DatesApr 26th - May 2nd 2009 Service ProjectRussian olive eradication in the main river corridor Free DaysExploring slot canyons, photography, swimming AccommodationsBackpack tent camping Trip RatingStrenuous : backpacking ~4 miles, sawing, lopping, digging, possible quicksand, hiking in river LeadersDon Meaders Equipment |
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is best known for its central attraction, Lake Powell. The Escalante River flows into the Colorado River in Lake Powell, forming a wonderful network of canyons between Waterpocket Fold to the east and the Straight Cliffs of the Kaiparowits Plateau to the west. The canyons are surprisingly riparian with springs hidden deep in shaded walls. Our work will be a continuation of nine year's work eradicating Russian olive in the main river (39 miles of river have been cleared from the lake up); we'll use saws and loppers and apply an herbicide to the stumps. This invasive non-native weed is well known for choking rivers and streams in the west. The incidence of Russian olive in the area is such that it is possible to get it out of the corridor and keep it from expanding its grip. The miles of river that have been cleared are much more pleasant for hiking and rafting, and our project will assure that the native trees continue to thrive. We'll backpack to the river approximately four miles and camp near Neon Canyon. This trip is for experienced backpackers in great shape. We'll carry our food and hike to the worksite each day. Weather permitting, we'll explore a slot canyon on our day off. This trip is a treat -- a great backpack into a very remote area on the Colorado Plateau.
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