MAINTAINING 2,154 MILES OF IN NY AND NJ

NYNJTC.ORG SPRING 2018 WALKER

NEW YORK- TRAIL CONFERENCE • CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH NATURE SINCE 1920

Celebrating ED O’HARA 95 Years of the ’s Origins at Bear Mountain

Most trail lovers know the books, and website are great Appalachian Trail runs from resources to get you started. As Springer Mountain in Georgia we celebrate 95 years of Appa- to Mount Katahdin in Maine. lachian Trail stewardship, we But quiz even the most hope you’ll be inspired to join enthusiastic thru-hiker, and us in making a positive contri- she may not even realize that bution to the Trail’s legacy. the Trail’s true start is right Saturday, June 2, is a great at A.T. trailheads throughout lachian Trail, including the of the Pochuck Boardwalk in here, less than 50 miles north day to get involoved in volun- the month as our trail family Long Distance Trails Crew’s Wawayanda . June of . teerism on the Appalachian offers some trail magic. rehabilitation of the Trail on through October, the Bear Ninety-five years ago this Trail. Join the Trail Confer- Throughout the season, our West Mountain in Bear Moun- Mountain Trail Crew will be October, volunteers of the ence and REI as we celebrate trail crews will be working on tain State Park, and the West working to complete a reroute -New Jersey Trail National Trails Day by per- several projects on the Appa- Jersey Trail Crew’s restoration of the original section of the Conference officially opened forming service projects along A.T. on Bear Mountain. Our the first constructed section of the A.T. on Bear Mountain. crews are eager to meet people the Appalachian Trail, which (See story below for details.) Liz Levers the A.T. in New York, as who want to make a difference they built and blazed through In July, our A.T. volun- Inducted Into A.T. well as setting the stan- outdoors, and they excel at . teers will be out in full force dard for A.T. management teaching volunteers with lit- Nearly a century later, Trail from the Delaware Water Hall of Fame for our region. Liz was a tle or no experience the skills Conference volunteers still Gap to the bor- Elizabeth Levers, former no-nonsense woman who they need to help build and selflessly give their time and der maintaining the Trail president of the Trail devoted her energies 7 days repair trails. energy to ensure that the 174 and engaging visitors as the Conference (1970-72), was a week to the A.T. after her We’ll be posting more de- miles of A.T. spanning New thru-hiker “bubble” makes named a member of the retirement from an admin- tails on these projects and Jersey and New York remain its way through our region. Appalachian Hall of Fame istrative post at Columbia events at nynjtc.org. Interested open, safe, and enjoyable for The RPH Cabin Volunteers Class of 2018. Known as University. In 1979, she in a specific project, or want to everyone who follows that will be holding their annual the “Mother of the A.T.” received recognition from find out about other volunteer iconic white blaze. work weekend and barbecue in New York State, she President Jimmy Carter for opportunities that support The Trail Conference invites July 13-15. (Read more on was key in the early land her outstanding efforts as a the Appalachian Trail? Email everyone to explore this in- page 9.) And expect to spot acquisition planning for trail volunteer. [email protected], and credible trail; our maps, guide- an impromptu tailgate or two we’ll help you get started.

WHAT’S INSIDE: JERRICA LAVOOY Working to Create a Show Your Greenway from Sterling Forest to Storm King Love of page 3 Trails on Take a Look Back at Our 2017 Accomplishments Celebrating Our Standout National and See What’s Ahead Volunteers and Partners pages 8-11 pages 6-7 Trails Day

Every day is trails day for the house, guided hikes through the bottom of the mountain to VOLUME XLV, NUMBER 2 ISSN 0749-1352 Trail Conference. But on Na- Ramapo Valley County Reser- its summit. tional Trails Day, we add a vation, and volunteer opportu- Also on the 2nd, our Con- little extra celebration to our nities to help make a difference servation Corps trail crews in stewardship. Join us Saturday, at this popular park, located Sterling Forest and Hudson June 2, as we give back to the right next door to our historic Highlands state parks will trails that offer us so much home. be holding Trail Love days. enjoyment—plus share some Or check out our event on Adventure-seekers who aren’t snacks and camaraderie! the Appalachian Trail at Bear afraid to get dirty are invited to Head to Mahwah, N.J., for Mountain, co-hosted by REI. learn the skills needed to help our annual open house at Trail From trail building to old trail build and repair great trails. Conference Headquarters. The closure, invasive species re- Visit nynjtc.org/events event includes tours of our moval to litter clean-up, we’ll more info on all of our Nation- offices at Darlington School- be making a difference from al Trails Day events. 2 | Spring 2018 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org Protecting North America’s Most Popular Destination

HANK OSBORN from Metro- senior program Breakneck Ridge North and NYS Route 9D. It coordinator Trails Are Open! is the first major undertaking by the coalition that has been Breakneck Ridge in Putnam The Trail Conference working for years to plan how and Dutchess counties’ and our partners behind best to manage concerns along State Park the Breakneck Connec- Route 9D between Cold Spring has once again been named tor project can confirm and Beacon. Construction is the most popular hiking that Breakneck Ridge expected to begin in 2019. (See destination in North America. is open and will remain sidebar for more info.) In a recent survey on Trails. open through the 2018 The Trail Conference also com, it received more than hiking season. When the anticipates playing an integral 10 million votes—more than project is set to begin, we role in assisting the public hikes in any national park. As a will provide ample notice when the Leave No Trace consequence of its popularity, regarding any closures Center for Outdoor Ethics however, rugged and beautiful or changes to the trails. spends Oct. 29-Nov. 5 at Breakneck Ridge is at risk of Project improvements Breakneck Ridge, which has being damaged beyond repair. include the creation of a been identified as a 2018 Hot Over the past 5 years, the shared-use path connect- Spot. A Hot Spot is a “natural number of visitors at Breakneck ing the Breakneck train area that is being negatively Ridge has increased at an stop and parking area impacted by recreational use” alarming rate—we estimate to the Breakneck Ridge and is “facing the threat of that more than 100,000 people trailhead. It will also irreversible environmental climb this mountain each year. add new train platforms, d am a g e .” Factors including social media, pave the parking area, How can you help? The word of mouth, easy public and add a new welcome first step is to understand that transit access, and population center. Find more info everyone is responsible for density in the greater New at hudsonfjordtrail.org. protecting the environment. York metropolitan region have Follow us @nynjtc on The Trail Conference is a great created a perfect storm for trail Facebook, Instagram, resource for learning how our overuse and environmental and Twitter for updates. use of trails and parks impacts degradation. these ecosystems—and how There is no one solution to to give back to ensure our mitigating the effects of such use of trails. successful that the Trail Con- more on page 8.) favorite outdoor destinations remarkable popularity. But In spring 2013, the New ference has continued the pro- The Trail Conference is remain open, safe, and healthy the Trail Conference is in a York State Office of Parks, gram weekends and holidays also a member of the alliance for years to come. Spring is unique position to understand Recreation, and Historic Pres- from Memorial Day through spearheading the creation the perfect time to take a these challenges and provide ervation asked the Trail Con- Thanksgiving every year of the Hudson Highlands workshop and get out on the assistance. Since 1920, we have ference for help. Our response since. Trail Stewards deliver Fjord Trail, which includes trails with us to learn more been committed to educating was a one-month pilot called much-needed services that the Breakneck Connector—a about how you can help protect and assisting the public in the the Breakneck Ridge Trail would not otherwise be avail- project that will improve the land you love. Get started safe, enjoyable, and responsible Stewards Program. It was so able to these visitors. (Read visitor safety while accessing at nynjtc.org/volunteer.

Trail Conference HQ Reopening JEREMY APGAR Saturdays During Peak Season

With warmer weather comes through November. We’d love folks where to hike, spread our extended hours at Trail to chat about trails with you. mission, and take sales. Bonus: Conference Headquarters. If sharing hiking knowledge Ramapo Reservation is right Our Trail Store will be open with your fellow outdoor next door for great hiking Saturdays during peak hiking enthusiasts sounds like a fun before or after! For more season, beginning April 7. way to spend a few hours, we information contact Jennifer Stop by for maps, sunscreen, have a volunteer position for Zack: [email protected] or hats, and more from 9 a.m. you! We are actively seeking 201.512.9348 x824. to 5 p.m., every Saturday Schoolhouse Stewards to tell Jennifer Zack

TRAIL WALKER (USPS Permit #970- Board of Directors 100) (ISSN: 0749-1352) is published Edward Saiff Chair quarterly by the New York-New Patricia Wooters Vice Chair Jersey Trail Conference as a benefit Rick Levine Treasurer of membership. Subscriptions are Ken Posner Secretary available to libraries only at $15 Daniel Hoberman Counsel a year. Periodical postage paid at Mahwah, N.J., and additional mailing TRAIL WALKER Directors offices. Postmaster: Send address Chris Connolly Gaylord Holmes changes to the address below. Volume XLV, No. 2 Spring 2018 Walt Daniels John Magerlein Mary Dooman Beth Ravit Copyright 2018 by: Amber Ray Editor Andy Garrison Dave Stuhr New York-New Jersey Stephanie Hinderer Designer Suzan Gordon Ned Whitney Trail Conference, Inc. 600 Ramapo Valley Road MISSION STATEMENT Senior Staff Mahwah, NJ 07430 The New York-New Jersey Trail Edward Goodell 201.512.9348 Conference is a volunteer-powered Executive Director organization that builds, maintains, and Joshua Howard Opinions expressed by the authors protects public trails. Together with Deputy Executive Director do not necessarily represent our partners, we strive to ensure that Don Weise the policy or position of the Trail the trails and natural areas we share Development Director Conference. Submissions for print are sustainable and accessible for all to Mary Perro consideration are welcome. Any enjoy for generations to come. Operations & Finance Manager unsolicited material accepted for Linda Rohleder print may be edited for style and Land Stewardship Director length. Submission deadlines for The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a volunteer, non-profit TRAIL WALKER are Feb. 15 For a full list of staff, visit 501 (c)(3) organization. (Spring issue), May 15 (Summer nynjtc.org/about-us issue), Aug. 15 (Fall issue), Nov. 15 email: [email protected] (Winter issue). For information on Printed on recycled content paper advertising rates, please write editorial email: [email protected] or call. PLEASE RECYCLE TRAIL WALKER website: www.nynjtc.org nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 3

Creating Parkland public parkland. FROM THE A recent example is the EXECUTIVE Through the Trail, DIRECTOR Stewardship of Trails where since 2002, four new state forests (Huckleberry Ridge, Graham Mountain, Planning, patience, and tect the trail Gobbler’s Nob, and Roosa Gap) a fair amount of luck are user, but also have been created, and another requirements when working to improve (Shawangunk Ridge) has been on completing a long-distance the overall significantly enlarged. trail—not just in the adventure user experi- Lately, the Trail Conference of a successful thru-hike, but ence—long- has purchased lands for the even more so in the actual distance Highlands Trail, which will creation of one of these trails. trails actually stretch across New Jersey Years—often decades—of have a tendency to create new and New York, from the coordination among public, parks and greenways. Pennsylvania to Connecticut private, and non-profit agen- The Trail Conference has borders, when completed. cies and land owners goes into played a significant role in In Orange County, N.Y., developing a long-distance establishing and stewarding specifically, the trail traverses trail, followed by the ongoing not just one, but four long- five protected parks and construction and maintenance distance trails in the greater one forest—and we view it then requires. Early in the New York metropolitan the Highlands Trail as an conception of a long-distance region: the Appalachian Trail, opportunity to create an trail, the path is often laid out , Shawangunk Ridge uninterrupted green corridor on the side of country roads Trail, and Highlands Trail. And that connects all of them. or on private lands with per- through our efforts to conserve We have been calling this the mission from the landowners. open space for these trails to Storm King to Sterling Forest But in the continuous efforts to traverse, the Trail Conference Greenway. Though there are reroute these trails onto unde- has acquired lands that have still major gaps between the veloped land—not only to pro- led to the formation of new parks, in collaboration with longtime partners Open Space Get Involved Institute and Orange County Land Trust, we are working Our long-distance trails ongoing task of reducing on inventorying the potential Since 2002, the Trail Conference has been acquiring exist because of the road walks by construct- connections. The goal for this study is parcels that have led to the formation of new public incredible passion of vol- ing new trail. Field-check- parkland along the Shawangunk Ridge. unteers who want to be a ers and off-trail research- to create a comprehensive vision for a high-quality, part of their legacy. Main- ers may also be needed as interconnected public trail recreation and magnificent It will be a challenge, but it is tainers and trail managers the Storm King to Sterling system through a green scenery for residents and one the Trail Conference is are always needed—adopt Forest Greenway study corridor that will improve visitors alike. well-prepared for, and eager to a section of the Highlands moves forward. Help us the quality of life for local This vision for the High- see “thru.” Trail, Shawangunk Ridge preserve and expand our communities while protecting lands Trail will be completed Trail, Long Path, or Appa- long-distance trail corri- precious wildlife habitat. The with the help of our partners lachian Trail to call your dors! Learn more and dis- Greenway, with the Highlands and volunteers—particular- own! Or come spend a cover all the ways you can Trail as its backbone, will ly those on our Conservation few hours with one of our get involved by emailing showcase the western Hudson Committee, who help identify Edward Goodell crews and help with the [email protected]. Highlands as a premier and purchase parcels for pres- Executive Director destination for outdoor ervation, and our trail crews. [email protected]

