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Date: 5/25/2022
WILBRAHAM — Jay Taylor wants you to go take a hike. Taylor is one of several volunteers who give up their summer days, nights and weekends to clear a path for hikers.
There are nearly a dozen trails in town. Wilbraham’s Open Space & Recreation Plan Committee (OSRPC) sees to it that nine of those trails are clear of everything – from fallen trees to poison ivy.
“If we didn’t maintain the trails, they would likely become very overgrown or blocked by fallen trees. We spend a fair amount of time keeping the trails clear for people to use,” said Taylor, who is the OSRPC trails manager.
The trails are scattered across the town and attract thousands of people each year to enjoy solitude in the woods. Hikers walk across beds of pine needles, scattered leaves or carefully constructed bridges, but nothing else.
Taylor and his volunteers hit the trails at least every other week to clear away what are sometimes mammoth trees. There are always branches and limbs that get in the way. The volunteers also clear away bramble, poison ivy and a host of vines and weeds.
“When we maintain the trails, we clear a footpath to make it a safer experience for the hiker. This also helps keep away tics and other pests,” said Taylor.
When you add it all up, the trails go on for dozens of miles. Keeping them clear is a bit more than committee members can handle. That’s why OSRPC is looking for a half dozen volunteers to help keep the trails looking sharp.
“We have limited manpower, and we find that volunteers are essential to help us clear the trails. Spending time in nature is very rewarding. It’s good for your physical and mental health. There’s great camaraderie and a real sense of pride when you pitch in and make the trails a good place to be,” said Taylor.
Taylor is a retired social worker and an avid hiker. He said it’s more important than ever to keep trails clear for a growing number of hikers.
“Hiking has become a prime recreational activity, not just in our town but nationwide. It’s a great way to connect with nature. There are physical and mental benefits to it. You don’t need a lot of time or money to hike and there’s a real joy to being in the woods,” said Taylor.
Volunteers can expect to spend two to four hours working on the trails every other week – less often if they don’t have the time. Volunteers can use their own tools or equipment OSRPC provides.
“People who volunteer find that they really enjoy giving back to trail maintenance because they get so much out of it,” said Taylor.
If you’d like more information about becoming a volunteer you can email Taylor at Mrjayt0701@gmail.com or message the group through its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/wilbrahamopenspace.