Josephine County is proud to announce the dedication and opening of the newly certified Forest Therapy Trail at Fish Hatchery Park. Officially recognized by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), the EcoRECOVERY Trail is now the first certified Forest Therapy Trail in Oregon and the only certified trail in the entire Pacific Northwest.
A certified forest therapy trail is a specially designed natural pathway intended to support healing, stress reduction, and deep environmental connection through slow, sensory-based experiences often known as “forest bathing.” ANFT-certified trails are evaluated for safety, biodiversity, accessibility, and features such as gentle slopes, diverse plant life, and access to natural water—elements that enhance both guided and self-guided forest therapy experiences.
This project was led by community member and EcoRECOVERY founder, Dawn Cogliser “When we raise the health and wellness of just one person,” said Dawn, “we raise the health and wellness of our community as a whole!” Josephine County Parks was pleased to partner with EcoRECOVERY to help make this certification possible.
“Nature means something a little different to everyone, and it’s not the first time someone has shared that one of our parks was part of their personal healing,” said Tamra Martin, Recreation Director. “This designation makes it official.”
To learn more about EcoRECOVERY, visit www.ecorecovery.health. Guided forest therapy walks are offered on the last Sunday of each month, inviting the community to explore the sights, scents, and calming atmosphere of Fish Hatchery Park.