In Memoriam

2015, the Trail Conference Strengthening Our More Progress recognized his longtime in Orange County devotion to trail work and Voice with a Trail meticulous attention to de- Last August, the Trail tail, which earned him the Conference strongly moniker “the Rembrandt of Advocacy Roundtable objected to the potential trail blazers,” with an Hon- loss of the last greenway orary Lifetime Membership. SONA MASON do something positive for our connection for the Long However, John preferred west hudson trails. At the Trail Symposium Path and the Highlands being called “the Michelan- program coordinator held at our headquarters on Trail south of Schunne- gelo of trail blazers” because April 7, staff and volunteers will munk Mountain in he said he not only painted, In the not-so-distant past, the speak about the nature of trail- Orange County. The he also sculpted! Before 400-acre property in Ches- related issues and the urgen- powerful response of our his passing, John donated ter, N.Y., that is now part of cy that surrounds them. We’ll trail family and friends his artisanal collection of Goosepond Mountain State discuss how threats to trails caught the attention of clipping and blazing tools Park—onto which the High- often pop up when we least legislators and commu- John to the Trail Conference for lands Trail has since been expect them and require im- nity leaders, resulting in Blenninger use by future generations of relocated—seemed destined mediate action, which ne- meetings with state and maintainers. to become a suburban subdi- cessitates attendance and/or park officials, as well as John B. Blenninger, of John was also active in vision. If not for the diligent speaking at public hearings representatives for the Wallkill, N.Y., died last the New York chapter of the pushback from members of and strategy meetings, making relevant land owners, summer at age 79. He grew the community and groups calls or writing letters to town to discuss ways to save up in the northeast Bronx, and met his partner, Lalla like the Trail Conference, this planning boards and elected the Highlands Trail and graduated from the City Grimes, in 1989 through a important greenway linking officials, reviewing and writing Long Path at this critical College of New York with personal ad in the mag- isolated parks would have dis- documents, and occasionally, pinch-point in Monroe, a major in earth sciences, azine of the Appalachian appeared in the increasing tide in-field surveying. We hope to N.Y. Trail Conference and went on to serve as a Mountain Club. He retired of development. continue the momentum from staff and volunteers are laboratory specialist with in 1993 and moved out of These kinds of issues are this conversation with regular currently working on a the Board New York City to be closer common while creating and roundtable meetings. proposal to obtain either of Education at the old to his beloved Shawan- protecting long-distance trails While the Trail Conference’s an easement or land Stuyvesant High School for gunk Mountains, where like the Long Path and High- nearly 100-year history is full purchase for these trails. over 30 years. he became active with the lands Trail. With so many un- of advocacy success stories, we The negotiating process John’s true passion was and the protected acres along their tra- do not fight these battles alone. is slow, but we hope for a for hiking and trail main- Shawangunk Grasslands jectories, they need champions Our actions and voice are am- good outcome. This and tenance. In the early 1970s National Wildlife Refuge. to stand up for them. plified when we work together. other issues have gal- he joined the Trail Confer- John lived a good life full That’s why the Trail Confer- If you would like be a part of vanized our partners to ence, where he put in more of good adventures. He was ence is organizing a Trail Pro- the Trail Protection Round- create an official plan for than 40 years of dedicated a genuine, caring, and sen- tection Roundtable. The aim table, contact West Hudson a greenway from Sterling service, eventually be- sitive man who lived a full of the roundtable is to share Program Coordinator Sona Forest to Storm King (see coming trails supervisor life and touched many with knowledge from experienced Mason at [email protected] letter from our executive for and his gentle, meticulous ways. trail advocates and to help or 201.512.9348 x816 for more director above). . In He is missed by many. equip those who would like to info. 4 | Spring 2018 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org Save Our FRED BAKER, UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY, BUGWOOD.ORG Trees This Season

ERIC STONE the tree, causes the leaves to the fungus and beetles aren’t invasive program educator fall off and ultimately kills the as active. If you must cut a live & volunteer coordinator tree. It can affect all species of oak branch during other times, , although red oaks (those please make sure to paint a Who doesn’t love oak trees? with pointed leaf tips) are wound-sealing compound Deer, bears, and turkeys all more susceptible than white onto the cut to prevent the bee- fatten up for winter on their oaks (those with rounded leaf tles from feeding on the tree. nutrient-dense nuts, while tips). The fungus moves from It is absolutely possible to Red oak leaves after oak wilt infection squirrels have the added tree to tree via sap-eating stop the spread of this disease. bonus of using their branches beetles. These beetles are Although widespread in the for shelter. Humans have an active throughout the spring Midwest, in New York, oak affinity for these trees, too. and summer and are attracted wilt has so far been found only Join the Fight pests, to monitoring rare With their spreading canopies to new cuts in the bark and in and Suffolk, Scho- You can help protect our and endangered plants. To and majestic trunks, oaks branches—exactly the kind of harie, and Ontario counties. parks and wild lands. The get involved, send an email inspire awe and wonder in cuts made by a pair of pruning No infestations are currently Trail Conference provides to [email protected] their old age. shears. known in New Jersey. Trail several ways to join the with the subject “Join the Unfortunately, a new You can help prevent the maintainers and homeown- fight: from surveying trails Fight,” and we’ll connect disease threatens our oak spread of oak wilt. If you need ers near known infested areas for invasive plants, to re- you with opportunities trees. Oak wilt, caused by a to prune trees, either in your should be especially careful moving invasives along our to make a difference this fungus that blocks the flow of yard or on the trail, please do to follow the preventive mea- trails, to checking for insect season. water and nutrients through so in the winter or fall, when sures outlined above.

News in Brief

Grant Will Help to Pound Ridge Manager, gave Restore Historic an impromptu acknowl- edgement of the importance Advocacy Days: Encouraging Trails in Harriman and dedication of Geof’s East Westchester Trail Crew, Through the New York which maintains more Support for Trail Lands State Consolidated Funding than 42 miles of trails in Application, the Trail the park. Fred and Connie Our voices are one of the Conference has received Stern provided tech support most powerful tools we have a Recreational Trails throughout the presenta- in ensuring trail lands remain Program grant to build and tion, ensuring its success. protected, open, and safe for rehabilitate sections of the all people to access. That’s why Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail Conference staff and vol- (R-D), Kakiat, Triangle, and Your Gift to the unteers head to Albany every Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy trails in winter to speak with elected Harriman-Bear Mountain Long Path or SRT officials about the importance state parks. Completed in Can Be Doubled of connecting people with Our Conservation Corps Manager Geoff Hamilton, second from right, and many of our partners met with 1921, the R-D, which spans nature. This year, we focused New York State representatives at Park Advocacy Day. the length of Harriman, was The Long-Distance Trails on the following issues: the first trail constructed by Memorial Fund was formed Trail Conference volunteers. by the Trail Conference and Feb. 6: Day Bear Mountain, including the on, from sewer discharge to These historically significant our generous supporter/ As a member of the Catskill original section of the Appa- Lyme disease and tick signage. trails connect with several longtime volunteer Mal- Park Coalition, the Trail lachian Trail, as part of the Advocacy days are raising the long-distance trail systems, colm Spector to honor the Conference asked state repre- Bear Mountain Trails Project. awareness of our organization including the Appalachian memory of Jakob Franke, sentatives to support a $14.3 It funds the Lower Hudson and the understanding of our Trail, Long Path, Highlands whose contributions to the million Catskills Package. This Partnership for Regional good work.” Trail, and the route of the Long Path and Shawangunk funding would directly impact Invasive Species Management new Trail. Ridge Trail (SRT) were our ability to improve the trail (PRISM), for which the Trail March 5: Park Advocacy Day Work on the Harriman- immeasurable. Designate experience in the Catskills Conference serves as the host The Trail Conference supports Bear Mountain Trails your gift of $500 or more through support of our Trail organization. The EPF is an the continued revitalization Improvement Project is to benefit our work on the Stewards program and our annual avenue of support for of the New York State park expected to begin over the Long Path, SRT, or any pub- work as managers of the our projects, and we asked for system, home to a signifi- next few years. lic parkland through which Catskill Conservation Corps. its full funding. “Every repre- cant number of trails that we either of these trails runs, sentative I met with seemed maintain and monitor. We met and your donation will be Feb. 12: EPF Day to be awaiting news of how with representatives to stress Volunteers Make matched, dollar-for-dollar. Last year, Gov. Andrew Cuo- the Trail Conference has been the importance of funding for As a special thank you, mo appropriated $300 million approaching the increased state parks, particularly the Presentation to you’ll receive a Trail Con- for the 2017 Environmental popularity of outdoor recre- operating resources that keep Westchester Parks ference Performance Tek Protection Fund (EPF), con- ation,” said Senior Program our parks open. Inadequate Jacket. For more info, visit tinuing the historic funding Coordinator Hank Osborn, staffing of maintenance crews On Feb. 6, four Trail bit.ly/tc-ldtmf. level he established the previ- who attended EPF Day. “They and forest rangers affects park Conference volunteers ous year. The EPF has directly asked my opinion about accessibility and visitor safety. made a presentation at the supported the Trail Confer- various environmental ini- It is a perennial issue that we Westchester County Parks, Wild & Scenic Film ence’s rehabilitation of trails on tiatives they were embarking will continue to raise. Recreation and Conser- Festival Comes to vation Conference. Rose Bonanno described how Rockland County the Trail Conference works with partners and clubs to Selected films from the Wild Ceremony to New Jersey Department of support trails. Geof Con- & Scenic Film Festival On Officially Open Environmental Protection to nor shared the successes in Tour will be shown at the officially open the bridge. Fol- improving trails at Ward Lafayette Theater in Suffern, New Long Pond lowing the bridge dedication, Pound Ridge Reservation, N.Y., on Earth Day, April Ironworks Bridge an opening ceremony for the the largest park in the 22. These environmental newly redesigned Long Pond Westchester County system. and adventure films At Long Pond Ironworks State Ironworks Museum will take He explained how the trails illustrate Earth’s beauty, the Park, the restoration of the place. Park for both events there are maintained by a challenges facing our planet, the Wanaque River bridge— at the Visitor Center (1334 crew rather than individual and the work being done to washed away in Hurricane a.m. on Saturday, April 14, Greenwood Lake Turnpike, maintainers, and how their protect the environment. Irene in 2011—was finally the Friends of Long Pond West Milford, N.J.). Arrive by presence has helped the trail Find more info at completed at the end of 2016, Ironworks will be holding a 11 a.m. in order to walk to the system. Jeff Main, Ward suffernfilmfest.com. with the finishing touches ceremony with speakers from new bridge in time. Visit added late last year. At 11:30 the Trail Conference and the bit.ly/tc-lpiwb for more info. nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 5

Join the Trail Conference, New Signage Takes Guesswork Get Great Deals Out of Your Trail Experience Check out some of the latest Trail Conference Retail Partners and their PETER DOLAN ment. When volunteer Glenn great members-only new jersey Gross saw a Trail Walker ar- discounts. Visit nynjtc. program coordinator ticle about kiosk construction org/retail-partners for and offered to help, his back- full details on all partner We’ve all been there before— ground as a professional sign discounts. slowing the car to a crawl on maker came up—and turned some backwoods road, cran- out to be a perfect fit. Now ing our neck for the telltale Glenn is using his tools and 2x3-inch splash of color that skills to churn out beautiful indicates a trail crossing. Or routed signs with professional standing puzzled on a road- text and logos, producing far side pull-off, trying to fig- more than we ever expected ure out if the short stretch of to be possible on our grant gravel is indeed the parking budget. Just one more way in Canyon Pass Provisions Over 300 trailhead signage panels have been 10% discount on “P” indicated on our map. Or delivered to state parks in northern New Jersey. which volunteer expertise al- non-sale items. staring, bemused, at a beauti- lows us to go further and do 733 River Road ful kiosk stocked with little but more in our mission! Fair Haven, NJ cobwebs. different state parks across Several state park superinten- Keep an eye out for these 732.933.3555 The Trail Conference is con- northern New Jersey. The cur- dents have also provided lists new materials as they go up canyonpass.com tinuing to work with the New rent phase of the project is of confusing trail intersections over the coming year, and if Jersey Department of Environ- producing trail parking signs so that we can help ensure the you spot them in the wild, be mental Protection on provid- with blazes, making it easier fewest lost hikers possible. sure to snap a photo and tag us ing quality trailhead signage, to tell that you’re in the right Our ability to get so much @nynjtc on Facebook, Insta- and over 300 sign panels have place when looking for those done on this project is due in gram, or Twitter for a chance already been delivered to nine sneaky “hidden” trailheads. large part to volunteer involve- to be featured on our feed. Kenco 10% discount on all non-sale merchandise. 1000 Hurley Mountain Road Kingston, NY 845.340.0552 People for Trails atkenco.com ‌Trail Conference Field the trail from Manhattan to 1 Manager Erik Mickelson US 209 in Wawarsing, N.Y. has been named a Trail He has been a maintainer Advocate of the Year by for the High Tor section of PhoTour Adventures mountain bike gear compa- the Long Path in Rockland 15% discount off your ny Kitsbow. Erik has been County, and has co-led first PhoTour Adventure. instrumental in developing educational hikes along 14 Lafayette Avenue multi-use trails in Sterling the trail. He is an excellent Suffern, NY Forest State Park and addition to our roster of 845.629.1518 strengthening our alliances trail chairs. Welcome, Kevin! photouradventures.com with mountain biking part- 1 ners. With this honor, Kits- The Trail Conference bow not only recognizes 3 Board has approved Erik’s work and dedication the appointments of our to improving trails, but also 2018 Regional Trails Coun- 3 encourages trail users to cil Chairs, who help with give back and get involved the coordination of activi- Jane in our trail maintenance, ties and issues within our construction, and advocacy four regions. Please wel- Malouf’s Mountain initiatives. Congrats, Erik! come chairs Chris Connolly Campground (New Jersey), Jane Daniels 5% off your stay. Can 3 Rich Volunteer Kevin Mc- (East of the Hudson), and be used in addition to any 2 Guinness has taken Rich Jobsky (West of the other package deals. 2 Chris on the role of Long Path Hudson). The Catskills posi- Old Town Road South Chair, overseeing tion is currently vacant. Beacon, NY 845.831.6767 maloufsmountain.com CELEBRATE EARTH DAY 2018 WITH FILMS THAT EXCITE, MOTIVATE & INFORM! TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT TH 1 6 A NNUAL SUFFERNFILMFEST.COM AND AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

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DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD 2018 TRAIL CONFERENCE AWARDS Recognizes significant service or a special achievement by Trail Conference volunteers.

