South Mountain Conservancy e-Bulletin. March 2021
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We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website!
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Be sure to visit, and better yet, try it from your smartphone!
www.somocon.org
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Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
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Annual Meeting via Zoom: Thursday, March 18th 7:30-9:15pm
Learn about the organization that helps manage South Mountain Reservation, a tranquil haven more important than ever during this pandemic. Volunteer-driven, we love what we do as we offer hikes, improve the ecology, manage 50-miles of trails, and much more. Hear about SMC's programs, operations, and plans from board members and program coordinators. This year we will be joined by Dan Kaslow as he walks us through a special presentation: A Narrative History of the Lenape Indians. Dan's discussion will cover 30,000 years in 30 minutes, beginning with the Lenape's Paleoindian ancestors in the Ice Age and continuing into the 21st century.
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Join Us for Our 3/19-21 Plogging Weekend!
And protect the Reservation in 3 fun steps.
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Do you like to run, hike, or walk in the South Mountain Reservation? Because of the pandemic our trails are being used now more than ever. With the increase in foot traffic, we're seeing a lot more trash! So, if you are looking for a way to volunteer and help take care of our beloved SMR, the South Mountain Conservancy and Sassquad Trail Running are asking you to get involved in this spring clean-up weekend event. We call this weekend a virtual plogging event. So, what is PLOGGING? Plogging originated over in Sweden and simply means to run and pick up trash! If running isn't your speed - don't worry! You can absolutely go out and WALK and pick up trash!
1.
Get out on your favorite trail in the Reservation whenever you want on Friday 3/19, Saturday 3/20, or Sunday 3/21. Be sure to wear gloves, use hand sanitizer, and bring a trash bag (or more). PLEASE wear a face covering and practice social distancing during your clean-up. Follow the trail/park rules! Be safe, be smart and have fun!
2.
After collecting your bag(s) of trash, take a photo of the bag(s) and post it on our Facebook page or on our Meetup page.
3.
Deposit the trash in the trash cans located in all Reservation parking lots. We recommend plogging on the trails first and finish up in the picnic/parking areas where you will find the most trash.
Prizes will be awarded for:
1. WEIRDEST TRASH ITEM FOUND (must show item in a photo)
2. MOST BAGS OF TRASH COLLECTED BY ONE PERSON OVER THE 3 DAYS
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We are expanding our Board of Trustees.
The South Mountain Conservancy is looking for new members for its volunteer Board of Trustees. Individuals are invited to apply who are passionate about South Mountain Reservation and supporting the conservancy's mission as steward of and advocate for this beloved park and increasing public engagement. Experience on nonprofit boards, a background in environmental/ecology issues, or business acumen are some of the skills sought. We are also seeking individuals that can serve as secretary and treasurer and reflect the diverse communities that use the park. Board members are expected to attend evening meetings every couple of months (now via Zoom) and take on additional operational or administrative responsibilities, as required. If interested, please contact Dennis Percher, chairperson, at chair@somocon.org.
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Seeking new Trailkeepers
Trailkeepers work independently to monitor and provide basic maintenance of a section of blazed trails and woods roads. Each volunteer provides a report to the Trailkeeper Coordinator four times a year. Interested? Email: trailkeepers@somocon.org
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Another reason to support the places you love!
SMC Members will now receive 10% off any Sassquad Trail Runners Events. Inquire today.
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Winter Hiking Program: New Temporary Protocol
Due to new safety protocol hikes are temporarily limited to 14 participants and you must be a current SMC member. Current members will receive a special invite via email, with a link for registration. If you have questions about your membership status, email us. Thank you for your understanding and happy hiking!
To see our hiking calendar click here
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You can help support South Mountain Reservation!
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