The Ozark Trail Association

As the Ozark Trail approached its 25th anniversary, several trail enthusiasts began discussing ways to push the original 1977 trail concept to completion.  As they looked at other successful trail systems around the country, they realized the Ozark Trail was missing something the others shared-- a strong volunteer organization.  In March of 2002, they made a pitch to the trail's coordinating group, the Ozark Trail Council--  why don't we look into creating our own volunteer non-profit organization?

The council agreed.  That summer, John Donjoian & John Roth researched the issue.  They surveyed other trail systems, solicited volunteer groups for advice, posted to message groups and emailed interested parties.  On October 26th, they made their pitch to the Council-- volunteer groups are a key to a trail's success, and we want to start one for the Ozark Trail.  The Ozark Trail Council unanimously backed the idea.

On November 13th, 2002 the Ozark Trail Association took its first baby steps.  27 people met to lay the groundwork of a new volunteer non-profit, and agreed that:   The Mission of the Ozark Trail Association is to develop, maintain, preserve, promote and protect the rugged, natural beauty of the Ozark Trail.

We're a small group today, and we've got a lot of work ahead to make this a successful organization.  We'll undoubtedly experience some growing pains.  The OTA needs your input, your help and your patience.  You are invited to join the Ozark Trail Association-- simply fill out a membership application and send it to the address on the form.  You'll receive a new member's packet, an Association patch, and a quarterly newsletter.  Most of all, you'll receive the satisfaction of helping the Trail become one of the gems of the Ozarks.

Get Involved!

You don't have to be a member to contribute.  Join us at one of our outings or events.  Adopt a section for maintenance.  Post a trail report.  Send us comments.  The success of the Ozark Trail Association relies on trail users like you!

Board Members

Short bios of our board members can be found here.

Meetings

The Advisory Board meets quarterly to set goals and establish policy.  The Advisory Board meeting dates are listed on our Work Schedule Page.  The Executive Board meets monthly to carry out the day-to-day activities of the Association, and currently meets on the 2nd Monday of each month.  Meeting locations are posted on the front page of this website and published membership emails and newsletters.  Everyone is invited to attend.

Thanks

Thanks for visiting.  See you on the trail!



 

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