In Conjunction with Wild Movie Release, Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) Launches Powerful Awareness PSA Stressing Need to Preserve Popular Trail

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Dec. 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA) today released a powerful, new education and awareness video in conjunction with the December launch of Wild, the Fox Searchlight film starring actress Reese Witherspoon and set against the stunning backdrop of the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. PCTA is the only non-profit organization dedicated to caring for and championing the entire Pacific Crest Trail – a trail under constant threat from development – for current and future generations.

The film is based on author Cheryl Strayed's moving autobiographical book, which follows an ill-equipped and emotionally broken young woman on a 1,000-mile redemptive journey through the wild landscapes of the Pacific Crest Trail, one of the longest and most visually spectacular in the U.S.

In the new one minute, 42-second PSA, Strayed narrates a visual montage featuring images of the trail – which spans thousands of miles from Mexico to Canada through three western states: California, Oregon and Washington. The PSA is underscored with numerous Wild movie scenes highlighting Witherspoon hiking in authentic locations and vistas, creating an emotional appeal for support.

"As one of our country's last wild frontiers, the Pacific Crest Trail is under constant threat from new development, big industry and human carelessness," said Liz Bergeron, PCTA executive director and CEO. "We work hard against increasing pressure to change the nature of this unique trail, which is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of hikers and horseback riders. We're grateful that a true champion like Cheryl is lending her voice to help us raise awareness to preserve the trail and the important experiences it provides. We're proud of our new PSA, and the hard work both Cheryl and Fox Searchlight have dedicated to this ongoing effort."

Strayed said: "The trail can't exist without its generous donors and dedicated volunteers. Every time I set foot on that trail, I feel grateful for the PCTA for doing the work it does to protect and preserve it. It's up to us to make sure this national treasure is available now and for future generations, because if we don't, nobody will."

Via ongoing outreach, partnerships, advocacy, vital fundraising and the sweat of hundreds of volunteers, the PCTA works to ensure that future generations can experience the trail in the form seen in the film. There is nothing guaranteed about the trail's future. That's why PCTA exists.

Earlier this year, the PCTA launched the #ResponsiblyWILD campaign with a website (pcta.org/wild) to educate newcomers and provide a virtual trail experience for moviegoers. The website addresses questions and interest generated by the film. "Behind the scenes," images and anecdotes, hiking tips and safety information, inspiring stories from trail users and forums to share trail experiences are available on the site, as well.

To donate, volunteer or access more information about supporting and enjoying the Pacific Crest Trail, please visit www.pcta.org

To view the PSA go to the following links:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHTnU6IsUGI
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10153106468537985

About the Pacific Crest Trail Association
The PCTA was first chartered as the Pacific Crest Trail Conference in 1977. PCTA is the only nonprofit organization dedicated solely to protecting the entire Pacific Crest Trail through California, Oregon and Washington. Money donated through memberships, private and corporate gifts and government grants is used to organize and train thousands of volunteers who keep the trail safe and passable for hikers and horseback riders. PCTA staff and volunteers advocate for the trail and the surrounding landscape with government land managers and decision makers. They monitor development and resource extraction projects and ensure the trail is considered and protected. PCTA promotes the trail to increase public support for the value it provides. And through volunteer and educational programs, PCTA brings young people to the trail, creating tomorrow's stewards and advocates. Learn more at www.pcta.org.  

To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/in-conjunction-with-wild-movie-release-pacific-crest-trail-association-pcta-launches-powerful-awareness-psa-stressing-need-to-preserve-popular-trail-300012007.html

SOURCE Pacific Crest Trail Association

Related Links

http://www.pcta.org