Overview

Last year, WTA crews created a new, barrier-free trail system at Behrens Woods. This work party will be a rake-stravaganza to maintain it! You will focus mostly on removing leaves and organic material from the gravel path to help preserve the surface.

About the Area

Behrens Woods is a small 2-acre, mostly undeveloped park, located in the Bella Vista neighborhood. The park is heavily forested but has several gravel trails and some interpretive signage about native plants. The park is open for nature hikes and passive use.

What to Expect

We'll have fun, work hard and make a difference! No experience is necessary.

Project Description

We have partnered with City of Vancouver to envision a new ADA trail network in this sweet park. Gravel paths, however, require their own special maintenance to remove the layer of organic material that falls on them. You will mostly use rakes to uncover the gravel and will wrap up by 12pm or whenever the trail network has been cleared.

Hiking Information

This work party does not involve a hike to the work site.

Schedule

• 9:00 AM: Be ready to sign in and meet the crew, rain or shine. Gather for a safety briefing, then hike to the project site
• Morning: Work at your own pace, and take breaks throughout the day
• 12:00 PM: Enjoy refreshments at the trailhead before going about the rest of your day

For safety reasons, arriving late or leaving early is not allowed.

Planning Information

Get ready for a great day outside!

What it Takes to Do This Work Party

• No experience is necessary—just bring a great attitude for working with a team! WTA provides the training and tools you need
• Expect to be physically active at your own pace for up to 3 hours on uneven terrain
• Recommended for ages 10 and older; under 14 must be accompanied by an adult and a parental consent form must be signed for anyone under 18

What to Wear

Required:

• Sturdy closed-toe shoes
• Work gloves
• Eye protection (glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses)
• Long pants

Recommended:

• Sturdy work or hiking boots
• Long sleeved shirt

A hard hat will be provided by WTA. Additionally, work gloves and eye protection will be provided by WTA if you do not have your own, but when possible we recommend bringing your own. For safety reasons, certain tasks may be assigned based on the safety level of your footwear. Volunteers who do not have long pants, or sturdy closed toes shoes, will not be able to participate in the work party.

What to Bring

• Snacks and plenty of water
• Rain jacket and pants
• Extra warm clothing in case of wet or cold weather
• A pack to carry your personal gear
• A sense of fun and adventure for learning new skills and meeting great people!

Firearms and weapons are not allowed.

More Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• WTA's Trail Work Guide introduces the type of work you may do
• Contact us at volunteer@wta.org or 206.625.1367

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Partners

• City of Vancouver