NYNJTC.ORG FALL 2019 TRAIL WALKER

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

VOLUME XLVII, NUMBER 4 ISSN 0749-1352 We Are the Trail Conference: Leaders in Caring for Parks and Trails for 99 Years page 3

MAINTAINING 2,165 MILES OF TRAILS IN NY AND NJ 2 | Fall 2019 TRAIL WALKER • -NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org JENNIFER ZACK Staff Update Trail Con- Welcome, Tori ference in 2016 after Toast to the A.T. Victoria (“Tori”) Finn 21 years joined the Trail Confer- of military ence in August as our new service. Conserva- During his career he served tion Corps combat tours in Iraq and Manager. peace-keeping missions After grad- in Bosnia and received uating from numerous awards and rec- Rutgers ognitions. A firm believer University with a degree in in service to nation and sociology and women’s and community, Geoff was gender studies, Tori joined honored to work with our AmeriCorps Vista with AmeriCorps members. We NJ LEEP, a Newark-based thank Geoff for his service nonprofit that helps high on and off the trail and school students attain high- wish him the best. er education and careers. Jennifer Ghahari has She then joined NJ LEEP left her position as full time as a manager of Program Assistant. She their volunteer program. began vol- Tori’s experience in non- unteering profits, her passion for with the

HEATHER DARLEY service, and her love for the Trail Con- The completion of the Bear Moun- outdoors make her right ference in tain Trails Project was momentous at home in the position of 2017 and for the Trail Conference and all our Corps Manager. officially joined the staff in project partners. The Appalachian 2018. Jennifer came to the Trail at Bear Mountain was rebuilt Happy Trails to Trail Conference wanting with more than 1,300 granite steps Geoff, Jennifer to utilize her research and from the bottom of the mountain analytic skills for the to its summit—work completed Geoff Hamilton has left his greater good, and in par- over 14 years by more than 3,000 position as Trail Confer- ticular the environmental volunteers and Conservation ence Conservation Corps field. Good luck on your Corps members. This remarkable Manager. Geoff joined the next adventure! accomplishment was recognized nationally as a 2019 Project of the

Year by The Corps Network. VICTORIA FINN In honor of this achievement, Bergen County, we gathered the trail community Trail Conference on June 21 for a summer solstice hike and champagne toast to cel- Host Korea ebrate the most ambitious reha- bilitation ever to take place on the Forest Service Appalachian Trail. Along the hike, On Aug. 27, delegates from Corps members, volunteers, and the Korea Forest Service staff who worked on the project visited Trail Conference shared stories about what it took Headquarters to learn to transform the A.T. at Bear from about public forest man- an eroded, washed-out, 10-foot- agement practices in the wide scar into a safe, sustainable United States. Hosted by footpath. This part of the Trail our partners at the Bergen features the first mountaintop sec- County Park System, the volunteer programs. Trail tion of the Appalachian Trail that visiting officials learned Conference staff led an is ADA-compliant, as well as Trails about the county’s tree interpretive walk next door for People, the first outdoor inter- management program, to Ramapo Valley Coun- pretive exhibit aimed at teaching as well as the Trail Con- ty Reservation, where a park visitors how trails are made. ference’s invasive species stone staircase built by our After the hike, participants en- management efforts and Conservation Corps and joyed light refreshments and min- our trail maintenance and volunteers was showcased. gled with fellow trail lovers from an overlook above the . The evening concluded with a champagne toast in honor of ev- eryone who had a hand in this tre- mendous achievement.

TRAIL WALKER (USPS Permit #970- Board of Directors 100) (ISSN: 0749-1352) is published Eddie Saiff Chair quarterly by the New York-New Patsy Wooters Vice Chair Jersey Trail Conference as a benefit Ken Posner Secretary of membership. Subscriptions are Dan Hoberman Counsel available to libraries only at $15 Beth Ravit Treasurer SEEK a year. Periodical postage paid at FOR Mahwah, N.J., and additional mailing TRAIL WALKER offices. Postmaster: Send address Directors YOURSELF changes to the address below. Volume XLVII, No. 4 Fall 2019 Justin Bailey Katina Grays Susan Barbuto John Magerlein FALL FOR Copyright 2019 by: Amber Ray Editor Walt Daniels Kathy Nolan tephanie inderer esigner NATURE New York-New Jersey S H D Charles Gadol Dave Stuhr & Trail Conference, Inc. Andy Garrison Ned Whitney 600 Ramapo Valley Road MISSION STATEMENT ulstercountyalive.com Mahwah, NJ 07430 The New York-New Jersey Trail Senior Staff 201.512.9348 Conference is a volunteer-powered organization that builds, maintains, and Joshua Howard chief operating officer Journey across a scenic byway, hike the Opinions expressed by the authors protects public trails. Together with Mary Perro chief financial officer do not necessarily represent our partners, we strive to ensure that Don Weise development director canopied forests of the Catskills, kayak the policy or position of the Trail the trails and natural areas we share Linda Rohleder land stewardship director Conference. Submissions for print are sustainable and accessible for all to Kendra Baumer volunteer engagement the Hudson River, and marvel at nature’s consideration are welcome. Any enjoy for generations to come. manager astounding beauty. unsolicited material accepted for Amber Ray communications manager print may be edited for style and Will Smith information systems manager length. Submission deadlines for The New York-New Jersey Trail TRAIL WALKER are Feb. 15 Conference is a volunteer, non-profit For a full list of staff, visit (Spring issue), May 15 (Summer 501 (c)(3) organization. nynjtc.org/about-us issue), Aug. 15 (Fall issue), Nov. 15 ULSTERCOUNTY email: [email protected] NEW YORK (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 Fall 2019 | 3 We Are the Trail Conference

even a few years ago—chal- support the vast network of FROM THE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER lenges such as the unprece- With more than trails in the Hudson Valley. dented swell in popularity on 2,000 volunteers Training and deploying a Con- some trails thanks to social serving as the engine servation Corps was essential On Oct. 19, the New York- access to the media. We are operating in a in accomplishing both these New Jersey Trail Conference most diverse changing environment, both that powers the goals. The Trail Conference will turn 99 years old. That’s network of literally and figuratively. Our organization... we now fields several Corps crews nearly a century of service in trails in any partners count on us to stay have been able to every season and has become the greater New York metro- metropoli- focused on issues that affect adapt, evolve, and a training ground for future politan area ensuring open tan area. parks in the region, bringing grow in new and conservation leaders. (Read space is protected and people The in- together key constituencies, more on page 6.) have access to the outdoors via vestment marshaling resources, and exciting ways. Our history is steeped in ser- safe, well-maintained trails. these selfless individuals have seizing opportunities to keep Howard vice and resourcefulness. Our Though the landscape where made into the organization improving our public trail volunteers have enabled us to we serve looks very different and its mission is the foun- systems while maintaining evolve into an organization than it did in 1920, it’s quite dation on which outdoor the ecological integrity of trail for the needs of our partners that has developed cutting- extraordinary that the heart recreation in this region was lands. And so, with more than and the public led us to launch edge techniques to protect our of this organization beats with shaped. On the day the Trail 2,000 volunteers serving as the a Trail and Summit Stewards open spaces and train and de- the same passion and energy as Conference was established, engine that powers the organi- program in 2013 and a Con- velop the next generation of when it was founded. That pas- our founders and park officials zation’s ability to create great servation Corps program trail stewards, all while hold- sion and energy belongs to the met to plan the first system trail experiences, we have been the same year. Our Trail and ing true to the legacy of those volunteers who not only built of trails in Harriman State able to adapt, evolve, and grow Summit Stewards educate first volunteers who left New the Trail Conference into one Park. Fast-forward to this in new and exciting ways. and assist the public in the re- York City to tame the wilds of of the most resilient nonprofits August, when we convened Because the “trail experi- sponsible and enjoyable use of Harriman. We are proud to be in the region, but also literally land manager partners and ence” is about so much more trails; they have made signifi- trailblazers in both vision and built a network of more than leaders in the hiking, moun- than the trail itself, the Trail cant impact in improving user action. Our nimbleness in re- 2,100 miles of trails that con- tain biking, and equestrian Conference has made a com- safety and preparedness and sponding to needs, willingness nect the public with nature. communities to address the mitment to the ecological protecting the land at some of to address our weaknesses and For 99 years, Trail Con- challenges and opportunities stewardship of our forests and the most popular outdoor des- adapt to meet new challenges, ference volunteers have been in creating new multi-use parks. Since 2011 when the tinations in the region. (Read and steadfastness in deploy- providing millions of trail us- trails and trail networks for Invasives Strike Force was in- more on page 7.) ing dedicated volunteers has ers with a means to explore the multiple user groups. (Read troduced as a Trail Conference This season, the Stewards helped the Trail Conference outdoors. The culture of vol- more on page 6.) program, we have strived to be became part of our Conser- remain at the forefront of unteerism at the Trail Confer- Our volunteers play a vital regional leaders in protecting vation Corps program. The creating positive recreational ence has become the fabric of role in these movements be- native habitats by combatting Corps program was born in opportunities outdoors for 99 our organization. It is our lega- cause they are the boots on the invasive species. Most recently 2013 from the need to have a years. What the next century cy—a legacy that will continue ground building and caring for that has included the addition full-time presence on the mas- looks like, no one knows. But into our second century. We these trails, day in and day out. of a conservation dog to our sive Appalachian Trail reha- you can count on the Trail are committed to supporting They fill the gaps when our Invasives team, which is in- bilitation on Bear Mountain. Conference to be there, work- and enhancing our volunteer park partners are unable to creasing both the quality and This 14-year project had two ing hard to protect the land program now more than ever. dedicate sufficient resources to quantity of our invasive sur- specific outcomes: build a bet- you love. Our volunteers make us the vi- the demands on their land and veys. (Read more on page 5.) ter, safer, more sustainable trail Joshua Howard brant and impactful nonprof- trails. Some of these demands Our ingenuity in finding for park visitors; and develop a Chief Operating Officer it that ensures the public has we never could have imagined solutions and adapting them pool of trained volunteers to [email protected]

