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Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge - Bench Construction and Installation Day Work Party with Washington Trails Association

  • RIdgefield National WIldlife Refuge (map)

Ridgefield has more benches both to build and to install on their trail network!

The crew will have one completed bench (and construction plans) as a model; you will work to build two more benches and install at least one. This is a great work party for you if you're excited to try your hand at something a little different.

About the Area: More than 5,000 acres of marshes, grasslands and wooded areas are home to more than one hundred species of birds, waterfowl and fish. Two trails and a loop road provide public access to this serene area just a few miles west of I-5.

What to Expect: We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description: This day will be spent building and installing benches on the Oaks to Wetland Trail. To build the benches, you will use power tools and follow specific construction plans. To install them, you will dig holes, level the benches, and secure them in place with concrete. It will be a great day in a beautiful location!

Hiking Information: Our hike to the project site is expected to be about 1 mile roundtrip over mostly flat terrain.

Schedule:

  • 8:30 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine

  • 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

  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before making your way home

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information - Get ready for a great day outside!

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:

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