tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75931832583692680882024-03-19T04:47:59.068-04:00Shelton Trails CommitteeTrail construction & maintenance in and around Shelton, Connecticut. Nature and greenway information. Bill Dyerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02401312311783157383noreply@blogger.comBlogger726125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-61897247475499963172024-03-18T13:22:00.004-04:002024-03-18T13:25:55.871-04:00The 2024 Trails Marathon Challenge<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6D3WWi3CrRF2MdHkG03zJcvHYxAnGtAmQM5WkUCVuQYmMn7JkhOeuK8gF3VFT4E2_HoVkZfG2ykKHtLb_NdHln7Le7m8AQdttJQ9ZpTJiW0t1k_Q9uguv-jxqDfmhTjWxtf5lDaPukjriyIxeR8IRg2yO1-OvH8zNgaNkr68l25E-YTyPxxQ6TN7HihkT/s2048/426204993_10232712692464424_4362661069703602517_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1516" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6D3WWi3CrRF2MdHkG03zJcvHYxAnGtAmQM5WkUCVuQYmMn7JkhOeuK8gF3VFT4E2_HoVkZfG2ykKHtLb_NdHln7Le7m8AQdttJQ9ZpTJiW0t1k_Q9uguv-jxqDfmhTjWxtf5lDaPukjriyIxeR8IRg2yO1-OvH8zNgaNkr68l25E-YTyPxxQ6TN7HihkT/w237-h320/426204993_10232712692464424_4362661069703602517_n.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>Shelton's hiking challenge for 2024 is up and running! We don't do a challenge every year, so take advantage of this one as a way to get out and explore trails that may be new to you. Even if you been on every trail before, it's easy to get in a rut and keep hiking the same favorite routes over and over. Consider this challenge a kind of 'bucket list' of hikes for the year. <p></p><p>We're calling it the Shelton Trails Marathon Challenge because the hikes add up to a total of 26.2 miles, the length of a marathon. That's a nod to the 2024 Olympics being held in France. The prize this year features "Hank the Hiker" from the Trails Barn weathervane, the five Olympic rings, and a French ribbon. </p><p>This challenge is very similar to the one we did in 2016, and some of the hikes are exactly the same. But this year we added a second level, so if you did all the hikes in 2016, you have the option of doing Level 2 this year with all new hikes. Level 2 was added because we have found over the years that some of our trail sections are a bit too rocky or steep for a lot of people. So those trails were removed from the basic level and concentrated in the the Level 2 hikes. The Burritt's Rocks section of the Paugussett Trail between Birchbank and Indian Well, for example, requires people to use their hands to scramble over boulders. Some people hate it and some people think it's fun. The Level 2 hikes also tend to be more remote and there are lots of hills. Again, some people hate that sort of thing and others love it. Pick whichever level you would enjoy the most. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctw6rjivmrG2pZybPjVk9rfpwiEhZ3dxGw3CTbp1dvXm9i9-XeFRQxS-VNg0_4hmCoqSzOTTeNxpWHE3lVoFT4hCKcRNvU_85kjJolmZBZX2CncNPPujc3xxWa7I3Dyx10UW-fYB47GaGVbCiBFcVEl5lKIWF_4_qJq9klql4QdxFN5BSG19HJsOCvtpd/s2048/0629201027b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctw6rjivmrG2pZybPjVk9rfpwiEhZ3dxGw3CTbp1dvXm9i9-XeFRQxS-VNg0_4hmCoqSzOTTeNxpWHE3lVoFT4hCKcRNvU_85kjJolmZBZX2CncNPPujc3xxWa7I3Dyx10UW-fYB47GaGVbCiBFcVEl5lKIWF_4_qJq9klql4QdxFN5BSG19HJsOCvtpd/w400-h225/0629201027b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Both levels share a loop at Nicholdale Farm</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>In preparing the descriptions for these hikes, we were surprised at how many of the old hikes had changed since 2016. Oak Valley Trail is now blazed red, not white, and the Paugussett Trail was rerouted in several places. And we have a number of new trails that didn't exist in 2016, including French's