More Funding for NJ State Parks and Forests DIANA RICHARDS PETER DOLAN new jersey program coordinator

New Jersey’s state parks and forests are about to get a boost to their funding, and it’s thanks to the work of the Keep it Green Coalition. Volunteer Membership The Keep It Green Coalition (KIG) is a group composed of No Longer Required representatives from over 150 organizations with a common The Trail Conference heard you. We recognize interest in New Jersey’s open is a volunteer-powered that, as a volunteer, you spaces. The Coalition’s mem- organization, and are already sharing your bers engage in work on envi- New Jersey parks like Norvin Green State Forest are volunteers contribute a lot most precious resource— ronmental protection, historic about to see more funding. of hard work needed to your time—and that is preservation, agriculture, and fulfill our mission. Our goal invaluable. In fact, last year other forms of outdoor access ronmental Protection’s Parks new allocations recommend- has always been to support Trail Conference volunteers and recreation. In 2014 the and Forestry Division. In a ed by KIG, Parks and Forest- these volunteers, which is donated an incredible Trail Conference was involved world of increasing park vis- ry stewardship will rise from why the Trail Conference 103,771 hours! with KIG’s campaign to en- itation, growing demand for just over $3.6 million to more is repealing its long-time While you are no longer sure permanent open space trail miles, spreading invasive than $6.4 million. In addi- policy that volunteers must required to be a member funding across the state using species, and increased erosion tion, funds available for non- purchase membership in to volunteer, we hope you existing corporate business tax from extreme weather events, profit stewardship will increase order to hold positions continue your membership funds. While New Jersey vot- limited funding has left our from $462,318 to $975,450. as Trail Maintainers, and/or donate what you ers overwhelmingly support- state park partners unable to While these projections won’t Supervisors, Chairs, or can. However you do ed the measure, it wasn’t un- keep on top of even basic park be set in stone until taxes for Crew Leaders. This change choose to support us— til 2016 that then-Gov. Chris maintenance and infrastruc- 2020 are collected, one thing went into effect Sept. 16. time, money, or both— Christie signed it into law. ture challenges. is clear—our valued state We’ve been told by both THANK YOU. While this tremendous vic- That changed this year on park partners, and the non- active and prospective If you have any questions tory allowed for the contin- June 26, however, when Gov. profits who work with them on volunteers that this policy about the change in ued protection of land, it did Phil Murphy signed a bill stewardship projects, will have creates a barrier and this policy, please email not come with a significant which provides new guidance significantly more resources frustration, and we have [email protected]. increase in funding for New for how these existing funds to tackle repairs and improve- Jersey Department of Envi- are to be spent. Under the ments in the parks we all love. 4 | Fall 2019 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org

Save the Date In Memoriam Science degree in computer his mountain bike riding, Minor Bishop for our Voting science from William Pater- hiking, karaoke singing, and Minor Bishop, age 92, died Members Meeting son College of New Jersey. trail building. The wood- June 20 after suffering a After graduating, Gabe lands and its beauty were his stroke in his home in New Our Fall Voting Members began working as a pro- greatest passion along with York City. A veteran of meeting will be held on grammer/analyst for GAL the gift of song. No matter WWII, he graduated from Sunday, Nov. 17, at Trail Manufacturing Corporation where Jim went, he always the Yale School of Architec- Conference Headquarters in New York City, where he came away with new friends ture. A longtime from 10 to 11:30 a.m. A light remained for the entirety of and relationships that would member of the breakfast will be available at his career. When he wasn’t last a lifetime and beyond. Architectural 9:30 a.m. At press time, the working, he was out pushing League of New agenda had not yet been set. Cyrus Whitney his physical limits with his Jane Gregoire York, the Fine If you have agenda items to Cyrus Belknap Whitney, a favorite activities: moun- Jane Kathryn Ringer Arts Federation, the Amer- suggest, please email them to Trail Conference Life Mem- tain biking, rock climbing, Gregoire, 72, passed away ican Institute of Architects, [email protected]. Meeting ber and former member of hiking, and snowboarding. on June 14 after a pedestrian and the Murray Hill Neigh- information and materials will our Board, died peacefully The outdoors gave joy and traffic accident borhood Association of New be provided in advance. at home on June 7 at the age balance to his life. in Meredith, York, Minor spent his life of 92. Cy served in the Navy N.H., where she elevating the standards of during World War II; after lived with her his profession, developing graduating from Middlebury husband, Jim well-designed, affordable College, he spent his career Gregoire. Jane housing for all Americans working on Wall Street. For attended Boston and saving New York’s his- more than 40 years he was Children’s Hospital School toric buildings. He served as an adult leader of the Boy of Nursing; she worked for a hike leader for the Appa- Scouts. A long-time hiker, he 30 years at The Hartford lachian Mountain Club and was also very active with the Insurance Company in was an important supporter Catskill 3500 Club, serving Hartford. Jane married Jim, of the Trail Conference. He as the organization’s second James Clawson her high school sweetheart, was unable to hike in recent membership chairman and James Orton Clawson later in life in 2005. After years due to Parkinson’s as president from 1986-87. III, (aka Nature Jim and living several years in New disease, but enjoyed staying He was also a member of the Ort), passed away peace- Jersey, they ultimately settled in touch with the hiking Adirondack Mountain Club fully on Aug. 25 at the age in Meredith in 2011. Jane community. and Adirondack 46ers. His of 63 after an eight-year was an avid traveler, always legacy and love of the moun- battle with brain cancer. up for seeing the world. She Our condolences to the tains is sure to inspire others Jim graduated from Ohio was a dedicated companion friends and family of Trail to seek the outdoors. Northern University with a on Jim’s long-distance hikes, Conference volunteers Bachelor of Science degree providing dutiful transporta- Holger Nissen and Arnold Gabriel Muth in electrical engineering in tion services while maintain- Dunham, who recently Gabriel Muth, 43, passed 1978. In 1985, he moved to ing a detailed hiking blog passed away. Their commit- away June 14 on a business Hewitt, N.J., and continued of Jim’s adventures. She will ment to the outdoors and trip. Gabriel was born in his career with Rockland be missed by a wide circle service to the Trail Con- Ales (Gard), France. He Electric until his retirement of friends who were family ference mission is greatly grew up in Ridgewood, N.J., in 2016. Jim touched the to her, and with whom she appreciated, and they will be and received his Bachelor of lives of thousands through remained close. missed.

