Maintaining trails in Vernon, Connecticut over 20 years!
Vernon Greenways Volunteers, Inc. (VGV) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working in collaboration with the Vernon Parks and Recreation and the state of Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to maintain the safety, cleanliness, and proper use of the 40+ miles of trails within the town of Vernon.
VGV Founder Don Bellingham
In 2004, Don joined the Hockanum River Linear Park (HRLP) committee, where he proposed the "Adopt-A-Trail" program to raise maintenance funds through local donations.
Under Don’s stewardship, this initiative evolved into the Vernon Greenways Volunteers (VGV). Working in collaboration with Vernon Parks and Recreation, the organization has grown from just four members to over 140 individuals. The establishment of VGV is a direct result of Don’s vision to preserve these trails for the benefit of both Vernon residents and visitors.
Following the 2022 merger of HRLP and VGV, the organization officially became a 501(c)(3) non-profit. A Board of Directors was formed at that time to assume leadership responsibilities as Don retired from his daily oversight of the organization.
Did you know?
Vernon has over 35 miles of trails.
Vernon contains the headwaters for two rivers within its boundaries. They are: the Hockanum River (Shenipsit Lake) and the Tankerhoosen River (Walker Reservoir East).
Vernon has the 4th largest Sycamore (13th largest tree) in Connecticut. It is in the wooded area behind Saxony Mill (corner of West Street & North Main Street).