This initiative is the latest chapter in a partnership between the Cradle of Forestry and CASP that spans over 15 years. CASP, a faith-based volunteer program of Conservative Anabaptist communities, provides alternative places of employment for conscientious objectors to serve, should the U.S. government activate a military draft. This partnership provides skilled labor, such as carpenters and masons to assist with maintenance and construction projects. Work will commence in February and is expected to span approximately one month, during which time CASP volunteers will be housed on-site at the Cradle of Forestry. 

The work planned for February includes repairing damage caused by Hurricane Helene, addressing infrastructure needs, and improving facilities to ensure the site’s continued accessibility and safety for visitors. Some of the projects for 2025 include: repairing the boardwalks along the Pink Beds trail and throughout the Cradle campus, rebuilding the log loader and corresponding viewing deck, pouring concrete for curb repairs and more. CASP volunteers will work closely with FIND Outdoors and U.S. Forest Service staff to complete these essential projects.

For more information about the Cradle of Forestry, visit gofindoutdoors.org/cradle-of-forestry.