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Sound Rivers Volunteer Coordinator Emily Fritz was on the Neuse last week, leading some four-legged hikers on a walk through Cliffs of the Neuse State Park.

“It was wonderful,” Emily said. “It’s always a great opportunity to get out on the trails at Cliffs of the Neuse, and you get to hang out with a bunch of cute dogs, so that’s a win-win!”

Hosted by reference librarian Rachel Keuhl at the Wayne County Public Library, “Dog Days” is an invitation for dog-owners to take a walk with their pets in the state park — and learn a little about the Neuse River.

“We talked about the history of the park, the actual cliffs on the Neuse and the Neuse River,” Emily said. “A big part of why we love doing this event is because it’s a great opportunity to talk about how we can protect water quality and how to protect your animals near the water — like in the case of an algal bloom, not letting them drink or get in the water.”

Emily said the threat of inclement weather kept this year’s numbers small, but the connections made with participants were significant.

“There was a couple there who was new to North Carolina, and it was really cool to talk to them about the Neuse River and the Neuse watershed—how massive it is—and give them a new perspective on this wonderful asset where they live,” she said.

Emily will be teaming up with Rachel again in the fall: “We want to get more people, and pups, involved in this event!”

Like unique outreach events like “Dog Days”? So do we! Donate today to support events like these!