Retaining Wall Trail Training

Wall Crib and Wall Retaining Continuation

We previously had a workshop with the Jolly Rovers and partnered with NYC Parks and a few volunteers to address erosion issue on The Old Croton Aqueduct and John Muir Trail. We encourage everyone to volunteer while VCPA Trail staff finalizes this project. This volunteering opportunity is geared for those who hope to gain advance trail skills.

Topics covered:

• Introduction and Safety: Briefing on goals, safety protocols, and proper tool usage.
• Site Preparation and Excavation: Clearing the area, leveling the ground, and digging a trench for the foundation.
• Stone Selection and Sorting: Choosing the right rocks for the wall's base and upper courses, considering size and shape.
• Building the Foundation: Laying the base course, ensuring proper alignment and compaction.
• Constructing the Wall: Layering rocks, backfilling with gravel, and compacting the soil behind the wall.
• Drainage: Incorporating drainage solutions like weep holes or permeable backfill.
• Cover Bands and Copes: Applying finishing touches like cover bands or coping stones.
• Finishing Touches: Landscaping around the wall, and cleaning up.
• Tool Talk: Demonstrating tools and discussing on-site examples of dry-laid stone walls.

Please arrive at the meeting location by 9am and we will walk together to the work site on the Old Croton Aqueduct.

Volunteers must be 18+ for this project.

Host or Publisher Van Cortlandt Park Alliance