Proposal For Addition to
Blue Mound State Park
Off Road Bicycle Trails


Overview, Synopsis, Who is WORBA, Why Blue Mound, Building Trail, Trail design, Proposed trails , Proposed map, Crews, Volunteering, Work log

Volunteering

When are the workdays?
What happens during a workday?
What should I bring/wear?

Can I or a group I'm with volunteer?
Do I need prior experience?
What do I get out of this?

When are the workdays?

If you have any questions on the dates, call the BMSP office at 608-437-5711. Unless otherwise noted, the workdays are from 9am to 1pm, with a group ride to follow when conditions permit.

What happens during a workday?

Here's a sample workday:
Starting 10-15 minutes before 9, volunteers gather at the swimming pool parking lot at Blue Mound State Park, and they sign in on the volunteer form.

At 9:00, the crew leader talks about the work to be done that day, safety issues, and whether their will be a group ride after the work. If the group needs to be divided, smaller teams form up. Tools are handed out and carried in to the worksite by the volunteers.

The task for the day may be cutting back brush or making benchcuts or creating a cobblestone crossing, but the crewleader helps teams accomplish what needs to be done, with explanation, example, and tips gained from previous workdays.

After the day's goal is finished or the time has expired, the crew brings the tools back to the trailhead and check them in. Those that desire to ride have some time to suit up or lunch, and the ride goes out. Others clean tools or discuss the next project.

What should I bring/wear?

Suggested attire is jeans and workboots - no one wearing sandals should be using sharp tools. Work gloves are also recommended.

Hats and sunglasses on hot days, raingear on wet days. Bug repellent and sunscreen is up to the volunteer.

Note: fleece has a tendency to snag in the underbrush and is not recommended.

Bring your own water and a way to carry it, and food if you're likely to get hungry. Volunteers are welcome to bring their own trail tools, although the task may not need shovels today, next time we may not have enough. Common tools that workdays often need include shovels (flat and round bladed), garden rakes, loppers, grub hoes, hand saws, or pruning shears.

Can I or a group I'm with volunteer?

Groups are encouraged to volunteer, as trailwork is a fun experience for friends to do in the outdoors. Individuals are also welcome, and you may meet some people with common interests while volunteering.

Do I need prior experience?

No prior experience required. If you can comfortably walk a couple miles over uneven ground and are willing to work with our crews, you are welcome to work with our crews.

What do I get out of this?

More trails.
New friends.
Exercise.
Fresh air.
Smiles.
New experiences.
Trail knowledge.
The list goes on. . . . .