Join the Washington Trails Association to brush back the grass and shrubbery that has grown into the trail corridor which needs it badly!
The Ridgefield NWR is more than 5000 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: Our primary task is cutting back vegetation that has grown over the trail this spring so it is inviting for visitors through the rest of the season now that the growing time is over. We will have gas powered brushing equipment as well as hand tools such as hedge trimmers, loopers, and rakes to gather up the cuttings and stow them off the trail and out of sight.
Hiking Information: Our hike to the project site is expected to be about 1 mile roundtrip over mostly flat terrain.
Schedule:
9:00 AM: Be ready to meet the crew, rain or shine
Morning: Work at your own pace and take breaks throughout the morning
1:00 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before making your way 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
Long pants required - long sleeve shirts recommended to protect arms from scratchy vegetation
Sunscreen
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
From the Hiking Guide
See what WTA's hiking guide and trip reports say about this area.
Registration required here: Join Work Party
Crew Leader: Jim Clute
Photo source: One of the 400 year old oak trees in the Carty Unit -- photo by Bob and Barb