Trail tools ready for volunteers.
The Ketchum Ranger District and the BLM Shoshone Field Office are working together to re-invigorate the valley’s Adopt-A-Trail (AAT) program. With that comes the need for some trail maintenance training.
I’m Chris Leman, BCRD Wood River Valley Trail Coordinator, and I’ll be coordinating the AAT program in partnership with the land management agencies. We’ve gotten word out that area trails are available for adoption, and many groups have contacted me with an interest in adopting trails. Part of the responsibility of adopting a trail requires that one person from each group sign on as that group’s Trail Crew Boss (TCB).
TCBs are responsible for leading their volunteers in safely performing the ongoing maintenance of their trail. TCB’s also need to stay in close communication with me about scheduling work, work progress, and the continued monitoring of the trail’s condition throughout the season. TCB’s must attend one 2-hour trail work training session so that they can pass along a safe and efficient work standard to their volunteers. The training will also help volunteers identify maintenance needs and how to address them.
Volunteers working on Two Dog Trail last spring.
Two TCB trainings have been scheduled as follows:
Tuesday, May 10 from 8.a.m. to 10 a.m. Meet at the Adams Gulch Trailhead. We will start our training at the trailhead and then hike to the Lane’s portion of the #316 trail to continue with the session.
Wednesday, May 18 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Meet at the Greenhorn Trailhead. Training will begin at the trailhead and proceed to the lower portions of the Imperial Trail #315.
Adopters are encouraged to send one or more individuals from their group, but anyone is welcome to attend. Minors must be accompanied by their parent or guardian so that they can be officially signed in as a volunteer. Wear sturdy work boots or shoes, gloves, long pants, eye protection and sunscreen. Long sleeves are nice for reducing scratches to the arms when clearing brush. Bring some water to drink and perhaps a energy bar or other snack for a little fuel out on the trail. No dogs please – love ’em, but sharp tools and underfoot pooches don’t mix.
For more information you can contact me at cleman.bcrd.org or 208 720-7713.