Meeman-Shelby Forest Trail Savers Trail Nears Completion by Nancy Brannnon With one week’s guidance from professional trail consultant Dr. Gene Wood of Clemson University, members of the Meeman-Shelby Forest Trail Savers (MSFTS) broke ground in June 2007 to construct the long awaited eight-mile equestrian and hiking trail in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. With combined efforts from community volunteers and MSFTS committee members, approximately six miles of the trail have been completed so far.  The goal was to have this portion of the trail open in October 2007, but the opening was delayed because there are still some directional signs and bridges to be put in place and there is waiting time for the ground to settle. The group was pleased to be able to accomplish so much with just a handful of volunteer helpers.  Most of the work was done with skilled heavy equipment operators, while members followed with hand tools such as loppers and chain saws to do the manual labor, clearing away large fallen trees, small brush and over-hanging branches along the trail.  Volunteers enjoyed the cool shade of the heavily wooded trail, and had fun lunch breaks at the local country store getting to know community helpers and sharing stories of the day’s accomplishments. When completed, it will be one of the most scenic trails in the area with much of the completed portion winding along the ridge overlooking Poplar Tree Lake. There are still some lake overlook picnic tables and horse tie posts to build. After this six-mile section of the trail is completed, it must be approved by park officials before it can be open for riding, hopefully before August 2008.Construction of the remaining two miles of the trail will resume this spring, so MSFTS again requests the assistance of public volunteers.  The group hopes to complete the entire trail by end of this year, so will need help to get this done.  In addition to construction, the group must provide routine maintenance on the trail for the use by the equestrian community.  MSFTS must give the park a $2,000.00 maintenance fee every year. MSFTS is a non-profit organization and would appreciate all donations and memberships to enable them to continue maintaining this community asset. Call Linda Dennington at 901-986-6280 if you want to make a donation, become a member, or volunteer to work.