Newell Creek Dig Day Recap: Building on Trail School Momentum

NWTA Volunteers Continue Trail Stewardship at Newell Creek

NWTA volunteers returned to Newell Creek for a productive and fun dig day, building directly on the momentum from last month’s Trail Sustainability Institute Trail School: Fundamentals, held at the same location. With that knowledge fresh in mind, the crew put sustainable trail practices into action across several key trail segments, demonstrating how thoughtful design and hands-on stewardship work together on the ground.

Berm Construction and In-Sloping Improve Shady Lane

Work began on Shady Lane, where volunteers constructed a new berm on a key corner. The berm was designed to help manage rider speed, improve safety, and work in tandem with newly established in-sloping to shed water efficiently and reduce future maintenance needs.

Solving Drainage Issues on Red Soil Roller

From there, the crew moved to Red Soil Roller to address a long-standing drainage issue in a relatively flat section of trail. With no natural grade to move water off the tread, volunteers excavated compacted soil and sediment, pitched locally sourced stones into the base, and capped them with soil. This created a permeable structure that allows water to drain through the tread rather than pool on the surface, reducing puddles, rutting, and long-term trail damage.

Family-Friendly Trail Work Builds the Next Generation of Stewards

One of the day’s highlights was the presence of a family of four, including four-year-old Oliver and his younger sister Mae. Oliver took his role seriously, making sure the trail was completely free of sticks so he could ride it on his Strider bike. He also shared dried mango snacks with the crew, quickly becoming both a trail steward and morale booster. Moments like these reflect how NWTA dig days are truly family-friendly and help welcome the next generation of trail stewards.

Berm and Drainage Improvements Continue After Lunch

After lunch, volunteers reshaped berms on Heavy Nettle Trail and improved drainage on both Red Soil Roller and Heavy Nettle, rounding out a full day of meaningful stewardship and on-the-ground learning.

Growing Stewardship with Metro Parks and Nature

This event marks an exciting early chapter in NWTA’s growing relationship with Metro. We are energized to continue caring for trails at Newell Creek and across other Metro Parks and Nature properties. If you are looking for a way to give back, build skills, and connect with community, there is always a place for you on the trail.