Glenda Haas, nominated by Brendan Cunningham As chair of the Art Selection CELEBRATING OUR Committee, Glenda has added “gallery” as a new function of the Main Hall at Trail VOLUNTEERS Conference Headquarters. A resident of Mahwah, N.J., Glenda was responsible for the installation of the building’s history AND PARTNERS wall and gallery system. She has overseen or assisted Trail Conference volunteers make incredible commitments to the trails with every art exhibition the organization has hosted and lands they love. With more than 2,400 people donating their time since moving our offices to Darlington Schoolhouse, and energy to our mission, there are many award-worthy volunteers in our ranks. and has art exhibitions On March 10, we honored those who have gone above and beyond in the last year and events planned at Headquarters through 2020. at our annual Volunteer Appreciation event, held at Ramapo College Since 2015, Glenda has done a phenomenal job of of New Jersey. Trail Conference awards are given by the Board of Directors bringing together professional upon recommendation by staff and volunteers. artists, casual photographers, trail users, and the local community, creating a space for all to enjoy. PAUL LEIKIN EXTRA and help us get valuable data running and Ridge, N.J., took over as the Jim Piombino, nominated by MILE AWARD on the spread and distribu- hiking on supervisor for the northern Erica Colace & Gary Willick Recognizes those who have tion of invasive species. They New York’s section of the Trail that in- As a front desk volunteer, demonstrated exceptional volunteered more than twice beautiful cludes the Pochuck Board- Jim is welcoming and knowl- service and have gone “the as many hours as anyone else trails and walk. John and Katie have edgeable–the extra mile.” in the Blockbuster Program, [to] build devoted dozens of hours to best traits and we are incredibly grate- awareness for the Long Path the recent redecking of the for someone Steve Aaron, ful for their help in ensuring and the work of the Trail Boardwalk. John has also who greets nominated by Heather Darley its success throughout Rock- Conference and its volun- been chronicling this ambi- visitors at Trail Steve, of Valley Cottage, N.Y., land County. teers.” Their success is truly tious project with videos on Conference takes phenomenal photo- admirable. the N.J. Appalachian Trail Headquarters. graphs of Jennifer Ghahari, Recruiting from their base Maintainers Facebook page. Jim, of Fair Lawn, N.J., is also trails in our nominated by Geoff Hamilton of race competitors and social The Pappas-Kingsbury team an at-large voting member, region and Jennifer, of Riverdale, N.J., media followers, Todd, who richly deserves this award for which means he represents shares them has only been volunteering is the Southern Shawangunks their years of devotion to the the interests of 400 individual with the Trail with the Trail Chair and maintainer maintenance of the Appala- members at voting member Conference Trail Con- for a section of the High- chian Trail in New Jersey. meetings. He understands the for use in our ference for a lands Trail where he lives in inner workings of the Trail communications. Steve’s gen- few months, Monroe, N.Y., and Ken have Irene Voce and Conference and brings his erosity, passion for the out- but during achieved an historic record of Tom Hobbick, nominated expertise to these meetings. doors, and creative contribu- her 400-plus 100% maintainer occupancy by Linda Rohleder As if this weren’t enough, he tions allow us to increase our hours of of the trails along the south- Over the past year and a half, was instrumental in helping visibility and outreach. The service, she has proven to be ern Shawangunk Ridge. They Irene and Tom have shown us secure a matching $5,000 use of Steve’s photography in a huge asset to the Conser- also lead work trips to keep sustained donation. Jim’s passion and our social media has received vation Corps. Her efforts trails along the Ridge clear dedication outgoing demeanor make him a lot of meaningful attention have helped keep on track a and encourage race partici- and enthu- one of the best Trail Confer- and sparked a lot of conver- program that doubled in size pants to give back by donat- siasm for ence volunteers! sations with potential vol- in 2017 but had a third of ing to the Trail Conference. our Invasive unteers and members. Steve the previous year’s staffing. Species Pete Tilgner, enthusiastically shares his Jennifer’s incredible ability to program. nominated by Don Weise photography, and he’s told us process data and her atten- Beginning Over his 31 years of service that it fulfills his passion for tion to detail were integral in as Invasive to the Trail Conference, Pete, the art to see his work used the successful completion of Strike Force of Tenafly, in our work. Photography at the 2017 Corps season and surveying N.J., has the level of Steve’s skill is a preparation for 2018. volunteers, most recently true donation to our organi- Jennifer’s efforts did not John Pappas and these Suf- functioned as zation. The Trail Conference stop there. Her analytical Katie Kingsbury, fern, N.Y., residents have also a volunteer is lucky to have such talent talents were sought after and nominated by Steve Weissman committed over 440 hours extension and passion in our ranks! utilized by others—from John and Katie are a dy- to performing critical data of the interpreting data collected namic supervisory team for entry for our 2016 Block- Membership and in the Trail User Survey, to the southern and northern buster program, creating new Development department, helping to improve volunteer sections of the New Jersey smartphone survey apps for sending donation management processes, to Appalachian Trail. Katie, our 2017 Blockbuster and acknowledgements and volunteering with the Inva- of Barrington, N.J., began ISF programs, and engag- membership gifts on a sive Strike Force. Her desire maintaining the section of ing in training sessions for weekly basis. This important to learn and to assist anyone the A.T. that passes by Sun- volunteers. They continue work requires focus and Ann and Jerry Barry, who asks has become a thing fish Pond more than 15 years to help by developing more organizational skills. It can be nominated by Eric Stone of legend at Headquarters. ago and has been responsible efficient methods to manage tedious and long, especially Ann and Jerry went above for overseeing the mainte- the information and data at year’s end. We rely on Pete and beyond with their work Todd Jennings, nance of the A.T. from the that we receive across our for his speed, accuracy, and on the Invasive Species nominated by Sona Mason to the different programs, includ- consistency to make sure we Program’s Blockbuster Sur- Todd, along with Trail Con- Buttermilk Falls Trail for the ing helping to redesign our “get it right” every time. Pete veys in 2017. In addition to ference Board member Ken last 10 years. Katie intro- database. Tom and Irene and his wife Suzan also served surveying their own 3-mile Posner (who was co-nomi- duced John to her passion have been instrumental in for more than a decade as the by 3-mile square in Rockland nated for this award, but is for maintaining the Trail in broadening our scope of how trail supervisors of Sterling County for invasive plants, ineligible to receive it due to 2005, and both have been a we use our tools to increase Forest State Park. On and off the Suffern, N.Y., residents his position on the Board), vital part of the New Jersey volunteer engagement and in the trail, Pete’s contributions went out of their way to join created the popular Long Appalachian Trail Commit- ongoing development of tech have made us proud to call other surveyors in the field Path Trail Race Series. Their tee ever since. solutions for our program him a member of our trail to learn the survey process aim was to get “more people In May 2013, John, of Oak operations. family. nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 7

MAJOR WILLIAM A. WELCH WILLIAM HOEFERLIN AWARD TRAIL PARTNER AWARD Recognizes Trail Conference volunteers who have demonstrated exemplary Presented to those outside the service to trail maintenance, management, and/or trail land protection. Trail Conference (for example, state, federal, or local agency Geof Connor, began with in Harri- ager, always recruiting new partner officials) who have nominated by Rose Bonanno an e-mail in man State volunteers and providing given long and/or significant as- Geof has volunteered for 2010 about Park. A Trail great training to his team. sistance to the Trail Conference. the Trail Conference since new trails in a Conference He is always a pleasure to 2007, first park near her volunteer for work with; there are never Essex County, New Jersey, in Hudson house. She eight years, any complaints or bad words nominated by Peter Dolan Highlands first became a trail maintain- the Westwood, N.J., resident about him. While Rick is Essex County—particularly State Park, er, then crew chief and super- diplomatically handles tricky preparing to retire from Tara Casella, Director of the and now in visor. A boots-on-the-ground trail and people issues, never his role as manager, he will Essex County county parks person, Mary, of Mohegan giving up until reaching a continue to monitor the Cor- Environmen- in West- Lake, N.Y., started the West- solution. Always ready to ridor—just one more sign of tal Center— chester County, N.Y. Over chester Trail Tramps to help lend a hand, Thom goes his dedication to protecting provided the years, he has served as maintain trails at Teatown above and beyond to create a the Appalachian Trail and assistance in supervisor, trail chair, crew Lake Reservation. Within a better trail experience. passion for giving back. promoting leader, and certified sawyer. year, the Tramps gained the and develop- Geof, of Katonah, N.Y., has skills to do trail repairs—and Rick Loggia, Bob Messerschmidt, ing the 34-mile, cross-county been instrumental in not soon began constructing nominated by Moe Lemire nominated by Don Weise Trail. This included only building trails, but also them. Mary became Te- For over 20 years, Rick has For 50 years, Bob maintained storing trail bollards, assisting building strong relationships atown-Cortland Supervisor been manager of the Appa- the Posts Brook Trail in with permits and approvals, with land managers. He when trails in the Town of lachian Trail New Jersey’s coordinating installation, and visits the parks he supervises Cortlandt needed help. In Corridor in Wyanokie hosting volunteer recognition daily with his dog, which is 2015, Mary also agreed to be Orange and region. Bob, events, among other helpful why he is so knowledgeable supervisor on the trails in the Rockland of Bridge- acts. Their enthusiasm for and about these trails—and why southern Hudson Highlands. counties in water, N.J., dedication to improving the he has become known as a Whether it is designing trails New York. performed helps to ensure go-to person for solving trail or supervising a crew trip (or A.T. bound- this service this unique trail will remain problems. With his passion assisting other crews), Mary ary monitoring is one of the responsibly and reliably, both accessible for all for many for trails and dedication to works tirelessly for trails most underappreciated and as a club maintainer and an years to come. improving access to nature, under her purview. difficult positions on the individual maintainer. After Geof embodies the very best Appalachian Trail, yet he retiring from his post, Bob Town of Yorktown of the Trail Conference. Thom Patton, has served in this role—and continued to assist and men- Department of Parks nominated by Sona Mason mentored many others under tor other maintainers and and Recreation, Mary Dodds, Thom spends endless hours him—with skill and grace. has been a steadfast support- nominated by Jane Daniels nominated by Rose Bonanno ensuring the Long Path Rick, of Middletown, N.J., er of the Trail Conference Since 2010, multiple levels Mary’s volunteer career remains open and functional has been a dedicated man- and our mission. of the Town of Yorktown’s Department of Parks and NEXT GENERATION DON DERR AWARD Recreation AWARD LEO ROTHSCHILD helped close on a prop- Recognizes those who have been Given to those under age CONSERVATION AWARD erty in Orange County, have provided exemplary partners to 21 who make significant Presented to a person or N.Y., that is crucial to the service and outstanding the volunteers contributions of time and organization that has made protection of the Highlands contributions to major of the Trail energy to trail building or a significant contribution to Trail. Bob has also been projects, such as our trail Conference. Three different protection. the protection of our trails a key asset in acquiring a maps and publications. park superintendents have and/or the natural lands that property in Albany County, all been supportive of adding TJ Robinson, surround them. N.Y., that would protect Ed Burdzy, trails, making improvements, nominated by the Long Path. His hard nominated by Jeremy Apgar and building structures such Tom Robinson Bob Ross, work and dedication over Ed has made consistent and as bridges, puncheon, and TJ is 13 years old and has nominated by Ed Goodell, the years has helped ensure long-time boardwalks for this commu- been working hard with Sona Mason & Peter Dolan the protection of trail lands contributions nity in Westchester, N.Y. Park Wawayanda As an active member of the across the region. to several Trail workers have been instrumen- State Park Conserva- Conference tal in ensuring the success of staff and the tion Com- Noah Zakim, maps. Ed, of larger projects, hauling lumber West Jersey mittee, Bob nominated by Sona Mason Passaic, N.J., is and providing other assistance Trail Crew on is a dedicat- Noah is doing excellent a hike leader when needed. When a bridge restorations ed champion work in our urgent push to with the Harriman Hikers was destroyed in 2016, the on the of protecting protect a green corridor for club, and through superintendent immediately Appalachian Trail’s open space the long- his hikes around the region, asked if volunteers could fix Pochuck Boardwalk. He for trails. Bob, of New York, distance he has become quite attuned it—which they did. This pro- worked on hundreds of feet N.Y., has been instrumental Long Path to discovering trails and ductive relationship is a perfect of curbing, laid decking, in helping the committee and High- woods roads that should be example of how land managers and hauled scrap out and identify and secure numer- lands Trail included on our maps. For and volunteers work together fresh material in. He was ous parcels for conservation, in Orange at least a decade, Ed has to improve access to nature. very excited about cranking particularly in New Jersey, County, regularly stopped by the grip-hoist for the where he previously lived. In N.Y., which are at risk of be- Headquarters at least once CORPORATE PARTNER “material transport high- the recent past, he has been ing severed by development. a month to both transfer AWARD line.” TJ, of Harriman, N.Y., a great benefactor to many As an attorney generously collected GPS data and Given to businesses or their is passionate about the projects and programs, such donating his time to our discuss map-related items. employees for outstanding outdoors—he’s one of the as restoration of the Dar- Conservation Committee, Ed also assisted in service to the hiking community. youngest people to finish lington Schoolhouse and Noah, of Franklin Lakes, inventorying trail features the Catskill 3500—and is enhancing Trail University. N.J., is a valued member of and deficiencies in several Mountain Tops, enthusiastic about protecting There were two recent the team, dispensing expert state parks in Rockland nominated by Hank Osborn nature for others to enjoy. land acquisitions for which advice and assisting with County. Among the maps Mountain Tops’ support of He is an eager and steady Bob went above and beyond the many facets that go Ed has helped to provide the Break- worker who understands the as a volunteer. First, as our into land preservation and data or field-checking for neck Ridge importance of the job and of legal representative, Bob advocacy. are: Harriman-Bear Trail Steward giving back. Mountain, Jersey program is Highlands, Kittatinny, unparalleled. North Jersey, Sterling Based in Long Path years. The following people #149 Laura Smith finished Forest, and West Hudson. Beacon, N.Y., became end-to-enders in on 7/22/2017 Our maps are accurate and Mountain Tops has been the End-to-Enders 2017 and were acknowl- #150 David Booth finished detailed because volunteers most consistent sponsor of the edged at the Volunteer on 9/17/2017 and partners take the time program since its creation in The Trail Conference offers Recognition event. #151 Heather Houskeeper to collect data, field-check, 2013. Every season, Mountain a certificate and an end- finished on 10/17/2017 and review the maps. Tops has provided uniforms to-end patch “rocker” to #145 John A. Papirio #152 Scott Weis finished Ed is one of those of the highest quality to each anyone who hikes the entire finished on 8/29/2016 on 10/17/2017 dedicated volunteers Breakneck Steward, fitting length of the Long Path. #147 Ken Morgan finished #153 Joe Baldino finished whom we can thank for more than 30 Stewards over The trip can be completed in on 11/1/2016 on 11/5/2017 helping make the maps the years. They have been ex- one continuous trip or in a #148 Franklin Marra fin- #154 Daniel Anderson the reliable trail resource ceedingly generous with their number of hikes over many ished on 7/13/2017 finished on 11/19/2017 they have come to be time and commitment to this known for. program. 8 | Spring 2018

