A PUBLICATION OF THE PARTNERSHIP FOR THE NATIONAL TRAILS SYSTEM Pathways Across America SPRING 2021
VIRTUAL SUCCESS National Scenic and National Historic Trail organizations share their stories of challenges and perseverance in the age of Covid-19.
LAND ACQUISITION ON THE ALA KAHAKAI NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL CONNECTIVITY ANALYSIS LAUNCH 2021 HIKE THE HILL RECAP NORTH COUNTRY 100 MILE CHALLENGE USFS 10-YEAR SHARED STEWARDSHIP Pathways Across America Pathways Across America is the only national publication devoted to the news and issues of America’s national scenic and historic trails. It is published quarterly by the BUILDING COMMUNITY Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) under · cooperative agreements with four Federal agencies. Department of Agriculture (USDA): U.S. Forest Service (USFS) National Trails System Department of the Interior (DOI): National Park Service (NPS) Congress passed the National Trails System Act, signed into law by President Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lyndon B. Johnson on October 2, 1968. Today, the National Trails System is composed of 11 National Scenic Trails (NSTs), 19 National Historic Trails Department of Transportation (DOT): Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) (NHTs), over 1,300 National Recreation Trails (NRTs) including 21 National Water Trails, and more than 2,000 Rail Trails. These trails provide outdoor recreation opportunities, promote resource preservation and public access, and encourage the appreciation of the great outdoors and America’s history and cultural diversity.
Unless otherwise indicated, all material in Pathways PATHWAYS NATIONWIDE FOR DISCOVERY, Across America is public domain. All views expressed LEARNING, AND UNDERSTANDING herein are perspectives of individuals working on behalf of the National Trails System and do not necessarily Strengthening communities through heritage represent the viewpoint of the Federal agencies. and ecotourism, public involvement, and community collaboration. ABOUT US Enhancing access to natural areas and historic The Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) is a treasures through innovative interpretation and 501(c)(3) nonprofit that connects member nonprofit trail organizations and Federal agency partners to further the outreach efforts. protection, completion, and stewardship of the 30 National Facilitating public-private partnerships for Scenic and Historic Trails within the National Trails System. preservation of history, natural environments, STAFF and human health through outdoor recreation. Executive Director: Valerie Rupp SCENIC AND HISTORIC TRAILS RECREATION TRAILS Operations Coordinator: Felicita 'Lis' Wight Program Coordinator: Cara Yendrzeski • Authorized by Congress • Designated by Secretary of Interior Communications Manager: Craig Baker • Stewardship facilitated by the nonprofit or Secretary of Agriculture Contractors: Partnership for the National Trails System • Stewardship facilitated by the Mike Dawson, FHWA Cooperative Agreement Project Manager • Total 55,000 miles through 50 States nonprofit American Trails Don Owen, FHWA Cooperative Agreement Technical Contractor and the District of Columbia in wild, rural, • Total 29,000 miles through 50 Gary Werner, Special Projects suburban, and urban areas, connecting States, the District of Columbia, Liz Wessel, Fundraising and Special Projects with every distinct ecological area or and Puerto Rico biome in the country www.americantrails.org EDITORIAL BOARD • Connect and travel through 70 wildlife refuges, 80 national parks, 90 national Carin Farley • Bureau of Land Management forests, 100 BLM field office areas, over RAIL TRAILS Christopher Douwes • Federal Highway Administration 120 wilderness areas, numerous State and Peter Bonsall • National Park Service local parks, trails, and other protected • Part of 1983 amendment to Brenda Yankoviak • U.S. Forest Service areas, and 100 major urban areas National Trails System Act • Nearly 1 million hours of volunteer labor • Stewardship facilitated by the CONTACT to build and maintain annually nonprofit Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Partnership for the National Trails System • Total 22,000 miles through 50 1615 M St. NW, 2nd Floor • Washington, D.C. 20036 Click the National Trails System tab to States and the District of Columbia, 202.963.2910 • www.pnts.org • [email protected] view a map and learn about our partners: and 8,000 miles in progress www.pnts.org www.railstotrails.org 2 BUILDING COMMUNITY KEEPING HISTORY ALIVE · PRESERVING BIODIVERSITY 11 NATIONAL SCENIC TRAILS The National Scenic Trails (NSTs) represent some of the most magnificent long-distance hiking trails anywhere in the world. Virtually every major ecosystem in the country is traversed by a C NST, including deserts, temperate rainforests and deciduous forests, ontents tundra, mountains, prairies, wetlands, and rivers. NSTs offer natural 4 PARTNERSHIP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT corridors for wildlife preservation and unspoiled viewscapes, and • National Trail Nonprofits Persevere in 2020 they create fitness and outdoor leadership opportunities for all ages. 5 HIKE THE HILL® 2021 RECAP • Appalachian NST • New England NST • Arizona NST • North Country NST 6 RESOURCES • Continental Divide NST • Pacific Crest NST • Connectivity Analysis Tool for Trail Land Protection • Florida NST • Pacific Northwest NST Planning Launched • Ice Age NST • Potomac Heritage NST • Natchez Trace NST 7 • New Federal Trail GIS Schema Template Makes Data Sharing Easier 19 NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAILS The National Historic Trails (NHTs) may be foot or horse paths, Outreach travel routes, roadways, or a combination of several modes of 7 • North Country Trail Hike 100 Challenge travel designated as a route retracing a part of American history. Many NHTs have interpretive centers and regular events to 8 • Virtual Successes immerse you in the past. While historic trails may run through urban and suburban settings, they also boast wilderness and hiking 9 • Thru-Hiking and Covid-19 opportunities as beautiful and diverse as the NSTs. 10 • Honor-Respect-Preserve: The Lewis and Clark NHT • Ala Kahakai NHT • Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) NHT • California NHT • Old Spanish NHT • Captain John Smith • Oregon NHT Protection Chesapeake NHT • Overmountain Victory NHT • El Camino Real de Tierra • Pony Express NHT 11 • 10-Year Trail Shared Stewardship Challenge Adentro NHT • Santa Fe NHT • Land Acquisition: Lessons Learned on the Ala • El Camino Real de los Tejas NHT • Selma to Montgomery NHT 12 • Iditarod NHT • Star-Spangled Banner NHT Kahakai NHT • Juan Bautista de Anza NHT • Trail of Tears NHT • Lewis and Clark NHT • Washington-Rochambeau Capacity • Mormon Pioneer NHT Revolutionary Route NHT 13 • Civilian Climate Corps • Conservation Corps at Work Cover Photographs • Comings and Goings FRONT 14 • Santa Fe NHT Celebrates 200th Anniversary A butterfly lands on a girl's hand during an Arizona National Scenic Trail • The Trek Badger Sponsorship Boosts PNTS Seeds of Stewardship event in Superior, Arizona. Photo Credit: Arizona Trail Association. 15 • Kids' Books on National Scenic and Historic Trails INSIDE 16 EVENTS Left: Students hike near San Francisco Peak in Northern Arizona. Photo Credit: Arizona Trail Association Center: Father and daughter walking toward the cannons at Fort McHenry. View more photos and full versions of each article: Photo Credit: John Lam https://pnts.org/new/category/pathways/ Right: Barred owl on the Pacific Crest Trail. Photo Credit: Tyler Fox 3 by Valerie Rupp, Executive Director EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT Partnership for the National Trails System Rose, Bud, Thorn: Growing from the Lessons of 2020-21 s the soft identify a ‘rose’ (a highlight, success, or perspective, we heard a renewed Afuzz and something positive that happened), a ‘thorn’ enthusiasm for trails with long-time bright blooms of (a challenge experienced or an area where partners and new agency representatives Spring cover the more attention is needed), and a ‘bud’ (a noting the unique potential for National Mid-Atlantic, the new idea or opportunity). Trails to advance key initiatives for climate change of seasons In March 2021, PNTS and its long-time resilience and local economies. Within our harkens the end of partner, American Hiking Society, led the organization, we are building our team with what seemed to be 24th annual Hike the Hill®, this year as a the addition of three staff members after a particularly long winter—one that kept virtual event. While nothing will replace the relocating from Wisconsin to Washington us distanced from one another due to the