Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie

Friends,

Have you noticed water-caused erosion on the Ice Age Trail and wished you could do something about it? Well, here is an opportunity to do exactly that! Come out and help us while learning about trail construction and proper drainage.

What: We will repair and improve a short section of the Ice Age Trail between Ice Age Lane and Noll Valley Circle. (See the attached map.) This section of trail is located on a narrow easement. For much of its length, the trail follows the fall-line* … We don’t have the option to relocate the trail, so we’re going to repair erosion damage and strengthen the trail tread against future heavy rain events.

*fall-line means the steepest possible line of descent from a given point on a slope

When: Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day.

Where: We will meet on Ice Age Lane where the Ice Age Trail crosses the road. (See attached map.)

Parking: Park on Ice Age Lane or Noll Valley Road. If possible, park with all four wheels off the pavement. Please respect our neighbors’ access to mail boxes and driveways.

What to wear/what to bring: Please dress appropriately for the weather. There is thorny gooseberry and lurking poison ivy, so keep your skin covered. Leather gloves are a must. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch. Hand tools will be provided. We will be constructing drainage dips—digging the drainage structures and moving lots of dirt.

Volunteers in Parks (VIP) Program: The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form. In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government.

Courtesy: If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand. Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call or email to me as early as possible. Thank you.

RSVP: If you can help on either day, please email me at edspoon@charter.net  This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies. It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.

Questions? Call, email, or text me. I hope to see you on this project!

Happy Trails—

Link to work site location: Project map valley view