New Yorkers love their parks, and friends, groups and volunteers are more important than ever to keep parks beautiful, clean, and welcoming for all to visit and enjoy. Whether you're an avid park-goer, a lifelong Friends member or just someone interested in making a difference, I Love My Park Day is the perfect opportunity to lend a hand in raising awareness of one of Schoharie County's best kept secrets - Max V. Shaul State Park.
Max V. Shaul is located on Route 30 at the base of Toe Path Mountain.
The park offers camping, picnicking and a pavilion available for weekend rental. Opened in 1960, the original park property was donated to the state by Max V. Shaul, a prominent local farmer.
Following Mr. Shaul's death in 1980, the park was rededicated in his honor.
During I Love My Park Day on Saturday, May 4, volunteers will plant flowers and trees as part of a beautification of the park entrance and picnic areas, thanks to contributions from Home Depot - Oneonta. They'll also lend a hand along "Toe Path" between the mountainside and Schoharie Creek to remove garbage and debris littering the trail.
Park attendees may finish the day with a leisurely stroll on Max V. Shaul's Nature Trail while learning the basics of trail maintenance courtesy of the Long Path North Hiking Club.
Volunteers are encouraged to bring work gloves, gardening tools and water.
All other tools and equipment will be provided by Parks and the Friends group.
These projects will enhance both the day use and camping areas of the Park.
There will also be a free-of-charge barbecue with hot dogs, hamburgers, and refreshing beverages sponsored by Stewart's Shops.
Other snacks and vegetarian options will be provided by the Friends of Mine Kill and Max V. Shaul State Parks.
Donations will be accepted for lunch, and volunteers are encouraged to bring their favorite picnic dishes.
Registered volunteers will receive complimentary Stewart's Shops beverages as well as one of a kind I Love My Park Day 2013 t-shirts.