Tools for building trails in the McKay Community Forest that were recently stolen have been replaced thanks to the generosity of several local businesses.
Shafer’s Ace Hardware, Pierson Building Center, Katri and Dart Electric and Revolution Bicycles have all aided in the cause to replace the stolen items which included 11 round and 4 square point shovels, 8 rakes and 3 pruning loppers with a total value of approximately $750.
“We are so lucky to live and work in a community with so many giving individuals and companies," said Humboldt County Public Works Director Tom Mattson. “The needed tools will allow the county to move forward with this community project.”
The burglary was reported on Dec. 18, 2020, after it was discovered the tools were taken from a county-owned storage container that was broken into. The tools were intended to be used by the California Conservation Corps and Volunteer Trail Stewards to help build and maintain forest trails. The four businesses contacted the Humboldt County Public Works Department immediately after the news of the burglary was announced and offered to assist with replacing the tools or moving the storage container to a more secure location.
The county recently released the final McKay Community Forest Trail Plan along with the associated environmental report. The trail plan proposes a trail network with 31 miles of multi-use roads, multi-use trails, hiking trails, and mountain bike trails. Trail building will begin after the Board of Supervisors adopts the environmental report and public health guidelines allow group gatherings.
Anyone with information on the stolen items is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 707-445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at 707-268-2539. The case reference number is 202006293.