TRAIL CONFERENCE SUPPORTERS

MAY 16 – AUGUST 15, 2019

TRIBUTES DONORS TO THE ANNUAL FUND Piermatti, Gale & Louis Pisha, Kenneth A Posner, Pamela In honor of Abilene White Jeffrey Adams, Jered Albertus, Anonymous Donor, Jeremy S. Prather, James Prommel, Eric J Rhoades, Carol Richards, Gerald Fabris Apgar, Steven & Christine Arkin, David M. Ascher, Steven Bob & Nicole Rinklin, Louis W Rissland, Jeremy Robin- In honor of Andrew T Garrison D Babbitt, Bill & Christine Balcerski, Dr. George L Beck- son-Leon, Roger Roloff & Barbara Petersen, Paul S Rosen- Jeanette Scotland er III, Sheree & Fred Bennett, Steven P Bertolino, Peter kampff, Weiland A Ross, Mark Rubin, Sean Salmon, Ge- In honor of Edward Goodell Biging, Jenna Bostock, Kenneth Boyd, Bill Boyle, Jane M rard L Santora, Andy & Annette Schmidt, Annette Schultz, Pete Heckler Brain, Dawn Brueckner, Patricia Ann Brueckner, Richard Michael Scrimenti, Larry Seberg, Marc Silverman, Jennifer In honor of Dr. Ernest Stillman & Shari Buchwald, John S Buzansky, Skip & Jean Marga- Sinnott, Carol A Smith, Rachel Smith, Timothy Smith, Karl Nathaniel Stillman ret Card, Frank Catena, Robert Chorney, Michael Clancy, M. Soehnlein, Craig Solomon, Lance Stallings, Daniel Suf- In honor of Plain OM Faith Cohn, Brian Collins & Michelle Tuorto-Collins, Kay fin, Lynn T Swanson, Kathleen Tabor, Douglas H Tashji- Peter Schwartz E Compton, Polly Condit, Jennifer Cunningham, Lyn E an, Michael Taylor, Anthony & Maureen Thoman, Carl E In honor of Robert Maher Damari, Andrea J Damato, Ursula & Patrick Davis, Dr. Bri- & Victoria Thune, Felisa Tibbitts, Mike Tillison, Peter & Thomas Patton & Teresa Principe an Duffy, Willard Dye, David & Barbara Dykhouse, Walter Kendra Tipping, Doug & Valerie Trainor, Lily Tranh, Diana In honor of Steven Alt & Georgina Easterbrook, Robert & Hannah Eckstein, Susan Trebbi, Donald Tripp & Denise Jarvis, Maria Celina Trze- MaryAnne Barney & Troy Eggers, Emerson Ellett, Marjorie & Michael Engber, pacz, Lawrence Tsao, Charles W Ulrich, Gregory Urso, An- Robert P & Kathleen Heinis Amy Eskilson, Gregory Ewoldt, Denise R Farrell, Mark thony Vagnoni, Sophia van Valkenburg, Mark VanGorden, Chris Sullo Fornatale & Lisa Komm, Sarah W French, Charles Gadol & Peter Wasem, Larry A Wehr, Richard A Weiler, Mark & An- In loving memory of my mother Clair S. Cohen, a hiking Donna Sherman, Robert Galli, Andrew & Sheri Garrison, gelica Weinraub, Heidi A. Wendel & Joseph Hirsch, Robert enthusiast, & advocate of conservation & preservation of Michael & Regina Gelfer, David & Janet Getz, Joseph Gilm- A Went, George Werner, Ed & Gail Greiner Wojciechowski, the environment: the landscape, nature & all the animals & ore, Agnes & Henry Gottlieb, Katina Grays, Roger Green & Hanson Wong, Ida Wong, Helen Yeisley, & Rob Zeller wildlife inhabiting the beautiful Hudson Valley, her life-long Rachelle Gura, Mr. Berton Greenberg, Timothy A Gregg, home. Keith Gross, Andrew & Elinor Hart, Philip & Ellen Hei- CORPORATE, FOUNDATION & OTHER DONORS Janice Ferrucci delberger, Phillip Hess, Mary Hiatt & Jeffrey Binkley, Paige ADK Mid-Hudson Chapter, AmazonSmile Foundation, In memory of Gabriel Muth Hiemier, Brian Hoge, Michael Hollenberg, Matt Hunter, BD, Benevity, Catskill 3500 Club, Causecast Foundation, Catherine A Brienza Brandon Irizarry, Monika Jaeger & James Nicoletti, Linn Chenette Donor Fund, EarthShare New Jersey, Estate of Geoff Pacelli E Johnson, Robert J Jonas, William R Jones, Kathleen Kal- Robert Marshall, Facebook, Fidelity Brokerage Services Ginny & Ted Passon mes, Frederick J Kaskel, Jeffrey Katz, Kelly Grace Keenan, LLC, George & Karen Deibert Foundation, Goldman Erik Robert Sampson Patricia Keenan & Chris Ford, Michael C Keller, Benedikt Sachs, IBM Corporation Matching Grants Program, John- William R Schuering Kellner, Gary & Cindy Kuhns, Lee Kyriacou & Elizabeth son & Johnson Matching Gifts Program, JPMorgan Chase Paul & Melissa Seifried Barrett, Victor & Dylan LaGamma, Jenn Case-Lee & Sam Foundation Matching Gift & Volunteer Grant Programs, In memory of Patrick J Ciccarone Lee, Cheryl & Robert Frederick Lehmann, George Leibson, Laura J. Niles Foundation, Mary W. Harriman Foundation, Cecilia Paganelli Ross Linegar, David A Lloyd, Dorothy A Lourdou, Sue & Massey Giving Fund, Michael Sasse Charitable Fund, Mu- In memory of S Stephen Streeter Leonard J Lyon MD, John C Mahle Jr., Marilyn Maney & tual of America Foundation, National Financial Services Christopher Martin Streeter Donald Campolo, Anne McDonnell, Tammy Mcguire, LLC, Network For Good, Peter R. & Cynthia K. Kellogg In memory of Stephen Thomas Littier Dennis McNerney, Adele Metrakos & Brian Cahill, Tracy & Foundation, Pledgeling Foundation, Red Newt Racing, William & Rosalie Anagnost Steve Michelin, Susyn Mihalasky, Joe Misner, Lucia D Mo- REI, Rocchi Family Fund, Roots Cafe, Schare Charitable Hambletonian Holdings laro, James Monroe, Andrew T & Marcia Moore, Russell Foundation, Schwab Charitable Fund, True North Wilder- Stephen Thomas Littier Jr Estate G Moore, Elizabeth Moran, Douglas J Myer, Liem Nguyen, ness Program, The Outdoor Foundation, United Way Of Edward T. & Barbara O’Brien, Fred H. & Anne Todd Os- The Capital Region, & the WM & Charlotte Brett Irwin born, Frank Genna & Deborah Padula-Genna, Patricia A Charitable Fund nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Fall 2019 | 5 The Dog That Can Save the Forest

Is it possible that the nose of vaticum), which people have PHOTOS BY ARDEN BLUMENTHAL a dog can mean the difference a hard time identifying. This 1 2 between a healthy forest and species can outcompete ex- a failing ecosystem? The Trail isting vegetation, including Conference believes so. threatened and endangered Our Conservation Dogs species. Dia quickly learned Program—the first of its kind how to detect slender false in the Northeast—is already brome, and was ready for exceeding expectations in her next challenge: an insect its first season. Dia, our Lab- called spotted lanternfly. A rador retriever, started her threat to agriculture as well invasives-specific training in as forests, feeding on more November 2018 by learning to than 70 different plant species, 3 detect the presence of Scotch spotted lanternfly is a devas- broom (Cytisus scoparius), a tating invasive that is estab- species our Invasives Strike lished in eastern Pennsylvania Force has been working on and is quickly spreading to removing for years. But young surrounding states. It’s an ex- plants can be difficult for hu- cellent hitchhiker on vehicles, mans to find—and finding in- so Dia has learned to con- vasive populations when they duct inspections on cars and are small is critical in elimi- trucks, as well as field surveys. nating them. Early detection Just 2 years old, Dia is mak- of invasives like Scotch broom ing a huge impact on our abil- is the key to success in protect- ity to seek out invasive species ing our natural areas, making and work towards eradication, 4 Dia’s nose an important tool. meaning we can protect our Conservation dogs can forests more effectively and learn to detect up to three new efficiently. “In three or four species each year, and we’ve years,” Dia’s handler Joshua put rookie Dia to the test. In Beese says, “we’ll be pushing July, Dia learned to detect an forward the science on what invasive grass, slender false can be done with invasive spe- brome (Brachypodium syl- cies detection using dogs.”

