Big Muddy Speaker Series April 2024

Blueways: Partnerships, Accesses, and Programs, presentation by Ashley Maue, Park Ranger with St. Charles County Parks

Missouri River Relief’s Big Muddy Speaker Series, hosted by Greenway Network

7 p.m. presentation (6 p.m. social hour)

The Bike Stop Cafe, 701 S Riverside Dr, St Charles, MO 63301

We will be chatting about how St. Charles County Parks envisioned and worked towards opening the first blueway trails in our area. These efforts included partnerships with local agencies, the different access points around St. Charles County, and guided programs to help get the public familiar with these untapped water recreational areas. New features include self-service ipaddle ports, new docks, and more hiring.

Ashley was a Probation and Parole officer before becoming a Park Ranger for St. Charles County Parks and says: “it was the best decision I have ever made. I absolutely love my job. I grew up on a few acres in St. Louis County which sparked my love and curiosity for nature. It was an escape but also the best teacher of respect, sustainability, and beauty. I try to pass along those same concepts to the individuals who attend my programs. What I love about being a Park Ranger is sharing my love and passion for outdoor recreation, nature, and wildlife with all of my community. Parks are a necessary sanctuary for people, plants, and wildlife who rely on all of us for protection. It’s not about being perfect because there is no wrong way to enjoy nature. To give a person the gift of wonder is to give them something of infinite value. I absolutely love all the experiences you can have while in any natural outdoor setting and how everything can be a teachable moment. I can’t wait to meet everyone!”