In 2017, the Trail Conference served as the stewards of more TRAIL CONFERENCE than 2,150 miles of trails throughout the greater New York metropolitan area— from Manhattan to Albany, the Delaware 2017 LOOK BACK, Water Gap to the Taconics and beyond. Check out the achievements of our volunteers and staff over the last year, and see 2018 LOOK AHEAD what’s to come in 2018.

CATSKILLS social path formed to bring 2017 visitors closer to Plattekill The new German Hollow Creek. The crew also

HEATHER DARLEY HEATHER and Batavia Kill lean-tos, performed maintenance built by volunteers in on the existing Waterfall partnership with the New Trail, a heavily used trail York State Department to Plattekill Falls that of Environmental was narrow and eroded. Conservation, were Throughout the season, officially opened for four Conservation Corps visitors. members served alongside The Trail Conference- 25 volunteers. managed Catskill 2018 Conservation Corps Stewards will patrol the coordinated a litter summits of Slide, Giant clean-up at Peekamoose Ledge, North Point, and Blue Hole as part of the mountains from Leave No Trace Hot Spot Memorial Day through Week held at this popular Columbus Day. outdoor destination. Over Lean-to maintenance and 40 volunteers removed construction will continue more than 18 bags of trash in several locations. from the swimming hole Trail improvements are and surrounding area. anticipated to take place The Rockalaka Trail Crew on , made improvements to and on the Red Hill and the Quarry Loop Trail in Huckleberry Point trails. How We Create Better Sloan Gorge Preserve and We’ll continue our efforts constructed reroutes on the to improve the user Gorge Loop where the trail experience in the Catskills was steep or susceptible to by holding several litter Outdoor Opportunities flooding. In clean-ups at some of the Preserve, the crew built a region’s most popular Through Stewardship nature loop trail where a destinations.

The ecological integrity of the Preserve at Breakneck Ridge; EAST OF THE Read more on page 9. region’s most beloved outdoor 2017 Trail and in the Catskill Forest Pre- The East Hudson Trail destinations is being threat- serve on the summits of Slide, 2017 Crew, along with members ened by the unexpected high Summit Stewards , North Point, and In FDR State Park, the of the Trail Tramps, com- volume of use at these special In 2017, the Trail Blackhead, and at the popular Crom Pond Trail, featur- pleted an extensive reroute places. The Trail Conference Steward program Peekamoose Blue Hole; at Bear ing a 32-foot outlet bridge of the Cornish Trail in the is responding to this challenge educated and assisted Mountain State Park on the with a 50-foot boardwalk East Hudson Highlands. by taking a leadership role in 88,329 visitors across Appalachian Trail; and at the on the north side and a Read more about the coordinating stewardship ef- three parks in New York Reeves Meadow trailhead in 25-foot ramp on the south Tramps’ season on page 9. forts to keep up with growing State. They counted Harriman State Park. Stewards side, was officially opened 2018 threats. 9,485 visitors in the provided outreach and infor- by the volunteers and park Trail Stewards will once To help mitigate the im- Catskills; 28,556 visitors mation about park regulations, staff who worked together again be stationed at pact from high use and ed- at Bear Mountain; hiker safety, preparedness, and to build it. Breakneck Ridge from ucate users, we have part- and 50,288 visitors at other best practices. In addi- The Taconic Trail Crew Memorial Day through nered with land managers to Breakneck Ridge on tion to readying hikers, Stew- continued its efforts to November. We will help begin a multi-phased ap- weekends and holidays ards helped discourage and make the Undercliff Trail host the Leave No Trace proach on the Appalachian from Memorial Day mitigate misuse of trails and more sustainable and Hot Spot Week at Break- Trail, at Breakneck Ridge, and Weekend through the surrounding lands through user-friendly for hikers neck Ridge Oct. 29-Nov. 5. in the Catskills. It is our belief November. Twenty- their education and public re- looking for options around From NYC to the Tacon- that the most effective way to one Stewards shared lations work. Breakneck Ridge. This year ics, expect to see signifi- advance change is through information about park In partnership with each alone, they set more than cant trail improvements user education, public partic- regulations, hiker safety, land manager, we were also 100 stone steps on the throughout the East Hud- ipation, and sustainable, on- preparedness, and other able to leverage our presence trail. The crew also built a son region. Our volunteers the-ground solutions. We can best practices. at these outdoor destinations 1-mile new section of the will be fixing worn-out create Better Outdoor Oppor- to conduct a Trail User Survey. Highlands Trail connect- trails and scouting new tunities Through Stewardship Stewards collected 303 sur- ing Hudson Highlands and ones. From relocating (BOOTS). Our Trail Steward Club, Catskill Mountain Club, vey responses; we found that Fahnestock state parks. In bridges to improving sig- program is an integral part of Hunter Foundation, Mountain roughly half of the respon- 2017, four Conservation nage, exciting things will our response to these threats. Tops, Dutchess County Tour- dents were first-time visitors to Corps members served be taking place all year to When designed and used ism, Michelle Smith, and Sea- their respective parks. Gender alongside 62 volunteers. improve the trail experi- responsibly, trails protect both mus Carroll, the Trail Confer- has nearly equal representa- In addition to maintaining ence. Some of the biggest the people who use them and ence’s Trail Steward Program tion, and two-thirds said they the Ralph’s Peak Hikers projects include the Trail the environment that sur- educated and assisted nearly were between the ages of 18- Cabin on the Appalachian Tramps installing new rounds them—but without ed- 88,400 trail users about safe, 45. Understanding more about Trail in East Fishkill, N.Y., puncheon and a bridge at ucation, trail lands are subject responsible, and enjoyable use trail users, their expectations, the RPH Cabin Volunteers Hudson Highlands Gate- to mistreatment and misuse. of trails during 2017. interests, and other key data removed and replaced old way Park, and the Taconic With lead support from REI From spring to fall, Trail enables the Trail Conference steps at Miller Hill Road Crew finishing the reha- and generous contributions Stewards were deployed at four and its partners to be better where the A.T. crosses the bilitation of the Undercliff from the Appalachian Trail parks in New York State: in prepared to support and edu- . Trail. Conservancy, Catskill 3500 Hudson Highlands State Park cate the public. nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 9 RPH Cabin Volunteers: From A.T. Maintaining Club to Trail Crew

TIM MESSERICH the build. Thus, a trail mainte- The club has scheduled an rph cabin nance club was catapulted into annual work weekend ev- crew leader major work projects. Since that ery July for the past 15 years, summer of 2007, RPH Cabin during which major proj- Sometime back in the spring Volunteers has taken on large ects are completed. Over of 2007, I was asked by Jim projects along the A.T. from three days, volunteers set up Haggett, chair of the Dutchess- Fahnestock State Park to the an outdoor kitchen to pro- Putnam Appalachian Trail Dover Oak in Pawling, N.Y. vide hot meals for A.T. thru- Committee, “Do you want Over the past 10 years, our hikers. Many hikers stay a day to build a new bridge behind club has procured a significant or more and participate in the Tramps celebrate their many and diverse hats! Read more RPH cabin?” cache of tools and equipment. trail work tasks. about the crew at bit.ly/tc-tt17. Since 1998, the Ralph’s Peak We have developed a network All year long, the RPH Hikers (RPH) Cabin Volun- of volunteers both near and Cabin maintenance is car- teers, a member club of the far who faithfully give their ried out by local volunteer Trail Conference, has main- time and expertise each season club members. The tasks are Trail Tramps: tained the Appalachian Trail’s to these projects. Several club endless: Biweekly garbage re- RPH Cabin in East Fishkill, members have used their spe- moval, building cleaning and N.Y. I knew the current bridge cialized training in stone work painting, invasive weed/vine was getting completely flooded to put in stone steps and re- control, privy maintenance, Changes, out at times, and a new bridge tainer walls at numerous sites grounds mowing, gardening, would be needed soon. After along the Trail. We create and replanting trees, and bunk re- some short deliberation, I said, maintain waterbars and tread- pair are ongoing. “yes.” Had I designed and built ways over wet areas to inhibit We look forward to anoth- Activities, a bridge before? No! trail erosion. In 2013, we built er year of service to the A.T. With the help of the Trail another bridge at the trailhead and are planning projects Conference, design work start- off of Stormville Mountain for the 2018 July work week- ed immediately. Excavation Road. In 2017, we removed end and BBQ, to be held July Musings, work went on throughout the and replaced deteriorated 13–15. We hope to see you spring; sponsors were lined up steps at Miller Hill Road where there! For more info, check out by June; and by the third week the A.T. crosses the Taconic https://sites.google.com/site/ of July, 50 people showed up for State Parkway. rphcabin. and Hats!

