Hitch Number Two

11-19 March 2011
Tylerhorse Canyon near Rosamond CA

This hitch was the crew’s first solo hitch working as a team of six. For parts of the hitch the crew was joined by PCTA associate regional representative Brendan Taylor, PCTA Section G chief Jeff Spindler, and volunteer/Pionjar master Pete Fish. The crew’s gear was packed in by mules and horses lead by experienced volunteer packers Dick Blizzard and Dennis Harfman. Being involved with this process was a unique learning experience for the crew. After hiking in behind the packing caravan the crew set up camp in Tylerhorse Canyon.

The area the crew worked in has been a site of controversy regarding land use. OHV enthusiasts favor the topography and soil type of the region. In addition to being illegal, OHV activity inflicts damage to the ecosystem of the Canyon as well as the structure of the trail. OHV operation through natural drainages along the trail leads to soil erosion. Much of the work the crew completed during this hitch was done to mitigate negative effects caused by illegal OHV use such as this. The crew built 248 square feet of stone retention structures on various drainage sites along the trail to address the issue.

Treadwork along the trail was the crew’s other focus throughout this hitch. The crew rebenched the tread to widen the trail corridor and make it safer for travel. The work was completed using hand tools as well as the Pionjar, which Pete Fish introduced to the crew. The Pionjar made obtrusive rock removal easier with the all-mighty power of gasoline.

The crew got out of the Canyon just in time before word of an incoming storm became an issue. The weather we worked in was pleasant but everyone now has a better understanding of why there are so many wind turbines in the area.

until next time,
Sarah

Pack Animals Utilized: 7
Total Trail Maintained: 12,911 ft
Trail Rehabilitation/Reconstruction: 7,874 ft
Sites Rehabilitated: 2
Trailhead Kiosks: 1 sign
Stone Retention: 248 square ft
Blowdown Removed: 3
Number of agency contacted: 1
Number of guest interactions: 7