Over the course of the summer, I’ve served as Five Valleys’ Front Country Stewardship Coordinator. My job was to go out to the trails in the Missoula front country—the open lands and trails surrounding and near to Missoula—and hear from trail users, take note of trail conditions, and support the Trail Ambassador Program run through City of Missoula Parks and Recreation.
This outreach allowed me to connect with the community, leading me to better understand recreation needs in our area.
“Messaging around trail etiquette can be much more impactful coming from fellow trail-users rather than reading them on a sign,” says Mike Sharp, Stewardship Coordinator with Missoula Parks and Recreation.
Some folks expressed frustration about abandoned dog poop bags, speeding cyclists, and off leash dogs. Many expressed appreciation for our trails and outdoor opportunities. No matter the interaction, I always encouraged each person to consider how they could be a better trail steward.
One volunteer told me that she didn’t like it when people let their dogs off leash in leashed areas. But, after reflecting, she decided that instead of staying upset she would get involved. Volunteering is a great way to take care of our lands, and even simple acts such as picking up after your dog, educating yourself on the invasive species, or simply saying hello to your fellow hiker, have value.
In addition to being a resource to trail users, my job also involved caring for Five Valleys’ properties. I assisted with fence replacement, weed mapping, and other stewardship projects. My duties also involved significant coordination with Five Valleys’ agency parters. After the Deer Creek Fire broke out, I helped to close trails on the Mount Dean Stone Community Forest and posted signage at trailheads to support the firefighting efforts of the US Forest Service and Missoula County. Being able to provide capacity for land partners was very rewarding and allowed me to see the efforts other agencies accomplish on behalf of our landscape.
A community built on connection and respect will nurture a conscious desire to do greater good. Our lands deserve our top effort, and I am overjoyed to be part of a community that wants to go above and beyond.
