Description
Come join the Big Cypress Chapter of the Florida Trail Association for a trail maintenance event in Big Cypress National PreserveCamping is available but not required!
The work party is as follows:
- Friday, no trail work but camping available so we get an early start on Saturday. Please do not arrive earlier than 3:00 pm if you plan to camp Friday.
- Saturday, trail work all day. Please arrive between 7:00-7:45 am if you are driving in that morning.
- Sunday, maybe some light work in the morning but plan to break down camp by noon.
Camping: All tent or vehicle camping will take place behind the Oasis Visitors Center. This is accessible behind the gate. This is a semi-primitive camp site with no showers or electric hookup however restrooms are available at the visitors center. Camping is available Friday and Saturday nights.
Meals: Meals from Friday (Dec 11) dinner to Sunday (Dec 13) breakfast will be provided.
What to bring: For all projects you will need to bring a day pack and appropriate clothing. Long pants are required to do trail work and long-sleeved shirts are recommended. A hat is advisable. Sunscreen and bug spray are also advised. You will need to provide your own camping gear, this includes a tent, sleeping bag, mattress, lunch container (baggie or tupperware), water bottle, coffee mug, and personal items. Quick draining and drying footwear such as trail runner sneakers or boots are recommended. No flip-flops or crocs. Bring dry shoes for camp. You can bring a cooler and a chair for camp use. We will have canopies over the tables to eat and relax in the evening.
What to expect: We will divide into two crews. The main crew will work on foot north from Oasis for 3-4 miles then return. A smaller team will be transported by ORV to a point 7.5 miles north on the FNST. This team will work south to Woodpecker Camp (old 7mile camp) and beyond for 3-4 miles before returning to the drop off point for pickup. We will use a combination of power tools and hand tools to bring the trail back up to standard. We will provide the tools, training, and PPE. We will be re-painting blazes as required. Trail conditions in Big Cypress can make maintenance challenging, including full sun and hiking on a wet trail.
Location
Big Cypress National Preserve
Oasis Visitors center
52105 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, Florida 34141
