WELD — Farmington’s High Peaks Alliance is looking for volunteers this summer to help repair wet, eroded and widened trail sections across several recreation areas in the High Peaks Region.

The organization has scheduled four volunteer trail work days from June through September at Tumbledown, the Fly Rod Crosby Trail and the Perham Stream Birding Trail, with a focus on improving drainage, stabilizing trail tread and protecting surrounding natural resources as use of the region continues to grow.

Amanda Laliberte, director of engagement for High Peaks Alliance, said the work is part of the organization’s broader effort to keep trails sustainable as more people use them.

“These work days are part of our ongoing effort to steward a rapidly growing region that sees increasing use each year,” Laliberte said. “This summer, we are focused on improving drainage, addressing erosion, maintaining tread and completing small reroutes to make trails more sustainable and resilient.”

The trail work days are scheduled for June 12 at Tumbledown’s Brook Trailhead; July 10 at the Fly Rod Crosby Trail’s Saddleback Spur Trailhead; Aug. 21 at Tumbledown’s Loop Trailhead; and Sept. 4 at the Perham Stream Birding Trail. Rain dates are June 26, July 17, Aug. 28 and Sept. 18.

Work days typically run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and volunteers may join for part or all of the day.

Laliberte said High Peaks Alliance selected the four sites “based on current maintenance needs, level of use, and opportunities where volunteer support can make a meaningful impact in a single day.”

“These locations represent a mix of high-traffic trails and important community assets,” she said.

Volunteers can expect to clear brush, improve drainage, reinforce trail tread, install bog bridging where needed and assist with minor reroutes. Laliberte said the work is adapted to volunteer experience levels. “No experience is necessary,” Laliberte said. “Volunteers just need to come prepared for a day outdoors, follow instructions, and be ready to contribute at their own pace.”

Each site has targeted maintenance needs, including wet or eroded sections, poor drainage and areas where trails have widened or become braided, Laliberte said. “The goal is to improve durability while protecting surrounding natural resources,” she said.

The work supports long-term access by reducing erosion, improving drainage and helping guide trail users along durable routes, Laliberte said.

“By improving drainage, stabilizing tread and guiding proper trail use, this work reduces erosion and protects surrounding habitats,” she said. “It ensures trails remain accessible and enjoyable for hikers, birders and other users over time.”

High Peaks Alliance hopes to have 10 to 16 volunteers per work day. Laliberte said that number allows crews to complete meaningful work while keeping groups manageable and safe. “Volunteer support is essential,” Laliberte said. “It helps us extend limited staff capacity, maintain safe and accessible trails, and ensure that increased use does not lead to long-term environmental damage.”

The work days will be led by Matt Kusper, High Peaks Alliance’s lead recreation ranger. Laliberte said Kusper coordinates trail projects, leads volunteer crews, assesses trail conditions and helps ensure trail systems are safe, sustainable and enjoyable for the public.

Families may participate, but youth volunteers should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Laliberte said tasks can be adjusted to be age-appropriate.

All tools, training and safety guidance will be provided on-site, and volunteers will receive an orientation at the start of the day.

Participants should bring long pants, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, water, food and any personal gear such as gloves or eye protection.

This year, Laliberte said, High Peaks Alliance is expanding volunteer opportunities across more sites while continuing to emphasize preventive trail maintenance.

“We are expanding volunteer opportunities across more sites and continuing to focus on proactive maintenance rather than reactive repairs, which is key to long-term sustainability,” she said.

Laliberte said people who use the trails but have never volunteered should consider taking part. “It’s a great way to give back to places you care about,” she said. “You’ll learn new skills, meet people, and have a direct impact on the trails you enjoy.”

People who cannot attend may support High Peaks Alliance by donating, becoming members, spreading awareness and practicing responsible trail use, Laliberte said.

For more information, contact Kusper at [email protected] or 704-877-5567. To RSVP, visit secure.qgiv.com/for/highpeaksalliance/event/volunteertrailworkdays/.