Andrew Avitt, Pacific Southwest RegionSpecial to Valley NewsEditor’s note: The Backcountry Trails Program, established in 1979, is the longest-running special program of the California Conservation Corps. For two decades, the program, in partnership with AmeriCorps, has provided a path for those looking to pursue a career in the Forest Service.There are nearly 160,000 miles of trails on national forests and grasslands across 43 states and Puerto Rico, giving people access to activities like camping, fishing and peak bagging.Although these mostly dirt trails may seem simple, not much to look at or think about, the work to build these trails and maintain them is tough. The work requires proper planning to ensure minimal adverse effects on the land and many hours of physical
