PHILIPSBURG:--- Expanding the group of trained volunteers to lead hikes in Sint Maarten was the goal of a successful training session held on Sunday 3rd April, hosted by Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC). Twelve volunteers participated in the training, funded by Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds (PBCCG) and held at the SFC/R4CR offices in Philipsburg. The two-hour session included learning about eight hiking routes and the practicalities of running a hike. EPIC filmed the hikes and created short reference videos that show the routes and describe the natural environment as well as the social and cultural history linked to the hiking trails. Participants received reference books on plants and animals on Sint Maarten, with thanks to Les Fruits de Mer, as well as a hiking guide and reference pamphlets created by EPIC specifically for this training. The training will continue with the volunteer hike guides going out into the field together.
EPIC’s monthly Sunday morning hikes had regrettably been suspended for nearly two years due to the Covid pandemic, but are set to resume mid-May with the new hike leaders. Hikes are free of charge and open to one and all. The hikes will be advertised beforehand through social media and local news outlets. The first hike will be Sunday 15th May. Make sure to follow EPIC on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on upcoming hike locations and dates.
EPIC looks forward to resuming their monthly hikes with this new enthusiastic group of hike leaders, who can share their interest in nature and love for the outdoors.