Warren County marks National Trails Day, Youth Corps’ 40th anniversary at Bread Lock Park
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — Commissioner James R. Kern III joined members of the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg on Saturday, June 9, at Bread Lock Park to commemorate National Trails Day and the 40th anniversary of the Youth Corps program.
National Trails Day, organized by the American Hiking Society, is the largest single-day trail celebration in the country, spotlighting the importance of trails for recreation, conservation, and community connection.
To mark the occasion, the Youth Corps worked on maintaining a section of the Morris Canal Greenway Trail in Franklin Township by installing trail blazes and clearing overgrown vegetation along the historic route.
In recognition of the day, Warren County highlighted its network of more than 30,000 acres of preserved lands and over 100 miles of public trails. These range from riverside paths to rugged mountain hikes and include notable routes such as the Appalachian Trail, the Paulinskill Valley Trail, the Warren Highlands Trail, and the Morris Canal Greenway Trail.
Commissioner Kern presented a proclamation from the Warren County Board of County Commissioners to honor the Youth Corps’ four decades of service. The state-funded program helps young adults earn a high school diploma while gaining work experience through community service. The Phillipsburg chapter has been contributing to the county’s park and trail systems since the early 2000s.
“We are incredibly proud of the collaborative efforts that keeps our trails safe, beautiful, and accessible,” said Kern. “I cannot thank the young men and women of the youth corps enough for the work that they do. It’s a testament to how much you achieve when you work hard and work together.”
“This is real, hands-on work that makes a lasting impact,” added Michael Muckle, director of the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg. “Our members learn the value of teamwork, stewardship, and service – and they leave their mark in a very tangible way.”
Over its 40-year history, the New Jersey Youth Corps has logged more than 4.7 million hours of service statewide, valued at $170.3 million. In Warren County alone, more than 500 Corps members have earned their high school equivalency while contributing nearly 300,000 hours of volunteer work.
The county continues investing in its trail systems through projects like the Warren Highlands Trail, Morris Canal Greenway, and the developing Lehigh and Hudson Rail Trail. These efforts aim to promote recreation, conservation, and economic development.
“Parks and trails are more than just green space,” said Corey Tierney, Warren County preservation director. “They support clean air and water, promote physical and mental wellness, attract visitors and businesses, and connect our communities in ways that roads and buildings can’t.”
Commissioner Kern encouraged residents and visitors to take advantage of the county’s outdoor offerings.
“Visit one of our 10 amazing county parks, with dozens of miles of trails, or venture out to the many outstanding state, federal, and local lands right here in our backyard,” he said. “National Trails Day is a great opportunity to reconnect with nature and see firsthand why we work so hard to protect and maintain these special places.”
For more information about Warren County’s trail systems, maps, or volunteer opportunities, visit warrenparks.com or contact the Department of Land Preservation at (908) 475-7750.
