Ice Age Trail Alliance recognizes volunteer

Debbie Krogwold, a resident of Amherst Junction, received the Spirit Stick Award from the Ice Age Trail Alliance.

Krogwold has volunteered with the Waupaca County Chapter (now the Portage/Waupaca chapter) of the Ice Age Trail Alliance since 1996.

She has participated in a wide-range of activities, including trail maintenance, trail event promotion and chapter coordinator.

Krogwold has also helped maintain good neighbor relationships with property owners.

According to an alliance press release, Krogwold is known for efficiently communicating organization-wide information and supporting alliance initiatives, especially the large mobile skills crew work events that take place in the counties.

In addition, she answers calls from hikers looking for assistance, helping them coordinate with local Trail Angels or driving them herself.

“Debbie inspires through her passion for the Trail as shown by her hours of volunteer service in every aspect including trail maintenance, trail promotion and administration as chapter coordinator,” says Mike Wollmer, CEO of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “The Ice Age Trail has become embedded in her and her husband’s way of life. She is an ideal ambassador of the Trail and the Alliance on all levels.”

In her nomination of Krogwold, long-time volunteer Sharon Dziengel said “Debbie embodies the spirit of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail through her welcoming enthusiasm and warmth to all involved. These qualities and her commitment to the Ice Age Trail Alliance have contributed to her successful leadership.”

Spirit Stick Award

Based on the European wood spirit legend, the Spirit Stick is bestowed annually to an Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteer who exhibits a passion for the Trail, leads by example and inspires those around them; carries out their service in a spirit of cooperation, optimism, and enthusiasm. It is the highest honor given by the alliance.

Nominations for the award come from Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers or staff members, and are voted on by Ice Age Trail Alliance staff members. It has been presented each year since 2000, typically during the Alliance’s Annual Conference.

Award recipients receive a hand-carved wooden hiking stick, which is passed along from the previous year’s recipient. The names of the recipients are burned on to the stick.

Following tradition, Krogwold will carry the stick with her to Ice Age Trail events for the next year to share it with other volunteers who also embody dedication and commitment to the Trail.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile footpath contained entirely within Wisconsin. It traverses the state from St. Croix Falls in the west, to Sturgeon Bay in the east, going as far south as Janesville.

One of 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail highlights the landscapes that were carved out by ancient glaciers, which happen to be some of the most beautiful areas in the state. Approximately 60% of Wisconsin residents live within 20 miles of the Ice Age Trail.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is a non-profit, member and volunteer-based organization which conserves, creates, maintains and promotes the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

For more information visit iceagetrail.org.