With national parks in the spotlight during the partial government shutdown, FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway is seeing an increase in individuals looking for ways to help. FRIENDS is the volunteer “hands on” partner group to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Currently, they are asking volunteers to wait until the shutdown is over to begin working on the Blue Ridge Parkway to ensure safety. While everyone waits, they are building their forces. Ross Akin, FRIENDS Asheville Chapter Chair says, “We welcome all volunteers as we build our resources. Once the park is ready, we’ll be there to help.”
Once the shutdown is over there will be many ways for volunteers to help clean up the parkway. The recent weather alone caused road closures due to debris and downed trees. This is in addition to year-round assistance FRIENDS offers the park to keep the Parkway clean.
To support FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway and its mission to support the park:
- Get involved with a FRIENDS Chapter in your area. Nine volunteer chapters span the 469-mile length of the Parkway and coordinate work projects with maintenance staff in the area.
- Adopt-an-Overlook or trail in your area. A complete list of available overlooks and trails can be found on the website, www.friendsbrp.org.
- Make a donation to help support volunteer projects.
For more information about FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway and ways to get involved, go to www.friendsbrp.org or call their office at 540-772-2992.