Overview

Trautman Conservation Area is located in the heart of Riverside State Park. It is an old ranch that is crisscrossed by cow paths, user built trails and ranch roads. We will be working to help formalize the trail system and address some trail issues that make the present trails unsustainable. Help to make this another great hiking area in Riverside State Park!

About the Area

This 275.8-acre conservation area in the heart of Riverside State Park was acquired in 2015 through Spokane County's Conservation Futures Program. This property was acquired with assistance from the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy and the Trautman Family. The property is managed by Riverside State Park through a management agreement between Spokane County and the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission. It encompasses meadows and open woodland over rolling terrain.

What to Expect

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

Project Description

The ongoing goal at Trautman is to formalize the trail system on the property. This will mean improving some trails while decommissioning and abandoning others. The Meadow Trail is a short connector trail near the Trautman Barns. We started this project last fall and will be providing some finishing touches this spring. We will also complete some maintenance work on the trail that connects from the Carlson Trailhead to the Meadow Trail.

Hiking Information

Our hike to the project site is expected to be up to 3 miles roundtrip over gently rolling terrain.

Schedule

• 8:30 AM: Be ready to sign in and meet the crew, rain or shine
• 8:35 AM: 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: Lunch on the trail
• Afternoon: Consider trying a new task before wrapping up the day's work
• 3:30 PM: Sign out after enjoying refreshments at the trailhead

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 6 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

• Lunch 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

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