Dirt Boys, park staff partner for fence project

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katrina Heikkinen
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  The 819th RED HORSE Squadron Dirt Boys began a fencing project at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park in Ulm, Mont., Feb. 15.

Formerly known as Ulm Pishkun State Park, the park is one of the largest prehistoric bison kill sites in the United States, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks' website. Views, cultural artifacts, a visitor center, interpretive trails and three miles of hiking are available at the park. Upon learning that the park's fencing does not properly surround its park's boundaries; the staff knew replacing the fences would become a necessity.

"We've had fencing material on site for three years, but we've never had enough staff or volunteers to install it," said Richard Hopkins, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park manager. "After we heard members of the 819th RED HORSE Squadron wanted to volunteer for the project, we jumped at the opportunity."

With members ranging from E-1 to E-7s, the crew of 50 will be replacing, recycling and building approximately five miles of fencing around the north side of the park.

"Not only are the 432 acres that were recently purchased by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation not fenced, but a recent survey showed that the dilapidating fences were not on the property line," Hopkins said. "Because of this, we've had issues with unauthorized vehicles riding into the park. It has been a law enforcement concern for us, so this project is going to help prevent intrusions and damages to the natural resources of the park."

Team Malmstrom's efforts to help preserve the park not only contribute to Cascade County, but it's also providing upgrade training for Airmen.

"This project is an opportunity for Airmen to earn their five skill level because fencing is a core task that is identified as career specific," said Master Sgt. Simon Wess, 819th RHS construction team echo NCO in charge. "Airmen are here on a voluntary basis and they're getting hands-on training."

Airmen will be resurrecting fences over prairies and rugged terrain during the duty day, five days a week.

"This is a great volunteer project and I love doing stuff like this," said Tech Sgt. John Sinner, 819th RHS foreman construction team fox. "I've been in Montana for almost six years and anytime I get a chance to work with the community I find it to be very self rewarding."

Although the project has no scheduled end date, the crew will continue to work until the project is complete.

"Without the help of the 819th RED HORSE Squadron, we [park staff] wouldn't be able to get the job done," Hopkins said. "The park is a very important site because of all the cultural artifacts that are priceless and sacred in this area. We need to preserve the history and they are helping us accomplish that."