North Twentymile Paracargo Drop
Members of the MVFFLA have been busy the last few weeks coordinating with the Methow Valley Ranger District on a number of lookout projects. On Friday, July 21st, the MVFFLA successfully received a drop of restoration supplies to the summit of North Twentymile thanks to our local North Cascades Smokejumper Base (NCSB).
The North Cascades Smokejumper Base jump plane making a cargo drop at North Twentymile.
The summit of North 20 is the second highest lookout site in Washington State (7,437’) not including Mount Adams and a tough one to reach. It requires a 6 1/2 mile hike gaining 4,500 feet of elevation on a rough rocky trail. Volunteers have been very focused on restoration of this site since it is home to both a 1942 L-4 tower and the last intact D-6 cupola in Washington State, built in 1923 and celebrating a centennial this season.
The jump plane from the NCSB delivered a large supply of paint, water, additional cedar roof shingles for the tower, miscellaneous painting and restoration supplies, and a Wallowa toilet procured by MVFFLA member Russ Dalton from the Darrington Ranger District. 
The tower will be receiving a new roof in the next year and the MVFFLA will be planning a fall volunteer work party for repainting the L-4 tower.
Getting supplies to the summit of this lookout site is tough and we are so grateful for the support of our District and our smokejumper base. Thanks to everyone who had a part in making this happen. We’re so grateful!