Hill, Woodsend Trail, the Pearmain Path, and Stockmal Trail. </p><p>Our National Trails Day guided hike on June 1 will feature one of the listed challenge hikes at Birchbank Mountain. This is a Level 1 hike, but with an option to turn it into one of the Level 2 hikes. Stay tuned for more information about the Trails Day hike. </p><p>To get started, click on the main 2024 Hiking Challenge page on this blog, which is list on the main menu to the right near the very top. ---> Or click <a href="https://sheltontrailscom.blogspot.com/p/2024-shelton-trails-marathon-challenge.html">HERE</a>. <br /><br />Print out the tracking form for either Level 1 or Level 2 (or both if you're really ambitious). Then take a look at the description and map for each hike before you set out. Some hikes are not recommended during mud season, or may cross a highway that is best avoided during rush hour, so plan accordingly. Level Two has a custom Google Map that you can save to your Google account and use while hiking to geolocate yourself along the route. </p>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-61882903181212007922024-03-17T09:33:00.000-04:002024-03-18T13:31:08.059-04:00Eversource Trail Closure Status<p><b></b></p><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh882bivLCZxxPTfkUeb9IK3EW9nIG-C8s7CyvnglXft6Cubb-POhEP8ZbBUDs_NgOGKMbBLpJuY2gzemcupjHU0rooaqLOiX0ZKV3hSjQJxPiLH_M7p0zJ2lGWmqKqtNO0mwHUqqsV3XsLyhfXx_3bUx0zP5WU96fkxedT_bI5-J2z_UyqWlCUYU6Gcw/s4032/PXL_20230430_164308282.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="113" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh882bivLCZxxPTfkUeb9IK3EW9nIG-C8s7CyvnglXft6Cubb-POhEP8ZbBUDs_NgOGKMbBLpJuY2gzemcupjHU0rooaqLOiX0ZKV3hSjQJxPiLH_M7p0zJ2lGWmqKqtNO0mwHUqqsV3XsLyhfXx_3bUx0zP5WU96fkxedT_bI5-J2z_UyqWlCUYU6Gcw/w200-h113/PXL_20230430_164308282.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>TRAIL CLOSURE STATUS </b>(updated March 18, 2024):<b> All trails have reopened. </b>However, you should be prepared for muddy sections where timber matts have been recently removed, especially at French's Hill and along the Paugussett Trail north of Constitution Blvd. A few other locations still need improvements due to the Eversource activities. a set of steep rock steps that were installed by Eversource for Nells Rock Trail may be bypassed with a future project. Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-56068645745621591432024-02-11T08:50:00.005-05:002024-02-11T21:06:37.510-05:00Fixing Fences, Finally<p>A large group of trail volunteers got to work on Saturday morning to repair a large number of broken fences along the RecPath at Silent Waters.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoNyqT1992tqAjGGWnaCmZbuZtzFyGxJhnRZq9LaoyiWzKEWJ6432hg5hlf6yCAnN4XfGN05VoSHQ_b1-7skIIY-Z_R-IJU16J6ecMsmi1rH8QkbNiwQZNmhfp948tY3NQ9uAJ4tGBGVnKrtIGhlNUhqL7Xs4K8zXY5-7nGSFVGSVKF_IO95aeaRlfFsZ/s4000/P2100005.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoNyqT1992tqAjGGWnaCmZbuZtzFyGxJhnRZq9LaoyiWzKEWJ6432hg5hlf6yCAnN4XfGN05VoSHQ_b1-7skIIY-Z_R-IJU16J6ecMsmi1rH8QkbNiwQZNmhfp948tY3NQ9uAJ4tGBGVnKrtIGhlNUhqL7Xs4K8zXY5-7nGSFVGSVKF_IO95aeaRlfFsZ/w400-h300/P2100005.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The fences suffered a lot of damage during December storms and several section had collapsed or were ready to collapse. The first task was getting all the replacement materials in place. The second was digging out the old posts. Here Jeff, Boodie, and Gary are digging out the old base and trimming stumps so we didn't fall off the old dam.</p><p>Did I mention that the RecPath runs along the top of a historic dam that used to supply downtown Shelton with water? So we were often working several feet above ground and didn't want to trip on some piece of brush sticking up and fall.