valuable face-to-face interactions that occur DC during the latter half of 2020. And, as lingering pandemic. during agency and Congressional meetings we work to increase our capacity to better It’s said that change is the only constant (thorn), participants enjoyed a number of support our members and the National Trails in life. The validity of that statement has enlightening and beneficial meetings, and System, we’re forming new partnerships been shown to us time and again over the the online format allowed us to attract a with businesses, including one with The Trek last year. For Partnership for the National greater breadth of experts to lead topical that you will read about in this issue. Trails System (PNTS), like so many other briefings using an online format that proved At PNTS, we’re embracing the continued workplaces and organizations, it has meant to help advocates better prepare for their change and looking forward to growing these re-envisioning what we do and how we meetings (rose). Without the remote event, and other ‘buds’ into ‘roses’ for the National accomplish our work. we may have never learned how much we Trails System. During our Trail Apprentices program, could augment the in-person event with we’ve used a reflection at the end of online, pre-event briefings (bud). Yours in partnership, sessions called “rose-thorn-bud”. Based on This Spring brings several additional the activity of the day, program participants “buds'' to PNTS. From a System-wide
2020 TRAIL ORGANIZATION RESULTS
National Trail Nonprofits Persevere in 2020
hen Covid-19 led to the shutdown of 44.9 hours of their time, compared to 68.2 organizations in 2020 totaled nearly $48.8 Wmany offices in early 2020, trail orga- hours per volunteer in 2020. As a result, total million–more than a $5 million (or a 13.3 nizations were justifiably concerned about volunteer hours on NSHTs decreased only 5.4 percent) increase from the prior year. the impact that might have on their pro- percent (from 997,162 in 2019 to 942,886 Though the impact of Covid-19 challenged gramming, volunteerism, and annual giving. in 2020)–an impressive figure, given the organizations to rethink how they work and Many fundraising events were cancelled or circumstances. engage with the public, trail organizations quickly pivoted to digital formats. In-person Seven organizations saw an increase in demonstrated their resourcefulness by volunteer programs including important volunteerism over the course of the year finding ways to pivot and remain connected trail maintenance events were cancelled or and some trails introduced new technology to their support networks by focusing on scaled back and new protocols were put in to help them better track volunteer hours or digital outreach efforts. At the same time, place to ensure the safety of volunteers and improve reporting procedures. The Oregon- many volunteers were motivated to invest staff. California Trails Association more effectively more time and donors increased their Despite these setbacks, the dedication leveraged its online reporting portal, making support when organizations truly needed it. and resourcefulness of National Scenic and it easier for volunteers to log their hours. This demonstrates a flexible and resilient National Historic Trail (NSHT) organizations This resulted in more reliable and accurate NSHT community that involves committed resulted in quite different outcomes than reporting, including 31,000 volunteer hours individuals who tirelessly give of themselves may have been expected. logged from a single volunteer-run trail to maintain, protect, and advocate on behalf Overall, there was a nearly 38-percent center that previously had not reported of our National Trail System. drop in the total number of active volunteers volunteer hours. across all NSHT organizations from 2019 to Some trail organizations reported static 2020 (down to 13,816 in 2020 from 22,224 or decreased local or State government the previous year). However, this figure is support, yet many trails saw a notable boost The 2020 Gold Sheet is available for far less shocking than it might seem at first in individual giving. In fact, the total value of review and download on our website. glance. The volunteers that were able to private-sector contributions in 2020 reached www.pnts.org/new/our- work in 2020 increased their efforts and a staggering $23,146,874–an increase of work/reports/ contributed significantly more volunteer over 45 percent from the record set the hours per individual than the previous year. previous year. All told, the estimated value of In 2019, the average volunteer contributed private and volunteer contributions to trail 4 HIKE THE HILL 2021 Hike the Hill 2021: Addressing a New Administration
About Us
MISSION n March 2021, PNTS and its long-time partner, the American Hiking Society, led the 24th annual IHike the Hill® as a virtual event. Even a pandemic couldn't hinder Hike the Hill®, nor could it hamper To empower, inspire, participants' enthusiasm or the event's efficacy. and strengthen public What is normally a week-long, in-person affair occurred over the course of three weeks of virtual and private partners meetings. Hike the Hill® featured eight briefing sessions to help prepare participants to develop, preserve, for individual meetings with Federal agency representatives and members of Congress, promote, and sustain seven meetings with federal agency leaders, and five meetings with Congressional the national scenic and Committee staff. historic trails. Meetings were framed in a way that reflected key priorities of the Biden-Harris Administration concerning climate resilience, economic recovery, COVID-19 recovery, and equity. Increased support and funding for the NTS can help the new administration VISION achieve their goals in these areas in the following ways: PNTS Trail • Prioritizing the acquisition of the nearly 20,000 miles of still-unprotected NTS Apprentices Robin PNTS envisions a world- trails, as well as additional side trails and viewsheds, can advance the "30 by 30" Bruns (top) and class system of national initiative, which aims to protect 30 percent of America’s land and freshwater Nathan Begay scenic and historic trails resources by the year 2030 for climate resiliency. (bottom) spoke that preserves natural • Making National Trails more accessible and welcoming to all visitors and during virtual and cultural values and prioritizing opportunities to better represent America’s indigenous and tribal leadership provides recreational communities and its cultural diversity. meetings for the benefits for all. • Providing increasingly popular outdoor recreational space and public health annual Hike the benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hill event. Both • Supporting economic recovery efforts, particularly in rural “trail towns” and photos courtesy of PURPOSE urban neighborhoods that receive tourism dollars from the NTS visitors. the subjects. This year’s Hike the Hill® also included increased participation by some up-and- To promote and support coming voices. In addition to a NextGen Meet n' Greet Luncheon facilitated by the the efforts of national Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s NextGen Advisory Council, two PNTS Trail Apprentices scenic and historic trail were featured during meetings with agency leadership: 27-year-old Robin Bruns of organizations, to secure Clifton Forge, VA spoke at the US Forest Service meeting with Chief Vicki Christiansen, public and private and 26-year-old Nathan Begay of Albuquerque, NM took the floor during a meeting resources, and to serve with Bureau of Land Management leadership. as a collective voice for Though the 2021 Hike the Hill® event officially ended on March 25, as always, PNTS' advocacy work policy and action that continues. This year’s virtual event was a challenge we were excited to tackle. We look forward to the next supports national scenic year of action and advocacy with all of you, as well as our next opportunity to Hike the Hill® together. and historic trails. Save The Date National Trails Virtual Fall Workshop November 1st - 5th, 2021 5 www.pnts.org/new/our-work/workshops Adapted from The Connectivity Analysis Final Report by Don Owen RESOURCES Partnership for the National Trails System Connectivity Analysis Tool for Trail Land Protection Planning Launched
