Air Force Aids in Waldo Canyon Flood Mitigation
9/23/2014 12:00:00 AM | Men's Gymnastics
USAF ACADEMY, Colo. - The Air Force men's gymnastics team returned to the mountains above Manitou Springs this past weekend as they volunteered with the Coalition for the Upper South Platte. It is the second time this fall that the Falcons have worked with CUSP and assisted with flood mitigation in vulnerable areas around the Waldo Canyon burn scar.
"It was great to see how the team was able to use their communication skills, creativity and strength to accomplish a goal and help with flood mitigation and fire prevention," junior Denis Aurelius said.
When they volunteered with CUSP in August, the Falcons spent the day spreading oats to help protect the land against soil erosion. This time, the team spent the day spreading nets along the side of the mountains, which will keep the soil and newly-planted oat seeds in place, while building vegetation to protect life and property downstream.
"This weekend and our previous excursion with the Coalition for the Upper South Platte were especially meaningful because I have seen firsthand the destruction these fires and floods bring the beautiful state of Colorado," senior Colorado Springs native Nick Gaudlip said. "Our team is honored to have the opportunity to give back to a community that supports us so whole-heartedly, with a little sweat and elbow grease."
"There was tangible and visible evidence of what we had accomplished," senior Gared Chapman added. "In addition to the joy of helping the community, there was a sense of accomplishment when we could actually see the product at the end of the day."
"I'm very proud of my gymnasts for taking time out of their busy schedules to once again provide service to the local community," head coach Kip Simons said. "Their willingness to help out aligns directly with USAFA's values of `Service Before Self'."
Players Mentioned
