MORE THAN MILES
NeRA partners with local land trusts across Maine to steward the trail systems our communities run, hike, and explore every day. A few times each summer, we trade our watches for work gloves and give back to the trails that give us so much.
Why We Get Our Hands Dirty
Running is about more than miles — it’s about the spaces we share and the community we build together. NeRA was founded on the issues that shape a runner’s life: pedestrian safety, trail preservation and development, and open space advocacy. Trail stewardship is where that mission meets the dirt.
Every root, ridge, and quiet stretch of singletrack we run was cleared, graded, and cared for by someone. Runners are uniquely suited to return the favor — we’re on these trails in every season and notice the washed-out tread before anyone else. So several times a year, usually once a month through the summer, we join local land trusts to keep Maine’s trails safe, sustainable, and open to everyone. No experience required.
Our mission is to build a community centered around running that encourages engagement and collaboration, stewardship, and responsible use of shared spaces… we believe there is a place for every body.
What We Actually Do
On a typical work day we join land trust stewards to tackle whatever a trail needs:
- Refreshing signage, blazes, and trailhead markers
- Building and repairing bog bridges, boardwalks, and steps
- Restoring tread and native growth — planting, drainage, erosion control
- Clearing brush and blowdowns
- Litter and debris cleanup, plog-style, along the corridors we run
Our Partners
We’re proud to work alongside the land trusts protecting open space across Maine.
On the Trail
Ready to Give Back?
Trail work days run about once a month through the summer. They’re free, family- and dog-friendly, and open to runners of every pace — including folks who don’t run at all. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Tools and instructions provided.
What to Expect
Yes — many hands make light work!