With 2026 among us, we are moving forward in a more focused manner. Two occurrences have influenced our path:

1) A group of represented folks from agencies and recreation organizations have formed called "Olympic Peninsula Outdoor Recreation Collaborative". They are working on a charter to address broader topics related to the Oly Pen.

2) Trail group leaders that perform trail work and maintenance in the Park and with the Forest meet annually to focus on trails and communicate, coordinate, and collaborate to keep rec trails open.

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This allowed us to narrow the focus of our work on the West Fork Humptulips and Wynoochee watersheds. We have formed a partnership with the Olympic National Forest in the upper remote part of the Wynoochee to keep access open. In essence, we have adopted the area.

 

The West Fork Humptulips Trail is maintained by the Grays Harbor Chapter of Backcountry Horsemen since 2008 through a partnership with Olympic National Forest. 

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We continue to have our interest and updates for all things Oly Pen. We have exciting new partnerships that allow us to directly have an impact on keeping access open. This is ALL volunteer driven. Follow us on our FB page here to keep updated about our projects and for invites to work parties.

 

We operate under a Board driven membership and decision making structure. The individual membership acts as a support and advisory group. There will be opportunities for volunteering on different projects and ways to present your input as members. Transparency is key and will be a continued platform.

 

As outdoor recreationists, our focus will be on maintaining trails and the roads that lead us to those places. Our opportunities are expanding to better steward the beloved backcountry that we cherish. Our spectrum is wide to include stewardship, volunteering, conservation, education, and more. 

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Thank you for stopping by!

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Mitzi Schindele

Pete Erben

Nancy Erben

Midge Martin