The past year has been challenging for all of us with the COVID pandemic and the wildfires. Fortunately, there is light at the end of the tunnel and it’s time to work on getting things opened up. To that end, we have been discussing with the County what it would take to reopen Jack Brook Horse Camp in June. Initially it was closed due to COVID concerns (which still must be addressed) but in addition, there are significant trail issues which also need attention.
In the last two years, the trails in Pescadero Creek County Park have become overgrown, and high winds have caused numerous trees to fall, making many of the trails impassible. With the support of the county, we have engaged with the San Jose Conservation Corps to bring in a crew the week of May 17 to work on cleaning up the trails. This is a team of energetic at-risk youths who are experienced trail builders and who are certified in the use of chain saws and other equipment. We plan on 5 days of work for a crew of 6, with a supervisor. The crew is paid, and workers compensation insurance, health insurance, liability insurance, transportation, and tools and equipment will all be provided. The cost for the crew is $11,740, and materials could add another $2,000. The Mounted Patrol Foundation will match up to the first $6,500 donated to this project. Any excess funds donated will be held in the Foundation’s Trails fund for future projects.
The other remaining issue is COVID safety protocols. As of now, there may be restrictions on capacity, catering, cleaning procedures and mask wearing. Governor Newsom has announced full reopening of public venues by June 15 baring any setbacks. We are optimistic and therefore are considering plans for the best way to enjoy Jack Brook this Summer. So far, the County will allow those groups who had previously scheduled the Horse Camp to rebook the same days, subject to COVID limitations. We will keep you updated as things progress, and issues get resolved.
The other limitation is that the Old Haul Road is undergoing major remediation and renovation. The Old Haul Road was the last stand during the summer’s CZU Lightning Strike fire, and, thanks to the Park Rangers, Cal Fire and equipment contractors, the fire was stopped here. However, there was a lot of bulldozing and tree cutting to build the needed fire break, and it will be months before we can access that area. So the Old Haul Road, Butano Ridge and Pescadero Creek area will be off limits for the foreseeable future. But the good news is the Brook Loop, Canyon, Tarwater and the other trails we love will be open. Attached is a draft map of the off limits section. A more detailed map will be made available in the future.
We are excited the work to clear the trails can begin so quickly and hope you will donate to support this worthy project.
Donations can be made via PayPal or Credit card.
Click on the button below to donate and select Jack Brook-Pescadero Creek Project.
A receipt will be mailed from PayPal
or
you may send a check payable to the Mounted Patrol foundation to the address below.
Mounted Patrol Foundation
ATTN: Jack Brook-Pescadero Creek project
521 Kings Mountain Road
Woodside, CA 94062-4209
Please make a notation on your check that this is for
Jack Brook-Pescadero Creek project
Donations may be tax deductible to the amount permitted by law.
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