9W: Adopt-a-Trail Program

The Wayne National Forest Athens Ranger District is seeking volunteers to help maintain over 250 miles of motorized and non-motorized trails that vary in terrain, elevation, and difficulty.

Volunteers could be individuals, club members, or from community organizations who are dedicated to keeping trail systems well maintained and enjoyable. 

Volunteers will provide basic maintenance on an entire trail, a section of trail, or a trailhead for a one-year period. Basic maintenance includes clearing the trail of fallen timber, limbs, and brush; removing fallen rock and debris; cleaning and repairing water drainage features; trail marker maintenance; trailhead clean up, and trash pick-up.

Training and some hand tools will be provided, but the use of power saws require additional training and certification by the U.S. Forest Service.

Staff will coordinate and oversee trail maintenance, but volunteers will work on their own schedule, and at their own pace, as long as annual trail maintenance goals are met.

In addition to food, clothing, and footwear, volunteers must provide their own transportation to, from, and along the trail.  The Ranger District will arrange for media releases and recognition of the individual, group, or organization commitment.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Josh Keenan, our Forest Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected] or (740) 753-0890.