Aiding in the gram with respective gifts of $100,000 and $50,000. A Fight Against recent gift of $5,000 from Dia’s Process humidity, which we take into small and low to the ground. Invasives the Laura J. Niles Foun- account when surveying. dation additionally helps Part 1 Part 3 We thank the New York to fund our detection dog Scents spread out from the Part 2 Once Dia has found the State Department of team in the Trail Con- source in a cone shape, so Once Dia works her way into source of the scent, she alerts Environmental Conser- ference’s early-detection Dia starts her search for the a scent cone, she puts her her handler Josh to her find vation’s Invasive Species efforts. With this support, target by sniffing the air for nose closer to the ground by sitting. Grant Program and the as well as the gifts of every- one of these scent cones. and searches for the exact Orentreich Foundation, one who has contributed Scent cone size, shape, and source of the scent. This step Part 4 which have made signifi- to the program, our overall orientation are affected by is important when searching Dia celebrates an impressive cant contributions to the goal of eradicating priority factors like wind speed and for young Scotch broom find with a well-earned game Conservation Dogs Pro- invasive species is possible. direction, temperature, and plants, which can be quite of tug.

Trail Improvements Ahead—Thanks to Our Supporters!

As a nonprofit, the work we build and rehabilitate eroded raise general awareness of this do is only made possible and worn-out sections of the incredible resource. through the support of donors Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail who believe in the power and Kakiat, Triangle, and Spider Hill House on of connecting people with Tuxedo-Mt. Ivy trails in Har- the Appalachian Trail nature. Our gratitude goes to riman State Park. These trails at Bear Mountain the following sponsors who connect with long-distance are allowing our programs to trail systems including the A grant of $10,000 from thrive—and with their funds, Appalachian Trail, the Long the Mary W. Harriman are making a positive impact Path, the Highlands Trail, and Foundation will be used to on the trails and parks that the new Empire State Trail. help plan the rehabilitation of need our care. the historic Spider Hill House Highlands Trail on the Appalachian Trail at Catskill Stewards . The New Jersey Highlands Our goal is to repurpose this Catskill 3500 Club Council The has awarded a contract The Trail Conference has received grants to restore abandoned building as a new made a $5,000 gift to support to the Trail Conference to the Spider Hill House in Bear Mountain State Park. focal point and education our Steward Program in the provide digital mapping and center for the large and Catskills. Since 2013, the to create a trail and roadside diverse crowds of visitors to Trail Conference has been signage system for the New the route, and road crossing signage project, Peter Bear Mountain. committed to educating and Jersey portion of the High- signs will assist hikers along Kellogg has donated $30,000 In phase two of the ongo- assisting the public in the safe, lands Trail. The project is the way. Roadside signage will to help elevate the status ing Spider Hill House Adap- enjoyable, and responsible use expected to be finished by also direct users to trailheads of the Highlands Trail as a tive Reuse Project, the Trail of trails through this program, early 2021. This project will along the route. Promotional long-distance destination. Conference will stabilize and making a positive impact on create one consistent High- maps and materials will be Kellogg’s donation is intend- rehabilitate the deteriorating the user experience and in the lands Trail map from end- created and available for view- ed to help us promote and Spider Hill House and develop protection of the land. to-end that will be published ing at established kiosks. The facilitate thru-hiking the interpretative signage for pro- as a digital, interactive map Highlands Council specifies Highlands Trail by creating an posed exhibition space inside. Harriman Trails available on the free Avenza that the project is expected to enhanced end-to-end guide We were awarded a $23,000 Maps mobile app. Users will be completed for an amount with maps and amenity de- grant from the Outdoor Foun- TheEdward B. Whitney Fund be able to download the map not to exceed $29,755. scriptions. It will also support dation to continue this work of the New York Community for use in areas with poor or In order to promote and efforts to secure permission in improving the user expe- Trust and the Peter Dilullo no cell service. Additional build on the work of the for campsites along the trail rience along the Appalachian Family support our efforts to trail blazes will help clarify Highlands Trail mapping and in New Jersey state parks and Trail at Bear Mountain. 6 | Fall 2019

PEOPLE FOR TRAILS A quarterly look at some of what we have been doing to improve public access to nature. TRAILS FOR PEOPLE Strengthening TORI FINN the Ways We Serve

When New York State be- place a force of well-trained sources to underfunded gan developing parks such as trail builders and ecologi- agencies responsible for the Harriman and Bear Moun- cal stewards in the field full protection and accessibility tain in the 1920s, passionate time, May through October. of open space in the most hikers seized the opportu- They receive a living stipend densely populated region of nity to lend their expertise for their service and are eli- the country. Simultaneous- to develop marked trail sys- gible for AmeriCorps edu- ly, it has become a training tems opening the outdoors cation awards through our ground for the next genera- to the general public. They partnership with The Corps tion of environmental lead- felt a responsibility to care Network. The Conservation ers, many of whom have gone for the land, create trails, Corps program bolsters our on to work for park agencies and connect people with na- volunteer base by amplifying at the local, state, and federal ture. They came together and the number of leaders avail- levels. In so many ways, this formed the Trail Conference, able to host new volunteers program embodies the Trail ensuring there would always and cultivate more leaders. Conference’s mission, vision, be a stream of trained volun- Since the program began, and values. That’s why we teers available to accomplish 130 AmeriCorps members applied for a grant through ground, but also sufficiently through the TCCC as an this important work. have served through the New York State to expand our build up the program’s infra- AmeriCorps member or In this tradition, the Trail TCCC, leveraging more Corps’ capacity and increase structure. This grant allows volunteer, visit nynjtc.org/ Conference has responded to than 3,000 volunteers in im- the organization’s impact. In us to create better trail expe- corps. Our thanks to the New the needs of our land man- proving trails and parks. This July, we were awarded just riences for the public and a York State Office of Children ager partners and the trail- year, our Steward Program over $1.06 million to sup- better service experience for and Family Services and the using public by expand- was folded into the TCCC, port and strengthen the Trail our AmeriCorps members. It New York State Commission ing our ability to serve. adding another level of out- Conference Conservation allows us to build on our suc- on National and Community The formation of the Trail reach and education to the Corps. The contract extends cess and celebrate our legacy Service for believing in our Conference Conservation program’s achievements. over three seasons, which of service in new and very program and granting us the Corps (TCCC) in 2013 has Through this service, the will allow us to not only exciting ways. funds to allow the TCCC to enabled the organization to TCCC provides vital re- support more boots on the To learn how to serve succeed.

