CUSP

Meeting location: Mountain Communities Fire Department

Project times: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Volunteers Expected: Up to 50

Workday Description:

The Trail Creek work area is part of a major restoration effort to stabilize drainages carrying high sediment loads to the South Platte River. Because of the intensity of the 2002 Hayman fire here, and around the Westcreek community, the soil remains loose and unable to soak up rain. Runoff frequently turns to high-volume floods, damaging roads, downstream creeks and filling reservoirs with sediment. Major in-stream restoration work utilizing natural materials such as burned trees and boulders has helped raise the height of creeks and stabilize steep eroded banks to re-create more natural flows and fight erosion. Retention ponds have also been added to stabilize runoff. These methods have become models for fire restoration throughout Colorado and nationwide. Depending on weather and the progression of work, volunteers will assist the rehab by stabilizing work sites by: re-seeding with native vegetation; planting willows; installing erosion control matting or fabric; and rehabbing illegal off road vehicle routes contributing to the erosion issues.

Important Notes:

CUSP will provide hard hats, tools and materials necessary to complete project work.
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 http://www.uppersouthplatte.org/Volunteer.

Requirements of Volunteers:

All volunteers must complete and submit prior to the project: a CUSP Liability Release, 2014 CUSP RELEASE and a Volunteer Sign-up Sheet, Volunteer Listing 2021 for the group, attached. Please print ALL documents two-sided.

Please Bring:

Any applicable medicines (including epi-pens, insulin and inhalers)
Sunscreen
Sun glasses or safety glasses
Work gloves
Work boots with ankle support
Long pants are required; long sleeved shirts are strongly recommended
Water containers, extra water will be provided
Sack lunches, to carry with you

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, lightening 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 list medications and medical conditions on the CUSP 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. Expectant mothers may want to check with their physician before working in a burn area.

This moderately challenging project and will require team effort.
Please note that cell phone coverage is limited in this area.
GPS units are often inaccurate in this area as well.