June 5, 2004
Eleven years ago, Alan Weber our founder read an article stating that the national parks were having difficulty maintaining their trial systems do to lack of people power. So he called Rocky Mountain National Park and asked if he got a bunch of volunteers together and came up there to help address this problem, would they be interested. Obviously the answerer was "yes". So he placed an ad in the Austin newspaper. Over 100 people responded and eventually 3-dozen total strangers headed off to the Park in September of 1993 on what would be come the first event for the Central Texas Trail Tamers.
Since that time, 100's of CTTT events have taken place at numerous agency locations in several states and 1 foreign country. Currently CTTT supplies over 3000 hours annually of volunteer labor directly tied to trial construction and maintenance. Prior to serving as President, I sat on the Board of Directors and recall the day we discussed the project we are here to recognize. The Trail Tamers had never attempted a multi-year project and there was some concern being a relatively small volunteer outfit. But we had several dedicated members that really enjoyed coming to the Davy Crockett National Forest who spoke very highly of the hosts they dealt with. So, we took the plunge and some 3 years later we are here recognize their efforts.
I attended the first event when the trailhead was constructed. Since that time several people have participated representing virtually every demographic segment imaginable. From teenagers to WW2 veterans, students, teachers, dentist, lawyers, engineers and plumbers. People from all over the US and several other countries as well. In short, the Central Texas Trail Tamer volunteers represent a cross section of populace who all came together to provide for the betterment of others. So I am happy to accept this dedication on behalf of the Central Texas Trail Tamers, not because it is a milestone for the organization but because this project it an example of everything that is right with America! I would also like to express my gratitude to the staff of the Davy Crockett National Forest. Your efforts make it possible for all of us to enjoy this precious natural asset and they are sincerely appreciated.
By Dave DeGroot, 2004 CTTT President
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