A volunteer group is now forming to maintain the Jenksville State Forest trails. Jenksville State Forest is in the towns of Berkshire and Newark Valley in Tioga County.  "Friends of Jenksville State Forest" is an Adopt A Natural Resource (AANR) group modeled on successful volunteer groups already working in other New York state forests to do trail maintenance and repair in partnership with the DEC.  Liability and workers compensation is available through the State to all official AANR partners working on state approved projects.  People from all user groups are welcome, including hikers, horse people, mountain bikers, skiers, and anyone else who enjoys the state forest.  

 The group's  first priority is to get trails cleared for the 2008 season.  Guidelines will be provided for members who are interested in doing trail maintenance either on scheduled work days or on their own time. They are also establishing an email network to improve communication among user groups, and between users and the DEC.  This will allow them to pass on information such as temporary trail closings, and to receive information on trail conditions from users.

 DEC plans for the future include needed repairs on selected sections of trail. Anyone adept at collecting money, equipment, materials, or muscle power will be able to put their talents to good use.

 If you'd like to join, contact any of the people listed below and give your name, address, and email address.  (phone number is optional.)  Tell what activities you do at Jenksville, and how you would like to be involved in Friends of Jenksville 
State Forest.

 Lynn Acton (Coordinator),  ljacton@frontiernet.net or 607-657-8622
 Norm Cheney (Coordinator),  norm.cheney@lmco.com or 607-687-6112
 Janet B. Smith (Volunteer Coordinator), smithjb@ frontiernet.net or 607-642-8783