From plants and bouncy houses to dog training exhibits and incredible food, the first-ever Soque Greenway Trail Festival filled Saturday with fun for all ages.
The free community event was hosted by the Soque River Watershed Association (SRWA). The association now manages the trail in partnership with the city of Clarkesville. In May, they renamed the trail to be eligible for more grant funding.
SRWA’s Board President, Brad Coppedge, said many people came together on Oct. 12 to make the inaugural trail festival happen.
“It was a day to celebrate the community, the Soque River, the fall season, and the renaming of the Greenway to the Soque Greenway Trail,” he said.
Since SRWA and Clarkesville took over managing the trail by Old Clarkesville Mill, volunteers have done a lot of work to preserve it. SRWA and Lowe’s donated time and materials for improvements. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Oct. 9 to celebrate their efforts. That ceremony and the weekend festival gave the community special opportunities to visit and enjoy the renamed and remodeled trail.
RELATED: Soque Greenway Trail: new name, new plan, new phase in Clarkesville
Perfect weather!
The weather for the festival couldn’t have been more perfect for those who came and took it all in. The festival was geared toward nature and animal lovers, tying it directly to the interests of those who frequent the trail. (The Soque Greenway Trail is a walking and running trail where people can bring their dogs and enjoy the natural habitat along the river.)
Nature enthusiasts enjoyed the vendors selling plants and trees. Foodies enjoyed Sweet Breads of Demorest’s delicious lunch. I Do Weddings and Events provided games and bouncy houses for the kids. Habersham County Animal Care and Control’s Director Madi Nix brought several dogs that were available for adoption.
Jorie Stephens of SouthPaws Sports Scenter in Cleveland, Georgia, offered training classes to dog owners. She demonstrated what agility classes are and how much fun dogs and owners alike can have together.
The Georgia Bee Girl, Chloe McCrackin, a young entrepreneur, set up shop to sell her harvested honey, honey suckers, jewelry, and treats.
Volunteers needed
Saturday was also a day of learning. Rain barrel kits were available for purchase, and several volunteers were on hand to speak to those interested in preserving water and local waterways.
SRWA Board member and volunteer Ethel Fern was on hand to talk with people about what the watershed association offers.
“We have a stain the bridge project at the Soque Greenway Trail Wednesday through Friday, October 16 to 18. Please come out and help us get this done,” she urged visitors.
To volunteer, call Ethel at 404-583-0985. The project starts at 9 a.m., and work ends at 4 p.m. each day.
If you missed out this year, look for more opportunities to experience all SRWA is doing for the community and Habersham’s beautiful Soque River.
