I believe I may have mentioned, once or twice, that Mine Falls Park is one of my favorite local running spots.

It's mainly because it's so close, but also because it's pleasant and the trails are very mellow. It's not as though MFP is secret spot, either; plenty of people walk, run and ride there.

I always feel little pangs of guilt when I see folks out working on the trails, because I know they are volunteers, and I've never done it myself. I figure anyone who uses the park on a regular basis ought by rights to pitch in and help out with a trail day at least every once in a while. One of these days, I swear, I will do it. It won't be for this next one, April 28, though, because I'm going to be out of town. Here's the info, in case any readers care to join the fun:

Nashua, NH, April 10, 2007:  It’s that time of the year again to enjoy all that Nashua’s jewel, Mine Falls Park, has to offer. Centrally located between the Nashua River and the historic power canal, the Park highlights the City’s natural and historical heritage, with its various trails, waterways, and park areas.

If you enjoy spending time in the Park and would like an opportunity to help maintain it, the Mine Falls Park Advisory Committee, in collaboration with the Nashua Park and Recreation Department, invites you to join the first Trail Day of 2007 on Saturday, April 28, from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Volunteers should go to the Lincoln Park entrance located off of Exit 6, past the Hannaford supermarket.  Everyone is welcome and no experience is required. Just wear work clothes (long pants, long sleeves, and work gloves are recommended) and bring along drinking water, bug spray, and sunscreen as needed.

The Mine Falls Park Advisory Committee is a group of volunteers, appointed by the Mayor of Nashua, seeking to provide safe and interesting trails while preserving the natural Mine Falls Park environment. Trail Days are a chance for community members to do their part to keep the Park special, through projects like clearing trash and maintaining trails, and they also provide an opportunity to learn more about what the Park has to offer.  In addition to the April 28^th event, other Trail Days will be held on May 19, June 9, August 11, September 15, and October 20.

The Committee is pleased to announce that Goodales Bike Shop, one of the top five bicycle dealers in New England, is sponsoring the April 28^th Trail Day. First established in 1919, Goodales offers the largest selection of top brand bicycles, bicycle accessories and bike parts in Northern New England, with three New Hampshire locations in Nashua (14-B Broad Street), Hooksett, and Concord.

If you have any questions about the Trail Day, the Committee, or Mine Falls Park, you can call the Committee at 603-589-3400, box 5005.  Leave a message and someone will return your call.