Over the Memorial Day weekend a diverse group of 21 volunteers convened at the Warner Canyon Ski Lodge. We were fortunate to be able to use the lodge free of charge! Our group ranged from seasoned veterans to fresh-faced volunteers. We had folks from Portland, Bend, Sisters, and even a Reno/Tahoe contingent. While our initial plan to clear Crooked Creek was thwarted by lingering snow, we shifted our focus to snow-free sections like Bear Creek and Cox Pass. We logged 593 hours volunteer hours valued at approximately $20,000. We scouted, logged out, and brushed 23 miles of trail.

The area where we're working during this event has been affected by the Watson Fire of 2018 and the Cougar Peak Fire of 2021. Yet, despite the scars left by these fires, nature shows resilience, allowing us to contribute to its rejuvenation. If we want to keep using these trails post-fire, time is of the essence. We need to clear a path through the new growth and keep clearing it for several years. Ceanothus seems to thrive after wildfires and it can be quite a challenge to brush these affected corridors to keep them clear for hiking and riding. 

Melting snow means active and hungry mosquitoes. Thankfully, respite awaited us in the lodge, where Chip Andrus treated us to a culinary feast, complemented by Humm kombucha, and Ablis CBD, ensuring our sustenance and relaxation. Fueled by coffee and french toast, we pored over maps under the guidance of Ben McCormack, our seasoned stewardship coordinator. His leadership kept us on track. We’re eternally grateful for the first-time volunteers, Richard, Desiree, Everett, Kevin, Matt, Henry, and Cindy (Lopper). We’re equally thankful for returning volunteers like James, Amy, and David. Thanks also to Nathan Frechen and Mike Vanderberg for their saw prowess and for tackling the gigantic ponderosa of the VLT (Very Large Tree). We’ll be keeping tabs on Kevin Condron who will take on the OTT700 a week before the grand depart on his homemade steel hardtail. 

A heartfelt appreciation goes out to Nate Crabtree, Taylor, and Paul of the Fremont USFS for their participation and invaluable guidance, as well as funding the event. What struck us most was how quickly we bonded as a team. Strangers at the outset, we departed as comrades, exchanging contact information and pledging to return. We're gradually restoring this rugged landscape, one fallen tree at a time.

Our next stewardship event, slated for July 5th to 7th, aims to clear the remaining blowdown on Crane Mountain. If all goes well, this will mark the first time in six years that the first 50 miles of trail will be fully accessible. It's an opportunity to make history and embark on the ultimate thru ride. Join us, and let's leave our mark on the trails together.

Links to that July 4-7 event:

• Fremont Stewardship Event #2