This was one of several special projects by the SMMTC trail crew to repair winter storm damage on the Backbone Trail. The priority task today was to repair a large washout on the Dead Horse Trail, which was presenting a safety hazard. Twelve SMMTC volunteers were present. Met at the Trippet Ranch parking lot. Held project briefing, safety and tool talks. Hiked approximately 0.6 miles on the Dead horse Trail to the work site. Began work. At the washout, we built a 2’ by 4.5’ retaining wall. Backfilled with rocks and soil to fill the 4.5’ hole in the trail. Installed four timber steps atop the new tread to prevent future erosion and provide better footing on the steep trail. Uphill from the washout, we cleared a 24” culvert. This clogged culvert was the main problem resulting in the large washout in the trial. Also installed additional drainage features up hill to divert water off the trail. .. Completed work at the major problem area, began hike back to the meeting place. As we hiked back we performed light brushing and filled many feet of trenches in the tread. Arrived at meeting place. Project complete. Total SMMTC volunteer hours: 12 Volunteers x 6.0 hours = 72 hours Feet of trail maintained: 500 Note: Generally, this trail is in very poor condition, especially the lower portion above the Dead Horse Parking lot. There are numerous sets of steps which have been damaged by erosion and need to be rebuilt or replaced. There are also numerous stretches of trail with very poor drainage, resulting in standing water and deep mud on the trail. Regular maintenance events for this trail should be included in next fall’s schedule. Jerry, Don, Jon, Ruth, Dave, Barb, Carlyn, Denise, Kirsten, Greg, Christian, John R