2015 Christmas Tree Cutting Patrol

[CO_Hunter]

That time of year again.

The dates this year are Dec 5 & 6 and Dec. 12 & 13.

Coordinator will check out with F/S in case there are any last minute changes for next day.

Meet/depart at the Western at 8:00/8:30

2m frequency 146.580

Sat Dec. 5
Coordinator - Leon - 1/2 day
David H.
Sam

Sun Dec 6
Coordinator - Luke
Andrew
Tracey
David M.
David H.


Sat Dec 12
Coordinator - Leon
Greg
David Huddleston 1/2 day
David M.
Sam


Sun Dec 13
Coordinator - Luke
Eric
Ryan




We want this to be fun but remember first and foremost this is a volunteer event and we are helping the Forest Service. So if it snows and it is not your day you can still come out but please keep to your original commitment as well.

Per Sam:
Also, don't forget to track your mileage, starting from home. This is an official gov't volunteer effort so mileage should be tax deductible (consult your tax advisor).

Talked to Rick today, he said they got 16" up there and around the reservoir some drifts three feet deep! He said they will be going in with tractor to get some things open up.

 

[Stokes]

I'll go ahead and sign up for Saturday the 12th all day.

 

[Fitzgerald]

 

[Springs505]

Leon, you can put me down for Sunday, the 6th. I will coordinate, if needed.

 

[CO_Hunter]

Guys, we really need some more volunteers. Next weekend, so please sign up.

 

[Stokes]

I'm stuck right now. the 12th is the only day I have off work

 

[dhayes80]

I'll be there Saturday the 5th.

David H

 

[black95]

I'll do the Sunday's. I usually wait and fill in where needed.

 

[CO_Hunter]

I'll do the Sunday's. I usually wait and fill in where needed.

I know but this year we seem to be especially thin for some reason. Maybe since Travis left we're thin...get it ...haha

 

[Springs505]

I know but this year we seem to be especially thin for some reason. Maybe since Travis left we're thin...get it ...haha

Bazinga!

I hope to go out one day on the second weekend, as well. I'm going to wait and see how life works out and/or where it is most needed.

 

[cool breeze]

never done this before but i can help. what is needed?

 

[Springs505]

Nothing too special needed, and it's a good time.

It's a good idea to have chains along. You should have some recovery gear, too.

 

[cool breeze]

good thing i just sold my chains! but have some brand new at's, winch, lockers etc so should be ok. well im in just lmk when the help is needed.

 

[Fitzgerald]

I know but this year we seem to be especially thin for some reason. Maybe since Travis left we're thin...get it ...haha

 

[Grimeless]

I plan to be there Sat, 12/5 and either Sat, 12/12 or Sun, 12/13.

 

[CO_Hunter]

Looking better, could still use a couple more.

 

[black95]

Went up yesterday evening scouting around a bit to check on conditions. I won't sugar coat it-- it's pretty bad up there. The forest service has plowed Rampart all the way to the Devil's Head gate. In doing this, there is a two foot windrow on both sides of the road blocking entrances to the trails. The only trails that have been broken into are 314, 315, and 322. We made it about 50 yards into 314 before turning around, and having to fight to get out. Someone ventured into 315 quite a ways- There were several places where vehicles had been stuck, and you could see all the work people had put in to remove them. One vehicle had managed to slide down a grade at least 20' off the trail, into the trees. The tracks stopped before the 314 turn off. 322 is very deep. Someone managed to get past the little parking area, then made a heck of a mess getting stuck at the next flat. After digging for what looked to be hours, they had to go to town to buy a Harbor Freight 12k winch to get themselves out. I know this because they left the box right there for me to pick up. Could have at least left the winch in it...

It's either going to be a hell of a weekend, or a very boring weekend, depending on how brave people are. I don't think most people will venture far off of the main road. I doubt the 323/324/325 loops will be opened all the way through at all on the first weekend. Same goes for 300U and 300V. Driving by Hotel Gulch and 327, they don't even look like a trails. 351 to Rainbow Falls has old tracks on it, but I'm betting they don't go far. Once the guys with the big trucks get up there, they might break some trails, it'll be interesting to see. Good footwear is going to be essential to having a good day out there. please be prepared.

 

[CO_Hunter]

Awesome update Luke, thanks. This year could be a lot more work than fun.

Do you think chaining up first thing would be advisable?

I am pretty limited in my ability right now but hope to have a co-pilot that can help with any recovery work. I am not willing to rip out all my surgeon's handy work

 

[SAS]

Sign me up for Sunday, Dec. 6th.

 

[LCPilot]

Please put me down for Sun December 6th. I have loaner chains for tires in the 31 inch area.