Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness seek volunteers

With summer approaching, Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness are looking for volunteers to help maintain trails and educate hikers.

“The FSPW’s volunteer trail maintenance days are perfect for anyone who loves exploring the spectacular Scotchman Peaks region while also getting their hands dirty,” said Cameron Rasmusson, communications specialist for the organization, in an April 27 release.

FSPW welcomes all levels of volunteers — from greenhorns to seasoned Pulaski swingers — for trail maintenance. To sign up for trail work, prospective volunteers should visit the organization’s website at https://www.scotchmanpeaks.org/hikes-events-schedule/.

Upcoming trail work will tackle Goat Mountain on May 21, Scotchman Peak on May 28 and Star Peak on June 4.

For volunteers who would rather spend time teaching hikers about the local wildlife, Rasmusson recommends trying the FSPW’s Trail Ambassador program.

Ambassadors hit the trails to make sure recreationists know to keep their distance from the animals they might encounter in the wilderness area. Mountain goats are especially curious and apt to approach hikers who feed them or let them lick the sweat from their skin.

“While it can seem charming, things can go wrong quickly when humans and goats get too close. In fact, a biting incident years ago temporarily closed Scotchman Peak trail,” said Rasmusson in the release.

Recreationists interested in becoming trail ambassadors should visit the Scotchman Peaks website: https://www.scotchmanpeaks.org/you-can-help/leave-mountain-goats-wild/.

Rasmusson encouraged anyone who would like to contribute to the organization in any other way to reach out via email at info@scotchmanpeaks.com.