By Ice Age Trail Alliance
In a remarkable achievement, the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Portage/Waupaca Chapter has successfully concluded its IWSC project, marking the third and final phase of the Iola Ski Hill Segment’s reroute. The project brought together an enthusiastic group of individuals who contributed their time and efforts, demonstrating the power of community collaboration.
A total of 101 volunteers dedicated an impressive 2,237 service hours to this initiative. Among these dedicated volunteers were participants from the June 2023 Crew Leader Training class, showcasing the Alliance’s commitment to training and fostering leadership within its ranks.
The outcomes of this project are substantial and noteworthy:
- The collective effort resulted in the construction of 2,700 feet of trail tread.
- Two stone staircases, comprising a total of 12 steps, were meticulously built.
- A retaining wall spanning 15 feet in length was erected, adding both functionality and visual appeal.
- Additionally, 17 box steps were skillfully framed, filled, and tamped, enhancing accessibility and safety.
- A specialized team focused on Trail Layout and Design, exploring future possibilities along the Skunk, Foster, and New Hope segments of the trail.
The dedication and hard work of the volunteers were further highlighted by two meaningful dedications along the Iola Ski Hill Segment. A plaque was reverently hung in memory of Robert E. Culligan, Jr., gracing a retaining wall that supports one of the stone staircases. Another plaque found its place on a bench, honoring the legacy of Butch Siegel, a revered Crew Leader Emeritus and longstanding member of the Portage/Waupaca County Chapter.
The success of this project would not have been possible without the support of valued partners. The Trails Capacity Program, administered by American Trails and primarily funded by the Bronco Wild Fund — a program established by Ford Motor Company — played a pivotal role in enabling the Alliance to continue connecting people with outdoor experiences responsibly.
Trail Program Manager Dave Caliebe expressed his pride in the volunteers’ growth and contributions. “These folks stepped right up, confidently leading crews under the tutelage of seasoned Crew Leaders,” Caliebe stated. He added that witnessing their progress was truly awe-inspiring, especially considering their active involvement in previous events.
The project’s accomplishments extended beyond infrastructure, as volunteer crews tackled substantial challenges and maintained a solution-oriented approach. Stone staircases, totaling 12 steps, were made possible by a donation from Judith DeCoster in memory of her late husband, allowing the use of locally selected stones.
A dedicated group confronted the formidable task of clearing a dense black locust jungle, quickly organizing themselves and the tasks at hand under the guidance of Chad DuChateau, director of Trail Operations. Their efforts resulted in a 25-foot wide corridor being cleared, setting the stage for further trail development.
Throughout the project, expert volunteer teams ensured that sustenance was not overlooked, providing nourishing meals, salads, and homemade desserts to energize the hardworking volunteers. Evenings were capped off with the celestial display of the Perseid meteor shower, creating a fitting and captivating backdrop.
As the project reached its conclusion, two heartfelt dedications took place along the Iola Ski Hill Segment. The memory of Robert E. Culligan, Jr., was honored with a plaque at a retaining wall, while Butch Siegel’s legacy was celebrated through a bench-mounted plaque.
The results of this project resonate as a testament to the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s dedication to maintaining and enhancing the trail experience, drawing on the passion and commitment of its members and partners alike.
For more information, visit Ice Age Trail Alliance.
