Los Altos-based Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District recently expanded its volunteer program dedicated to maintaining trail ecosystems.
The program, which launched earlier in the summer, has grown in popularity, according to Midpen public affairs specialist Ryan McCauley. Starting this month, the program has gone from one to two opportunities per week.
On Sept. 11, six volunteers led by program lead Judd Volino improved the accessibility of the High Meadow and Farm Bypass trails at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve in Cupertino. They repaired fencing on trails commonly referred to as split-trail fencing and restored fencing damaged by a fallen tree.
“Over time, because we use natural materials, sometimes (fences) degrade and have to be replaced,” Volino said.
Volino, who began as a volunteer, said that anyone participating in the program can learn about maintenance while getting the chance to work outdoors. Volino added that volunteers can learn a lot in a short amount of time.
“Volunteers like to work outside, especially people who have office jobs here in Silicon Valley,” Volino said. “Everybody here is going to be basically certified to build fence(s) by the end of the day today.”
Volino said participants can sign up to do either resource management – involving removing non-native species from parks – or trail and infrastructure work.
Frequent volunteer and Los Altos resident Glen Kuo said he has volunteered on six projects at Midpen. The former tech worker said he has enjoyed the opportunities to work in nature and that learning new skills keeps him coming back.
“It’s these little things that nobody really teaches you in school,” Kuo said. “That’s another great benefit to me, teaching yourself basic skills.”
Kuo added that he is now taking classes in park management, hoping to someday pursue a career in parks as a full-time professional.
Sunnyvale resident Rachel Tsai said she has been volunteering since the program’s launch this summer. In her first several projects, Tsai participated in flattening bumpy terrain from water damage on Midpen trails.
“I’m a trail runner, so when the trail is bumpy, I’m worried for my ankles, so this has been a really rewarding experience!” Tsai said.
Tsai, who is between employment situations, said volunteering is a good activity to meet others while getting physical activity.
To volunteer and for more information, visit tinyurl.com/2s426tzz.
