Evan J. LancasterDespite closing to the public due to the ongoing global pandemic, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy was still able to provide some upgrades to its infrastructure.
Focusing on the Buck Gully Trail System, the IRC’s Planning and Infrastructure Crew, with the help of the city of Newport Beach, utilized the closure to improve trail sustainability by removing overgrown vegetation, as well as adding surface drains.
Courtesy Irvine Ranch Conservancy
“During the closure, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy Infrastructure Crew was able to operate heavy equipment safely on the narrow trail system and accelerate improvement projects,” said Adam Maywhort, Director of Planning & Infrastructure at Irvine Ranch Conservancy. “The crew was able to complete an extensive amount of repairs that will provide an overall better user experience in this area,” Maywhort added. “Vegetation from late, heavy seasonal rains had overtaken the trail and the trailhead had numerous areas with accelerated erosion and two significant bank failures. Also, the concrete bridge at the 5th and Poppy entrance had extrinsic debris from storm related creek overflow.”
Plans to continue improvements to the IRC are scheduled to begin this fall.
Currently, the Buck Gully trail system is open daily from dawn to dusk for self-guided access. One-way bike traffic is permitted. All visitors must practice physical distancing and wear face coverings while enjoying trails. To learn more about Buck Gully Reserve visit LetsGoOutside.org or New
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