Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee

Rachel Carson Trails Conservancy (RCTC) believes in diverse, equitable, and inclusive trail experiences.  We are looking for people who share our passion. Could that be you?   D.E.I. Committee members are asked to attend a quarterly zoom call and support one (or more) of our initiatives or a new initiative of your choice. Are you interested in learning more? Or joining?  Please email Amy.NLSN@yahoo.com

In Progress Initiatives 

1. Gender-Parity Initiative for the Baker Trail UltraChallenge 50-miler (Baker Ultra) race was launched in 2022.  Implementing newly created D.E.I. Guidelines for the Baker Ultra has worked to attract women runners and ultimately result in an equal field of runners, with 50% women and 50% men (unheard of for races of the 50-mile and greater distance).  There is ongoing work involved in achieving and maintaining gender parity in this space. By the way, registration is open for the 2026 Baker Ultra! 

Pending Initiatives 

1. Low-income / Financial Hardship Options for potential participants of the Rachel Carson Trail Challenge and the Baker Trail UltraChallenge. Payment deferrals and/or free entries for qualifying individuals.  
2. Wheelchair accessibility on our trails.  Frick Park has a pilot program in progress. We could follow in their footsteps.
3. Shorter and slower group hikes.  Not everyone is up for a 10-mile goal-training hike. 
4. Support Black hikers and nourish our Asian and Southeast Asian hikers. 

Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy's wheelchair pilot program. Participants have been exploring Frick Park on these powerful, all-terrain wheelchairs, giving them a sense of inclusion, empowerment, and pride."  Perhaps RCTC can follow in their footsteps!