Roads into this area were closed by the BLM to help prevent further damage to the fragile vegetation growing there and to allow the creation of hiking trails.  After blocking off access and creating a parking area, the roads were roto-tilled with a bulldozer and planted with seed.  The work site is on the eastern edge of the Whychus/Deschutes proposed wilderness area. This 20,000+ acre proposed wilderness encompasses the amazing canyon areas of the Deschutes River and Whychus Creek. 

PROJECT DETAILS:
Volunteers will be able to help plant and re-seed some of the final corners of the areas targeted in this restoration effort.  We also will take a hike along the loop trail that goes down over the edge of the rimrock into the Deschutes canyon. Tools, plants, seeds, and those groovy Forest Service Hardhats will all be provided.  Carpooling is available from Bend and potentially from other locations as well.

TIMELINE:
We will meet at the trailhead at 9AM (approximately 50 min. drive from Bend).  Depending on weather we will either hike or work first.  The hike takes about 2.5 hours and is fairly strenuous down from the edge all the way to the river and then back up, but we can take our time: there is plenty to look at!

WHAT TO BRING:
We will be out all day, so please be sure to bring enough warm clothes options to last through a day of changing temperatures/conditions.  This time of year it is always nice to have a thermos of hot soup/drink.  You are responsible for bringing your own lunch and drinking water for the day.  I recommend bringing your own gloves but will bring extras as well as all the tools needed for the work.

GROUP SIZE:
Space is limited to 20 volunteers.

REGISTRATION:
A FULL ITINERARY, DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS AND "WHAT TO BRING", WILL BE PROVIDED UPON REGISTRATION.  To aid in our planning, on your registration form "comments" please indicate: Your general hiking ability (high, medium, low) and if you have participated on this trip previously .