ICYMI: 2023 Member Meeting Recap
Falls Area SingleTrack (FAST) gathered at Great Bear, November 16, 2023 for our 2023 members meeting. This annual event celebrates the efforts and remarkable accomplishments of our trail development community. From recognizing exceptional volunteers to unveiling conceptual plans for the future, our meeting was a coalescence of gratitude, and a shared vision for the flourishing trails that weave through our beloved local landscapes.
Here is the recap:
Volunteer Hours
Our community's dedication was astounding this year, culminating in an impressive total of over 1,100 volunteer hours. This commitment is the backbone of our trail development and maintenance efforts. Every shovel of dirt, every trail cleared, and every bridge built represents the passion and dedication of our volunteers. We appreciate and would like to thank each and every volunteer that took the time to help with maintenance, cleanup, and the development of FAST trails this year.
Volunteer of the Year
Among our incredible volunteers, this year we would like to recognize Dave Kopitski for his dedication and contributions to FAST. Dave embodies the spirit of dedication that defines our organization. Thank you for all of your support, time, resources, and your enthusiasm for trail development in Sioux Falls.
Trail Leader Program
The Trail Leader Program took significant strides forward this year, empowering individuals to lead and organize trail maintenance and development initiatives. This program has been instrumental in ensuring the sustainability, growth and the excellent overall condition of our trail network. We would like to recognize the following individuals for stepping up as Trail Leaders this year:
Andrew Hoy: Legacy & Dunham Parks
Nate & Karen Lechtenberg: Spencer, Pasley & Riverdale Parks
Clay Austin: Leaders Park
Andrew Moore: Tuthill Park
Call for Trail Leaders
As our community and trail networks expand, so does the need for fresh perspectives and leadership. FAST put out a call for Trail Leaders during the meeting, inviting individuals eager to make an impact on our trails to step up and take on this role. If you are interested in becoming a trail leader for the 2024 season, please contact us. FAST will work with individual Trail Leaders to help develop the skills necessary for this role and ensure the proper resources are available for scheduling and supporting trail work sessions.
State of the Dirt
Through the collective efforts of our trail leaders and volunteers, we're thrilled to report that our trails are in great condition, ready to offer recreational opportunities to our trail users.
Thanks to Sioux Falls Area Running Club
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Sioux Falls Area Running Club for their continued support and generosity. Their donation of $3,500 this year and donations totaling over $23,000 in the last 6 years is a testament to their commitment to our cause and significantly contributes to the growth and maintenance of our trail systems.
Unveiling of the Great Bear Conceptual Trail Plan
Excitement filled the air as we unveiled the Great Bear Conceptual Trail Plan. This concept represents a collaborative effort between our team and the experts at IMBA Trail Solutions, outlining an ambitious vision for the expansion and enhancement of trails within Great Bear. If you haven’t seen the plan, we invite you to take a look at the concept on our Great Bear trail page. This plan will be incorporated into the updated Master Plan for Great Bear in coordination with Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation.
We'd Love Your Feedback
Your input matters! We encourage all members and trail enthusiasts to participate in our survey regarding the Great Bear conceptual trail plan. Your insights will be invaluable in shaping the future of our trails. Take the survey!
If you’d like to contribute to the Great Bear project, donate here.
Lastly, but most importantly, we extend our gratitude to all our members. Your unwavering support, dedication, and passion for our trails have been the driving force behind our achievements. Together, we've reached new heights, and we're excited to continue this incredible journey with all of you by our side.
