Ziemer John Knepley Harlan Liljequist Raymond Moon-Gabet Gregory and Jill Post Tom Hord and Mary Wieter-Hord Morley and Jim Knoll Phillip and Laura Lindstrom Mary Ann Moore Tom and Jill Postema Rachel Horos Wayne and Cheryl Koesling Dale and Carol Linton Marjorie and Roger Moore Gail and Tim Poterack Bob and Merrill Horswill Rhonda Kohls-Dailey Eric Longman Diane Morand Richard and Elizabeth Pratt James and Evelyn Howell Walter and Kimberly Korn Richard Lord and Sue Jeffers Melissa Morgan and Thomas Bedient Paul Praus Hubbard County Nancy Kowaleski and Joshua Bova Ron Lovasz Roger Morrison Thomas and Cathleen Prieto Matthew Hurner Steven and Gwyndlyn Krause Dawn Lovisa Edwin Morse John and Patti Prusila Steven Huyser-Honig Jerry Krause Annie and Patrick Luckey David Moscatello and Ann Dixon William and Avis Rambo Todd and Brenda Ingstad Reginald and Lucia Krueger Adriane Ludwick Craig Mulhinch Karl Rambo and Molly Murphy David Irish Norman Kuchar Paul Lukens Craig W and Nancy Mullenbrock John and Jeanne Rarick Warren and Missy Irle Stan and Kay Kujawa George and Patricia Maas Lee and Debra Mundy Andy Rayner Gary and Terry Isham Julianna M. Kunselman Mary MacDonald Sarah and Michael Musil Mary Ann and Larry Rebert Barbara Isom and Charles Todd James Kure and Karen Smith David Mackley Network for Good Barbara Reed Randall Jacobson Scott and Mary Lagaard Mary and Keith Magnusson Bill and Ginny Newman John Regenhardt Chris Janovich Lake Region Healthcare Foundation Tim Makinen Erik Nielsen John Restall Peter Jobe Cal and Jean Lamoreaux Judy Malaski Emily Nietering Timothy and Liza Reynolds
24 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report CONTRIBUTORS $100-499 Amelia and Kedron Rhodes Ken and Tami Seavoy Don Strohpaul Steve, Mary and Chase Vear Mike Wolesky and Susan Lindoo Rachel Rice Peter and Linda Seed Michael Stuart Anthony Veit Rodger and Denise Wolf Ann Riley-Gawura William and Mary Seeger Carol and John Stuht Mark Wadopian Peter Wood Mark and Kathy Roberts Stephen Selden Blair Sullivan and Jennifer Jull-Sullivan John and Mary Jo Wagar James and Carole Wortley Keith and Ardath Robertson Perry Severance Superior Hiking Trail Association Julia Waggoner Gary Wright Walter and Jodell Rockenstein Martin Sheill Craig Swaggert and Tanna Moore Wakefield Chamber of Commerce Michael Wright Barb and Mike Rodenberg Judith Shepelak and George Vinyard Rebecca and Richard Swartzlander Laura Waldo Ronald and Laurie Wurst John Rogers Mark and Anne Marie Shermetaro Irene Szabo George and Dorothy Wallace Jack Wykoff Gail T. Rogne Randy Shoemaker and Anne Guyot Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub Lisa Wandel Mary Kay and Stephen Wysham Geraldine Rogness John Shreves Bob Tait Jeffrey and Danielle Ward Marilyn Yeates and George Weidner Rachel Rogness Frederick Silver David Tattan Dave and Patty Warner Don Yokom Bill and Jeanne Rokos Lara Sims Dick Taylor Jay and Darlene Warren Gaylord and Marlene Yost Cheryl Ross Elizabeth and Greg Skau June E. Thaden Helen Watson Joseph and Joanna Younger Randy and Anne Ruch Bradford and Lynne Slagle The Benevity Community Impact Fund Kris Wegerson and John Ipsen Charlene Zebley P. Kathryn Russell Lynne Smith and Robert Rourke The Progressive Insurance Foundation Don Weigel William Zellman Jim Rypkema Dominic Sosnowski The Voyageur Trading Post Marsha Wells Yates and Taylor Yates Jr Ned and Kathy