VOLUNTEERS WORK TO IMPROVE GRAVELLY VALLEY

Nine volunteers, including RAF California Ambassadors Alan Cossitt and Jason Brand, flew and drove into Gravelly Valley airstrip, 1Q5, in the Mendocino National Forest over the October 19 weekend to install a new windsock and paint the runway threshold markers to make them more visible. District Ranger Frank Aebly and Forestry Technician Mark Sampson represented the Forest Service, helped haul water and cement, and transported supplies to the strip.

Cossitt said, “This airstrip is a gem due to the area’s physical beauty, and the large Tule elk herd that frequents the area. September is peak rut season, a wonderful reason to use the airstrip.” He reports that work party participants who spent the night heard some bugling from rutting elk. “The Forest Service is very supportive of the airstrip and sees it as a key resource in future recreation plans,” Cossitt added.

That support was especially evident at the October 19 event. Aebly and his team had to get NEPA approval, organize clearing brush and digging of the windsock hole, purchase all the needed equipment and parts, and fabricate the windsock pole and mount.

“The Forest Service invested a substantial amount of time and money into improving the airstrip, and the RAF appreciates their support,” Cossitt said.

The 3500-ft runway surface is rough but still usable. The USFS hopes to drag the runway soon but is still determining when this will occur.

To delve deeper into the history and features of Gravelly Valley, we recommend exploring the Airfield Guide for a comprehensive overview.

Submitted on October 28, 2024.