Thanks to volunteers, 4,800 feet of sustainable tread exists!
Built 30-plus years ago, the nearly 9-mile Greenbush Segment winding through the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest was due for some attention. Especially the section of Ice Age Trail south of State Highway 23. In that spot, the Trail traveled straight up and down hills along a rocky, rooted path. Instead of enjoying the views, hikers had to be cautious about where they put their feet. A reroute to ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience was in order.
The addition of a pedestrian underpass by the Department of Transportation, along with other upgrades to the highway, served as a catalyst for the reroute. “We were able to move away from using the multi-use Old Plank Road Trail, create 4,800 feet of high-quality, sustainable Trail, and align the new path to easily access the underpass,” said Patrick Gleissner, Trail Operations Coordinator. Gleissner also noted that the wider, flatter route, which meanders along the edges of several kettles, will enhance the hiker experience with scenic views.
Although hot and humid weather settled in for the project, 122 volunteers remained in good spirits and donated 2,687 service hours collectively. Gleissner also noted that crew leaders encouraged a slow and steady pace with plenty of breaks to ensure crew members didn’t overheat. Since the project focused primarily on tread construction, it allowed 20 first-time (or relatively new) volunteers to participate in one of two Trailbuilding Basics workshops led by expert volunteers.
“This type of hands-on training is so important. Everyone has more fun when they know what they are doing and why,” said Gleissner. “Building volunteer confidence and expertise benefits the chapters and future Ice Age Trail Crew events.”
Project Outcomes:
- 122 volunteers donated 2,687 service hours
- 4,800 feet of tread built
- Previous Trail decommissioned
Special Thanks To:
- The Lakeshore Chapter for rolling out the yellow carpet for the event. Members arranged for the catered meals at base camp and donated funds in support of these yummy meals.
- Mark Struve and Pat Witkowski for leading Trailbuilding Basics workshops.
- Dolly McNulty and Randy Kalal for smooth base camp operations.
- Jim Powers for donating pizza, firewood, and his legendary pies!
- Mark “Tie-Dye” Walker for jumping in a serving as Crew Leader Manager for the first time, on very short (morning of) notice.
And Thank You to Our Generous Donors:
Greenbush Segment Project sponsors:
West Foundation
Frank G & Freida K Brotz Family Foundation Inc.
Carl and Lori Fisher
Our Ice Age Trail Crew Season sponsors:
The Henry and Margaret Reuss Charitable Remainder Trust
Sally Wilmeth and Terry Geurkink
Up Next:
October 23-27: John Muir Park Segment, Marquette County
Elevate hikers’ enjoyment of the Alliance-owned Muir Preserve by building a boardwalk and loop trail, setting up the Trail for future growth.
Learn More and Register Now.
