Our community recently suffered the devastating effects of a large debris and mudflow caused by flash flooding on the mountain above us. The hillside was denuded of plants and trees during the El Dorado Fire of 2020, which burned almost 23,000 acres.

This flooding resulted in a large flow of debris and boulders which overflowed Hathaway Creek and did significant damage to Barton Flats Rd and the bridge it crosses as it enters our tract of cabins.

The BFCOA Board of Directors are united in the view that our first priority must be reopening Barton Flats Road.

We recognize the hardship and damage experienced by some cabin owners near Hathaway Creek- our hearts go out to you. Reopening Barton Flats Road is the first step toward helping these cabin owners recover. About 65 cabins of the 94 lots rely on Barton Flats Road as their main route, and it’s essential for reaching the spring pipe for drinking water, utility companies, potable water truck, and septic tank pump truck. Fire, medical assistance, and law-enforcement agencies also depend on this access.

We are working with the U.S. Forest Service to help them fully understand the extent of the damage and the urgency of restoring access.

Bob Knudsen, our Board President, has met with several contractors to assess what it will take to reopen Barton Flats Road from Hathaway Creek Bridge East to roughly cabin number 73. This will involve clearing rocks, sediment, and debris and may include limited hauling. We’re also evaluating whether to clear Hathaway West at the same time or hold that work for later depending on funding.

The damage to the road will require significant equipment to move the massive rocks and other materials. Based on initial estimates, our goal is to raise $20,000 to begin repairs in early spring, in time to allow access for the full 2026 summer season.

The BFCOA can’t fund this directly, so we’ll rely on voluntary contributions from cabin owners. As an example, if each lot contributed $500, we would meet the target.

We welcome contributions from all who benefit from time at the cabins including owners, family and friends alike. The road serves everyone who visits, and every donation helps us reach our goal more quickly.

(Though this campaign is in my name, all proceeds will go straight to the Barton Flats Cabin Owners Association general fund account. Nothing will be deposited into my personal accounts.)