Once it's gone it's gone forever Friends of the Wapack, Inc. Property owners have permitted hiking access through their lands since the days of Robbins and Davis. The need for preserving public access and maintaining the trail prompted the formation of the Friends of the Wapack (FOW) to keep it open for future generations. FOW is an independent, non-profit organization composed of hikers, volunteers, supporters and landowners. Since its formation in 1980, the Wapack Trail has been upgraded, a trail guide and map have been printed, and a management plan has been developed. FOW encourages mutual courtesy, friendship and cooperation between hikers and landowners. Volunteer section captains maintain specific portions of the trail. Each winter wind, snow and ice down trees. Each spring, volunteers clear sections and periodically repaint the blazes. Weekend work parties take on more difficult projects such as brush clearing, erosion control and occasional trail relocation. The FOW has also sponsored trail maintenance workshops with Trailwrights Inc., and the Appalachian Mountain Club. Permanent protection of the Wapack is a major goal of the organization and is also coordinated with other conservation groups. Gifts of trail easements and permanent rights-of-way are being sought. The Friends of the Wapack, Inc. is recognized as a charitable corporation under Section 501(c)(3) of the US IRS code. It receives financial support primarily from members, with additional assistance from the Appalachian Mountain Club and other contributors. Friends of the Wapack, Inc. Board Members Officers: Mitch Call, President - Sharon, NH Dwight Horan, Vice President - Ashby, MA Jennifer Shultis -  Secretary - Sharon, NH, Bruce Myrick - Treasurer - Keene, NH Standing Committee Chairs: Lee Baker, Trips - Hancock, NH Rick Blanchette, Trails - New Ipswich, NH Mitch Call, Ways & Means - Sharon, NH Mike Przybyla, Management / Right-of-Way - New Ipswich, NH Directors: Ray Jackson - Townsend, MA Ollie Mutch - Ashby, MA Sherisa Sterling - Ashburnham, MA Archivist: Jeannette Baker Newsletter Distribution, Membership Coordinator: Jennifer Shultis Trail Master: Mike Przybyla Web Master, Newsletter: Rick Blanchette