The Continental Divide Trail depends on the hard work and dedication of volunteers and trail adopters. This month, we shine a spotlight on WildEarth Guardians!
Q: How did WildEarth Guardians get started in trail work?
One of our campaigns is advocating for permanent federal legislation authorizing voluntary grazing permit retirement on public lands. Many of the grazing allotments we hope to retire are in the Gila National Forest, and one in particular has the CDT running right through it! Cows have an outsize impact on sensitive riparian habitats, are frequently in conflict with native carnivores, and sometimes even adversely affect public trails on public land, so we thought adopting a section of the CDT would be a fun and meaningful way to continue to contribute to the conservation efforts in the Gila. Plus many of us are avid trail users–it’s always good to give back to the spaces we play in!
What do you enjoy most about being CDTC Adopters?
Getting to know more about CDTC! Y’all are such a cool organization doing such important work in reimagining what outdoor recreation and trails are all about. It has been such a pleasure getting to know your team, learning about proper trail maintenance from you all, and using your mission and vision as inspiration in thinking about how Guardians’ work can continue to collaborate and support efforts like yours!
What is unique about the CDT that keeps you motivated to do trail maintenance year after year?
It’s a trail from Canada to Mexico! What more can I say! Every time I’m out on the CDT, stalking around corners in search of the iconic blue triangle blazes, I can’t help but feel immensely awed by the fact that this simple ribbon of dirt winds its way all the way across the country through some of the most beautiful and rugged stretches of scenery anywhere. I grew up in the foothills of the southern Rockies, and much of Guardians’ work is focused in the West, so we know how important these lands are, both from an ecological perspective and from an outdoor recreation perspective. Having opportunities to connect with the world around us, to feel the immensity of space, to have wildlife encounters and learn about the history of these lands, is so important for all communities. The CDT is a trail that connects us to ourselves, to each other, and to the vastness and beauty of our natural world.
What advice do you have for someone who’s never done trail work before?
It’s not rocket surgery and you don’t have to be the Hulk to do important maintenance work. A lot of the basic concepts of trail work are fairly intuitive, and there are plenty of projects that require all different skill and strength levels. My partner is taking a group of highschoolers out to do trail work this spring. And I’ve been on projects with folks in their 70’s. If they can do it, you can too!
What’s your must-have tools or gear when you’re working on your adopted segment?
I’m a big fan of the Mcleod, especially for our section because a lot of the work is pretty basic tread improvement that doesn’t necessarily require a Mattock pick. Plus it’s just a cool 2 for 1 tool! Oh, and plenty of tasty snacks!
Thanks again to WildEarth Guardians! Want to get involved? Check out our trail work volunteer opportunities here, no prior experience required!
