St. Germain Silent Trails seeks members to support trail maintenance, recreation

The St. Germain Silent Trails organization is seeking new members and volunteers to help maintain and improve the area’s nonmotorized trails, which provide year-round recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

The nonprofit organization recently adopted bylaws to formalize its membership structure and strengthen its ability to support the trails, which are used for hiking, biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Anne Small, president of St. Germain Silent Trails, said the organization was originally formed primarily to raise funds for local trails and pursue grants requiring nonprofit status. Its responsibilities have since expanded to include trail maintenance, grooming and organizing recreational events.

“Having a more robust organization through set bylaws, establishing memberships, and holding regular membership meetings, we felt that we could accomplish our goals more effectively and hopefully bring in new volunteers and officers,” Small said.

To date, the organization has raised more than $200,000 through events, grants and other fundraising efforts. The money has supported trail signage, equipment, construction projects and maintenance supplies at Fern Ridge Recreation Area, Awassa Trails and the St. Germain paved bike trail.

Although the trail systems are owned by the town of St. Germain, Small said municipal public works employees have limited time and resources to maintain them, making volunteer involvement essential.

“Having people, like our members, who actively utilize these trails and who are out there on a regular basis to see the needs, is vital for keeping our trails in great condition,” she said.

One of the organization’s biggest challenges is its relatively small volunteer base. While a dedicated group handles trail work and administrative responsibilities, Small said additional members would help distribute the workload and bring new ideas to the organization.

Building membership is a top priority for the coming year, as is recruiting volunteers for trail maintenance and grooming and establishing a more consistent source of funding. 

The organization is also raising money for a storage garage for trail equipment and plans to identify needed trail repairs each spring and determine how best to address them.

Annual memberships are available for $20 for individuals and $30 for families. Membership fees support trail maintenance and organizational events. Two upcoming winter events are Fern Ridge Candlelight on Dec. 26 and Awassa Candlelight on Jan. 16, 2027.

Members also receive periodic newsletters and event updates and have a voice in determining the organization’s activities and budget.

Volunteer opportunities include trail maintenance, event support, social media promotion and fundraising.

“Our non-motorized trails draw users in all four seasons, and give both residents and visitors a healthy way to enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods,” Small said.

Those interested in supporting the trails can join online at stgermainsilenttrails.org by selecting an individual or family membership. A printable membership form is also available for those who prefer to join by mail.

Those who wish to support the organization without becoming members can make donations through the website.