By the end of 2009 PWTSC had built more than seven additional miles of multi-use trails on Park Authority property and easements, and helped to establish over two miles of public accessible trails through key partnerships with other landowners. At the same time, we more than tripled in number and established additional partnerships with organizations such as George Mason University that will help us to establish a County-wide system of trails that connect parks with our communities.
In 2009 PWTSC continued to work toward the long-pursued goal of adding public canoe/kayak launch sites upstream on the Occoquan River. In November of 2009, PWTSC organized 31 volunteers to clean-up debris and reinforce the trail leading to a possible future launch site at the waterline. If completed, this new canoe/kayak launch area would provide for a 9 mile paddling trip to the Bull Run Marina, as well as a 14 mile paddling experience to either the Lake Ridge Marina or Fountainhead Marina.
PWTSC exceeded our goal to hold one workday a month in 2009. With the help of over one hundred volunteers, we completed trail work and / or held clean-ups on George Mason University-s Manassas campus, on private land dedicated to Annie Snyder and Carrie Jones, easements along Broad Run, and County parks including Andrew Leitch Park, Locust Shade Park, Valley View Park, James S. Long Regional Park, Broad Run Linear Park and Trail System and the newly dedicated Silver Lake Regional Park. PWTSC additionally participated in the education of citizens through participation in Earth Day, National Trails Day, and other area events.
2009 marked the inaugural year for fundraising within PWTSC. Sponsoring the third annual Duck Splash at Occoquan, members of PWTSC braved the rain on the river in boats, kayaks, and wave runners to raise funds for trails. Not a rubber duck escaped the dedicated crew collecting them as they crossed the finish line.
The Prince William Trails and Blueways Council was appointed by the Board of County Supervisors and Park Authority and began meeting this year. Going forward, the Prince William Trails Council will advise the bodies on priorities and funding for its trail projects. The Council will also heighten the awareness for the need of these trail systems throughout the county.
2010 brings in a new year with a new President. Rick Holt, an avid biker from the Brentsville District, looks forward to continuing to grow PWTSC and benefit the public as a whole in Prince William County.
PWTSC Board of Directors meets on the first Monday of each month to discuss organizational business and plan out workdays and other activities. We look forward to continuing to grow in membership and volunteers and the development and promotion of passive recreational opportunities in Prince William County. Please feel free to join us at any and all of our events to promote trails and stream recreation in Prince William County.