ifty years after the passage of the This Connectivity Analysis was designed The initial version of this Connectivity FNational Trails System Act, many critically to: Analysis, which is now complete, provides important landscapes and resources of • Identify the status of land protection— important information at a national- the National Trails System lack any legal specifically, areas needed to provide level scale that can help National Trail- protection. continuous conserved corridors for National administering agencies and National Trail Between 2013 and 2017, PNTS Scenic Trails and conserve high-potential Organizations make decisions about trail participated in a Collaborative Landscape historic sites and high-potential route protection for the 30 National Scenic and Planning Program of the four Federal segments and other resources for National Historic Trails designated by Congress. land-managing agencies (National Park Historic Trails. Specifically, it will help PNTS, its member Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land • Provide a Decision Support Tool to help organizations, agency partners, and the Management, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife trail administers and managers assess and National Trail System Council begin to Service) that sought to identify critically categorize these areas. quantify the needs for National Scenic and important unprotected landscapes and • Provide web-based tools that permit Historic Trail protection; identify potential corridor protection opportunities along Trail Administers, managers, and the public opportunities for trail protection; and National Scenic and Historic Trails. to view the status of conservation for all engage other partners, including State and This National-Trails-System-wide effort National Scenic and Historic Trails. local government agencies, land trusts, resulted in identification and protection of The Connectivity Analysis consists of two conservation organizations, and historic thousands of acres of land along many units separate tools: a Decision Support Tool and preservation organizations that share of the National Trails System, significantly a 3D Public Viewer. common ground in conserving lands along increasing the resiliency, sustainability, The Decision Support Tool is designed National Scenic and Historic Trails. and accessibility of National Trails. The for internal use by the National Trail Webinars will be offered periodically success of this effort led to the realization Administrators, managers, and National Trail for representatives of Trail managers and that an ongoing, National-Trail-System- Organization representations. It provides a organizations interested in using the tool. wide project to identify trail protection wealth of GIS data and analytical tools to needs would be of great value, which led help users identify, analyze, and depict GIS To view the 3D Public Viewer: web.tplgis. to the development of a project to conduct data for potential land protection projects. org/nts_conserved_publicviewer/ a "Connectivity Analysis" for the entire It is password protected and requires National Trails System. authorization by a designated agency or The Decision Support Tool can be accessed In 2018, PNTS and FHWA entered into a organizational representative. at the following website: cooperative agreement to assist in providing The 3D Public Viewer is a basic tool that web.tplgis.org/nationaltrails/secure/ the National Trails System information, members of the public can use to view a corridor protection, and training to build map or visually “fly” a National Scenic or NOTE: Access to the Decision Support capacity to better administer, manage, and Historic Trail. This site is meant to provide Tool site must be approved by the National sustain National Trails. A key component of a general sense of the locations of National Trail agency administrator or National Trail that agreement was the development of a Scenic and Historic Trails as overlap organization manager (usually, the Executive Corridor Protection Connectivity Analysis conserved and unconcerned lands (or cross Director). for National Scenic and Historic Trails. PNTS or follow rivers and other public waterways). Contact your National Trail agency subsequently contracted The Trust for Public The site includes a disclaimer directing administrator or National Trail organization Land to conduct an integrated GIS analysis the public to National Trail-administering manager for instructions on how to create that would help identify and map National agencies and organizations for further a login. Trail protection throughout the entire information. system.
Trails Community Resources www.pnts.org/new/resources/
COVID-19 UPDATES DIVERSITY & INCLUSION FORUM WEBINARS Since March 2020, PNTS has Since June 2020, PNTS has been PNTS launched its National Since March 2020, this page been compiling national scenic compiling tools for allies, recent Trails System Forum in 2017. has also included dozens of and historic trail organization statements, and points-of-view to The purpose of this forum is additional webinars hosted by responses, guidelines, policies, help us all become more aware, to encourage dialogue and the other organizations that focus on event cancellations, related news informed, and better equipped to sharing of best practices amongst COVID-19, equity, and trail-related articles, and resources. take action. Please join us. trail partners. Log in today! topics. Some are recorded.
If you would like something shared to these pages, please email the PNTS Communications Manager at [email protected]. 6 by Kerry Shakarjian, GIS Specialist RESOURCES National Park Service, Alaska New Federal Trail GIS Schema Template Makes Data Sharing Easier here are 30 Congressionally designated and partners to establish a unifying and attribute fields required for all trails. The TNational Scenic and Historic Trails common trail GIS data structure. As the second feature class template is called (National Trails) covering more than 55,000 FTDS was intended, the Federal Trail GIS Extended Core, which includes the Core miles in total. The National Trails connect Schema is meant to be applied to trails of all fields as well as the minimum attribute with 70 Wildlife Refuges, 80 National Parks, kinds, including National Trails. The Federal fields required for National Scenic and 90 Bureau of Land Management areas, 90 Trail GIS Schema will allow for national Historic Trails. The third feature class National Forests, 123 Wilderness Areas, aggregation of publicly facing trail data template is called NHT Sites and includes and 100 major metropolitan areas (PNTS from multiple agencies and partners into a the minimum attribute fields required for all website, 2020). There are many additional common schema GIS database, such as the National Historic Trail Site locations. miles of trail across the country. USGS National Digital Trails Project. Each feature class schema includes an In 2011, the Federal Trail Data Standard The Federal Trail GIS Schema was additional framework, known as feature (FTDS) established a standardized set of trail designed as a framework and a minimum level metadata, for documenting the lineage terminology that can be consistently applied requirement of core fields for all trail spatial and quality of the geospatial data at the to trail data, enabling trail information to data. During the schema design, the focus feature level. These templates are a starting be shared across multiple agencies and was on utilizing this template schema as a point. Adding additional attribute fields are partners. The FTDS addresses the universal tool for aggregating publicly facing trail data. encouraged. need for trail data standards to efficiently Keeping publicly facing data in mind, not Overall, a Federal Trail GIS Schema would manage trails, including National Trails, all attributes from the FTDS were included. make it achievable to have better GIS across the country. The schema is flexible enough to allow for coordination and collaboration between Through discussions, it has come to the additional custom fields to be added at the agencies and partners for various trail forefront that, in order to share information trail GIS manager’s discretion, including any projects, efficient sharing of authoritative across multiple GIS systems nationwide, additional FTDS fields not included in the trail data with the public, and better GIS there needs to be agreement on how to Federal Trail GIS Schema. decision-making support for trails. implement and utilize the FTDS for ease The Federal Trail GIS Schema includes Please visit communities.GeoPlatform. of sharing and aggregating trail GIS data a geodatabase template containing two gov/ngda-transportation/federal-trail- nationwide. different line geometry feature classes, as gis-schema-working-group for more Using the FTDS as the foundation, a well as a point geometry feature class. The information and to download the current Federal Trail GIS Schema template has been first line geometry feature class template is draft documentation and draft GIS developed that can be utilized by agencies called Core, which includes the minimum geodatabase template.
