![[Image Description: Two MCC members taking a brief break; one is sitting on a rock, the other is standing nearby. They are both in their uniforms, looking out at the expansive, mountain view surrounding them.]](https://cdn.firespring.com/images/c3f85e97-43a9-4810-8081-e8e6338173d0.jpeg)
This week our team had the joy of working locally with Trout Unlimited to build "Villas" and pools to raise the stream levels in Leverich Canyon. We learned from our project partner, Conner, that the native trout in the area have been struggling with water levels and that the invasive "Bombshells" - Rainbow, Brown, and Brook trout - have been out-competing them for years. In summary, these introduced species have been meddling in the gene pool and causing the native trout to die out. The goal of this hitch was to help the Westslope Cutthroat trout in their struggles, so we decided to build log jams and give the trout little "Villa" pools to live in. Over the course of 8 days, we helped construct over 40 PALS (post-assisted log structures) in Leverich Creek. As we worked our way upstream we found plenty of wild raspberries and thimbleberries to keep our spirits high, sometimes catching glimpses of the Forest Service helicopter logging efforts happening deeper in the Custer Gallatin forest! Overall, this hitch was a phenomenal way to end our season; not only was it a relaxed time, but we all took our time to reflect and appreciate what a great summer we had together!
