Heavy trail work, like this bridge building, saved the cash-strapped Forest Service countless thousands of dollars. For the small fee of some donated time, the WS4W members have kept the trail open for an infinite number of responsible four-wheelers to enjoy.
The year 2006 was by far the busiest and most productive year yet for the WS4W. Not only have they maintained their dedication to fun off-roading trips such as Canyonlands in Utah, the Jeep Safari in Moab, the annual Fourth of July parade and trail ride in Ouray, and a Western Slope rendezvous, they made the time necessary to go out with the Forest Service and BLM to work on projects to maintain and clean the trails. These workdays involved installing elevation and warning signs on Black Bear, Ophir, and Imogene passes.
The WS4W also assisted the Forest Service in repairing the bridge in Yankee Boy Basin that leads up to Governor Basin, and also by installing interpretive signs along the route. The last major project for the year was a tire cleanup and removal in the Dry Creek area west of Montrose, Colorado. This area is home to some of the club's most frequented hardcore trails such as Die Trying and Cactus Ridge.
The work is enjoyable, rewarding, and something to be very proud of.
Members joined forces with the BLM and the local ATV club and set up a system for effectively and efficiently removing the tires from the remote location. Additionally, the WS4W has adopted the Poughkeepsie Gulch Trail and also Black Bear Road from the top down into Telluride; the Creeper Jeeper Gang has adopted Black Bear from the Red Mountain side to the top. The WS4W is also active in community services by helping and providing entertainment for children and retirees. The club also helps out at Christmas time - whether it's a toy run for Cops for Kids or sponsoring a needy family with a Christmas dinner and gifts for the children. The club also participates in the annual Parade of Lights in Montrose.
If you're an avid off-road enthusiast or even if you're just considering getting into 'wheeling, think about joining a four-wheel-drive club. You'll meet people who share the same interests as you, and you can help preserve our public lands for future generations to enjoy. Together, we can all make a difference, forge friendships that last a lifetime, and create a stronger voice to be heard by all. For more information on the Western Slope 4-Wheelers, visit the club's website at www.ws4w.com.