Volunteers from Wild Connections and staff from the USFS South Park Ranger District and the Platte Canyon Fire Department set 124 posts at three locations on LaSalle Pass on September 12. A big shout out to these fine folks!
If you've ever set posts, you know it is hard work, and everyone was really glad that the Forest Service had augured the holes earlier in the week. Volunteers placed the posts, mixed concrete, and checked to be sure they were vertical.
After the concrete cures cable will be strung to complete the barriers at these three illegal routes. Access to several designated dispersed camp sites is provided (example at right) and the route over the pass leads to nearby motorized routes to the east in the Badger Flats area.
This project continues Wild Connections work to protect roadless areas and wildlife habitat in the Farnum Peak area of South Park. These closures will benefit animals typical of shrublands, aspen and pine forests of the area, and in particular the golden eagles that frequent the cliffs near the Pass. This population is declining, and have likely been adversely affected by human presence and noise from motorized traffic.
The work crew. Photo Kristin Skoog
Defining a desginated camping site. Photo Claude Neumann
Kristin Skoog recounts some more details about the work and the site. And yes, she will ask for your help! So far your donations and the Board match have added up to $5,000. That is awesome and we thank you for this generous support.
Now we need that last $1,000 to pay the post and cable bill. If you've not given yet, can you step up now to help us reach $6,000 by September 30?
We recognize that these are hard times for many people. But it is more important than ever that we who care about protecting our public lands contribute as we are able with our money, time and labor to ensure that these special places are protected from continuing and irreparable damage.
We rely on donations from individuals to supplement foundation funding for restoration projects. Can you help us finish this campaign by September 30th? If we go over the top, the extra will be applied to the Wildcat Canyon project for work being done in October to prepare for major restoration in 2021. Mail a check to Wild Connections at 2168 Pheasant Pl., Colorado Springs 80909 or go to our secure online donation page at Colorado Gives.
Our thanks for your care for wildlands,
Site 1 closure. Photo Claude Neumann
Wild Connections' mission is to identify, protect, and restore wildlands, native species,
and biological diversity in the Arkansas and South Platte watersheds.