MARY DODDS trail at Hudson Highlands trail tramps Gateway Park that involves FRED STERN crew chief sidehilling and building crib wall and stone steps. Soon, we It’s been awhile since you’ve will start building an extension heard from the Tramps, and I of the yellow trail at Gateway. know you are curious to know MUSINGS what we have been up to. I got to thinking about all the different hats Trail Conference CHANGES volunteers (especially supervi- We dropped “Westches- sors) wear. I am the supervisor ter” from our crew name and of the Trail Tramps crew and now are just plain old “Trail of individual maintainers for Tramps.” This reflects our de- trails in Westchester and Put- termination to go where we nam. I am on Geof Connor’s are needed beyond Westches- Westchester East Trail Crew ter County. We regularly stray (WETC) and on Andrew Sei- into Putnam County, and the rup’s EHTC. I also am a main- crew is “lent out” as needed. tainer for several Yorktown ACTIVITIES trails under Jane Daniels’ su- The Tramps ranged far and pervision, and Jane in turn is wide in 2017. As part of the East on my crew. Rose Bonanno is Hudson Trail Crew (EHTC), the Westchester Trails Chair. we completed an extensive re- She is also on my crew and the route of the Cornish Trail in WETC. Fred Stern is all over For more information on joining the RPH Cabin Volunteers, contact Tim Messerich Hudson Highlands State Park the place—as sawyer, supervi- at [email protected] or 845.401.8817. Preserve. Working with vol- sor, crew member, maintainer, unteer leader Jane Daniels, we and A.T. monitor. We have Publications Conservation Corps built a trail and bridge at FDR fun explaining this to crew State Park, and improved tread members who care about one 2017 Expected releases include In 2017, seven Trail in wet sections of Sylvan Glen thing only–working on trails. The second edition of revisions to the Hudson Conference Conserva- Park Preserve trails by install- It doesn’t really matter to them Circuit Hikes in Palisades, Catskill, and tion Corps crews served ing puncheon and boardwalk. who is supervising or which Harriman was Harriman-Bear throughout the region Teatown Lake Reservation crew is officially doing the published. Mountain trails improving trails and work included finishing trail work. They just love being out- The completely maps, as well as the lands they traverse. reroutes, constructing and doors. The best crew days are revised, 12th edi- the first edition Thirty-five crew members deconstructing bridges, and those where we worked hard- tion of the North of a map set were joined by 737 vol- installing boardwalks. We est and were rewarded by the Jersey Trails map featuring trails unteers, together serving also changed the blazes on the completion of a new trail or set, with over 275 in Westchester a total of 28,452 hours. Teatown-Kitchawan Trail and bridge, boardwalk, crib wall, miles of marked County, N.Y. A Check out the accom- did drainage work. We cleared or stone staircase. trails in north- fourth edition plishments of the Bear a section of the Briarcliff- What can the Tramps ex- ern New Jersey, Harriman Trails: A Mountain, Floworks, Pali- Peekskill Trail blocked by in- pect in 2018? More big and was released. Guide and History, sades, Rockalaka, Taconic, vasive plants and did a reroute small trail projects, another 2018 is expected to be and Sweet Water crews around another heavily invad- science project, lunches, hikes, An updated East Hudson released in May. Read more throughout our regional ed section. For a third winter, and the camaraderie of people map set is now available. on page 15. Look Back highlights. the Tramps also participated who love working outdoors! in wildlife tracking programs For more information on the sponsored by Teatown. Late- Tramps and to find out how LOOK BACK & LOOK AHEAD CONTINUES ON PAGES 10-11 ly, we have concentrated our you can get involved, visit efforts on a reroute of the red bit.ly/tc-tttc. 10 | Spring 2018 MARTY COSTELLO WEST OF THE rerouted through Goose- 2018 HUDSON RIVER pond Mountain State Park, A trail opening and land 2017 eliminating a road walk. preservation celebration The new, 3.5-mile, multi- The Trail Conference raised will be held on April 21 at use Hutchinson Trail the alarm that the Long Goosepond Mountain State officially opened in Sterling Path and Highlands Trail Park on the new section of Forest State Park in March. are at risk of being severed the Highlands Trail. Read It was built by members of in Orange County. We more on page 16. the Palisades Trail Crew, succeeded in making the Several litter clean-ups will including hikers, mountain protection of these trails be held to beautify a num- bikers, and equestrians. part of the conversation in Long Distance Trails Crew ber of trails and parks. The Palisades and Floworks proposals to develop lands Crews in Sterling Forest will trail crews worked on the through which these trails work to complete the new multi-use Munsee Eagle cross. of 7,915 hours. The crew drainage of six trails at 7-mile multi-use trail loop. Trail in Sterling Forest, The Long Distance Trails relocated/rehabilitated 1.25 Minnewaska State Park In Minnewaska, the building a total of 3.1 miles Crew (LDTC) concen- miles of trail, including Preserve. Stepping stones Hudson Nor’Westers plan of new trail. The crews built trated its efforts on three installing 182 stone steps, were placed, and three open to add bog bridging and six bridges, including a 70- projects: 1) rehabilitation building 466 square feet stone culverts and two wa- more stepping stones on a foot stepping stone bridge. of the Appalachian Trail in of crib wall, construct- terbars were added. General number of trails, and rock In 2017, 12 Conservation Harriman State Park near ing/rehabbing 499 feet of improvements to harden steps on the Gertrude’s Corps members served the top of West Mountain; sidehilled trail, installing 27 and raise trail where needed Nose Trail, making the hike alongside 207 volunteers. 2) continued rehabilitation waterbars, and removing 33 were also made. and stream crossing above In August, the Trail Con- of the Long Path in Sam’s blowdowns. Two Conservation Corps Rainbow Falls safer. ference acquired land in Point Preserve, co-aligned In the southern Gunks, vol- crews serving on the reroute The LDTC plans to com- Chester, N.Y., that is key to with the unteers stayed busy clearing of the Appalachian Trail plete the rehabilitation creating a greenway from Falls Trail; and 3) rehabil- overgrowth and improving on Bear Mountain set 121 of the Appalachian Trail Sterling Forest to Storm itation of a 144-year-old blazing. As a result, the stone stairs and built 339 on West Mountain and King state parks. Read more bridge over Seeley Brook in Shawangunk Ridge Trail has square feet of crib wall. work on the A.T. at Black on pages 3 and 16. Goosepond Mountain State never been in better shape. Seven Corps members built Mountain. They’ll also help A section of the High- Park. On these projects, 66 The Hudson Nor’Westers 474 linear feet of new trail reroute the Long Path in lands Trail in Chester was volunteers donated a total improved the tread and alongside 284 volunteers. northern Harriman.

Rock Cores Trail NEW JERSEY The West Jersey Trail Crew heavily used trails in this 2017 also completed an ap- popular park while encour- The trails at Campgaw proximately 1/2-mile-long aging people to volunteer Reroute Brings Mountain County Res- relocation on the Rock and join trail-building and ervation, as well as un- Cores Trail in Worthington maintenance workshops derutilized trails in Norvin State Forest, replacing a across northeastern New History Into View Green and Long Pond steep and rutted trail. (See Jersey. Ironworks state parks, were story at left for more.) They The West Jersey Trail Crew Trail maintainer Jon Stelling, reconfigured into more replaced a bridge in Stokes plans to continue the environmental scientist by user-friendly “loop trail” State Forest and repaired redecking project on the day, enthusiastically adopted systems. another bridge in Tillmans Pochuck Boardwalk. They the Rock Cores Trail in New Around 300 people cele- Ravine. will replace the deteriorat- Jersey’s Worthington State brated National Trails Day The 34-mile Lenape Trail ing puncheon on the Appa- Forest when he moved to near- on June 3 at Trail Con- in Essex County received lachian Trail near Rt. 94 by Pennsylvania to complete ference Headquarters. At numerous upgrades, in Vernon, and remediate his PhD at Lehigh University. this combined open house including a full inventory trail erosion on the Appa- But he was frustrated that the event/day of service, spon- and assessment of trail lachian Trail along Dunn- unique and historical signifi- sored by REI, volunteers conditions, increased field Creek in Worthington cance of the trail’s namesake helped remove 38 bags of access with new signage State Forest. The crew will “rock cores” feature was being garlic mustard, six bags of in four parks, and an up- work on installing step- kept secret. litter, and even a kitchen to-date map available in ping stones in a wet area More than 50 years ago, the sink from neighboring digital and print formats. on the Cedar Swamp Trail Army Corps of Engineers pro- Ramapo Valley County The Sweet Water Trail in Wawayanda State Park, posed creating a dam at the Today, the Worthington core Reservation. Crew constructed over and replace a bridge on the Delaware Water Gap, which samples are visible links to a In April, Greater Blair- 534 feet of new trail on Coursen Trail in Stokes would flood the scenic valley failed past. The 3-foot-wide, stown officially became the Vista Loop in Ramapo State Forest. and surrounding areas. After cylindrical samples of the rock the first Appalachian Trail Reservation. Not only does The Lenape Trail Crew will court challenges by conser- underfoot can now be found Community in New Jersey. the reroute bring hikers tackle several relocations vationists and environmental along the newly rerouted Rock The Trail Conference, along a stream to a popular to bring the Lenape Trail groups lasting over three de- Cores Trail. in partnership with the waterfall, it is also built through important sce- cades, the Tocks Island Dam Thanks to Jon’s advocacy of a New Jersey Department more sustainably than the nic, historic, and cultural project was abandoned—but reroute to avoid a washed-out of Environmental Protec- old trail, featuring 45 stone locations, including the not before the federal govern- section of trail, the West Jersey tion (NJDEP), developed steps that will prevent ero- completion of Hilltop Res- ment acquired thousands of Trail Crew recently completed a new set of signage for sion and make the climb ervation, the Eagle Rock acres of private property via a relocation at the Rock Cores installation in most of the more accessible for hikers September 11th Memorial, eminent domain. This land be- Trail’s northern end. They in- New Jersey state parks and for years to come. In 2017, and the Presby Memorial came the Delaware Water Gap stalled a bridge over a stream forests where we maintain four Conservation Corps Iris Gardens. National Recreation Area, ad- that affords views leading to trails. These signs not only members served alongside The MEVO Trail Crew’s jacent to Worthington. a giant rock cairn. The cairn educate visitors about 25 volunteers. main emphasis will be on Although construction draws the hiker’s attention to these parks and trails, but 2018 improving some of Rama- of the dam was never start- the cores and serves as a mon- also raise awareness of our Improving signage at po Valley County Reser- ed, footings for the proposed ument to the victory of the stewardship efforts and kiosks, parking areas, and vation’s most heavily used structure that would encroach environmentalists whose de- encourage people to get trail intersections will con- trails: the Vista Loop and into Worthington required termination and perseverance involved. Read more on tinue to be a major project Reservoir Loop. Occasion- drilling deep into the ground prevailed in keeping the Dela- page 5. in New Jersey. ally, they’ll travel farther for several rock core samples. ware River in its natural state. Trail Conference volun- The Conservation Corps afield in North Jersey to teers, in partnership with crew in Ramapo Reser- tackle projects identified by the Appalachian Trail vation will continue to local trail chairs and park Visiting the bound, take the last exit in Conservancy’s Mid- make improvements to the partners. Rock Cores N.J. and keep right at the Atlantic Crew and NJDEP, bottom of the ramp onto began work on repair- Soon-to-be expanded Old Mine Road. This is ing the popular Pochuck parking areas on Old Mine a great alternative to the Boardwalk section of the Road through Worthington congested and often full A.T. in Wawayanda State State Forest will provide parking areas at the Dun- Park. Our West Jersey Trail easier access to the Rock nfield Creek exit. Trails in Crew replaced the stairs Cores Trail, which connects on the Pochuck Boardwalk to the Douglas and Garvey and the Delaware Water suspension bridge and Springs trails and provides Gap can be found on the redecked approximately a route up to Sunfish Pond. 2016 edition of the Kittat- 1,000 linear feet of the National Trails Day From Interstate 80 west- inny Trails map set. Boardwalk. nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 11

INVASIVES full-time staff to organize 439 volunteers devoted 108,612 invasive plants. The false brome plant in the 2017 and educate invasives 5,024 hours to invasives program held 206 eradica- area and hopefully eradi- The Trail Conference was volunteers and manage surveying and management tion projects for 57 species. cating it before it can get awarded a new, 5-year con- the seasonal Conservation and native plant protec- 2018 a foothold in the Hudson tract from the New York Corps crew. tion. The Invasives Strike The ISF Crew looks forward Valley. We are also plan- Department of Environ- By the end of the season, Force (ISF) Crew removed to removing every slender ning another year of heavy

mental Conservation to DANIEL POLLARD management and research continue leading the Lower of sticky sage along the A.T. Hudson region’s invasive With increased staff and species management efforts generous donations of time from 2018 to 2022. and funds from volun- The Invasives Strike Force teers, we’ve been able to removed the first known expand our efforts into new infestations of slender programs for 2018 includ- false brome, a plant that ing: 1) The creation of a has spread aggressively in photographic database for and can invasive and native species; fully take over the under- 2) Invasive Species for Trail story wherever it’s found. Maintainers, a workshop We completed the first for current trail maintain- year of full-scale efforts to ers to learn how to identify remove sticky sage along and manage invasive plants the Appalachian Trail. This along their trail section; plant, with sticky seeds, and 3) A possible drone has the potential to spread program that would allow quickly along the trail cor- us to perform aerial sur- ridor and neighboring wa- veys for invasive plants and terways. It is only known at forest pests and complete one other location in New days of work in a matter of York, which we are actively hours. managing. We will continue our Inva- Invasives volunteers fin- sive Strike Force surveys in ished surveying our New New York and will resurvey Jersey Trails for phase 1 many of the New Jersey invasive plants. Trails that haven’t been sur- We brought on two new The Invasives Strike Force Crew monitors and removes invasive species in our region. veyed in five or six years.

Hikers’ Can’t find your club? This list represents all Trail Conference member clubs whose dues are up-to-date. If you have questions about your club’s status, please ask Directory your officers to contact the Membership and Development team at 201.512.9348.

ADK East Hampton Trails Preservation Nassau Hiking and Outdoor Club Somers Land Trust www.adkli.org Society www.nassauhiking.org somerslandtrust.org/ www.ehtps.org ADK Mid-Hudson Chapter The Nature Place Day Camp South Mountain Conservancy Inc. www.midhudsonadk.org Flat Rock Brook Nature Association thenatureplace.com/ www.somocon.org www.flatrockbrook.org ADK Mohican Chapter New Haven Hiking Club Southampton Trails Preservation www.adkmohican.org Friends Of Garret Mountain www.NHHC.info Society friendsofgarretmountain.blogspot.com southamptontrails.org/ ADK North Jersey Ramapo Chapter New Jersey Forty Plus Hiking Club www.hudsonhikers.org Friends of Pelham Bay Park Storm King Adventure Tours www.pelhambaypark.org/ New Jersey Highlands Coalition www.stormkingadventures.com Adventures for Women www.njhighlandscoalition.org/ www.adventuresforwomen.org Friends of the Hackensack River Gre- Sundance Outdoor Adventure Society enway in Teaneck New Jersey Search and Rescue Inc. www.meetup.com/Sundance-Out- AMC Delaware Valley Chapter www.teaneckgreenway.org/ www.njsar.org door-Adventure-Society www.amcdv.org Friends of the Old , New York City Audubon Society, Inc. SUNY Oneonta Outdoor Adventure Club AMC Mohawk Hudson Chapter Inc. www.nycaudubon.org www.oneonta.edu/outdoors www.amcmohawkhudson.org/ aqueduct.org/ New York Ramblers Teatown Lake Reservation AMC New York North Jersey Chapter Friends Of The Shawangunks www.nyramblers.org www.teatown.org www.amc-ny.org shawangunks.org/ The Outdoor Club, Inc. Tenafly Nature Center Association Black Rock Forest Consortium Inc. Frost Valley YMCA www.outdoorsclub.info www.tenaflynaturecenter.org www.blackrockforest.org www.frostvalley.org Palisades MTB Thendara Mountain Club Boy Scout Troop 121- German-American Hiking Club facebook.com/groups/palisadesmtb www.thendaramountainclub.org Council - Rockland District gah.nynjtc.org/ Protect Our , Water & Woods Town of Lewisboro Boy Scout Troop 8, Brooklyn Greener New Jersey Productions, Inc box292.bluehost.com/~powwworg www.lewisborogov.com/parksrec www.greenernewjersey.org Boy Scouts of America-Northern NJ Ramapough Conservancy, Inc. Trail WhippAss Council Hudson Highlands Gateway Task Force www.trailwhippass.com www.nnjbsa.org www.TownofCortlandt.com Rip Van Winkle Hikers newyorkheritage.com/rvw TriState Ramblers BSA Troop 21 - Hudson Valley Council Hunterdon Hiking Club TSR.nynjtc.org/Schedules.html www.suffern21.mytroop.us/ www.hunterdonhikingclub.org Rock Lodge Club www.rocklodge.com University Outing Club Canal Society of New Jersey Long Path North Hiking Club www.universityoutingclub.org www.canalsocietynj.org/ www.schoharie-conservation.org RPH Cabin Volunteers rphcabin.org Urban Trail Conference, Inc. Catskill Mountain Club Mohonk Preserve www.urbantrail.org www.catskillmountainclub.org www.mohonkpreserve.org SAJ - Society for the Advancement of Judaism Valley Stream Hiking Club Chinese Mountain Club of New York Morris County Park Commission www.thesaj.org/ www.meetup.com/vshclub www.cmcny.org www.morrisparks.net Salt Shakers Trail Running Club Greenway Trail Committee Church Communities Foundation - Mosaic Outdoor Mountain Club of www.saltshakersrun.com Platte Cove Community Greater New York, Inc. Westchester Trails Association www.bruderhof.com/ www.mosaic-gny.org/joomla/ Shelton’s Shooters Sussex 4-H Club www.westhike.org

