Work planned in Hartman Creek State Park
Volunteers are invited to join a large-scale effort to upgrade a section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Hartman Creek State Park.
Fresh air, a bit of old-fashioned hard work and a lot of fun are waiting for participants for the project, scheduled from Oct. 13–18 at the park, located west of Waupaca off of State Highway 54.
More than 100 Ice Age Trail Alliance volunteers from around the state and beyond will lead the charge to construct a new section of trail.
More help is always welcome, according to Debbie Krogwold, a volunteer who coordinates the alliance’s Waupaca County chapter.
“The new section of Ice Age Trail we’ll be building at Hartman Creek State Park will be a real treat for hikers,” she said. “It will lead users past deep kettles, tall oaks and rocks left scattered from the last wave of glaciers that left the state more than 10,000 years ago.”
Volunteers will help build 1.5 miles of sustainable footpath, cook meals, install trail signage and remove invasive plants. No previous experience is necessary and there will be roles for all ages and abilities.
“This project will be a hoot,” Ice Age Trail Alliance trail program specialist Dave Caliebe said. “Volunteers from all over the Midwest will join local community groups to build a top-notch trail and have a good time.”
Volunteers will gather at 8 a.m. Oct. 13-18 at the park. Trail work will end by 5 p.m. the first five days and at noon the final day.
IATA will provide food, tools and campsites to volunteers. There is no obligation to stay for the entire event, but many do because of the fun atmosphere and camaraderie that develops throughout the project.
Anyone interested in volunteering should visit www.iceagetrail.org/event/mobile-skills-crew-trailbuilding-event-portage-waupaca-counties/ to register. The project is made possible in part by financial support from the National Environmental Education Foundation and Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc.