The High Peaks Alliance is excited to announce a volunteer trail work opportunity this summer, led by our Recreation Ranger Matt Kusper. Whether you’re an avid hiker looking to give back or a community member who cares about preserving access to the outdoors, this event is a great way to get involved, meet others, and make a difference on the trail.

The workday will be at Perham Stream Birding Trail on Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here, maintenance on the trails will include rock work, and volunteers should meet at the trailhead on East Madrid Rd.

Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear and long pants. Bring work gloves and eye protection if you have them, as well as enough water and a snack to get you through the day. Bug spray and sunscreen are highly recommended. Tools will be provided, and we will have extra work gloves handy.

The Perham Stream Birding Trail was the first property owned by HPA. It offers sweeping views from the back of Saddleback to Mt. Abraham and provides habitat for several threatened and endangered species, such as native brook trout and little brown bats. Local naturalist Carson Hinkley has consistently identified 140 bird species, observed from the wide grassy footpaths and fields within the property.

Those interested in additional volunteer trail work opportunities should contact Matt Kusper at (704) 877-5567 or Matt@highpeaksalliance.org, as there is a need for volunteer trail stewards and recreation rangers to help maintain trails in the region year-round.