On Monday, the crew returned to the Poker Flats accessible horse ramp project. YCP spread road base in the structure, revamped the access trails, and assisted with general clean up. After lunch, the group cleaned and brushed drains from the Death Canyon Trailhead to the Phelps Lake Overlook.
YCP had their third-annual education day on the National Elk Refuge on Tuesday. In the morning, the crew widened the tread, smoothing areas, and completed some light brushing on the Wildflower and Nature Trail on the east side of the Refuge Road. The group took a scenic tour of the closed northern portion of the refuge and walked to a trail camera site in the afternoon. YCP learned about the many animals that utilize essential habitat on the refuge and enjoyed seeing a variety of animal signs while out on the trails.
On Wednesday and Thursday, YCP returned to their worksite at Emma Matilda Lake where they had started to build some foot bridges the week prior. This was their first building project, and the members were very enthusiastic about leaving their mark on the park for years to come. The crew built seventy-five feet of foot bridges, using saws and chisels to create the walking surface on the tops of the logs. Additionally, crew members learned how to use scribes and levels to create a sound structure and ensure that the walking surface was level.
YCP continue to have a productive and fun summer in the park while forming friendships and learning a lot along the way!
