Hiking Trails Blogs

The U.S. Forest Service and the Student Conservation Association (SCA) will partner to improve numerous trails in both the George Washington National Forest and the Jefferson National Forest, using funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). SCA is currently recruiting to fill nine project leader positions and 37 trail team member positions for seven SCA trail teams. During the summer and fall of 2010, these teams will improve up to 175 miles of national forest trails in Virginia.

Some of the paths designated for improvement include the Dragon's Tooth Trail in Roanoke County, Craig Creek Trail in Botetourt County and Poverty Creek Trail in Montgomery County.

This project will provide work opportunities through SCA, the country’s leading conservation service organization. SCA partners with public land managers to build conservation leaders and engage young adults in hands-on environmental stewardship. Trail teams live and work together in the backcountry. Team members receive a living allowance, food, and housing; while learning trail skills, outdoor leadership, wilderness first aid, and Leave No Trace outdoor ethics.

“We welcome this opportunity to work with SCA to provide jobs and accomplish important natural resource work,” said Henry Hickerson, Acting Forest Supervisor. “This work would not be possible without federal stimulus funding.” Hikers, backpackers, horse riders, bicyclists, and motorized recreation enthusiasts enjoy more than 2,100 miles of trails in both the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

The $816,000 in funding announced this week is the latest in about $4 million the Washington and Jefferson National Forests have received from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Further information and applications are available at the SCA website.




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