Chris Van Dijk steps up for Tumbler Ridge outdoor community

A Tumbler Ridge volunteer is being recognized for time and energy he has poured into the maintenance of trails around the Tumbler Ridge area this spring.

Photo of Chris Van Dijk with his saw at a trail end.

Recently the Tumbler Ridge Outdoor Recreation Association named Chris Van Dijk their Volunteer of the Week, highlighting work he has accomplished as the Wolverine Nordic and Mountain Society’s new Trail Maintenance and Work Bee Coordinator.

According to the association, Van Dijk has spent the past several weeks helping clear and improve several popular local trails ahead of the busy outdoor season.

Van Dijk told the Alaska Highway News that being named Volunteer of the Week was a genuine surprise and he felt honoured, considering there were so many people who could have been selected.

“I wanted to do something nice for the community. Tumbler Ridge is a beautiful place and it takes many volunteers to keep it looking pristine,” Van Dijk told Alaska Highway News.

His efforts were especially noticeable during the organization’s first work bee of the year at Quality Canyon last Saturday, where he helped lead a group of 19 volunteers along the four-kilometer trail.

“I was motivated to get out there and do my part to show the next generation coming up that it’s not always about money. It feels great to do something nice for your community and I enjoy the outdoors so what better opportunity then to take care of the trails I’ve been enjoying for the last 19 years,” Van Dijk said.

The cleanup and maintenance day resulted in significant improvements to the trail system for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts using the area this season.

The association also noted Van Dijk kept volunteers well looked after throughout the day, helping organize the effort while providing food for those taking part.

“I would encourage everyone to get out and help out in their community. It gives you a sense of pride, and it’s needed now more than ever with this economy. Whether it’s sports, trails, community events, etc, every bit of help is greatly appreciated, I’m sure,” said  Van Dijk.

The association thanked Van Dijk for his leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to the local outdoor community, calling his dedication inspiring to both volunteers and trail users alike.

“I just want to say I’m deeply humbled and thank you to all the rest of the volunteers for making Tumbler Ridge such an awesome place to live,” concluded Van Dijk.