Closter Nature Center Association Musconetcong Mountain Conservancy Sierra Club Lower Hudson Group Yeshiva University High School www.closternaturecenter.org mmc.nynjtc.org sierraclub.org/atlantic/lower-hudson Outdoors Club 12 | Spring 2018

Trail Conference Staff Update

Welcome Ben of the outdoors and trails studied Recreation Resource for the last 14 years while Prior to moving to New Jer- in particular while build- Management at Utah State raising her family in Oak- sey, Nancy was park ranger at and Nancy ing them for AmeriCorps University. land, N.J. During that time, Gateway National Recreation in New Hampshire after she was very active in and is Area and worked for the Wis- Ben Sugar, college. Since then, he has Nancy now chair of the local Envi- consin Department of Natu- Field led crews and managed trails Krause, ronmental Commission. She ral Resources as a wastewater Manager, for the Green Mountain Executive is also on Oakland’s Shade specialist. Nancy has a B.A. joined Club; Montgomery County, Assistant, Tree Commission and Green in economics and a M.A. in the Trail Md.; and the U.S. Forest joined the Team. Nancy has held several environmental science. She Confer- Service in Utah. Ben holds a Trail Con- other community volunteer is an avid cook and outdoors ence in February. A Virginia B.A. in history from James ference staff in March. Nancy positions in schools and person who is most at home native, Ben discovered a love Madison University and has was a church office manager recreation programs as well. when she is camping.

TRAIL CONFERENCE SUPPORTERS

NOVEMBER 1, 2017 – JANUARY 31, 2018

TRIBUTES Heather McHale Andrea & Michael Tannenbaum In memory of Ali Ghahari In memory of John Gunzler Donald Tripp & Denise Jarvis Jennifer Ghahari Anonymous Martin Ulshen In honor of Dr. Joseph Barbuto Donald Anderson Daniel & Lynne Van Engel Susan Barbuto Timothy Ayers Candi Vene In honor of Josephine Boxer Joel Berelson & Charles Maples Alan & Barbara Wain Jane Steuerwald & Jon Cole Norman Blumenstein Weitzenhoffer/Seminole Foundation In honor of Brian Collins Ginny Brach In memory of Ann Haffy Patricia Mazzone James & Sherri Buchanan John Haffy In honor of Karen Dillon Rick Cesere In memory of Eugene Jockel Diana Diasparra & Bruce Duesterhoeft Carol Chimento Anonymous In honor of Mr. & Mrs. Charles & Marion Fromm William Christian In memory of Yasmin Joseph Stempler Mark Fromm Audrey Curwin Yasmin Solomon In honor of Jeanne Gibbs Gary Curwin In memory of Marilyn Katz David Gibbs Ron & Eileen Curwin George Petty In honor of Geoff Hamilton Cathleen Dainiak, on behalf of the following: In memory of Dean Kelly Elisabeth Wright • The Finks James Hourihan In honor of Lori Hershenhart • The Nevin/Salvaggios In memory of Jeffry Tzefay Lee Amanda Hiller & Beth Hershenhart • The Lawlors Cynthia Lee In honor of Amie Jamieson • The Shapiros In memory of Jane Lennon Peter Schaeffing • The Earnhardts Patricia Runge In honor of Bill Kern Jane & Walter Daniels In memory of Kenneth Lutters Emily Veach Geoff Dann & Lauri Novick-Dann Wilfredo Chaluisant In honor of Linda Malkin Gregory & Diana DeVincentis In memory of my father Torleif Meloe, who continues to Kenneth Mayer Fred & Joan Ellis blaze trails from above In honor of Dean & Hayley Nichols Ronnie & Barry Gardiner Erica Meloe Gary & Janelle Heise George & Diana Allen Family Foundation In memory of Irene Pappas In honor of Glenn Oleksak Karen & Eric Ginsburg James & John Pappas Barry Oleksak Shirley & Joseph Giovannoli In memory of June Parisi Marian MacDonald Frank Goldsmith Natalie Macke In honor of Giacomo Servetti Sheridan Greeniaus In memory of Molly Pass Amy Waldhauer Paul Gunzler Jennifer Pass In honor of Richard Vacek Myrna & Ernest Haas In memory of Fr. Mark Payne Sarah Pawliczak Audrey Hale Brian Collins & Michelle Tuorto-Collins In honor of Daniel Van Engel Gary Haugland In memory of Joseph Peraino Anonymous Headmost International Inc Joseph Peraino In honor of Kim Waldhauer Michael Hymanson In memory of Kirk Rodgers Amy Waldhauer Robert Jonas Walter Pollard In honor of Mr. Donald Weise Amy & Jeffrey Kaplan In memory of Howell Saul Cheryl & Robert Lehmann (Happy Birthday!) Michael & Marlene Karpas Nancy Nitzberg Audrey Roco Edward Goodell & Lynne Katzmann In memory of Margaret Schwinn In honor of Judah Weitz Ian Kerr Steve & Susan Schwinn Nahum Felman Philip Kirstein In memory of Jonathan Trumbull In honor of Harvey Zanger Anonymous Matthew Trumbull Kathleen Caren Richard & Barbara Kraft In memory of Dongxiang Wang In memory of Dr. George Becker Jr. Ruth Kramer Haijiang Gong Anthony Palladino Diane & Richard Levine In memory of Richard Wolff David & Helen Crowell Taraynn Lloyd Eck Khoon Goh The George Becker Jr MD Family Charitable Fund Ann Loeb Fredric Kruvant on behalf of The Chanler at Montclair Jules Royak Paul C Mendelowitz (Montclair Gardens, LLC) In memory of Alice Becker Dana & Adam Meyers Gari & Lori Ledyard The George Becker Jr MD Family Charitable Fund Sabina Molander Ann Loeb In memory of John Blenninger David & Evelyn Oshin Don & Merryl Richards Alvin DeMaria Robin & Larry Osman Phyllis Safer Steven & Suzanne Moses Peter Oswald Gail Waimon & Len Friedman Gary Haugland Sherri Raquet Marianne Zwosta In memory of Sandy Cascio Beth Ravit In memory of David Woolf David Webber Frederick Reeves Naola Gersten-Woolf In memory of Ramon deTorres JoAnn Ribaudo In memory of Margaret Starmer Jules Royak Felicia Rosen Janet Plattner In memory of Zoey Dog Susan & Arthur Rothman For the Conservation Corp, from our littlest love Benjamin Leon Maleson Janet Sandler Pond, #halfpinthiker In memory of Don Erbe Charles Santore David Pond Clifford Gerenz Gary Schultz In memory of Jakob Franke Marty & Honey Schwartz DONORS TO THE ANNUAL FUND Steve Aaron Helaine Shapiro Anonymous Donor, Kathryn & Paul Abdis, Bernard Baron Sam Gellens Adrienne Sherman & Robin Abrett, Mrs. Marilyn Adair, Dr. John Adams, Anita Gary Haugland Richard & Judy Siegel & Richard Adelman, Kathryn Adorney, Rohit Agarwal, Abe In memory of Monty Gerbush Sandra & Michael Skodnik Allen, Emily Anderson, Kevin Andreano, Kitty Angulo, Rose Bonanno Joy Slatoff Daniel Antognini, Felicity Arengo, Michael Ashton, Mi- In honor of Trail Angels Solicito & Son Contracting Corp chael Augenbraun, Kathy & Michael Azzara, Len Bailenson, nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 13

Trail Conference Gets verifies that the Trail Confer- Highest Rating from ence exceeds industry stan- Happy Trails town, a community-building Charity Navigator dards and outperforms most nonprofit focused on local charities in our area of work. to Erica food access, education, and The Trail Conference has It also sets the Trail Confer- . Erica joined received a 4-star rating from ence apart as a trustworthy, Erica the Trail Conference in 2016 Charity Navigator, America’s responsibly managed charity. Colace and played an integral role largest independent evaluator With more than 1.5 million has left her in helping the Board of of charities. This is the fifth nonprofits across America, position as Directors and senior staff consecutive year that the Trail Charity Navigator aims to ac- executive fulfill the organization’s Conference has earned this centuate the work of efficient assistant to mission. We thank Erica for top distinction as a charity. organizations. Check out what become executive director her contributions and wish This ranking indicates that in an accountable, transpar- it means to be a 4-star charity of Grow It Green Morris- her the best of luck. we adhere to sector best prac- ent, and financially efficient and view our exceptional tices and execute our mission way. A 4-out-of-4-star rating rating at bit.ly/tc-cn.