by Kate Lemon, Marketing + Communications Coordinator Outreach North Country Trail Association Hike 100 Challenge ince 2016, thousands of North Country Trail (NCT) North Country Trail was discovered Susers have signed up for and completed the annual or rediscovered by many, and it Hike 100 Challenge, one free program offered by the continues to hold value. North Country Trail Association (NCTA). Each year this To add appeal to the program, the challenge renews but the rules remain the same: Hike NCTA selects random participants any 100 miles on the North Country National Scenic each month to receive free gear and Trail between January 1 and December 31. Trail users one finisher annually to receive a can explore 100 unique miles or revisit the same mile grand prize package. Jennifer Bieniek 100 times; log mileage over weeks or months, or during was the 2020 finisher chosen as the one big adventure; walk, snowshoe, run, ski, day hike, grand prize winner. or backpack. Once they've completed their 100 miles “I recently began hiking in 2019 on the NCT, participants submit a completion form as a way to do some low-impact to receive a commemorative patch and certificate of exercise after surgery. I fell in love completion. A new patch design is released each year. with it quickly!” explained Jennifer. In 2020, partially thanks to the NCTA’s rule change “I realized that I had missed out on of #HikeFromHome that temporarily allowed non-NCT this wonderful way to find peace! My miles to count toward the Challenge, over 4,200 participated in Hike kids joined me soon. I have three kids (two teenagers and a four-year- 100 and over 2,500 completed it. old). I live within 15 minutes of the North Country Trail and am still The Trail provided reprieve. While the national battle against astonished that most people from my area that I speak to about it coronavirus doubles down, with travel restrictions lifted and many have never heard of it. I plan to continue our adventures!” employees slowly returning to offices, the Hike 100 Challenge hasn’t Learn more at northcountrytrail.org/hike-100-challenge. Share lost popularity. As of the end of February 2021, nearly 4,000 were your adventures on social media using @northcountrytrail and signed up and over 30 had already completed the challenge. The #hike100nct. 7 Outreach Virtual Successes by Alivia Acosta, Volunteer Development Coordinator by Tom Vaughan, Treasurer Appalachian Trail Conservancy Overmountain Victory Trail Association
he Appalachian Trail Conservancy flagship virtual training was called n the words of Robert Burns: “… In proving foresight may be T(ATC) invited people from across the Volunteer Leadership Academy. Ivain: The best laid schemes o’ Mice an’ Men Gang aft agley, An’ the country to join them on an It offered pathways of learning for lea’e us nought but grief an’ pain, For promis’d joy!” amazing Appalachian Trail (AT) Ed- volunteers to select from based Our best laid plans went astray in 2020, and it HURT! Venture Series. on topics of interest or areas of That is, until we took a deep breath, looked at each other Starting in Georgia and traveling expressed need. and said ‘This is the opportunity we have been waiting on!’ all the way north to Maine, each The online sessions offered a For years we had been talking about developing a series session was led by environmental collaborative learning environment of videos that told the Story of the Overmountain Men educators providing exciting content where participants were provided and their trek along what is now the Overmountain Victory across diverse disciplines that with opportunities for network- National Historic Trail. We tell the Story in-person to well connect curriculum and students to capacity building by sharing over 25,000 people each year, including over 15,000 youth. the AT. These interactive sessions knowledge and practicing skills. The Our group of reenactors will go about anywhere, any were hosted live via Zoom, shared three learning pathways that were time to tell how we won the Revolutionary War, but we simultaneously on Facebook hosted and identified based on are limited, both in available program time, audiences, Live (which allowed for participation findings from the 2020 Club Listening and personal time. And now, we couldn’t present nearly from around the world), and then Session Report were: Engaging New as many programs due to Covid-19 restrictions, so we set published to YouTube for access People, Organizational Leadership, as about to make videos. at any time. There were over 500 well as AT Cooperative Management Our first thought was just to tell the Story of the registrations to the live events and & Project Leadership. Overmountain Men. We soon realized we could tell a over 4,500 views of the various Beyond virtual training for much broader story of frontier life, key people such as recordings on YouTube as of volunteers, the ATC is excited Mary Patton and Mrs. McDowell, and those left behind, in February 1, 2021. to announce the launch of a addition to the commanders. The first video we released Although the series made it to clearinghouse for Appalachian had over 5000 views in just a few days! We had a new Maine on March 3, 2021, the ed- Trail volunteer opportunities in the audience–over 50,000 and counting! venture continues! The next ATC form of the Volunteer Engagement We have now produced over 20 videos, with most in the Ed-Venture Series will cover a wide Platform (VEP). The platform 5–7-minute time range, with plans for at least 20-30 more, range of topics; from how heritage aggregates projects and volunteer and are coordinating with Standards-of-Learning. We are and history can be expressed roles from across 14 States to setting up a YouTube channel which will be available to through art and creative writing to make it easier for current and teachers year-round to draw upon in support of classroom the importance of acknowledging aspiring volunteers to get connected needs. native lands. and remain engaged in their own In September 2020, the ATC personal volunteer experiences by William Caldwell, Park Guide partnered with Walk the Distance throughout the Trail. Overmountain Victory NHT for a special promotion. Walk the Check out current volunteer Distance is an iOS phone app tied opportunities that are available ver the course of 2020 and into 2021, the Covid-19 directly to your phone’s health throughout the Trail by visiting the Opandemic presented two large challenges to data, tracking how many steps you VEP at appalachiantrail.org/ “traditional” interpretive programs for the Overmountain have taken and allowing individuals waystovolunteer. Victory National Historic Trail (OVNHT): the inability to to experience the Appalachian ATC continues to advise long- provide staff for in-person hikes and talks, and a growing Trail from Georgia to Maine by distance hikers to postpone their number of people choosing to explore the OVNHT as a way incorporating virtual stops along hikes until 2022 or until the Center of recreating safely in outdoor spaces. the 2,193.1 miles of the Trail. These for Disease Control (CDC) has deemed The National Park Service staff sought to accommodate virtual stops feature iconic Trail the pandemic under control. Despite the growing number of trail users virtually through locations, viewpoints and vistas, as recommendations, registrations for social media with a number of video programs from Park well as history about those locations long-distance hikes and other data Rangers, informative posts highlighting trail sections and and some of the Trail Clubs that look resources indicate a higher number of their accessibility, and video interviews with historians after particular Trail sections. For individuals may be attempting thru- diving deeper into the story behind the OVNHT and its the special promotion, folks would hikes this year as hikers will be sharing role in the American Revolution. In 2020 alone, 159 virtual receive the app after donating $5 the Trail with those who postponed programs were shared through social media resulting in or more to the ATC. It resulted in their journeys in 2020. over 160,000 viewers learning more about the story of more than 10K in donations with With the knowledge acquired over the trail and how they can safely access and enjoy the roughly 850 people taking part in the the past year, ATC has been providing recreational opportunities offered along the 330-mile trail promotion. those who remain adamant about corridor. The ATC also offered virtual hiking the Trail with the resources and These programs have plans to continue into 2021, training opportunities for its information needed when facing the educating virtual viewers of the many opportunities to volunteers in lieu of a historically bi- new set of challenges of long-distance safely explore the OVNHT and connect, not only with annual in person meeting centered hiking during a global pandemic. nature, but with the rich story that took place nearly 250 around volunteer leadership. This years ago. 8 Outreach by Kate Marks Hardy, Partnership Coordinator/Trail Manager Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
