Register for Pine Cone Pacer 5K

For Sari Palmroth, Duke Forest is a perfect place for conducting research and studying the exchange of gases in leaves and water movement in tree trunks. Palmroth, an associate research professor at the Nicholas School of the Environment, also runs three to five miles along forest trails, and for the past few years, she’s joined others for the Pine Cone Pacer 5K.“Duke Forest is such a wonderful resource right here, so close to campus,” she said. Registration is open for the Pine Cone Pacer 5K, which will be held on April 18. Money raised through registration goes toward Duke Forest restoration projects, including maintaining the network of recreational trails and protecting significant natural areas. The race also funds environmental education program expenses such as transportation for tours and snacks for volunteers. 

Registration is $25 until April 3 and $35 the day of the race. Participants receive an event T-shirt (while supplies last) and are included in a raffle for a variety of prizes.As part of a new fundraising effort this year, individuals can choose not to run but instead sponsor a pinecone. For a tax-deductible $25, the donor’s name will be placed on a longleaf pinecone and displayed at the finish line. The 5K will help fund one of Duke Forest’s larger, upcoming projects – the complete redesign of the Shepherd Nature Trail in Duke Forest’s Durham Division. Duke Forest raised about $3,100 in last year’s race with nearly 100 people participating in the 5K. “It’s nice to see that the Duke Forest has a lot of fans and has a lot of support,” said Sara Childs, director of Duke Forest. “The runners are really appreciating the fact that it’s there for them to enjoy.”Check-in for the Pine Cone Pacer begins at 7:15 a.m. and ends at 7:45 a.m. inside Gate 12 of Duke Forest, just off NC-751. The race starts at 8 a.m.