Hello Everyone,

On Thursday, Dec. 30, the FOSM general project will be removing eight down trees from the rerouted Challenge Trail between 10K S TH and the first highway switchback below Ellis TH. The diameters are less than 12 inches. Skiers and snowshoers will be using this trail soon.

Meet at 9 am at the FOSM Guard Station. Wear warm clothes and boots for snow. Bring eye protection and warm gloves, hard hat, and ear protection if working near a chain saw.

Snowshoes – The snow will be over 5 inches deep, but I do not expect ice and packed snow. I recommend snowshoes with appropriate boots. I have one pair of snowshoes to loan.

Chain Saws – Yesterday at Capulin Snow Play Area, one Husqvarna chain saw would not start at 23F. If you bring your chain saw, please warm it up at home and use winter grade bar oil (based on 10W oil instead of 30 W).

Other Saws – Bring your sharp crosscut saw and other manual saws. We will have at least one Katanaboy 500 saw. If needed we can take a crosscut saw from the FOSM Guard Station. Bring lubricant for crosscut saws. Other equipment – wedges, axes, hatches, and other equipment.

Vehicles – The highway may not be plowed. 4WD or AWD recommended. Most of the trees are near Dan’s Loop, but it will not be plowed. We will probably be parked at 10K S or N TH.

Please email or call me if you have questions or if you have information about snow conditions or highway conditions.

Sam Beard, Projects Chair

Friends of the Sandia Mountains

505-828-0673