Press release
From National Forests in North Carolina:
ASHEVILLE, N.C., Aug. 1, 2013 — Visitors to Bent Creek Experimental Forest in the Pisgah National Forest will soon see some new faces. In the coming weeks, members of the Bent Creek Volunteer Patrol will begin providing safety tips, conservation education and other information to visitors of the popular area.
“The volunteers are members of Pisgah Area Southern Off Road Bicycle Association, working under the National Mountain Bike Patrol certification model,” said Pisgah District Ranger Derek Ibarguen. “The Patrol will operate for a six-month period and, if successful, the project may continue into the future.
Volunteer Patrol members will assist visitors by providing basic first aid and CPR, if certified, as well as providing limited mechanical assistance and calling for additional medical assistance. The patrol will also educate visitors about trail safety and use, including staying on designated trails. The volunteers will promote responsible use of the trails by encouraging adherence to the Yield Triangle and Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, patrol members will offer information about the trail system and conditions.
The Volunteer Patrol will have no law enforcement authority. Patrollers will wear specific clothing and a patch that identifies them as volunteers.
For more information about the Pisgah National Forest and other national forests in North Carolina, visit www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc.
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