Zuelsdorff Kathryn Saice James Sprague Heather Tichy Tim Werkema Mary Zuk-Domanski Philip and Elizabeth Samuels Patrick St. Germain and Maggie MacDevitt David and Stephanie Tigges Tim and Leah Westmoreland Mark Zwart Sault Wesleyan Church St. Ignace Visitors Bureau Shirley and Michael Timbermann Neil Whitbeck Ruth Saunders Mike and Theresa Stafford Mike and Tina Toole Alan and Allison White Mike Schaeffer and Debby Page Ric Stanford Brian and Rita Toole Ellen Whitehead We have made every effort to make Merl and Pat Schlaack Mike and Carol Stasik Joe and Fern Torok Donald and Terrie Wicks these lists as accurate as possible and Douglas Schleef Donald and Karen Stearns John Townsend Donald and Lynn Wickstra to publicly acknowledge all of our donors Joann Schmidt and Roy Schwarz Steelcase Foundation Township of Lake Emma Carrie and Dennis Wiggins in accordance to their wishes. If we have Michael Schmidt Alice Stehle Thorpe Township Michael and Martha Willett omitted or incorrectly reported your gift, George and Sharon Schmit Robert Stein Trendway Corporation Steve Williams and Lesley Beebe please accept our apology and contact our Kristen Schmitt Deb and Fred Steketee Turkey's Cafe and Pizzeria Larry Willis and Robyn Ellis Development Director, Greg McAleenan at Donald Schott Nancy and Mark Stesney David Van Kley Diane Willman (616) 897-5987 ext. 5. Bob and Janice Schuelke Mark and Margaret Stevens Juli Van Woert Kevin Wilson and Robin Raley Bradley Schwartz Tammi Steyn Douglas and Debbie Vandenberg Magnus Wilson Ed and Norma Jean Scurry William Stone David VanderBee Gene Wimmer Brenda and Melissa Scurry Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply James and Ellen VanIwaarden Vince and Antoinette Winklerprins Carol Seacord and Tracy Baij Pam Stonehouse Grace VanLaanen Brad and Joan Wire Deborah Sears Michael Streibel Vincent Vannicola Dewey and Kay Wobma
Left: Manistee National Forest, MI Right: On the Buckeye Trail. Camp Oty'Okwa, OH
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 25 Tribute Giving
26 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report Every year, many thoughtful trail supporters decide to honor their friends and family members with a gift in memory of, or in honor of those they care about. These gifts, known as “tribute” gifts are a growing part of the support that helps move the mission of the trail forward and honor loved ones at the same time.
Made in Honor of Made In Memory of Eugene Branigan In Honor of David Beadle Agile Defense Inc. In Memory of Jim Rarick Sheila Copeland In Honor of Ed Scurry Robin Alanen-Mosher and Larry Mosher In Memory of Reino Alanen Amy and Mike Formica In Honor of Pam and Steve Forrester Jamie and Chris Anderson In Memory of Joseph Clewley Rachel Horos In Honor of Sue Harvey Brown Katie Arwood In Memory of Joshua Fish Lynne Ellen Kaiser In Honor of Alison Myers Mary and Robert Beals In Memory of Martha Leppanen Lands End Inc. In Honor of Bill Menke Mary Ann Bonner In Memory of Jim Rarick Lara Larson In Honor of Mike Toole Jonathan Chorle In Memory of Jim Rarick Mary and Keith Magnusson In Honor of Jan and Jim Stewart James Cochran AFCENT/CSC In Memory of Jim Rarick William McCain and Ingrid Tanner In Honor of Val and John McCain Grace M. Davis In Memory of James W. Davis Sarah and Michael Musil In Honor of Nora and Fred Karsch Marjorie and Charles Dumanois In Memory of Donna