On the soapbox...
I think a major incentive to the workday program would be for whomever is representing the FS in this endeavor to put together an actual plan for the workdays, and then stick with that plan. Based on what I have observed thus far this year, I can only assume there is no actual plan. Earlier this year, I was genuinely interested in rekindling an old association with the workdays. Presently, I just don't know if that interest is going to survive.
In addition, there are a good number of other people who are honestly interested in participating in a FS workday program, but at the present time there just doesn't seem to be much of a program for them... and finally, it is my opinion that unorganized trash-pickups just don't quite qualify as FS workdays.
... off the soapbox.
Well all I can do is tell you what I know.
1.)Usually to my understanding (From Janet and Terry Savery) they don't have "work days" during the summer. But last year everyone pushed for a work day the 3rd Saturday of every month. So the Forest Service gave the group (I don't know who exactly it was) what they wanted this year.
2.)The huge reason is the heat and humidity during the summer. Too many times have they (The Forest Service) had medical emergencies during summer work days from heat exhaustion etc in volunteers. During the peak hot month(s) of summer they are happy to see anyone out there, let alone amazed if more than 4-5 people show. And due to the heat they eliminate any heavy work and reduce it to just trash pick up, putting up trail markers, doing trail inventory etc.
3.)The contractors working on the trails are really throwing things through the loop. They have a dead line to have everything completed, but beyond that there isn't a set in stone schedule. So you never know what part of Rocky Mnt Loop will be closed, or if Falls Dam will be closed. Since we have primarily been helping on Falls Dam that even further increases the difficulty of knowing if we will be able to put up guard railing etc.
4.)Throw the shooting incident ontop of all this. So the FS has had the higher ups from Asheville there breathing down their throats. Plus they have been out of town for all kinds of meetings, etc. And keep in mind the higher ups may be there because of the shooting range, but they also take a look at the trails etc.
So it has been a very busy year for the FS so far, and you put all that together it doesn't make for a "rock solid work day schedule". I foresee in October, November, possibly December and through the off-season the work days will be more focus and have heavier work loads. The contractors will be done, Falls will be in full swing and things will go a bit smoother.
