Stewardship

Work Parties

Alongside partner organizations, including the Parks and Recreation department, we organize “Work Parties” for volunteers to give back to the ACFL and help in ACFL projects, trail repairs, and removing non-native invasive plants.

To be notified of these scheduled events, please sign up on our Volunteer page, and you’ll be added to the volunteer newsletter, sent a few times a year with upcoming opportunities.

Forest Fire Danger

Summer is a time to be extra careful while in the woods and at the lakes. Each year, wildland fires pose a risk and hazard to our forest lands, the critters that live there, and to the neighborhoods that surround the ACFL. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help prevent wildfires in the ACFL:

1. Refrain from smoking. Smoking is prohibited in the ACFL.
2. Campfires and other open flames like grills (even small ones) are also prohibited.
3. If you ride motorcycles, a spark arrestor is required to ride in the ACFL.
4. Remember, fireworks of any kind are prohibited in the ACFL.
5. Call 911 if you smell or see smoke or fire in the ACFL.

Also, if you live next to the ACFL boundary, observe and follow any fire bans or fire restrictions that are in place. Do not burn in windy conditions. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated, and Smokey the Bear will thank you too!

Additional Stewardship Opportunities

Our stewardship activities are conducted in cooperation with the City of Anacortes Parks and Recreation Department. Over the years our mutual efforts have included trail maintenance, invasive plant removal, litter pick up, user group education, habitat restoration, July 4th Fire Watch, “Adopt-a-Trail,” and the Trail Ambassador and Trail Stewards programs.

There are many ways that you can help take care of the woods. Group work parties are scheduled throughout the year for trail maintenance and habitat restoration. Individual efforts in litter pick-up (including pet waste) are always welcome. Parks and Recreation also appreciates hearing from you if you notice downed trees across trails, holes or other disturbances that could be a danger for people or horses, or any concerning activity in the forestlands.

If you or your group would like to be involved in any of these activities, please contact us at info@friendsoftheacfl.org. You may also reach out to City of Anacortes Parks and Recreation Assistant Director and Forest Lands Manager, Bob Vaux 360-588-8233 or email bobv@cityofanacortes.org or Administrative Assistant Darby Jordan at 360-293-1918 or darbyj@cityofanacortes.org.

For volunteer opportunities, check out out Upcoming Events page, follow us on Facebook or Instagram, or sign up to be a volunteer here.