Enhance the protection and maintenance of the new england national scenic trail

The Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CT Forest & Park Association) received a cooperative agreement award of $180,469.80 from the National Park Service (NPS) National Office under the National Trails System Projects program (CFDA 15.935), with an award date of September 10, 2025, and completion date of December 31, 2026. The cooperative agreement funds the enhancement, protection, and maintenance of the New England National Scenic Trail through trail development and infrastructure improvements, volunteer program management and coordination, and comprehensive public outreach initiatives. Key deliverables include maintaining and improving physical trail infrastructure, recruiting and managing volunteer stewardship participants, and conducting educational and community engagement activities such as National Trail Day events to build local awareness and participation in trail stewardship.

The award emphasizes collaborative partnership between the awardee and the NPS, leveraging CT Forest & Park Association's established expertise in trail management and woodland conservation. Activities are designed to expand community engagement in outdoor stewardship and natural resource protection, with anticipated outcomes including improved trail conditions, increased volunteer involvement, and enhanced public participation in the trail's long-term maintenance and preservation. The cooperative agreement structure reflects the National Trails System Projects program's emphasis on volunteer-based trail stewardship and community engagement across the nation's scenic and historic trail corridors.

Key activities include developing and maintaining the trail, managing volunteer programs, and leading public outreach efforts. This involves collaboration with the national park service and connecticut forest and park association, which has been involved in the trail s management since its establishment. The project will also focus on engaging local communities through site visits, volunteer recruitment, and educational events, such as national trail day, to raise awareness and promote public involvement. Anticipated outcomes include improved trail infrastructure, increased community engagement in outdoor stewardship, and better resource protection.