2017-South Platte Trail Construction at Chatfield State Park

Start Date-End Date: 07/27/2017-07/27/2017 Land Manager Office: CPW - Chatfield State Park Land Manager Contact: Kevin Becker Funding Partner: Programmatic Partner: Summary: Improve trails along the South Platte River in this beginner-friendly project. Description: About the Stewardship Site: Chatfield State Park is located southwest of Denver and is a popular destination for those hoping to make a quick getaway from the city. The park is open to nearly every type of recreationistincluding cyclists, hikers, horseback riders, boaters, and fishermen. It is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, which is why the Audubon Society of Greater Denver operates an Audubon Center at the park's historic Atchison Ranch. About the Volunteer Experience: In this moderately sized project of no more than 55 people, volunteers will perform much-needed maintenance on the trail system along the South Platte River in Chatfield State Park. After a light breakfast, volunteers will break into groups to spread aggregate "crusher fine" material along the trail, improving its durability. Lunch will also be provided by VOC. About the Overall Impact: More than 1.5 million people visit Chatfield State Park each year. Through this project, volunteers will help to define the trail corridor and create a more sustainable and durable trail for the hikers, horseback riders, and fishermen who frequent it. NOTE:MINORS ON VOC PROJECTS Youthunder 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older on single-day projects. Latitude/Longitude: 39.515519, -105.081478 Additional Information: Camping Available: No Physical Difficulty: Easy, Moderate High Altitude Project: No Desired Number of Volunteers: 40 Total Adult Volunteers Attended: 48 Total Youth Volunteers Attended: 5 Total Volunteer Days: 52 Total Unique Volunteers: 53 Total Volunteer Hours: 274 Staff Hours: 16 Stipend Hours: 0 Project Summary: Volunteers sweated out a warm but fun day at Chatfield State Park and resurfaced nearly 1300 feet of the S. Platte Trail with crusher fines. This work will make the trail more durable and sustainable for the hikers, bikers horseback riders and fisherman who all use it. Successes and Challenges: Heat was definitley a big factor, but we didn't have any major issues with it. The LM didn't stage enough material for the whole day, but by the time we ran out it was pretty hot and everyone seemed ready to quit anyway. Lessons Learned: Work with Chatfield a little more on material expectations. Special Notes: Stewardship Education: Key Concerns or Comments from Staff or Volunteers: Description of Accidents/Incidents: Description of Work Completed: