Volunteers help complete construction on a new footbridge at Paxson Lake Campground in Alaska

The BLM Glennallen Field Office Paxson Lake Campground foot bridge replacement project was completed over Labor Day weekend. The foot bridge replacement was one of the discrete projects under the Alaska Trails Restoration and Rehabilitation ARRA projects. Fairbanks area Boy Scouts of America (BSA) volunteers and their families drove over 200 miles on two separate weekends to partner with BLM staff and volunteer campground hosts on the project. The old log bridge was torn down, the new foot bridge was constructed, and the adjoining foot trail was widened and graveled. The bridge was purchased through contract with ARRA funds and provides improved access between two loops within the popular campground and across a creek ravine. In addition to being distinguished as the first ARRA project to be completed in BLM-Alaska, one BSA Troop 38 volunteer’s efforts resulted in the fulfillment of requirements toward earning his Eagle Scout badge.

Paxson Lake Campground footbridge before construction

Paxson Lake Campground foot bridge after construction