Haynes Thomas and Jane Norton In Honor of Dwight Norton Catherine Ferguson and Jim DuBay In Memory of Ruth Bergquist Brenda and Melissa Scurry In Honor of Ed Scurry Tom and Jan Gilbert In Memory of Wes Boyd Deb and Fred Steketee In Honor of Mary MacDonald Shirley Hollister In Memory of Jim Rarick Jim Stewart and Jan Ulferts Stewart In Honor of Gail and Trana Rogne Warren and Missy Irle In Memory of Don Sutliff Jim Stewart and Jan Ulferts Stewart In Honor of Ed and Rennae Gruchalla Lorana Jinkerson In Memory of Martha Leppanen Jim Stewart and Jan Ulferts Stewart In Honor of Bill and Ginny Newman Linda Kendrick In Memory of Jim Rarick Heather Tichy In Honor of Jackie Olson Thomas and Debra King In Memory of Leita M. Antonson Lynsii Ward In Honor of Megan Ward Robert and CarolLynne Kirch In Memory of Jim Rarick James Loomis In Memory of Shawn Lasko Pamela March In Memory of Joseph Clewley Pam Masterson In Memory of Sarah Village Thomas and Jane Norton In Memory of Larry Pio’s Mother Connie Lou Ogg In Memory of C. David Ogg Rita Oswald In Memory of Atley Oswald Linda Pritchard In Memory of Joseph Clewley John and Jeanne Rarick In Memory of Jim Rarick John and Jeanne Rarick In Memory of Jim Rarick Mary Ann and Larry Rebert In Memory of Linda Wilkey’s Mother Carole and Bryan Redmond In Memory of Jim Rarick Mark and Anne Marie Shermetaro In Memory of John Paul Hecker Mark and Anne Marie Shermetaro In Memory of Josef P. Hecker Julia Smith In Memory of Howard W. Hintz Bean and Bear Lakes, MN Raymond Vlasak In Memory of Ruth Bergquist “Completed 103 miles, with miles hiked on segments Marsha Wells Yates and Taylor Yates Jr. In Memory of Jim Rarick of all four Pennsylvania Chapters of the NCT.” West Middlesex Teacher Association In Memory of John Hawrylak — Jeffrey Sunderman Thank You to All of Ellen Whitehead In Memory of Rudy Schettling Our Contributors
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 27 planned Giving
Pattison State Park, WI
28 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report Donations made through bequests and other planned giving vehicles are some of the most thoughtful and generous gifts to the North Country Trail Association. These gifts are critical to the future stability of our organization. Donors who plan for such “legacy” gifts become a part of our North Country Legacy Society and are recognized in perpetuity for their generosity.
Legacy Society Members
Anonymous (1) Tom and Mary Moberg Pat Allen Tim* and Sue Mowbray Loren Bach and Dave Martus Jaron Nyhof* Steve and Karen Bade Eileen L Oehler+ Mike* and Renee Chapple Bob Papp and Annette Hollister-Papp Cecil and Joanne Dobbins Gerald Phillips+ Tom Funke Ron and Linda Sootsman Tom and Jan Gilbert Walter Srogi+ Robert and Sheridan Haack Harmon Strong+ John Heiam and Lois Goldstein Irene Szabo Martha Jones+ Doug Thomas Beth Keloneva Jere Thompson+ Betty A. Lewis+ Roger and Rebecca Tuuk Bruce and Linda Matthews Joan Young C NORTH OUNTRY S Roderick+ and Peggy MacRae LEGACY OCIETY
ES 0 TA 01 BLISHED 2 † Deceased * Indicates a NCTA Board Trustee
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 29 How to Get Involved and Support the Trail The North Country Trail Association and North Country National Scenic Trail are going strong because of the generosity of our many dedicated members and supporters. Isn’t it time you joined this great group and got involved?
