The Access Fund, the national advocacy organization that keeps climbing areas open and conserves the climbing environment, is thrilled to announce the Jeep® brand, as the title sponsor of the Access Fund’s new traveling Conservation Team.

The Access Fund-Jeep Conservation Team will employ two full-time conservation and trail building experts who will travel the country in a new 2011 Jeep Patriot to help maintain climbing areas throughout the United States. The team will work with local climbers to address conservation needs and will provide training on planning and stewardship best practices. Look for the team to hit the road later this summer.

This new program will extend the success of the Access Fund’s existing Adopt a Crag and TeamWorks stewardship programs that help local climbers around the country take care of the places they play. The Access Fund-Jeep Conservation Team will provide climbing communities and volunteers with the training and resources they need to address conservation issues before they become dire.

The Access Fund is proud to partner with Jeep on this important conservation initiative that will result in healthier climbing areas for everyone to enjoy.

The Jeep brand is committed to supporting groups such as the Access Fund and other organizations that strive to educate the public and promote conservation. The Jeep brand also supports Tread Lightly!, a national non-profit organization whose mission is to promote responsible outdoor recreation through ethics education and stewardship.

Look for the Access Fund-Jeep Conservation Team at a climbing area or climbing event near you. Stay tuned to www.accessfund.org for upcoming details about this new program, or to schedule a visit in your area. For more information on becoming a member of the Conservation Team, visit www.accessfund.org/employment.