Volunteers needed in August for flood-damaged forest trails

As part of the flood recovery process, the Poudre Wilderness Volunteers continue to help the Forest Service by coordinating volunteer trail work. The next scheduled trail restoration workdays open to the public are Aug. 9, 10, 23 and 24 on the North Fork Trail near Glen Haven. Additional volunteer workdays are expected in September.

Major work is required on this trail, with bridges and portions of the trail washed away. Analysis will be needed before some segments of the trail can be fully repaired. The North Fork Trail will remain closed even after this volunteer trail work is completed.

Volunteers of all skill levels can participate, but must be at least 18 years old or 16 years old if accompanied by a parent. Work includes moving rocks and downed trees, reestablishing the trail and helping with drainage issues. Those wanting to volunteer can sign up at www.poudrewildernessvolunteers.org. Details will be provided when volunteers sign up. Volunteers need to wear long sleeved shirts and pants (no shorts) and work boots. Be sure to bring water and snacks. Hard hats, gloves and tools will be provided. Volunteers will also receive lunch and a T-shirt.

At the last volunteer day, approximately 50 people worked to restore portions of this trail. Those volunteering came out for different reasons, but one couple came because they had had their first date on this trail. Another came to continue learning about trail restoration from those with more experience. Every volunteer worked hard.

PWV is the key contact for the Canyon Lakes Ranger District for public work days. PWV works closely with the Forest Service and are trained by the forest in trail restoration. The outpouring of support for recovery work has been greatly appreciated; however, this work has to be carefully coordinated. There are many crews helping the Forest repair and recover from the September 2013 floods and this work must be organized, prioritized, and meet the various requirements of the U.S. Forest Service. All work done on National Forest System lands must be approved by the forest before occurring.

PWV eight workdays on the Lion Gulch and North Fork trails have resulted in over 1,300 feet of trail repair and 2,500 feet of trail construction, as well as other needed work.

For additional work about flood recovery efforts or future events on the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland, check the web at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/arp/floodrecovery.