Helping to Clear Tornado Damaged Trails
In special agreement with Manitoba Conservation, the WJA helped to clear trails damaged by the June 23rd tornado that swept through a Westman conservation zone in the summer of 2007.
"The WJA has teamed up with Manitoba Conservation to assist in a trail clearing program to help re-open an area severely damaged by the tornadoes that ripped through the area at the end of June. Deadfall and windfall is being cut and removed from the designated trails to once again make them passable to Conservation Officers and others who use the area for various outdoor pursuits. Hunting, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and trail driving to name a few.
Damages in the area are twofold. Obstructions caused by the tornado and, new trails made by quads detouring around the obstructed areas. These unauthorized bypass trails are being closed as directed by MB Conservation using the same materials removed from the main trail. Hopefully the closures will be respected and the previously untouched areas of land can recover from the invasion and trampling.
Though voluntary in nature and under the control and special permitting from MB Conservation, the WJA is doing its part through informal land stewardship efforts and promoting Responsible 4wd practices by putting in the effort to rejuvenate this damaged trail area, clean up litter, and otherwise assist in guaranteeing future use by the public."
Though pictures do not do justice to the amount of damage to the forest or the work done to re-open the trails, the following are presented to provide a glimpse into just one WJA Community service project.
The pre-work inspection July 2007...
This is just a sample of the damages to the area. As can be seen, it varies from minor windfall to severe blockage and obstruction.
During the first few clearing days, photos were not taken due to the amount of work undertaken and the fact that our minds were on the task rather than our cameras. Below are some mid October after shots and a few before & after comparison shots taken during our last outing on the 21st Oct 2007.
The first of many severe blockage openings...
Below is a comparison shot of one stretch of thick obstruction. Use the two ^^ trees top centre of photo for reference...
Some of the work underway...
Another section before clearing...
And after...
This spot is very closed in and severe in nature. Note that just beyond the cleared area it again is heavily blocked with windfall...
Somewhere in there, there is a trail....... really.
Not quite to the West Entry, we are stopped here until next spring due to hunting season being underway and safety issues becoming a concern of MB Conservation with regard to our work crews.
We are glad we could help and enjoyed every minute of it. The work is slow going, but in the end will once again make the trails usable allowing many types of users to once again enjoy their remote scenic beauty and peacefulness.
We look forward to continuing and completing this project in 2008.
Thanks to MB Conservation Virden Office for their interest and willingness in working with us. Everyone wins when cooperation and collaboration prevail.
