Getting Started with Trail Work?

[purelynicole]

I've been riding more and more, and feel like it's time I started contributing to maintaining the trails. However, I don't really know where to start. I feel like it might be helpful if there was an FAQ stickied here to help people like me out.  Some questions I have:

• What needs to be done the most frequently?
• Should work be logged anywhere so people know when a task was last completed?
• Do I bring my own tools on official trail work days?
• If so, what tools should I bring?
• On trail work days, should I plan on riding to an area to work, or is it a hike to the work area?

I sadly won't be able to make it out for a while (broke my wrist in a non-biking incident), but I do want to be prepared for when I can start helping. I also want to be able to ask the doctor when I can participate in activities like X, Y, and Z.

[PKemppainen]

I've been riding more and more, and feel like it's time I started contributing to maintaining the trails. However, I don't really know where to start. I feel like it might be helpful if there was an FAQ stickied here to help people like me out.  Some questions I have:

• What needs to be done the most frequently?
• Should work be logged anywhere so people know when a task was last completed?
• Do I bring my own tools on official trail work days?
• If so, what tools should I bring?
• On trail work days, should I plan on riding to an area to work, or is it a hike to the work area?

I sadly won't be able to make it out for a while (broke my wrist in a non-biking incident), but I do want to be prepared for when I can start helping. I also want to be able to ask the doctor when I can participate in activities like X, Y, and Z.

A quick response--others may have additional input.

1. Trimming back overhanging branches and things like raspberry canes and briers is usually the thing that needs to be done most often, depending on the trail. I carry a set of pruning shears and a small folding saw in my backpack, and when I come across nasty areas, I'll take a few minutes to clean them up. Anyone can do it and it is always appreciated.

2. Keep track of your time. It used to be that times were noted on this forum site, depending on the trails. I think Facebook has taken over, but when you get to a organized trail work day, you'll most likely meet the right people to share your information with.

3. Usually, tools are provided. Bring water and snacks, safety glasses and bug repellent. Wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Be prepared to get dirty and maybe sweaty, and maybe throw a change of clothes in your car, just in case. When a trail work day is posted, you may see trail leaders ask volunteers to bring something "extra", that you may be willing to volunteer to use. I'm thinking like maybe a hammer, or a cordless drill, etc. But you don't have to bring anything unless you want to.

4. See 3.

5. On trail work days, a central meeting location is usually noted by the trail leader. Sign-in sheets and insurance indemnification paperwork is typically circulated, and often times, there is a quick discussion of the planned trail work. From there, you may hike in, ride in or even drive in, depending on the particular project. Often times, a trail leader may provide directions to the trail work, just in case someone is late getting to the event and wants to find the group.

I hope this answers some of your questions--volunteering on the trails is a great way to give back, and a great way to meet new people!

Good luck healing up!

[Steve King]

Pete pretty much covered everything.  One additional thing to add to the list.  Work gloves (leather).
In addition to the main HMBA Facebook page, we also have Facebook pages for every trail.  Work sessions are posted there as "Events."  If you need a list, just let me know.


Note, the Big Woods Brown County Epic is coming up in Oct.  We always need volunteers.  Note, volunteer signup is not on line yet. 


http://www.hmba.org/brown-county-epic/


In case you didn't see, we have a meeting coming up.  Here's the link.


https://www.facebook.com/events/374698399900806/

[purelynicole]

Thanks for the info! And volunteering for the Epic wasn't something that previously occurred to me. I'll keep an eye out for more information on that for sure.

[LazyBeerNutz]

I don't know what trails you are located near but this Wednesday there is a work session at Fort Harrison.https://www.facebook.com/events/606751669848810/