STATE PARKS -- After years of effort and the approval of a park master plan, the coast is clear for organized volunteer groups to work with park managers to re-route and improve the multi-use trail system at Mount Spokane State Park.

And the're wasting little time.

The snow has barely cleared from the slopes, yet the Spokane Mountaineers are organizing a work party on Thursday.

Read on for the scoop on that effort from organizer Holly Weiller, plus two other alternatives for volunteers who'd like to join the group this weekend and next week

From Holly Weiller:

• Spokane Mountaineers trailwork on Mount Spokane, Thursday (July 14). 

Meet at the Lower Mount Kit Carson Loop Road (Discover Pass required) at 9 a.m. and work until 3 p.m. 

The work will consist of brushing out plants that are encroaching the trail, tearing out roots in the new trail tread on 140, and improving the sides of the trail for drainage.  We'll return via trail 110 as time allows.  If you have small hand tools for trimming brush please bring them; Lynn and I will bring the larger trail tools.  Dress for trailwork, carry extra water and snacks with your thirteen essentials, and be sure to have leather gloves. 

Call 921-8928 if you have any questions.

Other work parties:

• Friends of Mount Spokane State Park, led by Cris Currie, is organizing trailwork for Saturday and Sunday.  He is planning to work from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. each day, starting at the top and working down.  Email Cris at criscurrie@igc.org or call 466-9540 to sign up. 
• Washington Trails Association is organizing a work party on Mount Spokane for next week. Details and sign-up info is on the WTA website.