ith all the 2020 school and public local family-friendly activities and events. Woutreach programs for the Star-Spangled The virtual event was part of their Summer Banner National Historic Trail (SSBNHT) Adventure Program lunchtime series and it cancelled due to Covid-19, Trail staff looked to featured two Trail partners for the video, both collaborate with other organizations to reach conducting short programs for youth viewers. audiences virtually. The video received 1,600 views. First was a Facebook Live event with the U.S. The Trail also partnered with staff from the Coast Guard Mid-Atlantic in June. For the video, National Mall in August to collaborate on a 10- the Coast Guard featured its annual event of day Facebook series that discussed the British placing the seasonal red, white, and blue Francis invasion of Washington, D.C. The invasion route Scott Key buoy in the Patapsco River at a place is part of a Trail segment and several partner some historians believe Key was anchored Child running to Fort McHenry Historic sites were highlighted. In total, the series had a when he was inspired to write the U.S. national Monument and Shrine on the SSBNHT. reach of 71,467. anthem. The event featured the live action of Photo Credit: John Lam Trail staff also worked with rangers at Fort the buoy being placed into the river, followed McHenry National Monument and Historic by the playing of the national anthem and a short interpretation Shrine to film, edit, and post four videos that featured Trail locations program by Trail staff. The video had 208,000 views. as part of the Fort’s virtual Defenders’ Day event in September. The In July, a second Facebook Live event was done in partnership videos received 488 views. with Cool Progeny, a Baltimore-based organization that promotes
Thru-Hiking and Covid-19 by Francesca Governali Community Engagement Coordinator by Luke Kloberdanz, Director of Philanthropy Continental Divide Trail Coalition Ice Age Trail Alliance ovid-19 had a significant impact on much of the Continental or all trail organizations nationwide, 2020 provided more twists CDivide Trail (CDT) in 2020 and we continue to adapt as vaccines Fand turns than a series of switchback climbs. With thousands are rolled out and guidance in our trail States changes. We saw a turning to trails for mental and physical health, our organizations significant drop in long-distance hikers last season thanks to the many faced unprecedented pressures. Naturally, determining whether or who made the responsible decision to postpone their thru-hikes last not to support thru-hikers as the pandemic spread across the nation year. While our Gateway Communities felt the impacts of limited was one of these challenges. hikers, they also experienced upsurges in local outdoor recreation. Many factors played into the myriad decisions linked to this issue, As this season begins, we continue to urge long distance users on including the anticipated number of hikers, local regulations, and the trail to consider the risks of starting a trip during the pandemic. a host of other considerations. The Ice Age Trail Alliance made the We are currently not running our Southern Terminus Shuttle and are decision, along with its partners, to remain open for business with not maintaining water caches in the bootheel of New Mexico—two limited support of thru-hikers and a strong emphasis on hikers being services that usually provide support for individuals beginning their able to be self-supported. thru-hikes. While we regret that we can’t safely assist hikers to their This early decision by the Alliance allowed three successful thru- preferred terminus at this time, the spirit of the CDT has always hikes reported to the organization, along with 28 completed section included room for adaptation, alternative routes, and exploration. hikes. All of these accomplishments, especially during a challenging Travelers who had intended to start a trip at Crazy Cook might year, were amazing. Two of the three thru-hikes, however, were consider starting at other locations or holding off on starting their record-breakers. trip. The first, Coree Woltering, set the fastest known time (FKT) for the With the start of the next hiking season, CDTC continues to trail, completing the journey in 21 days, 13 hours, and 35 minutes in follow all local, State, and national health experts on what activities the summer heat. The other, Emily Ford, was the first woman to thru are permitted during the Covid-19 pandemic, including the State- hike the IAT in winter. Emily and her companion sled dog, Diggins, level guidance we share on our website. Whether trail visitors are completed the Trail in 69 days. Both Coree (@coreewoltering) and planning an afternoon trail ride or a multi-day backpacking trip, we Emily (@emilyontrail) recorded their hikes on Instagram. ask them to make sure they’re up to date on these requirements and recommendations, which may vary day to day, county to county, or State to State. We are still running adjusted forms of our volunteer programs, and have implemented new guidelines for those helping on our trail work projects, including smaller group sizes and no longer permitting volunteers to share food or tools. While we look forward to an eventual return to normal, we want to send a warm reminder that the trail isn’t going anywhere. No Coree Woltering (left; photo credit Dream Lens Media) and Emily Ford ( ; photo credit Paula Tonn) made IAT history in 2020. vacation is worth compromising your health or the health of others. right 9 by Jim Mallory, Lewis and Clark Trust Outreach Excerpts from larger article on Wreaths Across America Honor-Respect-Preserve For Lewis and Clark Veterans and Tribal People reaths Across America, a nonprofit essentially closed by an international Worganization, is inspirational in more pandemic. Our educational program had ways than showing respect to American been canceled for the year and we had no Veteran Graves in National Cemeteries. The idea how a wreath laying would be received now-famous picture of snow-covered graves by veteran organizations, history-focused in Arlington National Cemetery with green organizations, libraries, interpretive centers, wreaths and red bows placed at each grave National Society Daughters of the American is a classic picture of respect and honor. Revolution and National Society Sons of the That inspiring scene at Arlington was the American Revolution Chapters, or families genesis for the Lewis and Clark Trust efforts of the veterans and Tribal People we wanted to find partners to place wreaths at the to honor. The response was a resounding graves of Lewis and Clark First Regiment "Yes, we want to participate," as seen in the of Infantry Veterans, their support team attached pictures. including York and Tribal People that A special salute goes to VFW Post 1202 provided invaluable assistance. Ponca City Oklahoma. Their public response The simple act of respect for graves and desire to invite other organizations, of human beings that facilitated the first including the Nez Perce Trail Foundation— successful military exploration of America represented by Matt Norwak—shows true is the minimum that we could accomplish. leadership and respect for the Nez Perce Their scattered graves and monuments People and their connection to the Lewis deserve recognition, as well as an and Clark Story. opportunity to provide a teaching moment We recognize there are expedition in communities near the graves. members that have no known grave markers The year 2020 was an especially or the grave is lost to time. Research is challenging year when the world was underway to find those sites and local organizations to assist with future respectful Wreaths Across America is adapted ceremonies that honor the individual from a longer article by Jim Mallory. To see the full article, along with and their contribution to establishing a many more photos from wreath continental nation. In a world of unrest, Honor and Respect ceremonies, please see the online Top: York; Courtesy: Filson Historical Society; are still values that help us preserve the edition of Pathways Across America: Bottom: Nez Perce Indian Burial Ground Memorial; www.pnts.org/new/ Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and Courtesy: Nez Perce Trail Foundation category/pathways/ the national story of Lewis and Clark for future generations.
