The First Professional Anchor Replacement Crew In The Wasatch... And The Nation

We did it!

Thanks to your generous donations and with the support of our sponsors and grant partners, we've hired the nation’s first professional Anchor Replacement Crew for a pilot project this fall in Little Cottonwood Canyon.

A warm welcome to Field Coordinator, Jesse Williams, and the Anchor Replacement Crew: Andy Anderson, Alex Lemieux, and Eric Salmi.

Professionalizing anchor replacement has been a goal of the SLCA’s for many years now.
Our dedicated WARI (Wasatch Anchor Replacement Initiative) Committee Members have put countless hours into developing best practices and methods that have led us to being able to train and hire a crew. 

Professionalizing anchor replacement not only provides for higher quality anchors, but also increases safety for our volunteers and employees. We are extremely fortunate here in the Wasatch to have a community of knowledgeable and technically competent individuals to advise and participate in this work. 

Where is the Anchor Replacement Crew working?

The crew is currently working at the Gate Buttress in Little Cottonwood Canyon. 
In 2017, the SLCA signed a lease for this 140 acres of privately owned Church property allowing for stewardship of the climbing resource. 

How do I volunteer to help with anchor replacement?

Due to COVID-19, SLCA’s events and Adopt a Crags have been put on pause. Stay tuned for opportunities to volunteer in 2021.

Do you climb at Hellgate in LCC?

Please help us to gather observations on anchor conditions at Main Hellgate to help us plan for more work later this fall. If you are out climbing at Hellgate, you can report your anchor observations on  this form.

Anchor replacement is an ongoing initiative and will continue to need climbers' support. We appreciate your donations.

Photos by SLCA Communication Committee Members, Lauren Pandolfi @thepandolphin and Tim Behuniak @timbehuniak