Trail Chat An Unusual Alliance Grows Focuses on Into Strong Partnerships Multi-Use Collaboration It’s safe to say hikers and stone steps, and kiosks— With support from REI, the mountain bikers don’t al- were completed in less than Trail Conference invited ways see eye-to-eye over two years. In 2015 and 2017, agency partners and leaders trail use. But in the Town Tim spearheaded the design in the hiking, mountain multi-use loop built by Trail of Yorktown in New York, and construction of an ad- biking, and horseback Conference Conservation these two user groups have ditional 1.5 miles of trails riding communities to dis- Corps members and volun- worked together since 2010 in Sylvan Glen, opening up cuss the opportunities and teers, including members of to establish a successful two other areas of the park. challenges of building and all three user groups. Field shared trail system—and Fast forward to 2019, stewarding multi-use trails. Manager Erik Mickelson, did so in record time. and the two groups are still This Trail Chat was held who played a significant With Yorktown’s acqui- working together: we’re run- Aug. 9 at the Sterling Forest role in the design and con- sition of the Granite Knolls ning work trips, removing State Park Visitor Center. struction of the new trails, property imminent in 2010, blowdowns, and at the lead- Our day began with a led the hike while explain- my husband Walt and I, res- Building great trails ership level, talking. It was discussion on multi-use ing the concepts and tech- idents of the town, asked together in Yorktown: time for me to hand over the trails and trail systems de- niques behind building this permission to build trails Hiker Matt Dittman and keys, so to speak. The town signed for multiple users. It successfully shared loop. in the soon-to-be parkland biker Laura Kelly wanted a local resident to be was engaging conversation Participants overwhelm- that surrounds the Taconic in charge of the volunteers; as participants shared—and ingly left with the optimism State Parkway. Shortly af- additional trails at Sylvan thanks to these partner- perhaps most importantly, that we can work and ter permission was granted, Glen Park Preserve. Tom ships, Laura Kelly of WMBA listened to—the different recreate together for the Tim O’Connell, a member Schmitt of WMBA took the agreed to assist me and will experiences and challenges shared benefit of everyone of the Westchester Moun- lead in Granite Knolls, real- eventually take on the role we’re facing as user groups, who wishes to enjoy trails tain Biking Association izing that designing a trail of trail supervisor. She per- land managers, and part- and connect with nature, (WMBA), asked if his group network was a once-in-a- suaded WMBA to join the ners with unique wants and whatever their preferred could help. As supervisor lifetime opportunity. Tim Trail Conference, creating needs. method of travel. Stay for trails in Yorktown, my directed efforts in Wood- new opportunities for their Talk continued during a tuned for more positive initial reaction was, “no, it’s lands while Walt and I con- members to take workshops visit to Sterling Forest’s new collaboration! my project.” I quickly re- centrated on expanding the and maintain trails. Laura alized that was not a good trails in Sylvan Glen. This has taken the responsibility attitude and just as quickly partnership raised funds, of running work trips while agreed to include them. recruited volunteers, and in- I continue to interact with And so, hikers and moun- volved youth. On average, it maintainers. I know that the More to Explore Online tain bikers worked togeth- takes three years to build 3 trails in Yorktown will be in Check out nynjtc.org for more news from the trails, like a er to build trails at Granite to 4 miles of trail; here, 10.7 good hands with Laura at recap of 16-year-old Bryce Hopper’s Long Path thru-hike Knolls Park, Woodlands miles of trails—including the helm. Jane Daniels, East fundraiser for the Trail Conference, as well as a young trail Legacy Fields Park, and boardwalks, bridges, signs, Hudson Regional Trail Chair builder’s recount of leading this season’s MEVO Crew. nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Fall 2019 | 7 2019 Stewards Empower Trail Users and Volunteers

nance of multiple sections of Stewards are great!” Andy MELISSA CASCINI trail steward the Long Path, which spans says. “They’ve helped me ac- 358 miles from New York complish so much this sea- City to John Boyd Thacher s on .” This year, the Trail Confer- State Park near Albany. In the process of helping ence’s Trail Steward Program Most Thursdays and Mon- volunteers such as Andy, the became part of the Conser- days the Stewards have been Stewards learn techniques vation Corps. Serving five going out with Andy to assist that they then use to lead days a week for six months, in clipping the trail corridor, workshops and volunteer Stewards are able to perform clearing blowdowns, and maintenance work trips. This more duties than in previous building and blazing new sec- fall, the Stewards are hosting a seasons, when they were on tions of trail. Some of the most number of Trail Maintenance trails only on weekends. challenging areas of this trail 101 workshops that can help In addition to assisting weave through the Catskill get “newbies” to the organiza- and educating trail users on Forest Preserve, where the tion out on the trail to learn Saturdays and Sundays, Trail hike in can gain hundreds of what the Trail Conference Conservation Corps Trail Stewards provide Stewards are available to help feet of elevation over rocky and trail maintenance are all outreach to trail users and support for volunteers. volunteer leaders who need a terrain. It’s projects in areas about. These educational op- hand with challenging main- such as this where Andy has portunities can play a pivotal ards diligently recruit new extended work week, Conser- tenance projects. For exam- a tougher time recruiting role in recruiting new main- volunteers, they also work vation Corps Trail Stewards ple, Board member and Long volunteers; therefore the role tainers for an organization just as hard to ensure current would be unable to perform Path Trail Chair Andy Garri- the Stewards play is crucial that relies on the hard work of volunteers feel supported in these important functions son tackles the trail mainte- in completing projects. “The volunteers. While the Stew- their projects. Without the that keep trails accessible.

Ashokan Rail will help to ensure that the trail is enjoyed and used A Day at the Steward ‘Office’ Trail Looking responsibly by all. These for Volunteer volunteers will also help to keep the county informed EDUARDO GIL trail steward Stewards about trail maintenance issues that may arise. We’re After years of planning looking for friendly people I like to think I have the and construction, New to greet trail users and best job in the world: stew- York’s Ulster County is help with any questions ardship! Stewardship is the preparing to open the they might have about the responsible use and active first eastern segment of new trail. protection of our natural the Ashokan Rail Trail in Volunteer hours are resources. The fundamen- mid-October. In prepa- Saturdays and Sundays in tal issue we face is that we ration for the partial four shifts from 7 a.m. to 7 have a shrinking resource opening, Ulster County p.m. Training for volun- compared to the number officials have been work- teers is required on Oct. of users. Protecting hiking ing with the Trail Con- 5. Stewards can choose areas, habitats, and eco- ference and Woodstock to volunteer at trailhead systems requires advocacy, Land Conservancy to parking areas or be on conservation, and steward- develop and roll out a bicycle patrol. To sign up, ship. Conservation through volunteer Trail Steward email Kimberly Daley at acquisition of lands can program. Trail Stewards [email protected]. remove immediate, acute pressures, but only through careful, prolonged steward- ship can we hope to pro- hikers. I’ve also encountered help in their appreciation of tect areas from subtle but all kinds of weather, from the experience. Often times pervasive pressures such as heat waves to torrential I walk the trails picking up misuse, invasive species, rainfall, with beautiful days litter that visitors have left and climate change. in between. behind, intentionally or I spend every weekend A typical day on the trail not, and clear corridor from of a six-month span having involves wearing plenty of downed trees or overgrown the best “office” available to hats. My first responsibil- vegetation, performing any serve the community and the ity is making sure visitors TLC needed for the trail to environment. As a second- are prepared for their hike, be open and accessible. Oth- year Trail Conference Sum- asking what their itinerary er times I search for illegal mit Steward—with another is in order to provide them camping sites and fire pits two seasons of service as a with the information and that violate the regulations Conservation Corps trail education that will aid in of the region, make note of builder under my belt—I their safe, enjoyable use of their location, and attempt have a profound appreci- the trails. I’ll make recom- to restore the area as if no ation for preserving and mendations if needed, par- one had been there. Includ- conserving the environment ticularly for those who are ed in my responsibilities are that I enjoy for leisure. I have poorly prepared. My help helping in any emergency Improving Breakneck spent more than 200 days up isn’t always required, but I situations, which can range Graffiti and litter are often cited as some of the biggest on a Catskill peak educating am happy to click the shut- from aiding an injured hiker issues resulting from the popularity of . In hikers about Leave No Trace ter of their cameras so they to search and rescue opera- an attempt to mitigate the problem, Volunteer Trail Stew- principles, doing mainte- can freeze the moment in tions, which are led by the ard Andre Nizarri not only teaches visitors about Leave nance, and conducting my time when they hiked that region’s forest rangers. No Trace principles; he also works to remedy the damage own research on needed im- trail. Sometimes I share My name is Eduardo. I by picking up trash and removing graffiti (above) when on provements. I’ve personally knowledge about the envi- am an advocate for conser- duty. Find out how you, too, can help to create a better trail interacted with about 10,000 ronment they’re entering to vation. experience by emailing [email protected]. 8 | Fall 2019 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org 2018 Annual Report Summary

BETTER OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH STEWARDSHIP (BOOTS)

Since 1920, the Trail Conference has been caring for public trails and parklands. It’s through the dedication of our volunteers and advocates that all of us are able to enjoy such a wealth of safe, enjoyable opportunities outside in the greater New York metropolitan region. We believe everyone who seeks the outdoors should have the opportunity to connect with nature.

Our passion is creating great trail experiences. Thanks to the efforts of 2,342 volunteers giving 103,771 hours in 2018, here’s a glimpse at what we were able to accomplish last year.

