Work party planned Sunday at Bigfork Nordic Center

Bigfork's Community Nordic Center is organizing a work party from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Nordic Center - rain, snow or shine.

This is the second work party this year to prepare the trails for improved skiing.

The party will repair trail damage. Tire ruts will be filled and trail surfaces smoothed using a bulldozer.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation has already re-established road closures in the area to prevent further damage.

Volunteers are invited to help rake and pick rocks off the trail to ensure a level skiing surface. Disturbed areas will be fertilized and seeded with native grasses. This is an appropriate activity for teenagers accompanied by parents. Volunteers are asked to leave younger children at home.

Heavy gravel rakes, work gloves, waterproof boots and appropriate clothing are recommended. People should bring your own lunches and water.

The trails are leased from the state agency. The lease this year cost approximately $1,200. Additional costs include signs, snowmobile maintenance, gas and oil, and liability insurance

Local skiers, businesses or individuals interested in donating to the Nordic Center may mail their checks to BCNC, 9236 Montana 35, Bigfork MT 59911.

For more information, visit the Web site at www.bcnc.org.

Parking for the Nordic Center is at the intersection of Foothill and Jewel Basin Roads.

The center is operated by the Glacier Nordic Club, in cooperation with the Montana Wilderness Association and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

The ski area features about 10 kilometers (6 miles) of groomed Nordic ski trails suitable for track and skate skiing as well as snowshoeing.