SORBA-CSRA

(Dec 19 | 6:00 AM) FATS Trail Update!

A cold front moved through bringing just under an inch of rain to the FATS area. Given the dry conditions beforehand, the trails should begin to dry out within approximately 24 hours. Please allow adequate time for the trails to dry before using the trails to help prevent damage.

Thank you for helping take care of the trails!

Update from Riley Hale, WRDW!

From Augusta Utilities Department: "The Augusta Utilities Department announces the reopening of the Canal towpath between the Raw Water Pump Station and the I-20 Bridge for public use on Friday, December 19, 2025. Work continues with the federal dam safety regulators to address the final comments on embankment repair plans. Because of this ongoing coordination, the construction originally scheduled to begin in January will be delayed. “We appreciate the public’s patience as we work closely with federal dam safety regulators to finalize the embankment repair plans,” said Wes Byne, Director of Utilities. “Reopening this section of the Canal towpath allows residents to safely enjoy the trail while we continue moving this important infrastructure project forward.” In preparation, utilities crews have made safety improvements along the previously closed section of the trail to ensure it is ready for public use. Visitors are asked to observe all posted signs and remain behind marked safety barriers. Once repair work begins, portions of the towpath will be temporarily closed at various times. Advance notice will be shared with the public before any closures. We appreciate the community’s continued patience and support as we move this critical project forward."

Big Rock Trail West — Update!

Fantastic news! A strong crew of dedicated volunteers, led by our very own Rootball King, Ed Farnell, wrapped up the final projects on the west side of Big Rock Trail this morning!

With one last inspection and a recommendation to the U.S. Forest Service, this side of the trail could be open before Christmas!

This milestone represents countless hours of hard work — cutting and clearing downed trees, repairing rootballs, and restoring damaged tread. It truly took a village, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed time and effort along the way.

Today’s Trail Heroes:
• Ed Farnell
• Todd Snider
• Mike Ikeler

Huge thanks to this team for a job exceptionally well done!

Stay tuned for the official announcement on the west side reopening — and just as importantly, keep an eye out for upcoming work party announcements on Big Rock, Tower, and Deep Step Trails.

We simply cannot do this work without the strength and support of our amazing trail community. Thank you all for showing up and making a real difference!

Deep Step South Update!

Great progress today cutting and clearing 66 trees on the south side of Deep Step Trail!

There’s still about ⅓ of the south section to go (approximately 0.7 miles) with over 350 trees left to cut/clear!

Many, many thanks to the Friday crew who did a great job in challenging conditions:

John Pilcher
Paul Farrow
Dave Knapp
Angela Allen

This section had plenty of blowdown, and a full summer of viney foliage growth which made the work especially demanding. The crew pushed through and got it done!

We still need 2 support/safety volunteers for both the morning and afternoon teams tomorrow, Saturday, December 13.

If you’re available, please reach out through our website sorbacsra.org or email [email protected].

Deep Step North Update!

The final major project on the north side of the Deep Step Trail is officially complete!

Huge thanks to our incredible rootball kings for making it happen:

Ed Farnell
Carlos Galvis
Joe Pitta
Josh Dexter

One final run-through to make sure every detail is buttoned up, then a recommendation to the USFS to open this segment of the Deep Step Trail. Stay tuned for updates!

Looking ahead: We still have work to do this Saturday, December 13th, cutting and clearing additional trees on the Tower Trail. We’re planning to run two shifts—but we need enough volunteers, specifically safety/support, to make it happen.

If you can help or have questions, please reach out through our website at sorbacsra.org or email us at [email protected].

Thank you all for your continued support!