GET DOWN, GET DIRTY, and HAVE FUN!
Saturday, May 12, 2007

Since the 1930’s, the CT Chapter of the AMC has been responsible for the maintenance and management of the Connecticut section of the Appalachian Trail. On May 12, 2007 all AMC members are encouraged to “give back” to the AT by coming out with your Chapter Trails Committee and helping on one of several projects occurring that day.

Your Chapter Trails Committee is responsible for the day-to-day “on the ground” management of 52 miles of our nation’s most prestigious Trail, 12 miles of side trails to the AT, and over 6,000 acres of federally protected lands associated with the Trail. Each May, for at least the past ten years, the Trails Committee has hosted this annual event in which various projects, ranging from light maintenance activities to more involved drainage and tread way improvements, are offered.

Last year, projects included drainage improvements on Undermountain Trail, installing a bear-proof food container at Paradise Lane group campsite, trail hardening near the Macedonia Brook crossing, brushing at West Cornwall Road, and litter cleanup along the Housatonic River. Several Chapter Committees, including Conservation and Executive, assembled their own “teams” to assist in a project. Project leaders are experienced work party leaders from the Trails Committee, but often “celebrity” AMC and ATC staff also participate or colead a project. Our project list for Give A Day ’07 will include something of interest to those who are curious about what trail maintenance is all about, something to challenge those looking for a physical workout, and something where specialty trail tools such as grip-hoists may be used. Our goals are to provide a positive and rewarding experience for those who want to do something to improve the Trail, to increase hike leader and hiker knowledge and appreciation of trail construction, and to interest trail users in the work of the Committee.

The morning starts with refreshments, introductions, and our classic tool safety briefing. The projects will then be described, and participants choose to go on whatever project interests them. At the end of the afternoon, all the groups reassemble at the HVA for the infamous “Give-A-Day” social. The Social is always an enjoyable time to reflect on the day’s accomplishments, share refreshments, and get the mud off!

No experience is required, just bring work gloves, plenty of water, and your lunch. You may want to bring food or drink items to share at the social. Typically, “Give-A-Day” goes off rain or shine. The Trails Committee will provide the tools, the terrain, and the jokes!

Note: Hike leaders have been asked not to schedule hikes on “Give-A-Day” in order to enable trail users to have the day available to participate.