Weather conditions at the 4th annual Earth Day 7k on the St. Lawrence University trail system were less than ideal. It was wet, rainy, and even a little snowy.

But water, mud, and cold temps didn’t stop dozens of runners and walkers from coming out to support Nature Up North and the St. Lawrence Land Trust at their annual fundraiser.

The course followed the St. Lawrence University Kip and Saddlemire trails, starting and finishing at the Wachtmeister Field Station and covering 7 kilometers (4.4 mi) of mixed forests, fields, and wetland.

The two groups raised over $1000 collectively to support environmental initiatives in the North Country. What better way to celebrate spring!

Eric Barr brought in first place with an overall winning time of 26.53. Close to follow was Shawn Spriggs in second place with a time of 27.25 and Howard Hanna in third with a time of 27.52. Victoria Lederer was fastest among women, bringing it home at 30.21. Second among women was Clara Royce with a time of 30.42. Jill Zick came in third among women finishers with a speedy time of 32.34.

Thanks to all our runners and walkers, and to our generous sponsors: Sergi's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, Yum Yum’s Chilly Delight, Newmanzone Maple, Hot Tamale, Canton Yoga Loft, LittleGrasse Foodworks, Nature's Storehouse, and The Roxy Theater.

Full list of times available at natureupnorth.org/blogs

Emlyn Crocker

Canton