Allison Draper of Corning, Steuben County, NY

How long have you been involved as a volunteer?

I’m a recent volunteer, starting in 2021.

What is your volunteer role at the Finger Lakes Land Trust? What kinds of work do you do here?

My role as a volunteer is general trail maintenance, removing invasive species, removing obstacles from the trail, and enhancing the trail for others to enjoy.

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer because I believe deeply in the Finger Lakes Land Trust’s conservation mission. I grew up exploring the woods behind my own home, and the connection to nature has always been important to me. Volunteering for trail maintenance is one simple way I can help others have a similar experience!

What’s your favorite FLLT activity and/or preserve, and why?

I LOVE the Steege Hill Nature Preserve. Particularly because it is close to home, but also because the trails have so much to offer in terms of incline, ecosystems, and species. It is a fantastic bird-watching location, especially near the pond.