Jordan River Valley, MI
housands of hours of Become a Member Join the Gifts of Land and Stock Company Matching Gifts One If you still have questions or want volunteer support are poured 3,500 members already involved A gift of land or stock is often a very great way to double or even triple your to make a special donation to the Tannually into trail building and nationwide. You can join a local tax-wise way to make a generous gift giving power is with matching gifts NCTA but want to talk about the best maintenance, chapter leadership, and chapter if you wish. The easiest way to the Trail and receive a significant from the company you work for. It’s way to go about making the gift, administrative help. And then there’s to sign up is at our website: tax benefit. Call Greg McAleenan, easy to do. Check with your human contact Greg McAleenan, our Director the financial support that makes all of www.northcountrytrail.org. Director of Development to discuss resources department before you give of Development, at gmcaleenan@ these physical improvements and the this option. your next gift. northcountrytrail.org or call at Volunteer Whether it’s building promotion of the Trail possible. Perhaps trail or stuffing envelopes to get the Planned Gifts Deferred or planned Corporate Giving If you (616) 897-5987 ext. 5. this Annual Report has inspired you to message out, we need your help. gifts such as bequests, charitable represent a corporation or work for a join the many others who support the Call us at (616) 897-5987 and let’s remainder trusts or retained life corporation that is interested in the Trail, and you would like to make a discuss how we can match your estates can make great tax sense mission of the NCTA and would like meaningful contribution. Take a look interests to our needs. for you and your heirs, and benefit to support that mission there are a through the following list and consider the mission of the NCTA well into the number of marketing and philanthropic getting involved in the Trail today. It Gifts of Cash Outright cash gifts future. Talk with your tax or estate opportunities that will give maximum truly will make a difference. benefit the Trail immediately and help planner about this option. exposure to your corporation. us leverage other grants and funds for the work we need to do each year.
30 North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 2018 Financial Highlights
he financial sustainability of the Balance Sheet INCOME BY SOURCE North Country Trail Association As of 12/31/2018, in $1,000’s 3.1% 0.8% T continued to grow stronger in 2018. 2.4% Assets We saw growth in both overall membership Checking / Savings $442.4 numbers and amounts of major gifts. Investments $102.7 24.8% 35.8% We’ve also increased our ability to build Accounts Receivable $55.5 relationships with Foundations and Other Current Assets $5.7 Corporations and to seek government Total Current Assets $606.3 grants, all areas that performed well and Fixed Assets $20.0 33.1% improved from the previous year. TOTAL ASSETS $626.3
We have made significant progress on our goal Donations Incl. Membership Liabilities to decrease our dependence on the National NPS Base Support and Projects Other Current Liabilities $47.7 Park Service and those funds now make up Grants TOTAL LIABILITIES $47.7 only 33.1% of our revenue stream. We’ve Trail Shop Sales TOTAL EQUITY $578.6 also begun to build an Operating Reserve to Programs and Events TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY $626.3 strengthen the organization’s ability to weather Other Income unexpected expenses or loss of income without cutting into our programs. Income and Expense Expenses by category Our major program areas of trail awareness, advocacy, trail building, maintenance and Year Ending 12/31/2018, in $1,000’s 1% 9.8% 0% protection were all well supported by our Income 29.8% revenues. More money went out to the Donations Incl. Membership $424.4 14.3% field and onto the Trail than ever before. NPS Base Support and Projects $391.8 Due to solid financial management and the Grants $294.2 significant charitable support of our many Trail Shop Sales $27.9 donors, the NCTA was able to fund and 17.1% Programs and Events $36.4 fulfill its mission and a quick look at our Other Income $9.9 net income shows an organization that is TOTAL INCOME $1,184.6 moving into 2019 in a strong position. 22.0% 6.0%
