Have you hiked along the PNT in the Okanogan? Chances are good that you have walked across one of many hand-made structures built by the PNTA and US Job Corps.
Every summer, students from the US Job Corp campus in Curlew, Washington have the opportunity to participate in work-based- learning projects out in the backcountry of the Colville National Forest.
This September, US Job Corps students Elijah, Redd and Moses had the opportunity to help build a 19-foot long “puncheon” …to replace a fire-damaged structure on the western flank of Mount Bonaparte.
Camping out with PNTA crew leaders Sean Metcalf, Ryan Welch and Forest Reeves, students spent a week helping to build the wooden walkway using rock bars, grip hoists, draw knives, axes and some other unique hand tools of the trade.
The new puncheon should stand the test of time and serve as a testament to their hard work and our strong partnership for many years to come. Thank you so much for your service Elijah, Redd and Moses!
Curious about what our trail crews have been up to? Follow along with our progress this season at https://www.pnt.org/2024-field-season/
