There’s a multitude of reasons why Mount Major in Alton, NH is considered the one of the busiest trailheads in New Hampshire. With a rocky summit sporting panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains, there’s no wonder why over 80,000 hikers choose to traverse this small but mighty mountain each year.
This high rate of visitation, however, can lead to some obstacles. With a high rate of traffic, hikers visiting the mountain should understand how to recreate safely and respectfully, not only to protect themselves and one another from harm, but also to reduce their impact on the well-loved and well-traveled trails.
Enter the Volunteer Trailhead Outreach Program (VTOP), organized and maintained by the Forest Society to provide hikers at Mount Major with the resources and materials they will need to make their visit to the summit a safe and successful one.
“On an average VTOP shift, you will provide hikers with supplies for their visit, including dog waste bags or trail maps, engage with hikers to glean what brought them to the mountain and collect data on all these interactions for a post-shift report,” describes Forest Society Volunteer Program Coordinator, Laurel Swope Brush. “These practices enable our organization to genuinely connect with the public and educate all levels of hikers on best recreation practices.”
VTOP is currently seeking to recruit more members ahead of what is anticipated to be a busy hiking season after numerous trail improvement projects last year. The Forest Society will host an info session on April 9th that will provide attendees with more information on the program and its goals, as well as offer the opportunity for individuals to connect and learn from existing VTOP members, such as Jay Frost of Meredith, NH.
“I became a Forest Society volunteer because I love being outdoors in NH and am committed to the conservation of our environment,” says Frost, who continues his family’s history of volunteering and contributing to the Forest Society through his work with VTOP, as a Land Steward and many other efforts.
“While on duty as a VTOP volunteer, I get to interact with hundreds of visitors from throughout New England, the East Coast and beyond. These visitors to Mount Major routinely express their appreciation for the assistance we provide them. Being a VTOP volunteer is a highly rewarding experience for anyone who wants to help others enjoy NH’s outdoor community.”
There are no set requirements to become a VTOP member. The Forest Society provides a thorough video training curriculum that volunteers watch prior to signing up for shifts and can reference throughout their tenure if a refresher is ever needed. These training videos include background information on the organization and the mountain, Leave No Trace and Hike Safe guidelines, how to successfully interact with visitors, and how to prepare yourself for a shift.
“We’re looking for kind, enthusiastic people who are comfortable communicating with strangers and have a willingness to learn about Mount Major and champion safe recreation,” says Swope Brush.
“Many people come to Mount Major as one of their first hikes. VTOP’s role is to provide information to visitors so that they can choose the hike that is best for them, help them hike safely and increase their awareness of human impact on the mountain,” says Ashleigh Roberts, a current VTOP member, “Simple things like getting people to pack out trash and dog waste can go a long way!”
Roberts has been a VTOP volunteer since the start of the program in 2021, using her expertise as an environmental educator for Prescott Farm Environmental Center (Laconia, NH) to bring an engaging and educational approach to her work at VTOP.
“I love getting outside on public lands and trails. Volunteering is just one way to show my appreciation for this gift and share my love with others who benefit from these spaces.”
Roberts has been volunteering with the Forest Society for the last four years, first with VTOP and now additionally as a Volunteer Land Steward.
“Volunteering with the Forest Society is one more nudge out the door to spend time outside,” she says, “I love working with a team of people who are so generous with their knowledge. There are always clear expectations of what my role is and I have plenty of scheduling flexibility which makes it even easier to participate.”
VTOP volunteers play a vital role in the work that the Forest Society accomplishes at Mount Major. Through thoughtful and enthusiastic public outreach, they contribute to the enduring love of this outdoor haven, and ensure that visitors are environmentally conscious.
If you think you or someone you know would make a good VTOP member, we encourage you to attend our next VTOP info session or fill out an interest form and a member of our team will reach out to you!