The biggest challenge on this project is location. It takes a 4x4 with a gutsy driver
just to make it to the top of the canyon. Once at the top, you still have a 700-foot
drop (down a steep canyon wall) before you reach the barrier site. A people trail is
etched out of the canyon but what about all the equipment and materials it would
take to build such a structure? In the early stages of planning it was considered
that helicopters would be the solution. It didn't take too long before we realized that
this might not be the best option. One major problem was the lack of availability.
Our local helicopter companies are playing a major role in fighting the many wild
land fires in Montana and Wyoming. Another problem was the windy canyon
navigating. The odds were good that on any given day a helicopter would be
unable to deliver the materials or equipment needed. These huge scheduling
delays were not acceptable for this time-sensitive project. We needed an
alternative solution. Company owner, Devin Bair, designed and fabricated the
trolley system depicted below. With the help of a great crew the trolley has been
installed and has successfully carried the equipment and materials needed thus far
on the project. The system has proven itself invaluable in facilitating the daily
needs of this project. It carries in lunches, safety gear and the tools that you don't
realize you need until the last minute.
just to make it to the top of the canyon. Once at the top, you still have a 700-foot
drop (down a steep canyon wall) before you reach the barrier site. A people trail is
etched out of the canyon but what about all the equipment and materials it would
take to build such a structure? In the early stages of planning it was considered
that helicopters would be the solution. It didn't take too long before we realized that
this might not be the best option. One major problem was the lack of availability.
Our local helicopter companies are playing a major role in fighting the many wild
land fires in Montana and Wyoming. Another problem was the windy canyon
navigating. The odds were good that on any given day a helicopter would be
unable to deliver the materials or equipment needed. These huge scheduling
delays were not acceptable for this time-sensitive project. We needed an
alternative solution. Company owner, Devin Bair, designed and fabricated the
trolley system depicted below. With the help of a great crew the trolley has been
installed and has successfully carried the equipment and materials needed thus far
on the project. The system has proven itself invaluable in facilitating the daily
needs of this project. It carries in lunches, safety gear and the tools that you don't
realize you need until the last minute.
| VIEW OF THE TROLLEY FROM THE SITE (IF YOU CAN FIND IT) |
| ANCHORING TO ROCK FACE AT TOP |
| CABLE ANCHORED AT BOTTOM OF CANYON |
| WINCHES ARE POWERED BY HYDRAULICS |
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| Trolley System |