As dog owners we have to be ever vigilant to be good trail citizens to make sure our dogs are always welcome to hike with us and one way to do that is to volunteer a few hours for trail maintenance. Late winter and and early spring - before the woods burst into bloom - is a popular time for trail work. Check with the administrators of your dog's favorite park to see if you can lend a hand. If you do get involved, consider these tips from the American Hiking Society:
* Yes, you can do this! No special skills are needed for most trail work. The crew leader and your fellow crewmembers are happy to teach you and work with you.
* Wear long pants. Even in hot weather, long pants are usually required as a general protective layer as well as to help protect you from things such as prevent poison ivy and sticker bushes.
* Wear work gloves. Gloves will prevent blisters and also provide you with a better grip on any tools you might use.
* When using a tool, watch out for those around you and be sure to have a clear area in which to swing the tool. Also, when carrying a tool, do not carry it on your shoulder, but rather at your side.
* Don't forget to bring sunscreen, bug repellent, and some snacks and water.
* Lastly, bring your positive attitude and a big smile, and be ready to catch a lot of good karma coming right back at ya!
RETURN TO MARCH 2011 NEWSLETTER
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