This crew builds new or reroutes existing trails usually working on Thursdays. In addition to extending or rerouting short sections of existing trails, the crew has accomplished two multi-year trail improvement projects since 2017: the Cienega/Armijo Trail Improvement Project, and Challenge Trail extension project. The Ellis Trail reroutes project was completed in 2024. Other major projects are summarized here.
These activities require a good level of stamina. Crew members frequently talk about being physically exhausted after a day’s work but feeling a great sense of accomplishment.
Safety is paramount. Everyone must wear appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE), which includes gloves, long sleeves, long pants, sturdy boots, helmets, eye protection, and hearing protection when chain saws are being used to clear a new trail.
Jenny Blackmore led this crew from mid-2021 through 2023 when she took a full-time position leading the City’s Open Space volunteer program. She remains a member of the FOSM board of directors. The crew works closely with Sandia Ranger District personnel, particularly Trails Foreman Jen Medina-Gray. Laura Leon prepares a detailed report including several photographs after each activity. These reports provide a great means of learning about the crew’s activities.
Click here for reports and photos of trail construction activities from 2017 through 2024.
Please fill in the form below if you would like more information about these activities or are interested in joining this crew. Please email [email protected] should you encounter any problems with this form.