At the recent OKAEE- Oklahoma Association for Environmental Education Expo in Oklahoma City, TUWC captivated audiences with an innovative interactive diorama that brought trail management issues to life. The exhibit focused on the practice of trail braiding a method whose misapplication can lead to serious environmental impacts such as erosion, as well as confusion among trail users.

Engaging Education Through Interaction

TUWC’s interactive diorama allowed conference attendees to visualize how improper trail braiding might disrupt natural landscapes. By simulating the effects of erosion and highlighting how poorly marked trails can lead hikers astray, the exhibit provided a tangible understanding of the challenges faced by both nature and outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlighting Leave No Trace Principles

In addition to addressing the potential pitfalls of trail braiding, the display emphasized core Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines are essential for minimizing human impact on the environment. TUWC’s presentation underscored that careful planning and responsible trail use are vital for preserving the beauty and safety of our natural areas.

A Sponsored Initiative

TUWC’s participation in this event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Tom Crieder, the former Program Manager Oklahoma State Parks Department. His support has been instrumental in enabling TUWC to showcase innovative educational tools that benefit both the environment and the outdoor community.

A Conference Highlight

The diorama sparked lively discussions among outdoor recreation professionals, environmental advocates, and community members. Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for sustainable trail practices and a renewed commitment to protecting natural landscapes while ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences on the trail.

TUWC’s creative approach at the OKAEE Conference not only educated but also inspired actions demonstrating how innovative outreach, supported by key community figures like Tom Crieder – former Program Manager Oklahoma State Parks Department, can make a meaningful difference in environmental stewardship and trail safety.

The TUWC is also a representative of the Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma and Okies for Monarchs.

Tulsa Urban Wilderness Coalition Annual Membership Meeting

Date: December 5, 2024

Time: 7:00 PM

Location: Virtual

Join us for the Tulsa Urban Wilderness Coalition’s Annual Membership Meeting! This is your chance to hear about our accomplishments from the past year, upcoming projects, and plans for the future. We’ll be sharing updates on ongoing conservation efforts, trail improvements, and how you can get more involved in preserving Tulsa’s wild spaces.

Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the Coalition, this is a great opportunity to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts, ask questions, and learn how we’re working to protect our urban wilderness.

RSVP to receive the meeting link and be part of the discussion.

We look forward to seeing you there!

9AM – Noon

Meet at the Keystone Ancient Forest Visitor Center

160 Ancient Forest Dr.
Sand Springs, OK 74063

What to bring / wear:

Tools (optional)

***** Should you bring personal tools please clearly label them so you can make it home with what you brought.

*******note – we do not expect any one volunteer to provide everything on this list, pick one or two things

• Gloves

• Lopper/Pruner (with your name on them)
• Hand saw (non-power like a bow saw or folding saw) and small Axe/Hatchet

Project list:

Join us for a “Walk in the Forest”

Hosted by:

Oklahoma Division of the Ouachita Society of American Foresters

Oklahoma Forestry Services

Tulsa Parks

OSU Dept. of Natural Resource Ecology & Management

When: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., on Saturday, October 12 th
Where: Oxley Nature Center at 6700 Mohawk Blvd, Tulsa, OK 74115
Cost: Free!

What is “Walk in the Forest” all about? Professional foresters and natural
resource specialists will have several interesting and informative stations set up along a
short trail through the woods at Oxley Nature Center. There will be educational and
hands-on activities focused on topics like forest ecosystems, soil and water health, life
cycles of trees, careers in forestry and conservation, and so much more! Walk in the
Forest is part of a national campaign coordinated by the Society of American Foresters
and the American Forest Foundation. This is a family-friendly, fun for all ages event,
and we would love to see you!

The “Walk in the Forest” will take about an hour if you stop at each station and get
involved in each activity, but you can walk at your own pace and spend any amount of
time that you desire. There are options to walk additional trails for those eager and
willing.

Educational brochures and other cool giveaways will also be available while supplies
last.

Partnering Organizations: Tulsa County Parks, Tulsa Urban Wilderness
Coalition, Tulsa Health Department, Blue Thumb

Questions? Need more information? Contact:
Bryan Murray, Oklahoma Division Chairman, Society of American Foresters

405-744-6805; bryan.murray@okstate.edu

To learn more about the Society of American Foresters go to www.safnet.org.
Bring family! Bring friends! See you at the forest!