Photo by Trust Staff
Each year, hundreds of volunteers band together to make a difference in the C&O Canal National Historical Park (NHP). As one of the most visited national parks in the country, the C&O Canal NHP welcomes roughly five million people each year. Increasing visitation can significantly strain the Park’s natural and cultural resources. Fortunately, dedicated volunteers through the C&O Canal Trust’s programs and partnerships help to keep the C&O Canal NHP beautiful, safe, and welcoming.
As the Park’s official nonprofit partner, the Trust engages volunteers in specific projects that target high-use areas that need increased attention. There are many ways to get involved as a volunteer. Earlier this year, we hosted a number of Canal Community Days events – our public volunteer program. As we celebrate the beginning of summer, we are working with corporate partners who dedicate their time to protecting and preserving the Park.
Throughout June, nearly 100 volunteers with Deloitte and Kite Pharma joined beautification and maintenance efforts in Georgetown, Fletchers Cove and Weverton where they removed over one ton of trash. In the District of Columbia, volunteers with Deloitte also took on a number of painting projects, collectively painting 9 tables, 12 grills, 45 bollards, and 170 feet of fencing.
Thank you to our volunteers for making a huge impact across the length of the C&O Canal NHP. As the Park is so large, it can feel like a daunting task to protect all 184.5 miles. It would be impossible without the help of our canal community.
Interested in joining the cause to preserve and protect the C&O Canal? You, too, can join us as a corporate steward! Learn more about how you can plan your company’s visit to the C&O Canal.
Images by Trust Staff and Francis Grant-Suttie
