Spread the love

A staff report

As the cool season arrives in North Carolina, it brings with it the perfect weather for outdoor projects along the Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST). For those interested in making a tangible impact on the Coastal Crescent segment of the MST, a series of volunteer workdays has been scheduled between now and the end of the year in Bladen County. This fall, trail enthusiasts have five dedicated opportunities to assist in ongoing projects aimed at expanding and improving the MST’s reach and accessibility.

Coastal Crescent Workdays Schedule

These workdays, held in November and December, will focus on essential trail maintenance that is accessible to all, regardless of skill or experience. Tasks will include leveling trail beds, cutting back vegetation, and removing debris to ensure safe and enjoyable trail access for all who visit. Volunteers are encouraged to bring enthusiasm and a willingness to lend a hand to this rewarding cause.

Workday Details

Each workday will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and volunteers will meet at either The Ranger Station in Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest or Camp Chamblee in Bladen Lakes State Forest.

• Friday, November 8: Meet at The Ranger Station in Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest.

• Tuesday, November 19: Meet at Camp Chamblee in Bladen Lakes State Forest.

• Sunday, December 1: Meet at Camp Chamblee in Bladen Lakes State Forest.

• Tuesday, December 10: Meet at The Ranger Station in Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest.

• Sunday, December 22: Meet at Camp Chamblee in Bladen Lakes State Forest.

Directions & Access

Volunteers heading to Camp Chamblee can access it from Sweet Home Church Road; the campground is at the end of a dirt road known as Camp Chamblee Trail. The Ranger Station in Turnbull Creek Educational State Forest is easily located at 4803 Sweet Home Church Road.

What to Bring and Wear

For a comfortable and productive workday, volunteers should bring heavy rakes, loppers, clippers, gloves, sunscreen, extra water, and a packed lunch or snacks, although complimentary lunches will be provided on December 1 and December 22. Volunteers are reminded to label their tools, as there will be no power tools allowed on-site. As for attire, sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, long socks, and a hat are recommended to ensure safety and sun protection.

Special Amenities for Select Dates

For those joining on December 1 and December 22, complimentary sandwiches and chips will be provided to volunteers. To ensure adequate provisions, attendees are kindly requested to register in advance for these two dates. Any dietary restrictions should be communicated at the time of registration to allow for proper accommodations.

Volunteer Participation and Contact Information

Ben Jones, the Coastal Crescent Project Manager, is coordinating these workdays and is looking forward to working alongside the dedicated volunteers who share the MST’s vision of accessible, well-maintained trails for all. While cell service may be limited in some areas, Ben will be available at (828) 551-1545 to assist with any location-related issues on workdays. Registered participants will also receive a reminder and weather update prior to their selected workday, with any weather-related schedule changes posted 24 hours in advance.

Volunteers play a pivotal role in enhancing the MST, and these workdays present a unique opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of Bladen County while contributing to the state’s renowned trail system. For more details or to register, please contact Ben Jones at bjones@mountainstoseatrail.org.

Join us in building and beautifying Bladen County’s MST this season – see you on the trail!