1.5 million 70,890 AMBER RAY 2,165 invasive plants removed trail users engaged miles of trails maintained

The Trail Conference is the The ongoing development of our Trail Steward program has On any given day on the trail, leader in regional efforts put the Trail Conference in a position to assist and educate there’s a good chance you’ll to combat invasive species, more trail users than ever before. In May, we trained almost encounter a Trail Conference which are a huge threat to the 40 seasonal employees of not only the Trail Conference, but volunteer working hard to integrity of native habitats. also the state park departments of New York and New Jersey, improve your outdoor experi- Our Invasives Strike Force as Trail Stewards. Stationed at popular trails across the region, ence. Volunteers who “adopt” Conservation Corps seasonal Stewards provide helpful outreach and information about park a trail do the on-the-ground crew and ISF crew volunteers regulations, hiker safety, preparedness, Leave No Trace princi- work to ensure it remains reached new milestones by ples, and other best practices. The Trail Conference also played open and safe for fellow users. removing over 1.5 million a lead role in Leave No Trace’s Hot Spot Week at Breakneck A number of our crews also invasive plants across the Ridge, hosting and taking part in stewardship events aimed at go out on maintenance trips region. ensuring outdoor-lovers do their part to respect and protect to help keep trails accessible. the rugged beauty of Breakneck Ridge. 358 miles of Long Path 95 protected years of service to the Appalachian Trail

Since 1960, the Trail On Oct. 7, 1923, Trail Conference volunteers officially opened the first Conference has spearheaded section of the Appalachian Trail, which they built and blazed through Bear the effort to maintain, protect, Mountain and Harriman state parks in New York. Nearly a century later, and complete the Long Path. Trail Conference volunteers still selflessly give their time and energy to Today, the aqua-blazed Long ensure the 174 miles of A.T. spanning New Jersey and New York remain Path extends 358 miles from open, safe, and enjoyable for everyone who follows that iconic white blaze. 175th Street Subway Station We celebrated the 95-year milestone with events and workshops, capping in Manhattan to John Boyd off the season by completing the historic Bear Mountain Trails Project—the Thacher State Park near most ambitious rehabilitation of the A.T. ever conducted. Albany. The goal is to extend the trail across the Mohawk River and Saratoga County BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TRAIL STEWARDS to link with the Adirondack 20 State Park trail system. Our crews building trails and restoring natural areas conservation and advocacy work—not to mention on- When trails are threatened, the Trail Conference re- the-ground maintenance and sponds. When incredibly powerful spring storms construction—is making damaged trails across the region, volunteers made heroic strides in our efforts to efforts in a short amount of time to clear and restore permanently protect the them. Trail emergencies aside, all year long our crews eventual 430-mile corridor dedicate hours to rerouting and rehabilitating eroded of “New York’s Greatest Trail.” trails, building bridges, replacing puncheon, restoring native habitats, and overall ensuring our trails are sus- tainable and ecosystems are protected. 7 JANE DANIELS miles of new multi-use trail opened NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Seventeen years after the first

Trails Plan for Sterling Forest BENEFIT + State Park was drafted, the AUCTION park celebrated the opening 2019 of one of the finest multi- use trails in the region, built by the Trail Conference. THURSDAY, OCT. 17 The completion of a 7-mile, 3 7 1 7 TO 10 P.M. single-track loop open to revisedmiles map of new sets multi-useupdated trail guidebook built RIO VISTA ~ 20 EMMA COURT ~ MAHWAH, NJ hikers, mountain bikers, and, in part, equestrians brought Since the original publication of The New York Walk Teatown Lake Reservation Book in 1923, the Trail Conference has provided trail PUBLIC PARTNER OF THE YEAR to fruition the dreams of so HONORING many who worked to make users with the most accurate, up-to-date information on Inserra Shop-Rite Supermarkets, Inc this beautiful forest accessible local trails. In 2018, we published a revised edition of the CORPORATE PARTNER OF THE YEAR to a wide variety of users. Harriman Trails guidebook and the Hudson Palisades, Harriman-Bear Mountain, and Catskill map sets. RSVP and learn more details at bit.ly/tc-benefit19 nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Fall 2019 | 9

Trail Angel Society Want to Protect the Things Founding Members Anonymous (12x) Jill H. Arbuckle You Love? First, Make a Plan Frank M. Bamberger Jane Daniels Walt E. Daniels ROBERT C. ROSS Roger Dubin trail conference Frederick J. Gerty life member Judith Green Peter Heckler Jill Schlesinger has written a Joshua E. Howard wonderful book about financ- es, “The Dumb Things Smart Chester F. Kaplan People Do with Their Money.” John Kolp She covers many important Jane A. Levenson subjects with clarity, relies on Leonard J. Lyon MD excellent research, and sug- Susan Lyon gests further study. Daniel A. Nickolich Most relevant in my review Robert C. Ross is Dumb Thing No. 12: You James Sciales Don’t Have a Will. Schlesinger Phyllis A. Stewart leads the reader through the horrible experiences of Eileen, John H. Swanson a lady with a 12-year-old son, Ernest G. Tornincasa whose husband Jim died with- Lawrence Tsao out a will. Schlesinger writes Ann Marie Walker that the lack of a will “repre- William C. Ward Jr. sented a tragedy for Eileen. … Edward B. Whitney In the end, Eileen spent tens of Patsy Wooters thousands of dollars in legal H. Neil Zimmerman fees that she could have avoid- ed had Jim gotten his act to- gether and put a will in place. And the process took twice Become a as long, making her grieving process that Founding much more difficult.” Any trust and es- Member of the tates lawyer, trust of- es, it doesn’t cost much—as ficer, or probate judge little as $500 for a simple Tips Trail Angel can tell many similar will—to have an attorney stories—as well as draw up the necessary doc- Commit to put your Society similar stories when uments. You could even do 1 affairs in order. wills were not kept up it yourself using legal forms The Trail Conference is to date. available online. Second, Provide for yourself fortunate to have dedicated A 2017 survey by she adds, “failing to draw 2 first. benefactors supporting its Caring.com found up a will and perform mission, including many that fewer than half proper estate planning is Provide for the who have chosen to secure its of adults in the Unit- unmistakably selfish on 3 people you love future through planned gifts. ed States—42 per- your part—in fact, the next. To express our appreciation cent—“currently have height of irresponsibility.” for this committed group of estate planning doc- Her Eileen anecdote illus- Then provide for donors who have remembered uments such as a will trates how it’s your family 4 the organizations the Trail Conference in their or living trust.” Almost members who wind up you love. estate plan, we established the two-thirds of Gen X paying the biggest price. Trail Angel Society. Members respondents didn’t Schlesinger concludes: Finally, implement of this special group share the have these documents, “Of all the off-the-hook 5 your plan. common bond of generosity even though this de- stupid mistakes you can and vision to ensure that mographic was head- make with your money, the trails and natural areas ing into middle age and failing to have a will is have room, provide for orga- we share are sustainable and many of its members indisputably the worst.” nizations you love. Finally, do accessible for all to enjoy had small children for whom dren had plans in place in case Enough preaching; make it! And, then follow up from for generations to come. We to provide. In fact, the survey they died. an estate plan. Provide for time to time to keep your plan invite you to join with others found that just 36 percent of As Schlesinger writes: yourself first. Provide for the current. Buy Schlesinger’s fine who share your passion by respondents with minor chil- “That’s crazy!” First, she advis- people you love next. If you book to learn how to do so. becoming a founding member of the Trail Angel Society. By filling out the form to the left, you will ensure the Trail Conference benefits Yes, I want to be a Trail Angel! from the philanthropy of our Confidential Pledge Challenge Form Trail Angels both now and in the future. For every form we receive, a generous donor will I am pleased to inform you that I have named the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference as a beneficiary of my estate plan. I understand give the Trail Conference $500 that this is a non-binding statement. Although I intend this gift to remain in force, this document does not constitute a legally binding pledge. to support our efforts today. Note that your bequest My future gift: Name ______Phone ______intention form is non- Is a percentage of my estate worth binding. The form is to show Address ______approximately $ ______that you are making plans City ______State ______Zip ______Is in the specific amount of $ ______now, but you have every right I would prefer to keep the amount private. to change them later. Email ______DOB ______If you’ve made a provision This is my best estimate at this time and the amount Signature ______Date ______of my future gift may be different. in your estate plan that benefits the Trail Conference, use this form to let us I understand that this future gift entitles me to membership in the Trail Angel Trail Angel Society: Society and that the membership list may be published in Trail Conference Please list me in the Trail Angel Society know, even if you’ve told us previously, and we can benefit publications and website. However, the nature and size of my intention, as well as ______as the names of anonymous donors, will be kept confidential. NOW from our generous I prefer to remain anonymous. donor. For further questions, Kindly return this completed form to: Development Director, Planned Giving, NY-NJ Trail Conference, 600 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, NJ 07043 please contact Membership Please contact us with any questions: 201.512.9348 x813, [email protected] and Development Director Don Weise at dweise@nynjtc. org or 201.512.9348 x813. 10 | Fall 2019 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org