Corrections A Message to Existing and New Partners PNTS would like to issue the following and Volunteers with the Forest Service corrections for Pathways Across America by Meckenzie Helmandollar-Powell Winter 2020/2021: US Forest Service Page 12: Ala Kahakai NHT Hello valued trail partners and volunteers. As you contact your local Forest Service Under "Signs", the Department of Hawaiian The Trail Challenge is a challenge for all of recreation and trail managers to offer Homelands (DHHL) was incorrectly listed as us who care for and receive benefits from your support, you’ll likely notice that their Department of Homeland Security (DHS). trails—including you—to achieve more capacity to engage with you varies from unit sustainable trails. You are invited to help to unit. Many recreation and trail program Page 12: Captain John Smith Chesapeake with any element of the Trail Challenge. managers have limited time to engage NHT There are many ways you can apply your with individual volunteers. They might Highlights were incorrectly assigned dedication and skills. You can offer your direct you to work with an existing partner to Chesapeake Conservancy, the trail's assistance and skill in the traditional way organization or ask you to take a leadership nonprofit partner. Hightlights should have been assigned to the Captain John Smith of helping to maintain and improve trails role in bringing various partner groups Chesapeake NHT Trail Staff. on the ground or express your interest in together and build on successful examples becoming a certified sawyer to help with of individuals and groups coming together Page 14: Oregon-California NHTs downed-tree and brush removal. You can following a collective impact model. Under "Internet", the newly launched also offer to help coordinate the work of Another way you can help is to share website was actually for the Trails Head existing volunteer and partner groups, write with local Forest Service leaders about how Chapter of OCTA, which can be seen at: grants to accomplish specific projects, or important sustainable trails are to you and www.trailshead.org help increase outreach and education about help them find creative ways to integrate sustainable trails. trails into other unit priorities. 10 by Meckenzie Helmandollar-Powell Protection US Forest Service Forest Service 10-Year Trail Shared Stewardship Challenge he Forest Service is inviting agency employees, partners, and in record numbers during the ongoing pandemic and many land Tvolunteers alike to share in the leadership of achieving sustainable management agencies are greeting more new and non-traditional National Forest System trails through implementation of the 10-Year trail users than ever before. Trail managers are adapting by working Trail Shared Stewardship Challenge1. with communities to understand shared priorities for local trail access The Trail Challenge was officially launched in February last year and to strategize long-term solutions that help all trail visitors to feel by Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen. It implements portions welcome on their public lands. of the agency’s National Strategy for a Sustainable Trail System and The agency is inviting partners and volunteers to offer their the National Forest System Trails Stewardship Act of 20162. The assistance both on and off the trail. A good first step to becoming Trail Challenge focuses the energy of employees, partners, and a partner or volunteer with the Forest Service is by visiting their volunteers—collectively referred to as the trails community—over online Partnership Resource Center6 or by contacting your local the next decade to achieve a more sustainable trail system that is national forest or grassland office7. Each Forest Service region is also socially valued and economically viable, and that supports ecological anticipating inviting employees, partners, and volunteers to initiate resiliency. wide-spread implementation of the Trail Challenge this spring and Main outcomes of the Trail Challenge include better trails that summer. are easier to access, an adequate trail workforce, and good trail Visit the Forest Service’s Trail Challenge web information to inform decisions and communicate about trails. A big page8 for more information about the Trail part of that work will be engaging and sharing leadership with local Challenge or contact the national trail communities and stakeholders in trail priorities and institutionalizing program manager at equity, diversity, and inclusion principles in all aspects of the [email protected]. collective work. The effort is also being supported by development of online toolboxes with trail success stories, best practices, reference documents, an online, progress-tracking dashboard, and by improving Forest Service trail data and reporting systems. The Trail Challenge is based on a collective impact learning model3, consisting of three implementation phases and ten elements or focus areas, each element having corresponding outcomes and metrics to track progress and demonstrate accountability. Starting this year in phase one, national forests and grasslands are encouraged to use the Trail Challenge as a tool to collaborate with communities to focus planning and implementation of the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) of 20204. Additionally, a national coalition of trail partners is also forming. Organizations and individuals representing trail user and interest groups are encouraged to contact the Trails Move People Coalition5 to understand how they can support raising awareness about the value of trails. In recent months, we are all seeing how important National Forest System recreation and trail opportunities are to individuals and communities. People are seeking out respite on trails 1: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing- land/trails/10YTC 2: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing- land/trails/trails-stewardship-act 3: https://www.collectiveimpactforum. org/what-collective-impact 4: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing- land/gaoa#:~:text=The%20USDA %20Forest%20Service%20is,on%20 national%20forests%20and%20grasslands 5: https://www.americantrails.org/trails- move-people 6: https://www.fs.usda.gov/working-with- us/partnerships 7: https://www.fs.usda.gov/organization 8: https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing- land/trails/10YTC 11 by Kaleo Paik, Director of Philanthropy Protection Ala Kahakai Trail Association Land Acquisition: Lessons Learned on the Ala Kahakai NHT he Ala Kahakai Trail Association (ATA) protection and preservation of, not only the the acquisition. If "yes," each member of Thas found itself a landowner in the last trail, but all of the cultural resources that the Board must be committed to see the several years, but not in a way that most were abundant in the trail corridor. Taking process through. Leaning on each other acquire lands. We were very reluctant his lead, we were able to have in fee 2300 when things get difficult helps to lighten to engage in land ownership as the acres and about 800 acres in conservation the load on any one Board member and to responsibility and long term commitment easement. We are presently securing the defuse any anxiety that issues may cause. required us to change our vision to include closing for another 1300 acres and are in The process is lengthy and it's important saving parts of the trail. It all began about 10 the process of trying to secure approval for not to get discouraged by obstacles years ago when a community member asked another 1800 acres. placed in your way. Get a core group of us if we would take on the responsibility of In all of these instances, we did not want people outside of the Board to help with going after State funds to purchase land in to be the first in line to acquire the lands formulating a strategy on how best to serve an area where our trail traversed. but, as the landowners were going to sell the land and its resources. Get community Our Board had several long discussions and no other organization came forward input and buy in. It can be very challenging before agreeing and the top of the from the community to apply for funding, to engage with diverse members of the discussion was if we were ready to tackle ATA took on the challenge of trying to save community but, remember, they will be owning property and all that it entailed. these lands. All of the funding that we the stewards long after we are gone, and We were new at the game and had no applied for came from the State Legacy Land they will be the fiercest supporters of any expertise to guide us, but we were able to Fund and the Hawaii County PONC fund. preservation and protection effort. purchase 35 acres in Kaiholena, Kohola. The The application was very extensive and Mistakes have been made as we struggled property was purchased with State Legacy we were fortunate to secure the help of to maneuver through this process. Still, Land, Hawaiian Island Land Trust, and the Trust for Public Lands. Their expertise we have accepted our shortcomings and Dorrance Family funds. We were also gifted and guidance was crucial in maneuvering continue to strive to do our best to protect with 100 acres as a donation from an off- through the legal issues as well as how best our trail and the history, stories, and people island developer who embraced our mission to bring our projects to the commissioners that make up our beloved Alanui or—known and entrusted us with the task of protecting who would rank our projects. This journey is by more modern terms—the Ala Kahakai many archaeological sites and trails on the now in its fifth year for the Kau lands, but it Trail. We now have a seat at the table to property. has been worth all the hard work everyone discuss any and all matters on lands that Then we got a new member on board has given. we have control over. That is the biggest who had a desire to save some of his What are some of the lessons we have takeaway and long-term protection we can ancestral lands in Kau. It was this board learned from the process? The process offer the next generations. member who started our journey into land starts with a simple "yes" or "no" to tackle
