A new volunteer organization, the Friends of Otis Johnson Wilderness Park, will kick off with a party on Saturday — a cleaning party.
Winter storms damaged trails in the six-acre park — Fort Bragg”s best kept secret — slicing deeply into one stream bank and washing gravel off paths.
Volunteers will meet in the city parking lot at the end of Laurel Street to do some spring cleaning in the city”s biggest park.
Co-park caretaker and Friends of Otis Johnson Wilderness Park President Frank Hartzell (this reporter) will lead trash removal and clean up efforts, which will also include minor repairs to trails. Depending on how many people show up for the workday, there may also be efforts to remove invasive species, especially holly, blackberries and ivy.
The park features a lower trail and a series of upper trails that culminate at a Pudding Creek overlook.
Those participating must first sign a city release-of-liability form. Those are available at Fort Bragg City Hall.
The Friends of Otis Johnson Wilderness Park will offer a free newsletter — via email or on paper — to anyone who signs up at city hall or sends an email to friendsofotis@gmail.com. Anyone interested can join the Friends of Otis Johnson Wilderness Park, even without attending the work day.
In case of rain, the workday will be postponed, as working in the park in the rain can cause further erosion.
The Friends of Otis Johnson Wilderness Park plan a photo contest this summer, with the assistance of Alan Ferguson of Braggadoon Signs and Graphics.
Also being discussed is a “green” event during Paul Bunyan Days, such as a tour or other event held in the city”s only remaining forest of giant redwoods and Douglas fir trees. Hal Miller, president of the Paul Bunyan Association, plans to discuss the concept with his board.
The park can be accessed on foot from two city parking lots, one at the east end of Laurel Street and the other on Cedar Street at the north end of Lincoln Street. The workday will conclude at 2 p.m. Volunteers should wear boots, as many areas of the park are wet.
The park was purchased in 1970 after the widow of Otis Johnson gave $44,850 in Boise Cascade Company stock. The gift came with the caveat that the park was to be enjoyed in its natural state.
