Local trail project to honor memory of public land steward

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – Join other community volunteers in celebrating the 12th annual National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 24, by building a new mile-long hiking and mountain biking trail on public lands. Located in the Lunch Loop area at the Tabeguache Trailhead off Monument Rd, the “Pet-e-kes Trail” will be dedicated to the memory of long-time public land steward Pete Larson, who died last year while on the job for the Bureau of Land Management.

“This was one of Pete’s favorite areas to run and bike with his beloved dog “Kes,” Grand Junction Field Manager Catherine Robertson said. “This is a day and a way for his family, friends, co-workers and the community to celebrate Pete and remember his many contributions to the valley.”

Pete was a retired educator who worked seasonally for both the BLM and the National Park Service. He was an avid trail runner and mountain biker who treasured western Colorado’s public lands.

Volunteers are needed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for trail building, organizing volunteers and providing refreshments on BLM public lands offering outstanding views of the Grand Valley, Grand Mesa and Colorado National Monument. The Pet-e-kes Trail will enhance the existing trail system by providing an intermediate-level trail in an area known for its more challenging trails. Get more details and register by September 22 for this project at http://www.voutdoors.org. (Click on "Find Volunteer Opportunities," enter "September 24" and select BLM as the agency.) Volunteers should bring work boots and gloves, a sack lunch, plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen. For more information, contact Park Ranger Chris Pipkin at 970-244-3024.

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Editor’s Note: Media is invited for photo ops and on-the-ground interviews. Meet at trailhead at 10 a.m. sharp—drive, then hike to site (moderate 15 min. hike). From Grand Junction, go west on Hwy 340, turn left onto Monument Rd, go 1-½ miles to the trailhead on your left. Contact Mel Lloyd at 970-244-3097 for additional information. High-clearance vehicle recommended.