The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and its Subaru/Leave No Trace Traveling Trainers Team have partnered with New River Gorge National River and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection to host educational workshops and activities July 12-13, 2014.
Leave No Trace has selected New River Gorge National River as one of its eight endangered ‘Hot Spots’ in the nation due to the impact recreation has on the environment. The New River Gorge National River is one of the most diverse natural river corridors in the central Appalachian Mountains. 70,000 acres line the New River in one of the deepest gorges in the Eastern U.S.
The Leave No Trace Hot Spot Program has been highlighting at risk areas for four years now. Their goal is to protect the outdoors through the efforts of volunteers, nonprofit organizations, friend groups, and government agencies by teaching people how to enjoy it responsibly.
The Traveling Trainers plan to work with key park staff, volunteers, and the public to implement Leave No Trace programs and hold events to raise awareness of the problem. On Saturday, July 12 join them for an Adventure Street Fair suitable for the whole family. You’ll learn the basic skills of camping, hiking, mountain biking, and water recreation. On Sunday, July 13, visit with the Trainers at the Canyon Rim Visitors Center to learn more about the ideas and methods of Leave No Trace. You can even participate in an Adventure Hike with the Trainers starting at Fern Creek Trailhead lasting 2 to 3 miles.
