By Michelle Presley, ATC Communications Manager
5 Ways to Take Action for the Appalachian Trail This Earth Day
April 18, 2024
Maintaining and protecting the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) requires a collective effort. The ATC works year-round, often behind the scenes, with land managers, Trail Clubs, and individuals to conserve the Trail and its surrounding landscape. For those who love the A.T., Earth Day is an ideal time to join the effort to help ensure that the Trail remains accessible, healthy, and vibrant for generations to come.
Here are five impactful actions you can take from wherever you live for the Appalachian Trail on Earth Day and beyond.
1. Find a Volunteer Opportunity
Volunteer with ATC or your local Trail Club to help maintain and repair sections of the Appalachian Trail. Earth Day is a great time to get involved in Trail maintenance activities. Take the first step by signing up for Volunteer Opportunities emails so you can find out about opportunities near you.
2. Donate to the ATC
Support the ATC’s conservation efforts by making a donation on Earth Day or becoming a member to provide ongoing support for the Trail.
3. Advocate for Trail Funding
Contact your local representatives and advocate for increased funding for the maintenance and protection of the Appalachian Trail and other public lands. Learn more about how to advocate for the A.T.
4. Use Your Platform for Good
Be sure to follow us on social media and sign up for our weekly newsletter, Trailway News, to stay informed and help us spread the word! The ATC regularly shares content about how to protect and enjoy the Trail. Use your social media platforms to raise awareness about the importance of caring for the A.T. and its surrounding landscape.
5. Host a Film Screening
Organize a screening of the ATC’s short films about the Appalachian Trail and our conservation efforts, followed by a discussion on how to get involved.
Bonus
Are you planning to spend some time on the A.T.? Here are two additional ways you can make a positive impact while you’re out on the Trail.
6. Recreate Responsibly
Lead by example on the A.T. to educate others about Leave No Trace principles. Use the ATC’s Incident Report form to report any instances of vandalism and other concerns you see on the Trail.
7. Participate in Citizen Science
Get involved in citizen science projects related to monitoring wildlife, tracking invasive species, or collecting environmental data along the Appalachian Trail.
Discover More
BACK TO THE BASICS
Leave No Trace
Wondering how you can take care of outdoor places like the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)?
Supporting the ATC
Ways to Give
Learn about the numerous ways you can support the work of the ATC to protect the Trail you love.
BECOME AN A.T. STEWARD
Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Appalachian Trail. We have plenty of opportunities for you to give back to the Trail you love so much.