Our mission this spring is to make sure the Dog Mountain/Augsperger Trail loop is in good repair before peak wildflower season starts.
This work party will focus on the Augsperger Trail portion. Expect to cut vegetation off the trail and use digging tools to reset the walking surface.
About the Area - The Augspurger Trail is the little sister to the very popular Dog Mt. Trail. At the south end they share the same parking lot and many enjoy the steep climb up Dog followed by the more gentle, longer descent down Augspurger. Few venture beyond to the north where the Augspurger trail eventually gains its namesake summit. Excellent views, spring wildflowers and solitude lie just beyond.
What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.
Project Description: This work party will begin at the Dog Mountain trailhead and work up the Augsperger Trail. You will use power tools, loppers, and potentially hand saws to cut vegetation off the trail, plus use digging tools to realign some portions of the walking surface that have become unsafe. Your work will help ensure that the large numbers of folks who come out for wildflower season will have a good experience (and you may see a wildflower or two yourself!).
Hiking Information: We will start work at the trailhead, and work our way up the trail.
Schedule:
8:25 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine
8:30 AM: Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site
Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day
12:00 PM: Lunch on the trail
Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work
3:30 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before heading home
For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.
What it Takes to Do This Work Party:
No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need
Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 6 hours on uneven terrain
Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18
What to Wear - Required:
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Work gloves
Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)
Long pants
Recommended:
Sturdy work or hiking boots
Long sleeved shirt
A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.
What to Bring:
Lunch and plenty of water
Rain jacket and pants
Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather
A pack to carry your personal gear
A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!
Firearms and weapons are not allowed.
More Information:
WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367