Group Volunteers - Buckley Air Force Base and National Smokejumpers

Dave Patrick demonstrates how to safely and effectively use a pull saw before heading out on the Storm Pass Trail.

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A very big and important piece of the Volunteers in Parks program is our group volunteers who work with Park staff and volunteer supervisors to complete projects throughout Rocky. During my first week as the VIP Intern, I was able to spend some time with two very special volunteer groups.

On Tuesday, Dave Patrick and Zack Petrie, members of the Trail Crew, lead active duty Navy and Army volunteers from Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora, CO on a brushing project through Storm Pass Trail. Before they began the trail maintenance, Dave gave them a run-down of the project and a key rule to abide by. "Safety is our first priority and good communication will help us accomplish that."

From the very beginning it was clear that these men would stand by Dave's instruction with ease. As they used sharp tools, like hand saws, loppers and pull saws, to clear away branches and overgrown plants from the trail, the frequent "Look out!" and "This one's about to come down!" could be heard before the falling of a hefty branch. There were even a few times I caught the soldiers and sailors teaming up to take down a pine branch that would otherwise be in the way of hikers and visitors riding horseback.

 

Three of the 18 volunteers work together to remove a branch from the trail. “Brushing” is the term used for trail maintenance and is important in keeping visitors safe while they explore the Park

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The effortless teamwork and camaraderie between these men was evident during the short day I had with them. As I got to know them better, I found out that they are Active Duty Military to include Navy, Army and Air Force stationed at Buckley Air Force Base who spend most of their days working desk jobs at a computer. In fact, after their two days of volunteer work (they built burn piles with the Fire Crew the day before), they drove back home to prepare for 12 hour work shifts for the next four days!

Before their volunteer outing, only two of the men had been out to Rocky before, so the occasional stop to take in the beautiful views or capture a panoramic photo was definitely necessary. However, their many hours of hard work and appreciation for the opportunity to volunteer were really incredible to witness. I have a feeling we'll be seeing them back in our Park again soon!

The following day I worked with a volunteer group that is more than familiar with the Park. For the third year, retired smokejumpers from the National Smokejumper Association gave a week of their time to volunteer at Rocky. As part of their mission statement, these men are dedicated to "…maintaining and restoring our nation's forest resources…" and they are definitely living up to that duty.

 

The cabin was built in the 1920’s and is located off of Trail Ridge Road. Visitors come to this area frequently to eat lunch by Lake Irene.

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Under the leadership of Chuck Tubb and Bob Maitland from Project Administration, the help of Park staff Bryce Klinikowski and seasoned volunteer Bill Peterson, the retired smokejumpers worked on preserving a historical cabin near Lake Irene on the west side of the Park. The ends of the logs holding up the roof had begun to rot and needed to be re-capped. In two days the volunteers were able to replace and paint more than 40 logs, which is a big help in preserving its original look. The next steps include replacing the shingled-roof and restoring the inside of the 1920's cabin.

 

Left - Shaving down the new wood to match that of the old logs. Sometimes only old style tools will be used during restoration projects.
Right - Painting the logs

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Like the Army/Navy group from the previous day it was easy to see the strong comradeship between these men. Throughout the day they shared their stories, jokes and food and didn't forget to give each other hard time. Although all of the men come from different backgrounds, I found a former lawyer, doctor, photographer and a carpenter in the group, they have smoke jumping (and a great sense of humor) as a unifying bond. Their commitment to our Park and to one another is something I hope to see continue for many years to come.