STEVEN GONZALES TONY RICHARDSON Returning board member, Steven Gonzales, is PNTS Tony Richardson is the Director of Executive Director of El Camino Real de los Tejas Public Lands Engagement at the National National Historic Trail Association. In addition Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) in to his work with the Partnership, he has Welcomes Washington, D.C. In that role he is responsible promoted National Parks and the Camino Real for managing National Public Lands Day, one in two PBS documentaries and has served as an New of the largest single-day volunteer efforts for advisory committee member for the creation America’s public lands. Tony is passionate of the Texas Historical Commission's Hispanic Board about connecting people to nature, particularly Heritage Guide of Texas. people from underrepresented communities. Members Tony previously served on the ATC’s https://pnts.org/new/ Next Generation Advisory Council, and has team/steven-gonzales-2/ participated in multiple Hike the Hill® events. ANDREA KETCHMARK KRISTIN MURPHY LIZ THOMAS Andrea Ketchmark has been the Executive Kristin Murphy is the Government Affairs Liz Thomas has logged more than 20,000 Director of North Country Trail Association Associate for Audubon Great Lakes based miles on the trail. She completed the Triple since 2017, following eight years as their in Chicago, IL. Prior to that, she was the Crown and held the record for Women’s Director of Trail Development. She has a Campaign Coordinator for the Land and Water self-supported Fastest Known Time on the degree in Natural Resources Recreation and Conservation Fund Coalition in DC, and got her Appalachian Trail from 2011-2015. Tourism from Colorado State University. In Master of Environmental Management degree Liz is the Editor-in-Chief for Treeline Review, addition to holding several leadership roles from Duke University. Kristin was an inaugural columnist for Backpacker Magazine, and within PNTS, she is a graduate of the Great member of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy frequent public speaker on the topic of long- Lakes Leadership Academy. Next Generation Advisory Council. distance hiking. https://northcountrytrail.org/ https://gl.audubon.org/ www.eathomas.com about-us/staff/ contact/kristin-murphy www.treelinereview.com 12 Capacity Civilian Climate Corps Secretary Haaland promises to work to advance President Biden's vision
n Tuesday, March 16, 2021, Deb such, one of Sec. Haaland’s most immediate to recreation, and address the changing OHaaland took the oath of office projects will be a collaboration between the climate.” to become the 54th Secretary of the Departments of Interior, Agriculture, and Department of the Interior—making history other relevant agencies, to develop a plan to Sec. Haaland's full statement can be as the first Native American to hold the establish a Civilian Climate Corps Initiative. viewed here: https://www.doi.gov/news/ office. This new Civilian Climate Corps— statement-deb-haaland-becoming-54th- “I am proud and humbled to lead the considered a modern upgrade of the interior-secretary dedicated team at Interior as we seek to Civilian Conservation Corps established by leave a livable planet for future generations. President Franklin D. Roosevelt as part of Together, we will work to advance President his New Deal in 1933—per the EO, is to be Learn more about President Biden's Biden’s vision to honor our nation-to-nation focused on “mobilizing the next generation Executive Order on Tackling the Climate relationship with Tribes, address the climate of conservation and resilience workers Crisis at Home and Abroad at the link below. and nature crises, advance environmental and maximize the creation of accessible www.whitehouse.gov/ justice, and build a clean energy future that training opportunities and good jobs. The briefing-room/presidential- creates good-paying jobs and powers our initiative shall aim to conserve and restore actions/2021/01/27/executive- nation," she said about the position. public lands and waters, bolster community order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis- Her statement reflects President Biden’s resilience, increase reforestation, increase at-home-and-abroad/ Executive Order (EO) on Tackling the Climate carbon sequestration in the agricultural Crisis at Home and Abroad (EO 14008). As sector, protect biodiversity, improve access
Conservation Corps at Work AmeriCorps VISTA provides much needed experience and staff by Francesca Governali Community Engagement Coordinator Continental Divide Trail Coalition
s of June trail, build educational materials about the that CDTC is dedicated to completing, A2020, I had CDT and its landscapes, hone grant-writing protecting, and promoting. never hiked on the skills, learn more about the National Trails Thanks to the AmeriCorps VISTA Continental Divide System, and much more. program, CDTC is able to add capacity Trail (CDT) and One of the projects that I’ve been most to the small staff. Additionally, in recent knew very little excited about is creating day and overnight years, CDTC has benefitted from having about this 3,000+ hike guides for more accessible and two seasonal field instructors through mile National beginner-friendly hikes on the CDT. These Southwest Conservation Corps. These Scenic Trail beyond hike guides are part of CDTC’s ongoing AmeriCorps and Conservation Corps its existence and reputation for being an effort to make the trail more accessible positions provide much-needed staff and extremely challenging route through the to folks who are looking for short day or work capacity for CDTC and experience Rocky Mountains. overnight hikes on the CDT rather than thru for the individuals who are offered the Now, nine months later, I have spent or section hikes. positions. While I only have three months many days on the CDT and my knowledge In addition to producing a valuable left in my service term, I continue to feel of this trail that spans five States and resource for our community and materials grateful for the opportunities to learn from crosses some of the highest elevation and to share with a new audience, this and connect with people and places along most remote terrain in the West has grown project has offered an opportunity for the Divide and to engage with the National vastly to include understanding of the me to explore the CDT in detail. From Trails Systems that being an AmeriCorps many landscapes it crosses and the broad investigating the mileage of connector VISTA and staff member of CDTC offers. community it connects. trails to create loops with the CDT, Thanks to an AmeriCorps VISTA position, to understanding the geography of Francesca is the current Community I joined the Continental Divide Trail communities along the trail, to working Engagement Coordinator for CDTC serving Coalition (CDTC) last year to work on with community members to refine local via AmeriCorps VISTA. She is also a member community engagement and education. trail descriptions, building these guides of the 2020-21 PNTS Trail Apprentice This one-year position has provided the has been both an exciting way for me to Program cohort. opportunity to dive into community contribute to CDTC and the trail community outreach (virtually of course) all along the as well as learn more about this trail 13 by National Park Service Capacity Adapted from Federal agency emails and news releases Kym Hall Selected as National Capital Area Director ym Hall, a 34-year veteran of the National Park Service (NPS), superintendents who manage hundreds Khas been selected as the National Capital Area director. She of park areas in the District of Columbia, will begin her new role in the coming weeks as she transitions Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia, an from her current role as the superintendent of several parks in approximately $350 million budget, and Southeast Virginia. more than 1,000 employees. The area's “Throughout her career, Kym has effectively managed nearly 65,000 acres of Federal parkland complex resource management projects and strengthened include some of the most famous places park relationships with community partners, stakeholders and in the world, such as the White House, legislators,” NPS Deputy Director for Operations Shawn Benge said. Antietam National Battlefield, and the Kym Hall “Her background in special park regulations, policy, and ability to Jefferson Memorial. More than 54 million navigate sensitive and controversial park issues positions her well visitors travel to the area's national parks to lead the parks and programs in the greater DC area.” for recreation, education, inspiration and The National Capital Area director is responsible for 16 relaxation each year. Dave Moore Named Star-Spangled Banner NHT Superintendent eputy Regional Director Debbie Conway has named David these extraordinary places and build DH. Moore as superintendent of Fort McHenry National relationships with the diverse communities Monument and Historic Shrine, Hampton National Historic Site, that surround and support these sites”. and the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, all based in “Together, Fort McHenry, Hampton and Baltimore, Maryland. He begins his new role on April 25, 2021. the Star-Spangled Banner Trail provide a “These three sites are iconic both to the nation and the people uniquely Chesapeake lens to America’s of Baltimore” said Conway. “David’s broad experience within the history,” said Moore. National Park Service has uniquely positioned him to manage Dave Moore by National Park Service ANNIVERSARY Adapted from Federal agency emails and news releases The Santa Fe Trail Celebrates 200th Anniversary wo hundred years ago, a group of Americans ventured west SFTA and other NPS partner organizations. Tfrom Franklin, Missouri to trade in Santa Fe (then Mexico). The All in-person events are subject to change to accommodate route they forged would grow into a commercial highway within Federal, State, and local health and safety guidance. a web of trade routes that extended to the East coast, Mexico, As part of the anniversary, the NPS National Trails Office and Europe. Now known as the Santa Fe Trail, the path brought has welcomed the inaugural cohort of the Santa Fe Trail together cultures in collaboration and conflict, forever changing NextGen Council, a group of young adults who will provide lives and landscapes of the west. recommendations for engaging young, diverse audiences in To commemorate the anniversary, a variety of activities hosted stories, sites, and stewardship of the Santa Fe Trail. by National Park Service (NPS) partners are planned. More than Throughout the year, you can virtually participate in anniversary 50 in-person and virtual events will occur along the length of the activities, learn about trail stories, and engage in conversations trail—from Missouri to New Mexico—throughout 2021. Visit the with trail enthusiasts. NPS bicentennial website (nps.gov/safe/planyourvisit/santa-fe- Join the commemoration virtually on the Santa Fe National trail-bicentennial.htm) and the Santa Fe Trail Association (SFTA) Historic Trail website (nps.gov/safe) or on social media on website (santafetrail200.org) to find a complete list of events, Facebook (@SantaFeTrailNPS), Instagram (@nationaltrailsnps), and ranging from living history presentations to concerts, planned by YouTube (@NationalTrailsNPS).
by The Trek SPONSORSHIP Adapted from thetrek.co: Badger Sponsorship Winners The Trek Badger Sponsorship Boosts PNTS he Badger Sponsorship is a yearly sweepstakes created and win one of 13 different prize packages valued at $1,600 each. Thosted by thetrek.co—a website dedicated to shining a spot- By the end of the sweepstakes, the Badger Sponsorship had light on the journey of thru-hikers. Since the inception of their raised $13,855 for PNTS and had given away lots of incredible site, thetrek.co has held a giveaway aimed at providing aspiring equipment—including water filtration systems, tents, quilts, tech- thru-hikers the opportunity to win extensive prize packages. nical jackets, camp shoes, and more—to 13 lucky hikers. In 2021, thetrek.co decided to use their sweepstakes to raise money for the Partnership for the National Trails System. Between thetrek.co/2021-badger-sponsorship-the-winners February 15th and March 1st, they encouraged hikers to enter to 14 BOOKS by Elizabeth Goss, Author by Leonard M. Adkins, Author My Way West All About the Appalachian Trail BOARD OF DIRECTORS etween 1841 and 1884, more than here are a few colorfully illustrated President: B40,000 kids traveled west across Tbooks about the Appalachian Trail Barney Mann North America on the Oregon and for very young children. However, All Vice President - Governance: California Trails. These young emigrants About the Appalachian Trail is the very Luke Kloberdanz • Ice Age Trail Alliance had extraordinary experiences on their first written for readers in grades 4-8 journeys, but they were ordinary people. that provides a complete overview of the Vice President - Development: John Hoffnagle Some were picky eaters, some had world famous hiking trail. It is designed favorite games and beloved pets. for children 9-13 years of age and their Treasurer: I created My Way West to capture parents, teachers, and librarians to enjoy Kaleo Paik • Ala Kahakai Trail Association the individuality of these kids and show together. Treasurer: how different the trail experience could The book covers it all: the route, history, Liz Thomas • Treeline Review be depending on an emigrant’s luck and geology, and animals of the trail, along Trail Leaders Council Chair: circumstances. with chapters about hiking equipment and RG Absher • Overmountain Victory Trail Association My Way West pairs quotes from the Leave No Trace ethics. National Historic Trails Representative: letters, diaries, and memoirs of real There's even a profile of the trail's most Steve Gonzales • El Camino Real de los Tejas Historic Trail young emigrants with fascinating details famous users—thru-hikers—and quotes Association about what going west was actually designed to not only inspire everyone to National Scenic Trails Representative: like. Readers will taste bread made from take a hike, but to also volunteer to help Andrea Ketchmark • North Country Trail Association crickets and acorns with 7-year-old maintain and protect the trail. At-Large Board Members: Benjamin Bonney, face the dangers of In addition, there is a free Jim Muschett • Rizzoli International Publications quicksand with 11-year-old Etty Scott, downloadable Teacher's Guide with Kristin Murphy • Audubon Great Lakes and follow 12-year-old Owen Bush all Common Core Standards, sample Ron Tipton the way to Oregon, only to discover that questions, and activities to stimulate Sandi Marra • Appalachian Trail Conservancy African Americans are no longer allowed further discussion and knowledge of the Tony Richardson • National Environmental Education Foundation to settle there. trail. I've used papercuts to bring this story All About the Appalachian Trail is TRAIL LEADERS COUNCIL to life. They give the book a very unique published by Blue River Press. PNTS Trail Leaders Council Chair: visual quality. They're deliciously detailed RG Absher • Overmountain Victory Trail Association and designed to bring even reluctant Ron Andersen • Mormon Pioneer Trail Association readers in for a closer look. Judy Bittner • Iditarod Historic Trail Alliance Clare Cain • Connecticut Forest & Park Association Sarah Cawley • Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation Marcie Davis • E Mau Nā Ala Hele (Ala Kahakai NHT) Ric Francke • Potomac Heritage Trail Association Steven Gonzales • El Camino Real de los Tejas NHT Association Richard Waller • Old Spanish Trail Association Deloris Gray Wood • Trail of Tears Association Pat Hearty • National Pony Express Association Andrea Ketchmark • North Country Trail Association Jeff Kish • Pacific Northwest Trail Association Justin Kooyman• Pacific Crest Trail Association Bridget Likely • Appalachian Mountain Club James Mallory • Lewis & Clark Trust Inc. Bill Martin • Oregon-California Trails Association Teresa Martinez • Continental Divide Trail Coalition Matt Nelson • Arizona Trail Association Kaleo Paik • Ala Kahakai Trail Association Lou Ritten • Lewis and Clark Heritage Foundation Susan Shingledecker • Chesapeake Conservancy Elizabeth Goss is an illustrator, Morgan Sommerville • Appalachian Trail Conservancy author, and professional papercutter. Leonard M. Adkins has hiked more Elizabeth Stewart • Anza Trail Foundation She has a passion for history and than 20,000 miles exploring the Tony Turnbow • Natchez Trace Parkway Association loves poking through old books in pathways and backcountry of North Kelly Van Patten • Florida Trail Association dusty libraries. Elizabeth lives with America, Europe, New Zealand, and Ellen von Karajan • National Washington-Rochambeau her family in Portland, Oregon. To the Caribbean. Among his many long- Revolutionary Route Association, Inc. (W3R-US) learn more about her and her work, distance hikes are five traverses of the Marcia Will-Clifton • Santa Fe Trail Association please visit lizabethgoss.com. entire Appalachian Trail. Jim Wolf • Continental Divide Trail Society www.lizabethgoss.com www.habitualhiker.com Mike Wollmer • Ice Age Trail Alliance Jim Zimmerman • Nez Perce Trail Foundation 15 Pathways Across America Partnership for the National Trails System 1615 M Street NW, Second Floor Washington, D.C. 20036 www.pnts.org
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Connect Event Calendar www.pnts.org/new/events/ Event dates/details are subject to change. Facebook and Twitter: @PartnershipNTS continentaldividetrail.org/ Apr 22 - May 21 CDTC Trail Days 2021 Virtual trail-days-2021 octa-trails.org/convention- Sept 12 - 16 38th Annual OCTA Convention Elko, NV Instagram: information @nationaltrailssystem Santa Fe Trail Association Sept 23 - 26 Symposium – 200th Anniver- La Junta, CO 2021sfts.com sary Commemoration PNTS National Trails pnts.org/new/our-work/ Nov 1 - 5 Remote Pathways and e-News: Virtual Workshop workshops [email protected]
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