RAF AWARDS GRANT FOR TRIGGER GAP TREE THINNING

RAF Arkansas Liaison Harper Goodwin has been awarded an RAF grant to improve Trigger Gap airfield in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Goodwin, Arkansas Liaison Dave Powell and other volunteers recently met at the field to start thinning trees and underbrush along the 3,000 ft turf runway. While the work party was successful, it was apparent that much more needed to be done. “The RAF funds the routine mowing of the runway and camping area, but this expanded effort will remove undesirable trees out to one hundred feet of the runway and camping areas,” Goodwin said. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the airfield, and during this time, the perimeter area has been kept under control using a large batwing mower by the farmer who runs cattle nearby, but Goodwin explained that he can no longer continue maintaining the area.


Goodwin and Ambassador Jake Hampton volunteered time to define the area, mark trees, and get bids on the project that will remove and mulch encroaching trees, brush, and briars. “By removing the unwanted trees and underbrush now and allowing a few select trees to grow to maturity, this airfield and mountain top will truly present a park-like setting and unlimited views,” Goodwin said. He anticipates a three-day project with a land management company handling the bulk of the work. The brush and trees, many having vicious thorns, will be mulched by a Fecon machine. He wishes to address it soon before it becomes a larger, more costly challenge, and has committed to being on site to oversee the work. The contractor selected for the job is "very enthusiastic about the project, the airfield, and our mission,” Goodwin added. This newly cleared perimeter will need to be maintained on an annual basis, and Adam Jones, Director of FLY OZ, will be providing a large batwing mower twice a year, which will be operated by volunteers.


For information on Trigger Gap, see the Airfield Guide.


Submitted February 11, 2026


Photo credit: FlyOz

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