The crisp air, leaves crunching underfoot, and the spectacular changing colors of the landscape, fall will be here before long. With fall comes the busiest time of year for people taking to the trails to enjoy the beauty of the natural world around them. The Mercer County Park Commission wants their trails to be ready and is looking to expand the Trail Crew team to make it happen.
Trail Crew is a dedicated and eclectic team of volunteers who help in the maintenance of the extensive trail systems and native plant gardens that make up some of the 10,000 acres of Mercer County park land. Members come from every walk of life, from high school students looking to bolster their college applications to active retiree’s looking to enjoy their days outside and being active.
Lead by Mercer County Stewardship Coordinator, Emily Rogalsky, the focus of trail crew this season has been the continued maintenance, trimming and blazing of established trails at both Baldpate Mountain and Roebling Park. This is a very important time for trail maintenance as invasive plant species grow just as quickly as native plants, and will choke out the upcoming fall flowering species. No prior experience or knowledge is necessary, just the willingness to put in the time and effort for the benefit of all park users and the forest itself.
Trail crew is open to anyone aged 16 years or older. However, participants under 18 years old will need to be accompanied by an adult. Trail Crew is typically held in 3 hour sessions, weather permitting with the location varying based on the ever changing needs of the trail systems. Tools, gloves and instruction will be provided. People interested in this fantastic volunteer opportunity are asked to please email Emily Rogalsky at [email protected].
