Registration is required for each volunteer.

Please read our electronic Liability Waiver here. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging you read waiver during registration.

Due to trail conditions at this site, this project is best suited for volunteers age 16 and older.

• Y?outh age 16 or older may volunteer on their own as long as they bring a Youth Volunteer Waiver signed by a parent/legal guardian. Find a printable Youth Volunteer Waiver Form HERE.

Project Description

Stewardship volunteers will help with Early Detection, Rapid Response (EDRR) efforts to remove the invasive plant, herb Robert geranium. While this invasive plant is more commonly found throughout the Gorge, it was only a few years ago a hiker recorded sighting of this plant along the Dog Mountain trail. Volunteers will continue to help control this infestation before it spreads further throughout the trail, which would eventually displace native wildflowers, including various orchid species in the understory.

Dog Mountan is a famously steep Gorge trail. Be prepared for a challenging uphill climb! Volunteers will be hiking about 2.5-3 miles up the famously steep trail with about 2,500 ft of elevation gain. We'll take plenty of breaks to stop and check out the understory flowers in bloom. Once we wrap up, those who are interested are welcome and encouraged to split off afterwards and hike the 1 mile further to the top.

Level of physical work includes the steep but rewarding hike up with about 2,500 ft of elevation gain. At the project site, we'll be bending, kneeling, an using our hands to pull weeds off trail on a forested slope.

Site notes: Amazing views! Poison oak along trail we will identify and avoid; we'll be tick aware; walking on uneven terrain. There are pit toilets at the trailhead.

We provide all necessary tools and gloves, however, you are also welcome to bring your own gloves.

What to Bring:

• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (we'll eat lunch along the trail)
• A pack to carry your personal gear
• H?iking poles if you prefer to use them
• Personal hand sanitizer
• Sun protection
• Readiness to meet great people and have a fun day outside!

What to Wear:

• Boots or sturdy sneakers
• Long durable pants and long-sleeved shirt
• Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing to stay comfortable

Schedule:

• 8:30 a.m. - Check in, meet the crew and safety talk
• 8:45 a.m. - Hike to project area, learn herb Robert identification and removal and get started!
• We'll take a lunch break and rest breaks as needed
• 3:00 p.m. - Back at the trailhead

What to expect at a Friends work party: Expect a supportive and welcoming space where stewardship staff will lead you through a project training, plant identification tips and tricks and a fun impactful project! Work parties provide the opportunity to explore Gorge trails, learn about ecology, build community, and become more familiar with plant and wildlife conservation efforts in the Gorge!

Directions:

Look for a confirmation email with details and directions 3-5 days before the event.

Questions? Please contact Sarah Skelly at sarah.skelly@gorgefriends.org or 503-501-6351.