ABOUT THE STEWARDSHIP SITE

The Pennsylvania Mountain Natural Area is located near Alma in Park County, sitting just northwest of Fairplay. Encompassing 500 acres of land and with the 13,000-ft. Pennsylvania Mountain as the highest point, sights in the area include ancient bristlecone pines, stunning wildflowers, and alpine researchers in the field. In 2014, with the generous support of the community, Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT) purchased 92 critical acres as part of a multiphase project. This effort ensures the continuing ongoing scientific research conducted by more than a hundred scientists for over 37 years - one of the longest term alpine research sites in the country. The trail will be constructed on MALT's property.

Located by the project site is the Beaver Ponds Environmental Education Center (BPEEC), which helps people of all ages learn about environmental issues, sustainable agricultural, and energy practices in a natural setting.

ABOUT THE VOLUNTEER WORK & KIDS' PROGRAMMING

Currently, recreationists from Alma, as well as the surrounding area, can only access the Pennsylvania Mountain Natural Area from MALT's private property. On this project, volunteers will help build a loop trail that will provide recreation and science research opportunities as well as future access to this pristine location. The trail will provide new recreation opportunities in the area as well as access to conduct scientific research.

While adults and youth ages 12 and up are volunteering at The Pennsylvania Mountain Natural Area, young kids can partake in a spectacular (and free!) educational program at BPEEC that will include fun environmental activities alongside a caring and professional staff. On both Saturday and Sunday, as volunteers are shuttled from the camp site to the project location, kids will be dropped off at BPEEC along the way. At the end of the work day, kids will be picked up and spend the evening eating dinner and camping with their families. Be sure to check out voc.org/badge to learn about ways that you and your family can care for Colorado prior to the project! By doing so, kids will awarded a cool VOC patch that they can proudly affix to their backpack, jacket, etc.

Free meals and camping will be provided.

OTHER WAYS TO HELP

It's not all sweat and toil! There are lots of ways you can participate on project days, including as an assistant crew chef. Assistant crew chefs have a fun, vital, and very appreciated role on the project team - keeping volunteers happy and well-fed! Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

PARTNERS

Mountain Area Land Trust