By: Holly Zatz, November Crew
This week November saw crew stayed in Thunder Basin to help maintain wildlife habitats and prevent their disturbance by juniper trees. We spent each day sawing and removing juniper to keep the grasslands open, since it’s a major factor in habitat destruction. This project was enlightening, as it’s a reminder that to maintain habitat, the animals within are controlled by the land they use. So simply by removing the juniper which diminishes sage grass populations- the habitat for sage-grouse, we can help their populations thrive.
We were also able to use this opportunity to practice felling trees in prep for getting our A sawyer certs. Everyone on our crew is very keen to fell trees, making this job extra exciting for all the practice it offered. I was able to learn how to bore cut a tree, and we a lot of experience in brushing. Many of us really enjoyed the walk to and from the site, volunteering to walk back in full gear with saws and dolmars even when a ride was offered. We’re all really excited to get our red cards after completing all of the online certs last week, so we’ve been trying to get as fit as possible in prep for our pack test.
My favorite experience this week was yesterday morning when our crew pushed all stuck vehicles out of the mud. When we were done and covered in mud, the sun came out and we spent the rest of the day at Mt. Rushmore and some hot springs once we got to camp, we ate a big feast of burgers and hot dogs.
Though our work is great and fulfilling, my favorite part of RMYC are the people I’ve met. My crew is hilarious and we’re all so excited about sawing. It makes everyday a treat. I can’t wait for the rest of the season with these great folks.