News Release

For  Release:  June 18, 2007       
Contact: Kathy Stangl (707) 825-2310 or Jeff Fontana (530) 252-5332
CA-N-07-57

BLM to Begin Improvement at Headwaters' Elk River Trail

Crews and heavy equipment will begin working on improvements to the Elk River Trail at the Headwaters Forest Reserve next week, resulting in a trail closure that will run from Monday, June 25 until Friday, July 20.
 
Projects will include trail upgrades to make the route accessible for the disabled, stabilization work and improvements to stream crossings.
 
“We are sorry that the trail closure will be inconvenient for trail enthusiasts, but we think people will be pleased with the completed projects,” said Kathy Stangl, the Bureau of Land Management’s Headwaters Forest Reserve manager.
 
Stangl said two projects will be most noticeable for trail users:

• The first mile will be paved and grades will be reduced, making the route accessible for wheelchairs and for those with walking disabilities.
  
• Crews will begin work on relocating a historic train barn, once part of the lumber mill operations at Falk (a lumber mill town) to a site along the Elk River Trail.  Work will continue this fall on rebuilding the barn to become part of an interpretive exhibit and outdoor education facility focusing on the history and natural resources of the Headwaters Forest Reserve.

Stangl said other projects are important for resource protection. 

“We will replace existing culverts and clear out stream crossings to remove excess fill and debris clogging the stream channels,” she said.  “Crews will use heavy equipment to re-contour unstable slopes above the trail.  These projects will reduce sediment flow into streams and improve fish habitat.”
 
Those who want to visit Headwaters while the projects are ongoing can take advantage of guided hikes into the southern part of the reserve.  The walks on the Salmon Creek Trail are led by BLM park rangers who explain features of the forest, including groves of 1,000-year-old redwood trees.
 
To reserve time for a guided hike, call the BLM Arcata Field Office, (707) 825-2300.

-BLM-

Arcata Field Office     1695 Heindon Rd.     Arcata, CA  95521