Where you'll be:
Bonanza, CO, a former silver mining town, lies northwest of Villa Grove. The town, now mostly abandoned, retains several historic buildings, and can be reached via Highway 285, south of Poncha Springs and Salida. With an elevation of 9500 feet, Bonanza was once home to 1000-1500 residents, determined by the number of saloons and dance halls.
What you'll do:
Volunteers will help improve big game habitat by pruning Mountain Mahogany with loppers. This plant is a crucial food source for moose, elk, and deer, especially in winter, and pruning it will encourage its growth and increase the food supply for these animals.
Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, along with dinner on Saturday, will be provided. Bring your lunch (BYOL). Free campsites are available for Friday and Saturday nights, with volunteers encouraged to arrive at base camp before 8 pm on Friday.
Why it's important:
Foothill shrublands, where Mountain Mahogany grows, provide vital habitat for big game during winter and migrations. It tends to grow on dry, steep slopes that are typically more accessible to big game and other wildlife during deep snow conditions. With high levels of crude protein, mountain mahogany sustains wildlife through harsh conditions.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Ages 16+
All youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older on overnight projects.
Project Difficulty:
This project is considered easy please check our difficulty rating criteria, here, for more details.
Accessibility Factors:
Vehicle Accessibility:
2WD to the work site and camp.
Other notes:
Expect 3-4 miles of hiking a day. Tent, van camping, and small trailers are not an issue.
Join us in making a positive impact while reducing your carbon footprint! Register yourself for our upcoming project and take the eco-friendly route by carpooling with fellow volunteers.
Click here to sign up for the carpool (please do this after registering for the project).
