Springtime in the Jacksonville Woodlands produces a show of nature’s beauty that rewards those having the good fortune to call Southern Oregon home. A profusion of wildflowers in bloom, the melodic calls of multiple bird species, and the sweet smell of the conifer and deciduous forest are just a few of the sensory experiences awaiting those who enter the surrounding hillsides.
This is the backdrop for the Jacksonville Woodlands Association’s (JWA) annual Hike-a-Thon community event. This year, an expanded program is being offered to encourage a more diverse turnout from the community. Hike-a-Thon will be held on April 16, 2016, in Jacksonville’s Doc Griffin Park with an 8:15am registration for a 5K “fun run” along Woodlands trails. This is a non-competitive run for the sheer pleasure of recreating and socializing with one’s neighbors.
The traditional JWA Hike-a-Thon program will begin at 9:30am, also in Doc Griffin Park. There will be an update on the “State of the Woodlands” and a brief business meeting with the JWA membership. Larry Smith will then begin a guided hike along the Woodland trails at 10:45am covering portions of the Sarah Zigler, Rich Gulch and Britt Canyon trails—with a focus on the historical elements found at trail side. A noontime picnic lunch in Doc Griffin Park will follow the trail events—with beverages and food being provided by Michael and Mary Kell from GoodBean Coffee—and Jacqueline and Jason Williams owners of the Jacksonville Chiropractic Clinic.
The motivation for including a fun run in the 2016 event was to attract younger community members, and to introduce them to the amazing natural resource that is the Jacksonville Woodlands. The Woodlands, to a great degree, have been developed and managed by volunteers from the community for more than 25 years. For the most part, the current group of volunteers is dominated by an older segment of the community. To sustain the JWA as a volunteer, non-profit organization will require the infusion of a younger set of active volunteers.
There are no registration fees associated with this Hike-a-Thon. Donations, however, will be accepted and are encouraged. Information will also be available as to how motivated individuals can volunteer their time, energy and skills to the perpetuation of the Jacksonville Woodlands Association as the managing body for the Woodlands.
Persons needing additional information should direct questions through info@jvwoodlands.org.