By Jordan Howes, West Virginia Highlands Conservancy

The West Virginia Highlands Conservancy and Monongahela National Forest will host a Trailhead Stewards training on Saturday, May 16, at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, followed by the annual Dolly Sods Wilderness Stewards Picnic.

The training will introduce volunteers to the fundamentals of wilderness stewardship, including the history and unique features of Dolly Sods, the most pressing impacts on the area and effective techniques for engaging visitors at trailheads. Trailhead Stewards play a vital role in helping visitors prepare for a safe, enjoyable and low-impact experience by sharing Leave No Trace principles, offering route suggestions and answering questions.

After the training, new volunteers will have the opportunity to shadow an experienced Steward at a trailhead and gain hands-on experience. Participants will receive a Wilderness Stewards vest and educational materials and can schedule volunteer times that fit their availability.

No special skills are required, and there is no minimum time commitment. Volunteers of all experience levels — including those who can only participate occasionally — are encouraged to get involved.

The annual stewards picnic will follow the training and offer a great opportunity to meet fellow volunteers and celebrate the ongoing work to protect Dolly Sods.

To sign up or learn more, visit wvhighlands.org or contact the Dolly Sods Wilderness Stewards program at dollysodsstewards@wvhighlands.org.