Another really well done Conservation Project Saturday, August 10th! We had 13 volunteers + 2 CUSP. Right in Hartsel is the old train depot that is being worked on by the local historical group. All around the depot and down to the river were Canada Thistle. Our group removed most of the thistle, then raked dirt and spread wild flower seeds for things like Corn Flower, Yarrow, Columbine and others. Unfortunately we ran out of time to get all the thistle, but we still filled a truck bed with garbage bags. I kept waiting for a passerby to yell at us for cutting wildflowers because Canada Thistle produces pretty pinkish purple buds.
Straight up Noon and we gain new energy to trot across the road where the cafe fed us a nice lunch a hamburgers fresh off the grill, chips, drink, and brownie. The owners have lived there something like 42 years and were there when the original hotel serviced guests for their hot springs. Unfortunately the area has high radon emissions so the government shut down the hot springs. Jim Klug gave the cafe owners and the lady from CUSP shirts. Great TU advertising! The locals were very thankful that we would come and help them and told us we are welcome back anytime.After lunch folks split different directions to go fishing. Bruce led Jim Klug, Jerry, Bob Melcher, and myself out behind town to Badger Gap SWA. The stream meanders through the huge meadow; the "famous" place where the buffalo were shot. Around every corner we got more bites (fish, not mosquitos). When we hooked up, we found the fish were on the small side (see photo). 
This is the area that Greg Spohn wants funding to track fish movement. We also checked out Tomahawk SWA on the way in. It was looking just as nice and we saw a guide there with 2 guys. Does not show on Google maps but the parking area for Badger Gap is at N 39° 2' 4", W 105° 47' 36" if you want to get there.There are only 2 Conservation Projects left this year so don't miss out. After several projects I am seeing that we really are making a difference and people notice. See our other article on this web page for the September 7th Clear Creek Outing.