IAT-U Provides In-Depth Learning Opportunities

Hands-on classes spruce up an iconic segment.

The boyhood land of John Muir, eminent naturalist and conservationist, provided inspiration and a scenic backdrop for Ice Age Trail University (IAT-U) activities on July 12-16, 2023. And the Ice Age National Scenic Trail’s John Muir Park Segment offered an ideal setting for IAT-U’s outdoor classrooms, along with good weather: blue sky, plenty of sunshine, and the occasional breeze.

“There were classes on just about everything associated with Trailbuilding and maintenance,” noted Jeff Frazer, Chapter Coordinator for the Marquette County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “We enjoyed great meals and camaraderie every evening…not only has the John Muir Park Segment been spruced up, but I believe my Trail family has grown.”

Spread across 4 days, hands-on IAT-U classes provided 56 volunteers with an in-depth learning opportunity. After donating 1,471 service hours, the 1.8-mile segment boasts a new boardwalk, a new bridge, revitalized tread, and freshly painted blazes to chase! In addition, Ice Age Trail enthusiasts learned to identify and remove invasive species, safety techniques unique to swamper duties, and adult First Aid/CPR/AED instruction.

“IAT-U classes provided a great opportunity to support the lone Marquette County staff person who oversees the John Muir Memorial County Park,” said Chad DuChateau, Director of Trail Operations for the Ice Age Trail Alliance. “It was also a chance for MSC volunteers to assist the Alliance’s Marquette County Chapter in maintaining an iconic segment.”

Project Outcomes:

• 47 volunteers built a 305-foot boardwalk and a 20-foot bridge.
• 34 volunteers conducted 800 feet of tread maintenance.
• 20 volunteers learned to identify invasive species (like spotted knapweed and prairie clover).
• 19 volunteers learned how to use Survey 123 while assessing the health of structures along the Trail.
• 17 volunteers learned safety protocols for future Swamper duties.
• 16 volunteers learned to plan for and repair water damage during Trail plumbing.
• 12 volunteers were certified/re-certified during 2 adult First Aid/CPR/AED classes.
• 11 volunteers learned the finer points of signage while applying fresh, yellow blazes.

Special thanks to:

• The Marquette County Chapter for their base camp support, including fresh, homemade baked goods each day!
•  Amy Onofrey for knowledgeably and enthusiastically leading property tours for IAT-U’s visiting dignitaries.
•  Pat Kilbey and Marquette County for providing base camp at John Muir Memorial County Park and access for the project.
•  The Packwaukee Public Library for providing meeting room space for First Aid/CPR/AED classes.
•  Brendan Woodall and Emily Snelson from the US Fish and Wildlife Service for teaching a course and introducing volunteers to the work they’ve accomplished in the area.

And THANK YOU for joining us!

IAT-U attendees also enjoyed visiting with several dignitaries interested in learning more about the Alliance, the Trail, and the training sessions.

On Thursday, State Senator Joan Ballweg and Mike Ward, Deputy Regional Director of the Midwest Region of the National Park Service, learned about IAT-U activities.

And on Friday, Sally Cole, District Director for U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman, and Nathan Anfinson, Senior Legislative Assistant, for Rep. Jon Plumer, also appreciated a tour.

And THANK YOU to our generous partners:

• Athletic Brewing Company through its Two for the Trails Program.
• The National Park Trust and National Park Service for the financial support through a Challenge Cost Share grant.