Volunteer
The Nickel Plate Trail is always looking for good men and women to volunteer. From beginning the process of building a trail in 1998 to the completion of 37 miles of paved trail in 2014, the main focus has always been getting as much usable trail as possible for residents of Howard, Miami and Fulton Counties. Our focus has now turned to trail protection and maintenance. Toward that end, the current board is looking to expand membership and build a group of volunteers willing to take on a number of tasks.
Volunteer Opportunities
Ranger:
The Ranger Program allows volunteers to patrol the trail at a pace suitable to their own schedules. Orientation and first-aid training are required and provided.
Maintenance Team:
Maintenance team members perform regular maintenance on trails. These folks are some of our most dedicated volunteers because the maintenance teams require serious commitment. Members must be able to drive and to run power equipment. Some lifting is required. Training is required and provided.
Adopt-a-Segment:
Adopt-a-Segment members perform regular maintenance on a segment or adopted trail year round. Segment adopters require a commitment to on-going and regular maintenance. Members must be able to drive, use power equipment, and do light lifting. Training is provided.
Maintenance and/or Clean-up Days:
This is a great way for volunteers to help the Nickel Plate Trail for a day or for a short term. Individuals, groups, and organizations are welcome. Volunteers are contacted as needed.
Events:
This is a popular option for those who like short-term obligations or group/club community involvement. Mailers are sent out when volunteer days or clean-ups are scheduled.
Programs:
Programs such as youth hikes or regular bike excursions, are more often ongoing and usually include training. Volunteer commitment may range from several hours to several days, depending on the activity. Volunteers are also needed to help create and plan programs.
Office or Clerical Assistance:
Office or clerical needs include such things as filing, data entry, preparing newsletters for mailing, and more. This is usually a very flexible volunteer option.
Other Needs:
There are also volunteers needed to create and maintain a quarterly newsletter, spray for weeds, sweep, and clear brush and fallen trees. Members can also donate to the trail maintenance fund through an endowment established in the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.
If you are willing to give a few hours of your time or just want to know more about the trail, please complete our volunteer form.
Volunteer Form
