We’ll continue the good work accomplished earlier this month, between Ice Age Lane and Noll Valley Circle, on the Valley View segment. This time, we will work on the west slope, constructing conventional drainage dips, de-berming and making other trail improvements.

There are a lot of Dane county projects going on; I realize this and hope that some of you can come out to help with this important trail work.  Time is short to improve trail drainage before winter weather shuts us down.  😊

 What: We will repair and improve a short section of Ice Age Trail located 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.

 When:  Sunday, Sept. 29, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

 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.  Go to:  https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/packet-individual-301a-exp-10_2024.pdf 

RSVP:  If you can help, 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.

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, text or email to me as early as possible.  Thank you.

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

Link to work site location: Project map valley view