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WKNA newsletter

A Season on the Trails By: K. Tess Hotchkis

In late April, Grace and I were hired to rehabilitate and repair the trails of CPFT with the assistance of Katimavik volunteers. The Doukhobor Waterline was the first trail we addressed. Leveling out trail bed surfaces, removal of encroaching vegetation, and clearing of the winter deadfall enhanced the trail. Now, runners use the trail frequently and its heritage value was recently the focus of a release from Columbia Power Corporation, one of CFPT's generous supporters.

We then moved onto the Brilliant Overlook trail, where the blooming meadow flowers provided a unique work environment. In the early mornings we experienced the songs of many species of birds and were entertained by the humorous manor of juvenile chipmunks. A black bear with her cubs were seen on the upper portion of the trail system.

The Little McPhee Waterfall trail was completed during a rainy portion of the spring that allowed for a wonderful show of different species of fungi such as: Artist’s Conk (Ganoderma applanatum), Chanterelle (Cantharellus cibarius), Chicken (Laetiporus sulphureus), Deer (Pluteus atricapillus), Hen of the woods (Grifola frondosa), Honey (Armillaria mellea), Indian pipe (Monotropa uniflora), Misa Cap (Coprinus micaceus), Orange Peel (Aleuria aurantia), Oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus), multiple Pore-pores, Puffball (Endoptychum agaricoides), Sulfur Shelf (Laetiporus sulphureus), and Turkey Tails (Trametes versicolor) were all found. The trail was cleared of hazards and received a level bed surface.

Waldie Island trail required heavy vegetation removal of the overgrown invasive species such as Burdock, Spotted Knapweed, Himalayan Blackberry, Oxeye Daisy, Canadian and Bull Thistles. As well, many Cottonwood trees had to cleared from the walking path. This area was a high use area for many species of mammals, birds, and insects.

Portions of the Columbia trail needed heavy slope stability work because of sandy hillsides. There were large numbers of Mountain Pine Beetle infestated Lodgepole Pines along this trail, which we removed. A small footbridge was constructed on Jordan Creek. Along the waters edge played river otters, while eagles and ospreys fished during the heat of the day.

Skattebo Reach trail provided a cool and refreshing place to spend the heat of the summer days. I have to thank Peter and Poul for lending the crew their canoes, which allowed us to access the trail by water. It provided the students and I an opportunity to work on our paddling skills. Trail hazards were minimized, bridges were constructed and trail slope grade was leveled. On the lower portion an endangered Blue Tailed Skink was found under a rotten stump.

I encourage the public to get out to use these trails and experience the nature outside their doors. Please go see the majestic rare, living, old Western White pines at the trailhead of Doukhobor Waterline.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Castlegar Friends of Parks and Trails for providing me an awesome work experience that allowed me the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of the forest with amazing people. I would like to thank Grace and the Katimivikers Jessica, Erik, Charles and Rebecca for a summer of fond memories.