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Volunteer crews, bridge repairs and trail reroutes highlighted as spring projects
Summary
Montreat volunteers and contractors will work this spring on the Harry Bryan bridge repair and multiple trail improvements, including a roughly 40-foot reroute and corridor widening for sight lines and fire mitigation; college groups and summer staff are being recruited.
Committee members discussed upcoming trail work and volunteer mobilization, including repairs at the Harry Bryan bridge and rerouting and widening segments of trails to improve safety and hydrology. S8 told the group a bridge-builder hoped to start the Harry Bryan repair this month and that two spring-break volunteer groups are scheduled to help dismantle the old bridge and perform trail clearing work.
S8 described the scope of volunteer tasks: dismantling the old bridge currently in the creek, widening corridors by cutting understory a few feet from the trail to improve sight lines and reduce fire fuel, and flagging new trail sections pending approvals. S1 and S8 confirmed a reroute of roughly 40 feet at one location will be handled by Scott Brown while machines are on site, reducing separate mobilization needs.
The chair (S2) asked about brush disposal; S8 said cut material is generally taken back into the woods and used to create habitat, kept a safe distance from the trail. Participants also noted budget constraints for some contractor work; S8 said certain spots may be shifted to ranger projects if contractor funds are unavailable. The meeting included reminders about community hikes starting next week and other volunteer opportunities.
Participants raised wildlife concerns tied to trail use and maintenance, including bear sightings and measures to secure garbage on trash days; the group discussed signage and outreach to rental-home owners to encourage bear-smart practices.
