If you're a hiker with some time and energy to spare this summer, I have a suggestion for you:

Volunteer for the MATC Maine Trail Crew!

Apparently the MATC has succeeded in filling only 30 of the 80 available volunteer positions this season, so bodies are sorely needed and will be greatly appreciated.

According to J.T. Horn, New England Regional Director of the Appalachian Trail
Conference:

"For this 2005 field season we are vastly undersubscribed for volunteers and are in danger of canceling numerous projects that the Maine Appalachian Trail Club has been planning for some time. These projects include treadway rehabilitation projects that are important to prevent erosion and ensure that generations of hikers will get to experience the Appalachian Trail in a safe and enjoyable manner."

That's not good news for the AT or the hiking community.

Maine Trail Crew activities run throughout the summer, so there's plenty of opportunity to help out. To volunteer, please contact the MATC at matc@localnet.com or

Margaret Snell
Crew Coordinator
Maine Trail Crew
PO Box 149
Dexter ME 04930
phone 924-0133