Duff Bailey, Heather Baiman, Peter Balderston, Joseph Janovsky, Douglas Jay, Marlene Jeenel, Daniel Jeffrey, Mar- Nancy Scotford, Derek Scott, George Scribner, Charles & Baldino, Judith & Kenneth Bannermann, Donald Barney, gery Josephson, Joyce & Morris Judson, Glenn Kachmarsky, Patrice Scully, Larry Seberg, Scott Seldeen, David Seligman, Courtney Bassett, Benjamin & Susan Baxt, Jonathan Beard David Kallas, Beth Kaplan, Chet Kaplan, Aileen Bassis & John Seuberth, Alfred & Carol Seymour-Jones, Linda & Pe- & Rachel Theilheimer, Raymond & Rose Begin, Kathryn & Andrew Kapochunas, Eugene & Gay Kassan, Brian Kassen- ter Shea, John & Patricia Sheppard, Christine & Mark Sho- Stephen Beisser, Vaclav Benes, Andy & Hanna Benesch, brock, Livia & Stuart Katchen, David & Hazel Katz, Richard engold, Eleanor Shortle, Joseph Shraibman, Beverly & Robert & Cerisse Bennett, Katie & Sam Benrubi, David & Marion Katzive, Michael Kaye, Patricia Keenan, Barbara Bruce Shriver, Stephen Shyne, Nancy & Simon Sida- Berkovich, Ellie & Robert Berlin, Gottfried Bernert, Benja- & Bradford Kendall, Caroline & CJ Kern, Howard Kessler mon-Eristoff, Manny Silberberg, Bruce Thaler & Elaine Sil- min Bernhardt, Thomas Berry, Tom Bessoir, Donald Bick- Jr., Hans Khimm, Jean King, Timothy King, Donald Kirk- verstein, Kwan-Ngee Sim, Andrew & Kelsey Skea, Frank ford, Michael Bieber, Maryan & Richard Bing, James & Ja- patrick, Harry & Karen Kissileff, David Klopfenstein, Karen Skuthan & Noreen Coyne, Diana Sattelberger & Jim Sligar, nine Bixler, Bryan Blackburn, Kirk Blanchard, Jonathan & Knight, Beth & Timothy Knotts, Michal Koblas, Chris Ber- Electra Small, Charles Smith, Chuck Smith, Erika Schnei- Julie Bliss, Norman Blumenstein, Ian Blundell, John Boeh- nhardt & Henryka Komanska, Richard Kosmala, Laura der-Smith & Gregory Smith, Ian Smith, Jared Smith, Pame- ning, Susan Bogen, Judith Kiesel & Michael J Bolotsky, Dan- Kososki, Jack & Judy Kossover, John Kowalczuk, Thomas la Smith, Richard Smith, Valerie Smith, Nina & Robert So- iel Borsody, Flo & Mike Boucher, Lawrence & Margaret Kozak, John Kozma, David Krasnow, Michael Kresge, San- bel, Karl Soehnlein, Douglas & Joan Sohn, Daniela Soluk, Bourguet, Richard Bowers, David & Annette Boyajian, The- dra Krieger & Andrew Dash, William Krisak, Donald & Sally & Christian Sonne, Kathryn Spann, Malcolm Spector, odore Brack, Sasha & Todd Bradbury, Raymond Bragar & Mary Krug, Matt Kucera, Erik Kulleseid & Mark Eisen- Al Spooner, Dennis Spriet, Dina & Ethan Stambler, Kevin Robin Hertz, Robert Brantl, Evalynne & Joseph Braun, Liz hardt, Douglas Kummer, Miri Ben-Shalom & Robert Kur- Stamey, Jerry Stein & Elizabeth Galbraith, Carl Steinberg, Faulkner & Walter Brett, Charles Brock, Elizabeth Brody, shan, Lee Kyriacou & Elizabeth Barrett, Thomas & Maureen Connie & Fred Stern, Susan Sterngold, Bob & Suzi Stevralia, Amy Brook & Joseph Frick, Edward & Sigrid Brooks, Wil- Lambrix, Joseph Laraia, Jonathan Lay, Patricia Mosser & Bonnie Brown & John Stewart, John Stockman, David Sto- liam Brown & Barbara Felton, Michael Burns, Peter Bynam Miles Cary Leahey, Adam Lechner & Ellen Gold, Gari & elting, Christopher Streeter, David Stuhr, Thomas Stukane, & Susan Coleman, Stephen Bywater, Peter Cain, Tom Cam- Lori Ledyard, Samantha Lee, Barry Leibowitz, Laura Rice & Matthew Stupple & Megan McMullan, Jan Summers, Rich- panile, Carolyn & James Canfield, Diane & Russ Cannizza- Richard Leonard, Adam & Melinda Leone, Joel Lester, ard Sumner, James & Bronwen Sutherland, Judith Swan, ro, Frank Caputzal, Brian & Jody Carlson, Daniel & Eliza- Pasquale Leuzzi, Jennifer Levine, Rosanne Levitt, Richard Lynn Swanson, Sandra Swenson, Peter Swiderski, John beth Case, Laurence Cassar, Michael Caulfield, Frank Levy, Bobbi Lewis, Marshall Katzman & Sally Lewis, Allan Tague, John Tanturri Jr, Kenneth & Gretchen Tardell, Jean Cerisano, Carolyn Chave & Robert Hand, Shishi Chen, Liff, John Linderman, Christina Lio, Edward Liona, Jean- Taylor, Michael Taylor & Sharon Churcher, Michael Tem- Kathleen Cheney, Evonne Cho, Jeffrey Choi, Henry & Susan marie Davis & Larry Littlefield, Wei Liu, Shai Livneh, Ben- pleton, Straat Tenney, Carl & Victoria Thune, David & Mary Christensen, Chris Christodoulou & Hilary Gomes, Jenni- jamin Locke, Rafael Lopez Jr, Carl Loutzenheiser, Mary & Timmer, John Tobin, Arthur & Nancy Tollefson, William fer Ciccone, Paul Clemens, Thomas Clifford, Joshua Mike Lowery, M & R Lurie, Leonard & Sue Lyon, Donald & Trainor, Donald Tripp & Denise Jarvis, Maria Celina Trze- Bonaventura-Sparagna & Stacy Cloutier, Roger Cocchi, Joe Gay MacQueen, Matthew Maguire, Andrew Maldonado, pacz, Lawrence Tsao, Thomas Tully, Glen & Shelby Umland, Colacino, Evan Colgan, Brian Collins & Michelle Tuor- Lawrence Mals, Marilyn Maney & Donald Campolo, An- Marilyn Van Houten, Christie Van Kehrberg, Jessie & Roger to-Collins, Edward Collins, Josephine & Robert Conger, nette & Paul Marcus, Jeanne Maroney, Frank Marra, Ronald Vellekamp, Jeanne & John Velonis, Kerry Villamil, Michael Chris Connolly, John & Lynn Conover, Sybil Cooper, Pete Marsico, Cynthia Martin, Fred & MJ Martin, James Martoc- Vitti, Linda Vitulano, Michael Volkovitsch & Miriam Starc, Cosgrove, Franklin Costantini & Liz Lacy, Louis Cothalis, ci, Gayle Edgerton & Theodore Marzilli, John & Nancy Susanne & Stephen Vondrak, Edward & Eudora Walsh, Lu- Toby Cox, Peter Coy, Michael Craig, Philip Cristantiello Masterson, Anders & Carlene Maxwell, Jane & Stanley oquan Wang, Edwin Ward, William Ward Jr., Shelley Weber, PhD, Joan Crowley, Michael Crowley, Susan Curate, Martin Mayer, Alexandra Mazzeo & Law Dome, Jane McGurty, Di- Larry Wehr, Dava Weinstein & Dorothy Calvani, Georgette Czuba, Lyn Damari, Irina & Robert Danetz, Lucy Danziger, ana Medici, Mario Medici, Galia Meiri & Troy Mack, Peg & Weir & Jean Claude Fouere, Eric & Fern Weis, Mark Weis, George Davenel Jr., Kathleen Davies, Angela De Sapio, Vir- Peter Meisler, Eric Menocal, Lucinda Mercer & Richard Benjamin Weisberg, Heidi Wendel, David Wentzlaff, Lissa ginia Deibler, Jennifer Delorenzi, Kathleen DeMers, Nick Cole, Hilary Wilder & Michael Merritt, Robert Messer- Westbrook, Greg Whalin, Michael White, Cyrus Whitney, Denkowycz, Joseph & Maria DiSaverio, Peter Ditommaso, schmidt, Bob & Jody Meyer, Nancy Meyers, Michael & Su- Leonora Wiener, Christopher Wiley, Catherine Ray & Rob- Candace & Jeffrey Dobro, Allyn Dodd, Michael Doehring, zanne Miller, Scott & Monique, Marianne Mocilenko, Rich- ert Willemann, Evan & Maria Williams, Marty & Nancy Noreen Dominguez, Diane & Paul Donoghue, Dennis ard Modafferi, Elizabeth Mogel, Keith & Mary Mogerley, Willick, Allan Winkler, Tony Wisniewski, Margaret Wissler, Driscoll, Constance DuHamel, Christopher Duston, Wil- Lucia Molaro, Catherine & Richard More, Peter Morris, Erik Witt, Nancy Witt, Barry Wittlin, Ann & Don Wolf, lard Dye, David & Barbara Dykhouse, Jeffrey Easton, James Bruno Moschetta, Steven & Suzanne Moses, Barbara Sim- Lory Wolf, Barnet Wolff, Hanson Wong, Ida Wong, Mr. An- Langford & Marcia Egger, Steven & Anna Eichhorn, Donald mons & Lee Mott, Ernest Mozer Jr., Keith Mulvihill, Kirsten drew Wong, David Cooper & Tamar Wyschogrod, Daniel & Ruellen Eisen, Phillip Eisenberg, Andrew Epstein, Jane Munro, Helen & Tom Murphy, Anne Murray, Kathy & Steve Yacykewych, Dmitriy Yavid, Jon Yenor, David Yeu & Aman- Erwin & Patrick Crowley, Lily Fairbanks, Edwin Fancher, Murray, Douglas Myer, Donald Myers, Osamu Nakayama, da Lohman-Yeu, Linda Young, Eric Wohlforth & Naomi Susan Schultz & Thomas Faust, Chuck Feldman, Dave Andrea Natalie, Brad Vogel & Holly Nelson, Paul Neuman, Youngstein, Chienfan Yu, James Zeller, Gail & Albert Zim- Felton, Paul Ferlazzo, Jack Fielder, Mark & Robin Finkel- Holger Nissen & Sarah French, Dennis Noskin, Charles merman, Dawn Zittel, Martin Zumsteg, & Brian Zweig stein, Ruth Fischer, Richard Taylor & Sharon Flanagan, Nunn, James O’Brien, Christopher Obuck, Patricia Odell, Rodney & Ruth Fleck, Kevin G & Kevin E Flynn, William Raido Oja, Chris Oldfather & Fredrica Wyman, Michael CORPORATE, FOUNDATION & OTHER DONORS Foelsch, Brooke Foley, Mary Ann & Roland Folter, Ronald O’Shea, Paul & Theresa Padavano, Robert Paine, Anthony ADK New York Chapter, American Express Foundation, Fontana, Janice & Peter Ford, Anne & Donald Fowler, Ken- Palmiotti, Sang Hak Park, Emma Parkinson, Carol & Daniel American General Life Insurance Company, Ameriprise neth Fox, Cynthia Frank, James Frankel, Sheldon Freidenre- Parrish, Peter Parsons, Michael Pashley, Kishan Patel, Jose Financial, Aon Foundation, Benevity, Charles Schwab In- ich, Wayne Frey, Johnny Fry, thomas fusco, Dean Gallea, Perez, Elizabeth Perrella, Edmund Peters, Frank Petrosillo, stitutional Service Group, Chinese Mountain Club of New Robert Galli, Bill & Anna Gannett, Claudia Ganz, Tracy Alan Petrulis, George Petty & Marilyn Katz, John Pierce, York, DonateWell, EarthShare New Jersey, Eleutherian Garner, Andrew & Sheri Garrison, Erin Geerlof, Marilyn Cheryl Agris & Richard Pine, Jacob & Isaac Pinsky, James Trust Company, Elliott Badgley Foundation, Inc, Estate Gelber & Robert Jacobson, William Gelles, Deborah Padu- Piombino, Judy Plott, Trudy Pojman, Mark Porterfield, Joan of Peter Kennard, Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund, FJC, GE la-Genna & Frank Genna, Jason Gerber, Maribeth Germi- & Ron Porto, Kenneth Posner, Judith Pott, Cynthia Poulton, Foundation Matching Gifts Program, German-American nario, Christopher & Nancy Gibbs, Stephen Gillingham, Peter Preston, Allyssa Price, Erik Prince, Martin Prince, Hiking Club, Greater Horizons, Henry C & Karin J Bark- Bernard & Irene Gingras, Guy Gioia, Jeffrey & Terryanne Christoffel & Aletta Prinsloo, James Prommel, Mary Jean horn Foundation, Inertia Switch, Inc, Interact Marketing, J. Gmelch, Kenneth Goddard, David Goldberg, Brian Golden, Purdy, Sean Quinn, Arzi Rachman, Frank Rasor, Jane & Rudder Tax, Johnson & Johnson Matching Gifts Program, James & Susan Goodfellow, Stanley Gottlieb, Christopher Werner Rausch, Seth Reichlin & Susie Melnick, Elijah Re- JPMorgan Chase Foundation Matching Gift & Volunteer Gow, Glenn Gray, Katina Grays, Mathew Grayson, Gary ichlin-Melnick, David Reidy, Peter Reiner, Stacy Repetto, Grant Programs, Kirkland & Ellis Foundation, Leanne Greenberg, Mr. Berton Greenberg, Daniel Greenwald & Jane Restani, Andrea Minoff & Chris Reyling, Chris & Jan- Freas Trout Foundation, Inc., Lone Pine Capital LLC, Louis Linda Weltchek, Glenn Gross, Lawrence Gross, Beth Gross- ice Reynen, Elisa Reynolds, Marvin Riley, Andris Ritenis, & Anne Abrons Foundation, Inc, Meadowlark Foundation, man, Anson & Patricia Grover, Robert Haley, Margaret William Roach Jr., James Robbins, Sue & Bill Robbins, Mi- Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc, Mohonk Pre- Haltigan, Don & Ruth Hamann, Nancy Hamrick & Nancy chael Roberts, Alan Rojer, David Rojer & Jennifer Lublin, serve, Morgan Stanley Banking & Cash Services, National Needleman, Joan & William Hand, John Hannasch, Eliza- Barbara Petersen & Roger Roloff, Norman Rosenblum, Financial Services LLC, NECA, Network For Good, New beth Hanson, Frank Hariton, Wilhelmina Haruk, William Richard Rosenthal, Nancy Ross, Aaron Roth, Stephanie & Jersey Forty Plus Hiking Club, Haskins, Shelley Haven, William Hawkins, Emerson Haw- Walter Rothaug, Durdane & R Daniel Rouse, Barbara & Committee, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, SAJ - So- ley, John Hayes, John Headden, Elizabeth Heald, Phillip & Mark Rubin, Donald & Susan Rudbart, Josh Rudbart & Sar- ciety for the Advancement of Judaism, SalesForce.org, Ellen Heidelberger, Sidney Heimbach MD, Amy Helfrick, ah Watson, Sam Rudy, John Rushman, Frank Russo, Marc Schwab Charitable Fund, The Brooke-McCarragher Foun- Debbie Herbert, Mary Hilley, Maria Himber, Craig Hirsch- Ryan, Edward & Roberta Saiff, Barbara Santoro, Leonardo dation, The Mabee Family Foundation, The Roxanne & berg, Kerry & Todd Hodge, Steven Holley, Roberta Hong, Saraceni, Jennifer Sass Maimone, Michael Sasse, Gunvor Sa- Henry Brandt Foundation, The U.S. Charitable Gift Trust, Mark Horberg & Risa Jaslow, Lawrence Horowitz, Carolyn tra, Dean Savage, Stephen Sayer, Joseph Scalia, Brian & Gail Thendara Mountain Club, Topfield Foundation, TriState Houston, Samuel Huber, Paul & Rosemary Hundt, Karen Scanlan, Matthew Schechter, Murray Schechter, Rhoda & Ramblers, Truist/FrontStream Workplace Philanthropy, Hunt, Nancy Hunt, John Hutchins, Brook Ing, Samuel In- Robert Schermer, Sandi Schiffman, Heather Schlieper, Gay- Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program, Westchester gram Jr., Richard Jacobowski, Seth Jacobs, James Nicoletti & le Schmidt, Fred Schneider, Heiko Schoder, Darrel Schoel- Trails Association, YourCause (YourCause.com), & Zadeck Monika Jaeger, Joan James, Keith James, Andrew & Helaine ing & Jeff Corbin, Roseanne Schwartz, Edward Schwetz, Family Foundation 14 | Spring 2018 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org

