Celebrating Earth Day with Meriden Parks and Recreation
Castle Craig from above. Photo by Andrew Yoder.
A chilled and blustery day did nothing to keep away the volunteers on Earth Day 2023. More than 30 people came out this year to help clean up trash around the base and cliffs of Castle Craig at Hubbard Park. In addition to members of Trinity College’s Quest Program, the Ragged Mountain Foundation was joined by members of the Meriden community, as well as a Women’s Motorcycle Club. Long-time RMF members and supporters showed up to help clean up trails and pick up what seemed like endless pieces of broken glass. One group, led by RMF Board Member George Maynard, rappelled from the top to gather trash from the cliffs and clear out dead and downed trees.
Volunteers meet with event leader and RMF President Kevin Johnson. Photo by Diana Adams.
Volunteers plan for rappelling from top of Castle Craig. Photo by Diana Adams.
Volunteers seen from above, rappelling down to clean up trash along the cliffs. Photo by Andrew Yoder.
This work could not have been accomplished without the partnership the RMF has built with the Meriden Parks and Recreation Department. Because of this close relationship, and the support of our dedicated volunteers, we were able to pull out 20+ bags of trash. It’s important to recognize that this work is done primarily through the support of our volunteers and you, our sustaining members.
A massive haul, 25+ bags of trash removed from Castle Craig. Photo by Diana Adams.
The Ragged Mountain Foundation remains, after over 30 years, a member-supported, 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization. The Foundation is managed by a dedicated group of volunteer Board Members and our efforts are continued by the generosity of members, supporters and lovers of the outdoors.
You can renew or start your membership to the RMF for just $20 per year. Join the RMF as a joint member with our neighboring Local Climbing Organization (LCO) the Western Massachusetts Climbers Coalition (WMCC) or create a joint membership with the Access Fund. All of these membership options are available to you by following this link to our Membership page or click the button below for the annual auto-renew RMF Membership.
One great perk of being an RMF Member is the Meriden Parks Climbing Permit. RMF Members are invited to purchase a yearly climbing permit, which grants climbing access to Meriden’s cliff, for only $5. To obtain your climbing pass, visit the Meriden Parks & Recreation Department at 460 Liberty St, Meriden, CT 06450 or call the office: (203) 630-4259
The Ragged Mountain Foundation exists to maintain public access to Connecticut’s high and wild spaces. We can only get there with your help. Join us!