Expectations of a Trail Work Day

[Bill Beagle]

At our recent crew leader training some of us discussed the “patience factor,” i.e. crew leaders don’t want to be waiting around for volunteers to organize, pay attention, etc. and volunteers, since they are giving freely of their time, don’t want that time wasted either. As a volunteer, when you arrive for a trail project you can expect a certain amount of time will be spent organizing you into different crews, familiarizing you with tools and most importantly, reviewing safety protocol. Once all of that is covered, it’s off to work we go...IF everyone is ready. So, as a volunteer, here is what you can do to help ensure the most efficient use of your time: Basically, be prepared. You shouldn’t have to run back to your car for anything. In the case of our May 12 work date that would mean a long trek from the Barr parking lot back to Manitou High School. Being prepared means having your sun screen already applied, being appropriately dressed in long pants, sturdy footwear (no sandals), gloves to wear and (in your pack) another clothing layer or two, including rain gear, maybe a hat. You should have everything with you that you will need for that day: water, snacks, cell phone, sunglasses, sun screen (for re-applying as perspiration takes a layer away), anything you feel is important to have with you out on the trail, medicine, bug dope, etc. You wouldn't be volunteering if you weren't eager to help so if all of us, crew leaders and crew, have our shtuff together, the quicker we'll get out there to put that eagerness to work. Carpe diem!