Taxes and Charity: PETE TILGNER Money-Saving Tips

able to itemize one year and take the standard deduction the next year. Using this method, you may be able to take full tax advantage of all your charitable donations. David J. Haas CFP® President, Cereus Financial Qualified Charitable Advisors, LLC Distribution For those over age 70 ½, the Qualified Charitable The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Distribution (QCD) is an- (TCJA), signed into law late other option. Many people last year, may have reduced have significant savings in your ability to deduct char- their Qualified Retirement itable contributions from Accounts, such as IRAs and Explore ‘Trails Near your taxes. Donations given 401(k)s. Once you reach 70 to charitable organizations ½, the government obligates by individuals or couples you to start taking Required are deductible on schedule Minimum Distributions and Far’ with Artist- A of the IRS 1040 tax form (RMDs) from these accounts as itemized deductions. You every year. You need to take can deduct your contri- these distributions and pay butions if your itemized tax on them whether or not Volunteer Pete Tilgner deductions are greater than you need this income for the standard deduction. The your living expenses. TCJA has both increased The QCD is a special SUSAN SAPANARA If You Go seums around the country, as the standard deduction distribution you can make art selection well as internationally. Pete’s and reduced the types of from your IRA directly to committee member What: “Trails Near and photographs are in the pub- expenses that qualify for a 501(c)(3) charity tax-free Far” featuring the work lic collections of the Newark deductions. This means instead of your RMD. This The Trail Conference invites of Peter Tilgner Museum, Prudential Insur- that many taxpayers will be allows you to donate to you to take a journey with When: March 8 ance Company, Port Authority hard-pressed to find enough charity and avoid paying photographer-volunteer Peter through May 7 during of New York and New Jersey, expenses to itemize in 2018 income tax on the distribu- Tilgner in the new exhibition regular Trail Conference Ridgewood Public Schools, and later. But there are solu- tion. You get the tax equiv- “Trails Near and Far,” on view hours, 9 a.m. to 5 and the Trail Conference. tions to this problem. alent of a full deduction on March 8 through May 7 at our p.m., Monday through Pete has curated two exhi- your contribution from the Bunching Deductions headquarters. Travel along as Friday (and Saturdays, bitions for the City Without first dollar you donate. Using a Donor we view, through the lens of beginning April 7) Walls Gallery in Newark, N.J., Everyone’s tax situation Pete’s camera, his personal vi- and “Cuba Today, Through the Advised Fund is different. While these Where: Trail Confer- sion of the walkways and vis- Eyes of Twelve Photographers” A Donor Advised Fund options may work for you, ence Headquarters, tas he travels with Suzan Gor- for the Monmouth Museum in (DAF) is actually a charity discuss it with a tax advisor don, his partner in discovery. 600 Ramapo Valley Lincroft, N.J. itself. So when you con- before taking any action. Escape with surrealistic imag- Road, Mahwah, N.J. Pete and Suzan were Ster- tribute money to a DAF, ery captured in a visual narra- Details: Find out more ling Forest Trail Supervisors you get a tax deduction. At David is president and tive of the artist’s experiences. at nynjtc.org. for 14 years. Pete now main- any point in time, you tell founder of Cereus Financial From Oregon’s Creator Lake to tains trails at the Tenafly Na- the DAF to distribute your Advisors, LLC in Franklin the glaciers of Patagonia, Pete’s ture Center in Tenafly, N.J., funds to your favorite chari- Lakes, N.J., which specializes visual storytelling will capti- skills were among the subjects and volunteers with the Trail ties, including the Trail Con- in comprehensive financial vate. he taught. Conference’s Membership and ference. You could do this planning and wealth man- Pete has worked as a visual Pete has had one-person Development department. For monthly, quarterly, or annu- agement for executives, pro- artist for more than 40 years, shows of his photography his exceptional work and ded- ally. Contributing to a DAF fessionals, and small business 37 of which were as an artist- displayed at numerous cafes, ication to the organization, allows you to bunch two or owners. He has been a Trail educator in the Ridgewood galleries, and public buildings Pete received a Distinguished more years of deductions Conference member and Public Schools in New Jersey. throughout the region. His Service Award on March 10 into a single year. You’ll be volunteer for over 30 years. Photography and darkroom work has been shown at mu- (see page 6 for details).

News in Brief Registration on registration with code diverse scenery of the 350- LET’S GO CAMPING NYNJ2018! For more info, mile Long Path— will be Open for Black visit blackrockforest.org or on display in the staircase Rock Forest call 845.534.4517. galleries at the Nyack Library for the month of Summer May. On Thursday, May Science Camp ‘Discovering 17, the library will host a reception featuring the Kids (ages 11-15) in the Long Path’ men behind the exhibit. search of outdoor learning on Display at Steve Aaron will discuss adventure can find it photographing the Long at Black Rock Forest’s Nyack Library Path, and Ken Posner will Summer Science Day Camp discuss his book, “Running in Cornwall, N.Y., this “Discovering the Long the Long Path.” Visit July. The program offers Path”—a 25-piece photo nyacklibrary.org for more weeklong experiences in exhibition featuring the info, or call 845.358.3370.

nature working directly STEVE AARON with scientists. The focus is on understanding nature through scientific observation and investigation, with classes No camping gear? No car? that allow students to No problem!! explore college and career possibilities in the natural Just 80 min from Grand Central to the Beacon Train Station, sciences while having fun where you’ll meet our shuttle and your adventure begins. in Black Rock Forest. Trail Conference members www.MaloufsMountain.com 845-831-6767 receive a 15% discount nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Spring 2018 | 15 Revised Hudson Palisades Maps Include Mileages

This spring, look for a revised, sixth edition of the Hudson Palisades Trails map set to connect you to more than 100 miles of marked trails and bike paths along the western side of the Hudson River from Fort Lee, N.J., northward to Haver- straw, N.Y. This newest edition features junction-to-junction trail mileage numbers on the map front and includes trail changes and map adjustments. Must-Have Harriman Trail mileage numbers give distances between trail junc- Trails Guidebook tions and important features along the trail, and this pop- Gets an Update ular feature is now on more than half of our trail maps. The A revised, fourth edition new edition is the inclusion Hudson Palisades set includes of the popular guidebook of many historic photos approximately 40 miles of the Harriman Trails: A Guide that appeared in the first Long Path, as well as trails in and History is expected to edition of the book and Palisades Interstate Park, Blau- be available in May. Last were thought to be lost. Ad- velt State Park, High Tor State published in 2010, this ditional scenic photos have Park, Rockland Lake State comprehensive guide to been added, and historical Park, Tallman Mountain State hundreds of miles of trails information on the trails, Park, Buttermilk Falls Park, in Harriman and Bear originally prepared by the Clausland Mountain Park, Mountain state parks has late Bill Myles, has been Flat Rock Brook Nature Cen- been significantly updated updated by Daniel Chazin. ter, Tenafly Nature Center, and to include the new route of Each trail description has Rockleigh Woods Sanctuary/ the Appalachian Trail over also been carefully reviewed Lamont Reserve. Bear and West mountains, and updated. All maps include UTM gri- the extension of the Fawn At a price of $19.95 dlines, parking areas, view- Apple and Android devices Thank You Trail, and relocations of ($14.96 for members), this points, and other points of through the Avenza Maps app. sections of the Long Path, guidebook is a must-have interest. The set, sponsored by The sixth edition of Hudson Special thanks to the the Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy Trail, for outdoor enthusiasts in- REI, will be available in print Palisades Trails is likely to be volunteers and park and the Ramapo- terested in exploring the rich format in vibrant color on available in May, so be sure partners who helped Dunderberg Trail. network of trails in Harri- our popular waterproof, tear- to look for its arrival on our produce this map A special feature of this man and Bear Mountain. resistant Tyvek, and down- website or sign up for our e- revision! loadable in digital format on newsletter to stay in the know!

HIKERS’ MARKETPLACE Trail Conference GO PLACES WITH TRAIL MAPS AND Marketplace: BOOKS FROM THE TRAIL CONFERENCE Featured Items HEATHER DARLEY

Trucker Hat This one-size-fits-all trucker hat features an embroidered Get the complete set of trail Trail Conference logo with trail tools. Get yours for YOUR PLANNED GIFT TO maps at one great, low price! $21.85 ($19.66 for members). THE TRAIL CONFERENCE WILL: Our map combo offers Long-Sleeved Logo Shirt Help us protect trails and trail lands for future generations. all of our high-quality This comfy shirt is great on Preserve people’s connection to the natural world. Trail Conference and off the trail, and allows Create a personal sense of responsibility for our wild places. maps at a discount you to show your Trail Con- Please consider including the Trail Conference in your will or as a (members get an ference pride with a simple, beneficiary in an investment account or insurance policy today. additional discount). eye-catching design. Available You can make a bequest by sharing the following Save big on shipping in black and gray for $18.75 sample language with your attorney: charges! ($16.87 for members). Find these products and more at I bequeath to the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, Inc., a Find it on our online not-for-profit organization, with principal offices located at 600 Ramapo nynjtc.org/shop. Valley Rd, Mahwah, NJ 07430, the sum of $______(or ______%) store under Combos. for its general unrestricted environmental conservation purposes.

VISIT nynjtc.org/shop TO LEARN MORE AND GET MATERIALS, CONTACT: OR CALL 201.512.9348 Don Weise, Development Director [email protected] | 201.512.9348 x813 Find all of our publications and select trail guides from others at nynjtc.org, and get your member discount! 16 | Spring 2018 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org Explore New Trails and Parkland in Orange County

SONA MASON which overlook the wetlands west hudson of Trout Brook. Contemplate program coordinator the stream at the bend before continuing uphill toward a The Trail Conference has FEATURED spectacular overlook of Sug- been busy improving public ar Loaf Mountain. Continue access in and around Goose- through aromatic red cedar pond Mountain State Park in HIKE outcrops down to Bull Mill Orange County, N.Y., over the Road. Cross the road, then hop last year. Thanks to the efforts over the Seely Brook stepping of our volunteers, a precari- stone crossing and bog bridge ous road-walk section of the Details walkway. Head northward Highlands Trail in Chester has through more cedars, past been rerouted into the park. Trail: Highlands Trail massive, old field-grown oaks Approximately 2 miles long, Park: Goosepond and along hillsides down to- this new section is a beautiful, Mountain State Park, ward the original trail route on well-graded multi-use trail, Lazy Hill Road. Orange County, N.Y. built for use by hikers and Here you can turn left, across non-motorized bikes. Difficulty: Moderate the newly restored Seely Brook The Highlands Trail at Length: Varies bridge to the Laroe Road park- Goosepond Mountain has a lot Dogs: Allowed on leash ing. If you head right toward to offer over a relatively short Features: Views, route 17M instead, keep an eye distance. One can travel from bikes allowed out for the unmarked entrance the parking lot at Bull Mill on the left to the Board Fam- Road to Laroe Road for an ap- ily Cemetery Trail. This semi- proximately 3-mile hike, or For either option, start at the circular loop leads to a bench continue along Lazy Hill Road parking lot on Bull Mill Road on a knoll overlooking the vast, More Land years we lived in Chester to the parking at Route 17M near the corner of Laroe Road. open wetlands below Goose- and operated Camp for an approximately 5-mile Follow the blue diamond pond Mountain. Take a seat on Preserved Monroe. Our goal was to hike (both are out-and-back or Highlands Trail blazes along the bench, inhale deeply, and in Chester assist in helping to connect two-car shuttle options). an avenue of grand sycamores, let the birdsong fill your ears. a piece of the Highlands Inspired by the recent Trail and to make sure On Saturday, April 21 (rain partnership of public, non- now accessible to the parcel preservation that the area around the activity in Chester, Stanley Trail would remain free date Sunday, April 22), profit, and private groups public via trails built by Felsinger, former owner of development.” Stanley we’re officially opening the who have worked steadily volunteers. This trail of Camp Monroe, recently and his wife Hope said Highlands Trail relocation over a period of years to party and hike will take donated more than 30 they were happy to “leave at Goosepond Mountain preserve a beautiful patch place at the Highlands Trail acres along the proposed a small legacy showing State Park with a ribbon- of forested land from parking area at 2-164 Bull greenway corridor to the our gratitude for the many cutting ceremony. The development—land that is Mill Road in Chester, N.Y. Town of Chester. Stanley wonderful years we spent festivities begin at 2 p.m. now part of Goosepond Find more info and RSVP said it was done “to show living in beautiful Chester Join us in celebrating the Mountain State Park, and at bit.ly/tc-hto18. our appreciation for the 60 among our dear neighbors.”

Support trails, parks, and open Join/Renew Trail Conference Membership We maintain more than 2,100 miles of trails. Your membership helps us provide space in the region by joining access to open space for everyone. the New York-New Jersey Included with membership: Trail Walker, 10% discount on purchases at many outdoor stores, and 25% discount on Trail Conference maps and books and 10% discount on logo goods purchased directly from the Trail Conference. Trail Conference. Save time and a tree by joining or renewing online at nynjtc.org. MEMBERSHIP TYPE The Trail Conference maintains more than 2,100 miles of Select one: Join Renew Membership # if available ______trails, advocates for parks, protects open space, and provides volunteer service opportunities in the great outdoors. Individual Joint Regular $40 $50 Your membership supports the trails you love and gives you Sponsor $75 $90 these additional benefits: Benefactor $150 $200 25% Discount on Trail Conference books and maps when Senior (65+) $35 $40 purchased directly from the Trail Conference. Get a 10% A joint membership is for two adults residing at the same address. discount on Trail Conference logo goods. Visit nynjtc.org/shop. For my membership of $60 or more, send me a: Great Discounts at supporting outdoor retailers and Trail Conference Hat OR Harriman-Bear Mountain Map Set other businesses. See our full list of partners at nynjtc.org/ retail-partners. To purchase a gift membership, call 201-512-9348, ext. 828.

Free Enrollment in our Trail University introductory courses. Name ______Address ______Workshops and Seminars on trail maintenance and City ______State ______Zip ______construction, leadership training, wilderness first aid, Day Phone ______Evening Phone ______environmental monitoring, GPS operation, and more. Find Email ______details at nynjtc.org/trailu. Check or money order enclosed Visa Mastercard American Express Access to a wide range of volunteer opportunities on- and Card # ______Expiration Date: ______/ ______off-trail. Check out nynjtc.org/volunteer. Make check or money order payable to the NY-NJ Trail Conference and mail to: 600 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ, 07430. Join now at nynjtc.org/membership. Trail Conference Trail

BENEFITS Tax deductible. Dues are not refundable.