Location: Escalante, UT
Strenuous. 1 mile daily hikes, carrying heavy fencing materials
Front country: tent camping near cars
This is a high elevation project: 7800+ ft.
Join us in Escalante this fall as Wilderness Volunteers works to maintain riparian ecosystems. The project will focus on fencing repairs in two different areas: one near a yurt and on the top of the Aquarius Plateau.
The project will focus on fencing repairs in two different areas. One is either in the vicinity of a yurt or a cabin and consists of a wood and wire fence. The other is on the top of the Aquarius Plateau and is a T-post and barbed wire fence. Both protect beautiful springs and aquatic ecosystems that require the fencing for protection against cattle grazing impacts. The work may require some strength and stamina for moving and transporting heavy materials, driving T-posts, or digging fence post holes.
The majority of the work is more that of a craftsperson as we enjoy the process of troubleshooting, deconstructing damaged sections, and rebuilding structures. There are several interesting techniques to learn for stretching and securing wire, building corners, and creating a sturdy fence. One can take great pride in helping maintain these riparian ecosystems.
FS staff will provide materials and onsite training and will be onsite for the majority of the project. Staff will be available where chainsaw support is needed. All supplies and tools will be provided, but volunteers will need to bring their own boots and gloves. We highly encourage well-fitting leather gloves over gardening gloves as fencing materials can be sharp.
This is a high elevation project: 7800+ ft. We highly encourage volunteers to arrive in the vicinity a few days ahead of the project to properly acclimate to the elevation.
Project Leaders: Chris Riccardo and Tony Zimmer
Check out photos from previous projects at Dixie National Forest.
Itinerary:
Sunday, September 25th. The Volunteer group meets at midday at a time/place TBD. The group will go through check-in, introductions, orientation, and will help set up camp in preparation for the work week ahead.
Monday, September 26th. Workday.
Tuesday, September 27th. Workday.
Wednesday, September 28th. Day off.
Thursday, September 29th. Workday.
Friday, September 30th. Workday.
Saturday, October 1st. Break down camp, good-byes, depart.
Hike the many trails in the area. Fish the 8 lakes located a short distance from the trailhead. Visit Bryce Canyon, or Capitol Reef National Parks, or the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park. Explore slot canyons or discover arches in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. The weekend before this trip the Escalante Canyons Arts Festival will be in full swing with many Plein Air events, a regional speaker series, and music! Several local restaurants offer a wide range of local flair in Escalante and Boulder. It is such a beautiful place with endless areas to explore for the nature lover.
Front country: tent camping near cars.