Autumn Adventure Photography Tips Appreciation Sept. 27: Photography

SUSAN MAGNANO Walk, Monroe, NY Autumn is one of the best times Hikes and Oct. 3: Sip-N-Create, to hit the trails and photograph Community Mahwah, NJ the beautiful foliage that sur- Oct. 4: Manaticut Point, rounds us. From composition Outings Ringwood, NJ tips to hints on how to work Oct. 12: Saturday Trail with the light, photographer To thank Trail Conference Run, Wawayanda State Susan Magnano of PhoTour supporters for making Park, NJ Adventures has created a pho- our work possible, we Nov. 9: Saturday Trail tography guide to help you pre- invite everyone to join Run, Sterling Forest, NY pare for fall adventures. Check our monthly Appreciation Nov. 29: #OptOutside it out at nynjtc.org/news/ Hikes and Community Cleanup, Breakneck Ridge, fall-photography-tips-trail. Outings. Come meet NY Want to learn more? Pho- your fellow members Dec. 7: Saturday Trail Tour Adventures and Unique and see examples of our Run, Morristown National Photo will be leading a Trail recent work or trails Historical Park, NJ Conference Community Hike we are targeting for Dec. 13: Project Tour, along the Appalachian Trail improvements. Mahwah NJ on Friday, Sept. 27. Sponsored by Campmor and Merrell, this Upcoming dates: Check nynjtc.com/events guided hike and photography Sept. 20: Appalachian for more details. Not a workshop will explore Fitzger- walk on the A.T., looking for more info and register at bit.ly/ Trail on Bear Mountain, member yet? Join now at ald Falls in Monroe, N.Y. We’ll great photo opportunities tc-photohike19. Stony Point, NY nynjtc.org/membership. go on an out-and-back, 1-mile along scenic Trout Brook. Find Susan Magnano

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 Long Island Dyke Hikes Musconetcong Mountain Conservancy Shorewalkers Inc. www.adkli.org www.meetup.com/Dyke-Hikes mmc.nynjtc.org www.shorewalkers.org

ADK Mid-Hudson Chapter East Hampton Trails Preservation Nassau Hiking and Outdoor Club Sierra Club Mid-Hudson Group www.midhudsonadk.org Society www.nassauhiking.org sierraclub.org/atlantic/mid-hudson www.ehtps.org ADK Mohican Chapter The Nature Place Day Camp Somers Land Trust www.adkmohican.org Finger Lakes Trail Conference thenatureplace.com somerslandtrust.org www.fingerlakestrail.org ADK New York Chapter Nelsonville Greenway Committee South Mountain Conservancy Inc. www.adkny.org Flat Rock Brook Nature Association VillageofNelsonville.org www.somocon.org www.flatrockbrook.org ADK North Jersey Ramapo New Haven Hiking Club St. Benedicts Prep Backpacking Project Chapter Friends of Franklin D. Roosevelt State www.NHHC.info www.sbp.org www.hudsonhikers.org Park & Trump State Park www.fofdr.org New Jersey Forty Plus Hiking Club Storm King Adventure Tours Adventures for Women meetup.com/NJ-Forty-Plus-Hiking- www.stormkingadventuretours.com www.adventuresforwomen.org Friends of Garret Mountain Club Reservation The Storm King School Alley Pond Environmental Center friendsofgarretmountain.blogspot.com New Jersey Highlands Coalition www.sks.org www.alleypond.com www.njhighlandscoalition.org/ Friends of Pelham Bay Park SUNY Oneonta Outdoor Adventure AMC Delaware Valley Chapter www.pelhambaypark.org New York Alpine Club Club www.amcdv.org www.oneonta.edu/outdoors Friends of the Hackensack River New York City Audubon Society, Inc. AMC Mohawk Hudson Chapter Greenway in Teaneck www.nycaudubon.org Teatown Lake Reservation www.amcmohawkhudson.org www.teaneckgreenway.org www.teatown.org New York Ramblers AMC New York North Jersey Chapter Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct, www.nyramblers.org Tenafly Nature Center Association www.amc-ny.org Inc. www.tenaflynaturecenter.org aqueduct.org Outdoor Promise Black Rock Forest Consortium Inc. https://outdoorpromise.org/ Thendara Mountain Club www.blackrockforest.org Friends Of The Shawangunks www.thendaramountainclub.org shawangunks.org The Outdoors Club, Inc. Boy Scout Troop 121-Hudson Valley www.outdoorsclub.info Town of Lewisboro Council - Rockland District Frost Valley YMCA www.lewisborogov.com/parksrec www.frostvalley.org Community Center Boy Scout Troop 8, Brooklyn www.pinehillcommunitycenter.org/ Town of Woodstock German-American Hiking Club townwoodstock.digitaltowpath.org Boy Scouts of America-Northern NJ www.meetup.com/GAHCNYNJ Proactive - Adventure, Health & Council Wellness TriState Ramblers www.nnjbsa.org Hike The World www.proactiveahw.com www.tristateramblers.org www.hiketheworld.com BSA Troop 21 - Hudson Valley Council Protect Our Wetlands, Water & Woods Troop 1 Mount Kisco www.suffern21.mytroop.us Hilltop Conservancy, Inc. (POWWW) www.troop1mountkisco.com www.hilltopconservancy.org box292.bluehost.com/~powwworg Canal Society of New Jersey University Outing Club www.canalsocietynj.org Hunterdon Hiking Club Ramapough Conservancy, Inc. www.universityoutingclub.org www.hunterdonhikingclub.org Catskill 3500 Club Rip Van Winkle Hikers Urban Trail Conference, Inc. www.catskill-3500-club.org Interstate Hiking Club newyorkheritage.com/rvw www.urbantrail.org www.interstatehikingclub.org Catskill Mountain Club Rock Lodge Club Valley Stream Hiking Club www.catskillmountainclub.org Jolly Rovers Trail Crew Inc. www.rocklodge.com www.meetup.com/vshclub jollyrovers.org Chinese Mountain Club of New York RPH Cabin Volunteers Wappingers Greenway Trail Committee www.cmcny.org Little Stony Point Citizens Association rphcabin.org www.littlestonypoint.org West Milford 13ers Church Communities Foundation - SAJ - Society for the Advancement www.weishike.com Platte Clove Community Long Path North Hiking Club of Judaism www.bruderhof.com www.schoharie-conservation.org www.thesaj.org Westchester Mountain Bike Association www.wmba.org/ Closter Nature Center Association Mohonk Preserve Salt Shakers Trail Running Club www.closternaturecenter.org www.mohonkpreserve.org www.saltshakersrun.com Westchester Trails Association www.westhike.org Community Search and Rescue Morris County Park Commission Sassquad Trail Running www.commsar.org www.morrisparks.net www.sassquadtrailrunning.com Yorktown Trail Town Committee nynjtc.org TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE Fall 2019 | 11

