I've been a volunteer trail crew member for eleven years now, and can attest to the dedication and commitment of the staff and other volunteers to the mission of the PCTA. Long hours by volunteers and staff members in the blazing sun or cold winds in the mountains of California, Oregon and Washington keep the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail one of the premier long distance trails in the world for hikers and equestrians. The PCTA is working hard to involve youth in its mission, educate elected officials about the importance of the trail as a national treasure, and do so with minimal overhead costs as a partner with the federal, state and county agencies that govern sections of the trail along its 2650 mile path.