Our Stories
2021 Friend of the Trail Award: Volunteer Spotlight
2021 Friend of the Trail Award
Kathy Baer and Todd Frerichs, Audubon National Wildlife Refuge. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) staff at the Audubon National Wildlife Refuge in North Dakota, primarily Kathy Baer and Todd Frerichs, were instrumental in the development of a new 12-mile segment of the NCT within the Refuge between 2018 and 2020. Through three Eagle Scout projects, 52 volunteers contributed over 400 hours. Kathy and Todd let volunteers use the visitor center and maintenance shop during nonwork hours for equipment storage and Carsonite post preparation, accommodating even during the pandemic. Kathy and Todd have gone above and beyond with outreach efforts, as well. The NCTA anticipates a long-term relationship with them that benefits the NCT, the Refuge, and the American public.
Eric Peterson, Iron County Forest. Approximately 30 miles of Wisconsin NCT passes through or is planned in the Iron County Forest. In his role as Forest Administrator for the county, Eric has approved new Trail segments and multiple campsites, and applied for DNR water permits. But perhaps most significantly, he helped the NCTA complete the 112-foot Bill Thomas Bridge in 2020 – a structure desired since 1992. This bridge has opened up isolated territory, creating new Trail and eliminating 10 miles of roadwalk. Eric tracked finances, managed permits, and oversaw construction.
Greg Bernu, Carlton County. Efforts to move Trail off-road near the Minnesota-Wisconsin state line were stalled for 10 years until 2020. When a Brule-St. Croix Chapter leader noticed a strategic parcel for sale, they approached Greg, Carlton County (Minn.) Land Commissioner. Greg then collaborated with Eran Sandquist of Pheasants Forever, and through a grant and a match, Pheasants Forever acquired the property. Greg agreed to manage the area long-term as non-motorized, and gave the NCTA an easement for the Trail to cross the property. He is currently developing a formal agreement between the county and NCTA to ensure continued cooperation. Without Greg’s efforts, this would have remained a roadwalk with little prospect for an off-road connection.
Who from your local Chapter, state or region do you want to celebrate? Nominate them for an NCTA Award! Awards are annual, and nominations for 2022 NCTA Awards are open through May 1, 2022.