Since 2007 trail enthusiasts have gathered to support the Badger Trail. The group has regular meetings which rotate among communities along the trail, a listserv on yahoo groups (Badger Trail), and a variety of special programs, committees and fund raising activities designed to educate and encourage people to enjoy this recreatinal trail. Membership fees are collected to help support our activities. If you enjoy outdoor recreation you are invited to download a membership application .

Jay Parker, REI Madison Store Manager; Sharon Kaminecki, President and David Vogt, Director-At-Large, Friends of the Badger Trail

News from Friends of the Badger Trail
Sept. 18, 2008: The Friends of the Badger Trail has received a grant from REI, the outdoor gear retailer and the nation's largest consumer co-op. Over $3,000 was awarded in a combination of cash and REI product to support the Trail Explorers program.

The Friends of the Badger Trail helps support, assist and promote the Badger Trail, a State recreational trail, and encourages people to enjoy its many diverse features and communities along the way. The Trail Explorer's program encourages exploration of the entire Badger Trail and two connecting trails, the Sugar River and Jane Addams, a total of 73 miles on a bicycle in a given year and to be recognized for their achievement. REI funds will be used to assist with communication and encouragement activities.

"The Trail Explorers program inspires and challenge bicyclists of all ages to enjoy the great outdoors at the human speed of a bicycle." according to Sharon Kaminecki, President of the Friends of the Badger Trail. "With the support of REI we have been able to launch a web site devoted to those who have achieved Trail Explorer status and tell their stories." REI also donated Nalgene colored lexan water bottles and one will be awarded to each Trail Explorer at the annual meeting of the Friends group in November. The web site can be viewed at www.bikethebadger.com.

REI's grant program seeks to engage communities in preserving the environment and encouraging participation in outdoor recreational activities. Each year REI grants support hundreds of community organizations across the country involved with projects dedicated to caring for public lands and waterways and enhancing opportunities for outdoor recreation.