By Paul Shockley

Free Press Staff Writer

A nearly week-old organized ground search for missing mother Paige Birgfeld is now based at Grand Junction’s Canyon View Park.

Connie Flukey, with the Jennifer and Abby Recovery Foundation, said the move north from the Lands End Fire Department was completed on Thursday.

Volunteer searchers will be at it again a sixth day starting 7 a.m. Friday.

“We have a (city) permit to be here for a week, but we’re praying tomorrow’s the last day,” Flukey said.

The group is now working out of a pavilion located near 24 and G roads.

The foundation’s search had focused most of the past week south of Grand Junction along U.S. Highway 50, covering a sizable stretch of land on both sides of the highway.

That effort last weekend led to the recovery of several of Birgfeld’s personal items — officials haven’t confirmed exactly what was recovered.

Birgfeld, 34, has been missing three weeks.

“I truly believe she’s not out there (south of city along U.S. Highway 50) and we’ve eliminated that area,” Flukey said.

Flukey estimated the group’s volunteer search numbers at 65, and they’re looking for more.

Anyone interested should call 260-1821.

Reach Paul Shockley at pshockley@gjfreepress.com.