This workshop is being held in La Crosse, WI (2 hours from Madison). Attendees will be based in La Crosse during the workshop and will receive lodging options via email.
Dates: Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13
Cost: $800
Level: Intermediate
Maximum Size: 12 students
Classroom Site: TBD (La Crosse, WI)
Field Site: Community Trail Farm
Schedule:
Day 1- 8 am - 5 pm (Classroom/Field)
Day 2, 8 am - 5 pm (Field)
Description
Stonework is not for everyone. However, for those with patience, attention to detail, a hard work ethic, and a general love for puzzles, stonework can be one of the most rewarding forms of trail work because of its longevity and aesthetic. This two day workshop will explore the ideal rock size and shapes for structures, safe transportation methods, and construction techniques for stone structures.
Day one of the workshop will highlight different examples of stonework through a photographic representation of completed projects. Then it will focus on the planning, design, and layout of your stone project while beginning a field-based project. Day two of the workshop will focus on finishing the field-based project.
Learning Objectives
1. Identify and describe what type of stone structure is needed and why.
2. Demonstrate appropriate body mechanics and safe stone moving techniques.
3. Demonstrate proper stone stetting practices.
Instructor
Willie Bittner, Great Lakes Trailbuilders, LLC (PTBA Member Company)
Willie Bittner started working on trails 20 years ago with the Wisconsin DNR and over the years he has worked from coast to coast building trails and teaching the different methods and styles to volunteer groups, conservation corps and state and federal agencies. He founded Great Lakes Trailbuilders, LLC in 2008 to bring a low impact and environmentally friendly approach to trailbuilding and design to the Midwest.
As owner and lead designer, Willie is dedicated to sharing his experiences, engaging users and developing leading edge trails. His projects have taken him from designing new National Parks trails in Patagonia to co-founding WisCorps, Inc. a Wisconsin based Conservation Corps to leading trainings on everything from sustainable trail construction to trail psychology and rigging.