2016 Volunteer Recognition & 1st Trail Symposium Event

Nobody loves trails quite like our volunteers

That’s why the Trail Conference hosted our very first Trail Symposium, an all-day celebration of the outdoors and those who give their time to help connect people with nature, on Saturday, Nov. 5.

The event was held at Ramapo College of New Jersey, adjacent to our headquarters in Mahwah, N.J., with a salute to our incredible volunteers.  The presentation and luncheon also feaured keynote speaker Melissa Abramson, Manager of REI Outdoor Programs and Outreach. 

2016 Trail Conference Awards and Recipients:

Corporate Partner Award

Given to businesses or their employees for outstanding service to the hiking community. Awardees.

Distinguished Service Award

Given by the Volunteer Committee to recognize 3-4 years of service or a special achievement by Trail Conference volunteers. Not an annual award, they are given on an as-appropriate basis by the committee, upon review of nominations that may be submitted by anyone. Awardees.

Don Derr Award

Recognizes the outstanding contributions and exemplary service by off-trail volunteers. Usually given after five or more years of service or at the conclusion of a major project. Awardees.

Honorary Life Membership

Conveys life member status and the right to vote at Delegate's meetings. Usually given after long (greater than 20) years of extraordinary service to the Trail Conference. Awardees. 

Ken Lloyd Award

Recognizes members of Trail Conference member clubs or member clubs who have demonstrated exemplary service to trail maintenance, management, and/or trail land protection. It is usually given after more than seven years of service. Awardees.

Leo Rothschild Conservation Award

Presented to a person or organization that has made a significant contribution to the protection of our trails and/or the natural lands that surround them. Awardees.

Major William A. Welch Trail Partner Award

Presented to those outside the Trail Conference-for example, state, federal, or local agency partner, land managers, or officials- who have given long and/or significant assistance to the local hiking community. It is usually given after more than seven years of service. Awardees.

Next Generation Award

Given to those under age 21 who are making significant contributions of time and energy to trail building or protection. An awardee may be an individual or a group. A single project such as an Eagle Scout project does not qualify, but a Boy Scout Troop that has had many Eagle Scout projects is eligible. Awardees.

Paul Leikin Extra Mile Award

Recognizes those volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to projects such as a book, map or advocacy. Awardees.

Raymond H. Torrey Award

The Trail Conference' s most prestigious award, given for significant and lasting contributions that protect hiking trails and the land upon which they rest. Awardees.

William Hoeferlin Award

Recognizes Trail Conference volunteers who have demonstrated exemplary service to trail maintenance, management, and/or trail land protection. It is usually given after more than seven years of service. Awardees.