We are starting a new project at Illiniwek this coming Sunday (9/14) on the steep south loop climb near the sledding hill. The lower portion of this trail is being rerouted to reduce soil erosion and user conflicts while increasing the trail's fun factor. The new trail will feature 2 switchback type turns; one will be a 10' radius wooden berm and the other will be an elevated wooden berm (pending park approval) or a conventional retaining wall turning platform like was built on the north loop climb near the stream. There are also plans for a 40' curved boardwalk which crosses a wet area.
The plan this weekend is to get the new reroute line cleared and start digging in trail. The structures will be built later after all the materials have been sourced and a clear route has been established to haul them in.
We will be meeting at 9:00 am at the base of the sledding hill (go right at the y-intersection at the park entrance) and call it quits around noon.
Tools needed:
- clearing: rogue hoes, hand saws, pruners
- dirt working: flat shovels, rogue hoes (sharpen the edges for more efficient digging)
We are getting low on club tools with only 2 rogue hoes and 4 flat shovels for people to use at the moment. If you have your own please bring them so we have enough.
Please show up dressed the part: pants, sturdy shoes, gloves, and eye protection. Bringing a snack and water is also recommended. The bugs are not that bad at this point in the season.
RSVP if you plan on coming!
To participate you must be a FORC member in good standing due to our insurance requirements. If you would like to join and participate, print and fill out this form and bring it to the trail day with cash/check as payment.