Kerr is ROC's executive director

Jess Kerr and her dog Bear enjoying the great outdoors. Photo contributed.

Rutherford Outdoor Coalition (ROC) recently announced that staff member Jess Kerr was promoted to executive director.

After the board of directors met last week, it was announced "Jess' leadership and dedication to ROC is on display daily and we are so proud to see her grow rapidly into this new role."

"I get to share my love of the outdoors with others as a career, it's amazing," Jess said.

"I can spend a day on my kayak cleaning tires out of the river, or teaching kids about salamanders, and the next day I'm working with community leaders to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities in the county. Every day is a new adventure. I have great hopes for ROC's future and I am grateful to be a part of such an awesome organization," she said.

Jess also announced an upcoming workday on the Thermal Belt Rail Trail on March 14 beginning at 9am.

Volunteers will be trimming back branches to improve visibility at two intersections of the Rail Trail (Broyhill and Rock Road). Volunteers are expected to spend 2 to 3 hours on the trail.

Everyone is asked to meet on the Rail Trail at the Broyhill Road intersection at 9am, located at about Mile 2.5. There is room to park off the road.

This is a great volunteer opportunity to support safety on the Thermal Belt Rail Trail. To RSVP or for any questions, please email trails@rutherfordoutdoor.org or text/call 828-202-9811.