Volunteer Spotlight: Tom Rohr, New Pemberville Section Supervisor

We are beyond excited to bring in Tom Rohr as Section Supervisor for the Pemberville Section - his extensive knowledge and years of experience ensures strong leadership in a key section of the Buckeye Trail. Read his Bio below!

Tom retired from Abbott Laboratories after a successful career as an Industrial Engineering Manager and felt ready for a new adventure. That adventure began in dramatic fashion with his first-ever backpacking trip—a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

After returning home from Africa, Tom realized he didn’t have to travel halfway around the world to find meaningful outdoor experiences. He began exploring the many opportunities for hiking and backpacking closer to home, joined a local backpacking club, and soon discovered both the Buckeye Trail and the Buckeye Trail Association.

What started as a love of hiking quickly grew into a commitment to service. Tom stepped into the role of Section Supervisor for the Road Fork Section, where he dedicated seven years to helping maintain and improve a beautiful stretch of the Buckeye Trail. During that time, he also took on another important responsibility that hikers across the state benefit from every day: serving as the Buckeye Trail Association’s official sign maker. His craftsmanship and attention to detail have helped guide countless hikers along the trail (Tom is currently looking for an apprentice to take up sign making - see this volunteer opportunity post if interested).

Although Tom developed a deep appreciation for the Road Fork Section, he and his wife, Diane, live in Ashland, making the trailhead a considerable drive. Today, Tom serves as the Section Supervisor for the Pemberville Section, a role that allows him to stay actively involved while working closer to home. The section holds special meaning for Tom, as it passes through his hometown of Fremont, giving him an opportunity to help care for a trail corridor that connects to his own roots.

Throughout his years with the Buckeye Trail Association, Tom has exemplified the spirit of volunteerism, leadership, and stewardship that makes the organization successful. Whether building signs, maintaining trail, or guiding section management efforts, he consistently contributes his time, skills, and enthusiasm to improve the Buckeye Trail for everyone.

We are incredibly grateful to have Tom in a leadership position and thankful for the many years of dedication he has given to the Buckeye Trail Association. His commitment has left a lasting mark on the trail and the community that surrounds it.

About the Pemberville Section

Stretching across northwest Ohio’s open countryside, this section follows quiet back roads through some of the state’s most fertile farmland. Once part of the Great Black Swamp, the area was shaped by glaciers and transformed by early settlers into today’s rich agricultural landscape.The Flatlands offer an easy, scenic walk perfect for relaxed summer or autumn days. Starting in Waterville, the trail passes north of Bowling Green, crosses I-75, and winds northeast through Pemberville, Woodville, and Elmore. From there, it joins the North Coast Inland Trail into Fremont.