CFI Field Programs address existing damage through the construction or delineation of a sustainable trail or route, and restoration of damaged areas. This is done on a project basis in partnership with the Forest Service or other land management agency.
Planning for each project begins four years prior to the start of any work. Planning progresses from the formation of Project Oversight Teams to guide each project’s scope and planning, through development of preliminary and final Construction Notes and Restoration Plans, and identification of funding sources to actual project start. A Memorandum of Understanding guides planning between the Forest Service and CFI. The financial basis for each project is defined through a Challenge Cost Share Agreement between the two parties. Also, project planning is subject to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
CFI hires seasonal staff to oversee projects. Volunteers are also an integral part of each project. In 2007, 574 individuals donated nearly 1,000 days to
CFI projects and programs.
CFI staff trains, supervises, and works alongside these volunteers on Volunteer Project weekends. Between Volunteer Projects,
CFI staff continue project work. Each
CFI Field Crew is comprised of individuals who are skilled in trail building, restoration, and field education.
After projects are completed, Adopt-a-Peak groups are enlisted to perform ongoing maintenance and restoration. These groups are trained and supervised by CFI staff, and work from notes prepared by either CFI or the Forest Service. These groups commit to a minimum of 24 person days each season.
CFI Field Programs are overseen by a Restoration Manager, a Field Projects Manager, and an Adopt-a-Peak Manager.