2022 was an exciting year for PNTS. Here are just a few of our proudest accomplishments from last year.
Project Spotlight: Native Lands, National Trails. In 2022, PNTS launched the Native Lands, National Trails (NLNT) project to provide space for Indigenous voices in the National Trails System. The project invited Indigenous nations and organizations to share the histories that have been excluded previously on public lands. NLNT consists of an interactive GIS map and resource kit that shows the intersection and relationship between Indigenous lands and the NTS. NLNT is a cultural tool for National Trails and their nonprofit partners to advance knowledge of Indigenous ancestral lands along National Scenic and Historic Trails (NSHT). Learn more and access Native Lands, National Trails at pnts.org/new/native-lands-
Advocating for National Trails. Throughout the year, PNTS convenes a network of trail organizations and advocates for collective action to advance top legislative and policy priorities for NSHTs. Hike the Hill® (HTH) 2022 marked the 25th anniversary of coalitional advocacy across the National Trails System and gathered one of the largest crowds in HTH history to advocate for NSHTs.
Organizational Growth. Last year, PNTS expanded its team with three new staff members: An Indigenous Mapping and Research Coordinator to manage the NLNT project, a Development Director to manage fundraising and external relations, and a Communication Coordinator to refine and expand PNTS’ communications. The PNTS Board of Directors approved two new committees: The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and The Programs Committee.
Learning and Exchange. PNTS grew our webinar program by hosting 14 webinars and increasing registrations by nearly 260% over the previous year. Attendees learned about Tribal consultation, new mapping tools, equity in the outdoors, and more. For the first time in three years, the National Trails Workshop was held in person. Over 200 people registered and attended sessions on Indigenous engagement, campaign planning, and other timely topics.
NextGen Programs. Seven emerging leaders, including one returning peer leader, participated in the Trail Apprentice Program (TAP). The TAP debuted several new career skill-building elements including an Apprentice-led webinar, social media takeover, and career goal-setting. The Apprentices attended the National Trails Workshop, allowing them to make meaningful connections with trail professionals. PNTS awarded 13 Trail Intern Grants totaling $100,000. The grants were matched with over $172,000 of in-kind contributions and over $178,300 in both partner non-Federal cash funds and other Federal funds.
Interested in reading highlights from all of the National Historic and Scenic Trails? You can read it in the 2023 Winter Pathways issue, which is now available online. Download the PDF version here.