Expense Salaries and Benefits $587.7 General Support $105.6 9.8% Administration $112.7 Govt. Relations $0.1 0% Communication and Outreach $125.5 Chapters $154.1 14.3% Trail Shop Cost of Sales $10.6 Development $185.3 17.1% The North Country Trail Association holds the GIS / Cartography $65.2 6.0% Trail Management and Projects $191.8 “Accredited Charity” rating from the Better Outreach $237.3 22.0% Travel and Meetings $62.9 Business Bureau. The rating means that Trail Management $322.6 29.8% North Country Trail Association is a 501(c)(3) Advocacy $0.2 nonprofit organization. Our most recent audited the NCTA maintains or exceeds the Wise Trail Shop CoS $10.6 1.0% Depreciation $0 financial statements and tax return can be found at Giving Standards for Charity Accountability TOTAL EXPENSE $1,091.4 northcountrytrail.org, or provided upon request. established by the BBB. TOTAL EXPENSE $1,080.8 100.0%
NET INCOME $93.2
North Country Trail Association / 2018 Annual Report 31 Official FederalT rail Partner North Country Trail Association North Country Trail Association Staff NATIONAL PARK SERVICE National Board of Directors Andrea Ketchmark, Executive Director Tim Mowbray, President, Minnesota Valerie Bader, Director of Trail Development Matt Davis, Regional Trail Coordinator – Minnesota/North Dakota Federal Land Management Partners Jaron Nyhof, Vice President, Michigan Mike Chapple, Treasurer, Indiana Tarin Hasper, Annual Fund Coordinator U.S. Forest Service Mark VanHornweder, VP West, Wisconsin Kate Lemon, Marketing and Communications U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Dennis Garrett, VP East, Pennsylvania Greg McAleenan, Director of Development U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Larry Pio, Secretary, Michigan Bill Menke, Regional Trail Coordinator – Wisconsin Ruth Dorrough, Immediate Past President, New York Nicole Murphy, Administrative Assistant State Land Management Partners Josh Berlo, Minnesota Alison Myers, Administrative Assistant Jack Cohen, Pennsylvania Matt Rowbotham, GIS Coordinator North Dakota Parks and Recreation Jerry Fennell, Wisconsin Lisa Senneker, Finance Administrator North Dakota Forest Service Cheryl Kriendler, Kentucky Kenny Wawsczyk, Regional Trail Coordinator – Michigan North Dakota Game and Fish Department Derrick Passe, Minnesota Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Jan Ulferts Stewart, North Dakota Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Jeff VanWinkle, Michigan Michigan Department of Natural Resources Steve Walker, Ohio Ohio Department of Natural Resources Quinn Wright, New York Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Pennsylvania Game Commission New York Department of Environmental Conservation New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
NCTA Chapters and Affiliates
NORTH DAKOTA MICHIGAN PENNSYLVANIA •• Sheyenne River Valley Chapter •• Ni-Miikanaake Chapter •• Wampum Chapter •• Dakota Prairie Chapter •• Peter Wolfe Chapter •• Butler County Chapter •• North Country Trail Hikers Chapter •• Butler Outdoor Club MINNESOTA •• Superior Shoreline Chapter (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Minnesota Waters and Prairie Chapter •• Hiawatha Shore-to-Shore Chapter •• Clarion County Chapter •• Star of the North Chapter •• Harbor Springs Chapter •• Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy •• Laurentian Lakes Chapter •• Jordan Valley 45° Chapter (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Itasca Moraine Chapter •• Friends of the Jordan River National Fish Hatchery •• Allegheny National Forest Chapter •• Arrowhead Chapter (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Kekekabic Trail Chapter •• Grand Traverse Hiking Club Chapter NEW YORK •• Border Route Trail Association •• Spirit of the Woods Chapter •• Finger Lakes Trail Conference 229 East Main Street, Lowell, MI 49331 (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Western Michigan Chapter (Trail Maintaining Partner) (616) 897-5987 •• Superior Hiking Trail Association •• Chief Noonday Chapter •• Central New York Chapter northcountrytrail.org (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Chief Baw Beese Chapter •• Adirondack Mountain Club [email protected] (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) facebook.com/northcountrytrail WISCONSIN OHIO twitter.com/NCTrail •• Brule-St.Croix Chapter •• NW Ohio Rails-to-Trails Association VERMONT instagram.com/northcountrytrail •• Chequamegon Chapter (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Middlebury Area Land Trust •• Heritage Chapter •• Buckeye Trail Association (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) (Trail Maintaining Affiliate) •• Great Trail-Sandy Beaver Canal Chapter