The second annual Fall Frolic run and walk at the New Harmony Demonstration woodlot near Souris is taking place on Saturday, October 6. The event is sponsored by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry and the Prince Edward Island Roadrunners Club. It features a challenging run through forested trails and wooded roads, and along parts of the Confederation Trail, and is becoming recognized as one of Prince Edward Island's best cross country running events. The Fall Frolic is considered to be a conclusion to the TrailFest 2001 events held in late September.
"The Souris area was selected because the local forest roads and trails are well suited to walking and running, and the rolling hills are covered in some of the Island's most beautiful forest lands," said Provincial Forest Technician and Fall Frolic organizer Kevin Brothers. "Over the years, we have worked to improve the quality of local forests, build good woods roads, and establish walking and hiking trails for people to enjoy. These factors combine to create a beautiful and exciting place for outdoor recreation events such as the Fall Frolic, so we hope more Islanders will plan to attend this year."
While Fall Frolic emphasizes the four kilometre walk/run and the 13 kilometer run, everyone is encouraged to come and walk the Provincial Forest trails and roads which wander through the area. Last year some 60 Islanders attended the inaugural event and all agreed that it was a fun and worthwhile event. Funds raised for this year's Fall Frolic will be dedicated to the MacIntyre Home in Souris which provides group services for mentally challenged adults.
Provincial Forest trails and roads across Prince Edward Island provide excellent areas to see and experience an Island autumn. Each property is marked with a small green sign which includes a logo combining a red oak leaf and acorn with a small evergreen. In fact, one of the province's largest cross country skiing groups, the Souris Striders, makes use of these public forest lands for training and recreation every winter.
The Forest Fall Frolic will be held at 10 am on October 6, 2001, with registration beginning at 9 am. For more information, contact the Eastern Forest District office at 902 961 7296.