2013-National Public Lands Day Rutherford Trail Restoration and Improvement

Start Date-End Date: 09/28/2013-09/28/2013 Land Manager Office: Clear Creek County Open Space Commission Land Manager Contact: Martha Tableman Funding Partner: Programmatic Partner: Summary: Help improve the historic Rutherford Trail which links Georgetown to the historic townsite and recreational area of Silverdale. Description: STEWARDSHIP SITE The Rutherford Trail was once the historic Chicago Lakes Wagon Road which connected Georgetown with the historic townsite of Silverdale. It follows the tight canyon of the tumbling South Clear Creek. Easily-accessible, this hidden jewel instantly transports the userto a world far away from the sounds of I-70. VOLUNTEER PROJECT - WHAT & WHY Help celebrate National Public Lands Day! Join VOC in beautiful Georgetown, on the Rutherford Trail as we carry out many different tasks to improve the trail. The improved trail will expand recreational access in the area and make for a safer, more sustainable recreational experience for all. Volunteers will clear the corridor, widen the tread for equestrian use, and build steps and small drainage crossings. PARTNERS Clear Creek County Open Space Historic District Public Land Commission OTHER FUN STUFF Meals: A light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Latitude/Longitude: 39.706098, -105.697504 Additional Information: Camping Available: No Physical Difficulty: Moderate High Altitude Project: No Desired Number of Volunteers: 45 Total Adult Volunteers Attended: 34 Total Youth Volunteers Attended: 2 Total Volunteer Days: 36 Total Unique Volunteers: 36 Total Volunteer Hours: 384 Staff Hours: 26 Stipend Hours: 0 Project Summary: Successes and Challenges: Lessons Learned: Special Notes: Stewardship Education: Key Concerns or Comments from Staff or Volunteers: Description of Accidents/Incidents: Description of Work Completed: On September 28th, National Public Lands Day, 36 volunteers helped Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado and Clear Creek County Open Space improve the historic Rutherford Trail. This was the original wagon route over Guenella Pass but was in need of repair after many years of neglect. After registration and breakfast volunteers hiked about 1/4 mile to the worksite and began work for the day. There were a wide variety of task to complete throughout the day. At the end of the project volunteers improved over 600' of trail through the construction of 25 rock steps, 105' of mono wall, 1 bridge, and improved the tread and corridor on 500' of trail. Clear Creek County Open Space is looking for VOC to continue the project next year and help complete the entire trail which will take hikers from Georgetown to the historic town of Silverdale.