Date/Time
Date(s) - 09/23/2014
1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Location
Meet at Mt. Communities Fire Department
Category(ies)
Workday Description
The Upper South Platte watershed provides over 75% of Colorado’s municipal, industrial, and agricultural water needs. The Hayman Fire of 2002, which burned in this watershed, was one of the largest wildfires in Colorado’s recorded history. Due to the severity of the fire and post-fire erosion, large quantities of sediment, metals and organics have caused significant degradation of tributaries to the South Platte River and downstream water supplies. Rain and erosion on denuded slopes frequently turns into high-volume floods, damaging roads and filling reservoirs with sediment – at high cost to water users.
Through a partnership between the National Forest Foundation (NFF) and the U.S. Forest Service, known as the Hayman Restoration Partnership Treasured Landscapes Campaign, community partners have engaged in a multi-year effort to address the area’s post-fire restoration needs.
On September 23rd, the NFF will partner with the Coalition for the Upper South Platte (CUSP), Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI), the U.S. Forest Service, and employees and friends of the Coca~Cola Company to continue restoring this important watershed. We will re-seed native vegetation at sites of restoration; decommission unsustainable trails that serve as sources of significant erosion, and install erosion control matting. Please join this collaborative effort to improve Colorado’s precious water supply and participate in wildfire restoration efforts.
For more information on the National Forest Foundation’s Treasured Landscapes Program, please visit: http://www.nationalforests.org/conserve/programs/conservation
Important Notes
- For your safety all vehicles must remain on site for the duration of the project
- Hard hats, tools and materials necessary to complete project work will be supplied
- Portable restroom(s) will be available on site
- Safety review and work demonstration will precede the project work
- Weather, which could create hazardous conditions, may cause projects to be canceled or rescheduled; we will notify you of changes promptly, changes will also be posted at this website
Requirements of Volunteers
Prior to project, all volunteers must complete and submit attached Friends of the Forest® Release
Please Bring:
Any applicable medicines (including epi-pens, insulin and inhalers)
Sunscreen
Sunglasses or safety glasses
Work gloves
Sturdy shoes, preferably with ankle support
Jacket (even if it appears wonderful, Colorado’s weather changes rapidly)
Long pants are required; long sleeved shirts are strongly recommended
Water containers, extra water will be provided
What to Expect:
This burn area is in an exposed mountain environment. Please be aware and prepared for potential hazards, including but not limited to: driving on mountainous roads with loose gravel and high flash flood potential; exposure to sun, wind, lightning and rapidly changing weather conditions; working with sharpened tools in areas with unstable terrain and footing; possible falling trees; and hiking at significant elevation. Medications may have adverse effects in sun, heat or altitude. Please note relevant medical conditions on the release form so staff may be aware of potential concerns. Know your limitations and inform staff immediately if you become ill or injured. Be prepared to exit quickly in the event of an emergency or changing environmental conditions. Please drink plenty of water prior to and during the project to avoid dehydration. Please wear appropriate clothing; clothing may become stained or ruined. This is a moderately challenging project requiring teamwork. Expect an afternoon of rewarding service generating long lasting results.
Please note that cell phone coverage is limited to none in this area.
GPS units are often inaccurate in this area as well.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Marcus Selig
National Forest Foundation
mselig@nationalforests.org
720.437.0290