Join the Trail Conference, Explore Storm King and More Get Great Deals With New West Hudson Map Set Check out some of the Trail Conference’s valued Retail Partners and their Covering the popular desti- trail at the ture UTM gridlines. great members-only nations of Black Rock Forest, Nature Museum’s Wildlife Ed- The map will be available discounts. Visit nynjtc. Schunemunk State Park, and ucation Center at in print format in vibrant org/retail-partners for Storm King State Park, the Park, adjustments to scenic color on our popular water- full details on all partner revised eighth edition of our viewpoints throughout the proof, tear-resistant Tyvek by discounts. West Hudson Trails map set is area, the addition of several shopping online at nynjtc.org your accurate and up-to-date newly preserved lands and up- or visiting our headquarters. guide to trails west of the Hud- dates to state park boundaries, In addition, it will be available son River in the Hudson High- and the latest trail relocations. in digital format on Apple and Member FDIC lands of Orange County, N.Y. Many other updates and ad- Android devices through the This two-map set covers more justments make these revised Avenza Maps app; learn more Blue Foundry Bank Blue Foundry Bank than 70 miles of marked trails; maps a must-have for any- about our GPS-enhanced makes quarterly dona- revised maps are due to arrive one looking to explore these maps at nynjtc.org/pdfmaps. tions to the Trail Con- this fall. Significant sections Orange County parklands. Special thanks to all the ference based on the of both the Long Path and the All maps include detailed volunteers and park partners balances of our support- Highlands Trail are highlight- junction-to-junction trail who helped produce this map ers’ designated new or ed throughout the maps. mileage numbers, parking revision. The map set was also existing deposit accounts This eighth edition includes areas, scenic viewpoints, wa- produced with support from and new loans. Visit one of their local branches new trails within and adjacent terfalls, and other points of Storm King Adventure Tours. to become a member of to Black Rock Forest, a new interest, and the maps fea- Jeremy Apgar their Community Alliance Program. Find a location near you at bluefoundry bank.com/locations. West Jersey Views and Volunteer Power JAMIE CASSABOON One of the most pop- ular circuit hikes in northwest New Jersey, the Stony Brook/Appa- Kenco lachian Trail/Tower Trail Get a 10% discount on loop through Stokes all non-sale merchandise. 1000 Hurley Mountain Rd. State Forest is consid- Kingston, N.Y. ered a moderate hike 845.340.0552 with a great view from atkenco.com the A.T. at the Tower Trail junction. It also crosses one of the two 24-foot bridges built by the Trail Conference’s West Jersey Trail Crew PhoTour Adventures this spring. Receive a 15% discount Find the hike descrip- off your first PhoTour Adventure. tion and learn more 845.629.1518 about the work of our photouradventures.com volunteers at nynjtc.org. Howie Liebmann

Share the Love Sweetening the deal, the Liberty Family of Dealer- Black and White and Wild at Liberty ships has decided to “share

Plans to buy or lease a new the love” at Liberty Hyund- JAMIE CASSABOON car? During Subaru of ai and Genesis in Mahwah, Jamie Cassaboon, wildlife America’s annual Share the and Liberty Kia in Ramsey fine artist and tattoo Love event, Liberty Subaru as well. Just show your artist, is featured in a new in Emerson has named the membership card when exhibition on view through Trail Conference as their buying or leasing from Nov. Oct. 23 at Trail Conference Hometown Charity. At 14 through Jan. 2, 2020 and Headquarters. “The Graphite Liberty Subaru from Nov. they’ll donate $250 to the Art of Jamie Cassaboon” 14 through Jan. 2, 2020, for Trail Conference, too. features wildlife works every new vehicle pur- Don’t forget that Trail expressed in highly detailed, chased or leased, Subaru Conference members get realistic graphite renderings will donate $250 to the dealer’s invoice pricing on on paper. Cassaboon is a charity designated by each Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, and signature member of the buyer/lessee. Make sure to Genesis vehicles at the Lib- Society of Animal Artists and choose the Trail Confer- erty Family of Dealerships. is currently represented by the along the Hudson River to 5 p.m. The Trail Conference ence and make a positive Our thanks to Liberty and Belvoir Gallery in Millbrook, Valley. Many of these animals is located at 600 Ramapo impact on the trails and everyone who chooses to N.Y. Much of his free time is become the subjects of his art. Valley Road in Mahwah, N.J. land you’ll be exploring via support the Trail Confer- spent photographing birds The exhibit is open to the Visit nynjtc.org for more your new ride. ence mission! in and around his home in public and is on view Monday information. Dutchess County, N.Y., and through Saturday from 9 a.m. Diane Stripe

YOU DRIVE. WE DONATE. When Trail Conference members take delivery of any new Subaru, Hyundai, KIA, or Genesis between November 15th and January 2nd, the NY-NJ Trail Conference will receive $250*!

LIBERTY SUBARU LIBERTY HYUNDAI OF MAHWAH LIBERTY KIA Raise Your Expectations 55 KINDERKAMACK RD 305 ROUTE 17 NORTH 305 ROUTE 17 NORTH 815 ROUTE 17 SOUTH EMERSON, NJ 07630 MAHWAH, NJ 07430 MAHWAH, NJ 07430 RAMSEY, NJ 07446 www.libertycarsnj.com 201.261.0900 201.529.2400 201.529.2400 201.818.8995 *Liberty Subaru customers must choose NY-NJ Trail Conference from a list of “Share the Love” charities. Liberty Hyundai, Liberty KIA, and Genesis of Mahwah customers must present NYNJTC membership card at time of purchase or lease. This offer is valid only at Liberty dealerships. 12 | Fall 2019 TRAIL WALKER • NEW YORK-NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE nynjtc.org

Thank You First-Ever Westchester Map Set Special thanks to all who volunteered their time to help produce Covers 160-Plus Miles of Trails this new map, includ- ing volunteer project manager Jane Dan- ing terrain and make it easier JEREMY APGAR iels, as well as Daniel cartographer to determine which trail sec- Chazin, Geof Connor, tions may include challenging Walt Daniels, Charlotte climbs or descents. Parking Fahn, Josh Howard, and Coming this fall, the new areas, including roadside pull- Fred Stern. Thanks also Westchester Trails map set is offs, are noted on the maps. to our park partners at sure to become the go-to re- Several public transportation Teatown, Ward Pound source for discovering and access points are shown, in- Ridge Reservation, and cluding multiple Metro-North exploring trails in Westches- Rockefeller State Park ter County. The first edition Hudson Line train stations, Preserve for all their of this three-map set focuses making it possible to explore assistance. on Rockefeller State Park Pre- many of these trails without serve (the largest state park in needing a car. Scenic view- We also wish to thank Westchester County), Ward points, historical points of in- Teatown for their fi- Pound Ridge Reservation (the terest, and lakes and streams nancial support toward largest Westchester County are also identified throughout production of this map. Park), and Teatown (the larg- the maps, and UTM gridlines Map production was est privately owned preserve in further aid with navigation. also funded in part by a the county). All maps include The backs of the maps include grant from the Hudson detailed junction-to-junction useful information about River Valley Greenway. trail mileage numbers, 10-foot the parks, park regula- elevation contour lines, park- tions and contact infor- ing areas, and much more. mation, tips on how to The first map, Map 130, use the maps and prac- features the vast trail network tice Leave No Trace prin- at Rockefeller State Park Pre- ciples, and much more. serve, including the nearby Pound Ridge Reservation. The trail changes at Teatown are The maps will be avail- Rockwood Hall Area. Several latest changes in this large trail reflected on the map, including able in print format in unnamed trails have recent- system are included, with junc- a new Three Lakes Loop Trail vibrant color on water- ly been named and are in the tion numbers shown to match that takes hikers past Teatown proof, tear-resistant process of being marked with on-the-ground signage. Pop- Lake, Vernay Lake, and Shad- Tyvek by shopping signposts; the map includes ular destinations like Leath- ow Lake. The Greater Teatown nynjtc.org or visiting these updates. Points of inter- erman’s Cave, Dancing Rock, map shows Teatown at the cen- our headquarters. They est throughout the Preserve, and Bear Rock Petroglyph are ter of a larger area of connect- will also be available in including Eagle Hill, Raven indicated. Just outside the Res- ed and nearby parks. To the digital format on Apple Rock, and Spook Rock, are ervation’s boundary, trails are northeast, the Teatown-Kitcha- and Android devic- identified on the map. In ad- also shown in Armstrong Pre- wan Trail extends to Kitchawan es through the Aven- dition, surrounding parks serve, Lewisboro Town Park, Preserve and the North County za Maps app; learn and their trails are shown, Old Field Preserve, and Rich- Trail; to the northwest, the Bri- more about our GPS- including Peabody Preserve, ards Preserve. arcliff-Peekskill Trail extends enhanced maps at Pocantico Park, Tarrytown The last map in the set, Map to Croton Gorge Park and the nynjtc.org/pdfmaps. Lakes Park, and portions of 132, covers the varied trail net- Old Croton Aqueduct. To get more info the Riverwalk near Tarrytown. work at and around Teatown. The detailed trail mileages about the new West- Large sections of both the Old The map front includes a large included on the three maps are chester Trails map set Croton Aqueduct and North detailed map of Teatown itself, a useful way to plan routes or and email notifica- County Trail are shown. while a map on the reverse navigate on the trails. In addi- tion when it becomes The second map, Map 131, zooms out to cover the Great- tion, 10-foot elevation contour available, visit bit.ly/ features the trails at Ward er Teatown area. Several recent lines help to show the underly- tc-wms.

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.