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxhbCLf6w9UgqcEmGcjishVYswospwnmRwcLX0fTaG6BTTu0jQLE130roO3MHVcIAXaKidL812XPLKa2tC2RX3UfihzBfochrVmHZMJYYwq6ywpzhK6lKBtnYzCbCVafs8wA0kL2E3BkIQL77f7EUhZwN8MhDWYUwPIamwyBcp2vwunNHigYU9EfYTF2H/s4000/PC300009.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxhbCLf6w9UgqcEmGcjishVYswospwnmRwcLX0fTaG6BTTu0jQLE130roO3MHVcIAXaKidL812XPLKa2tC2RX3UfihzBfochrVmHZMJYYwq6ywpzhK6lKBtnYzCbCVafs8wA0kL2E3BkIQL77f7EUhZwN8MhDWYUwPIamwyBcp2vwunNHigYU9EfYTF2H/w400-h300/PC300009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>This is one of the "before" pictures from late December. The string of storms was too much for the fence built in 2006. The post had rotten, falling over and several sections of fence were compromised all at once. We did wrap the fence with pink tape to let people know not to lean on it and take a selfie, and that seemed to work.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zESNGbHm3QjlssKmr5DF6ckhcVsr8OJgqeYzVDkaxUWhdVTxY_5VWWKf2FxWb2XqlrfNoO9hy-ADCQeIhyvZQQCUYQQrZ44itpUJcpPIF6q3I5Dx3Xfz3AeJepePeDK9LhtNo3njtk5IwgJSTHSfQ7WUYAcnkMg9lApvNPGqU__ea9QTuQ-shs9W4rgD/s4000/P2100006.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zESNGbHm3QjlssKmr5DF6ckhcVsr8OJgqeYzVDkaxUWhdVTxY_5VWWKf2FxWb2XqlrfNoO9hy-ADCQeIhyvZQQCUYQQrZ44itpUJcpPIF6q3I5Dx3Xfz3AeJepePeDK9LhtNo3njtk5IwgJSTHSfQ7WUYAcnkMg9lApvNPGqU__ea9QTuQ-shs9W4rgD/w400-h300/P2100006.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>It took a while to purchase this much fencing, get it delivered (long saga), and schedule the work party. Here are Zach & Brooklyn digging out the old post. Luckily today was unseasonably warm for February and there was no frost to break through. Even so - Removing the bases of the old posts too a lot of digging bar, post hole work and hand work; the posts were stubborn and didn't want to come out of their warm home in the ground. <p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhVNu16A2DfGSw3yXBFy76suhjYMVRwF9u-Kq1xObYTdIU46bO4IM02rm9pCmWQGABrItAoI4wHyWKxzd_bNVvGaSE_oKXxSXe0VvH6qtHh_5QxDpXarcrYyNgZcqMj_0kTT6MdpMQUfaO-R_4MaF5mlxrFQN7T8Tgif2LgHrx0TSwLAErOqMjxhSXMqTx/s2261/P2100009.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1432" data-original-width="2261" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhVNu16A2DfGSw3yXBFy76suhjYMVRwF9u-Kq1xObYTdIU46bO4IM02rm9pCmWQGABrItAoI4wHyWKxzd_bNVvGaSE_oKXxSXe0VvH6qtHh_5QxDpXarcrYyNgZcqMj_0kTT6MdpMQUfaO-R_4MaF5mlxrFQN7T8Tgif2LgHrx0TSwLAErOqMjxhSXMqTx/w400-h254/P2100009.JPG" width="400" /></a></p><p>But, with some persistent digging we got them out, lined up the posts, inserted the rails, and got them back together. Once a section of fence was removed and the post loosened it was easier to replace the rails. Sometimes it was necessary to partially dig out a solid fence post and loosen it to replace a rotten bottom rail. But that is where the Fine Adjustment Tool (our 15 lb. sledgehammer) came into play. Many of the trail volunteers had never had the joy of replacing a split rail fence before; but now they can add this to their list of job skills.</p><p><b>Helpful Trail Tip: Use the weight of the digging bar to work for you. Raise and drop the bar to break up the soil and posts where you can, rather than driving it down. You back will thank you the next day.</b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jq4OXbnuPSJa-k2aQT9g-LLh3r8QaTc6kCN1i-s38-Ss0YzQNmJbROenb6TojCiD4FgPP4sB4p_vghdDG3ileLgXXPIduETKcmiBsZCMNZ-7PoM4Xka6HAI9-KOSDhTnux8UfU2ZMSBQUA5achFGwKDWT3uiRXP393Gu8jpBMVtKwPO3mZ3V0k3KkiG8/s4000/P2100007.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jq4OXbnuPSJa-k2aQT9g-LLh3r8QaTc6kCN1i-s38-Ss0YzQNmJbROenb6TojCiD4FgPP4sB4p_vghdDG3ileLgXXPIduETKcmiBsZCMNZ-7PoM4Xka6HAI9-KOSDhTnux8UfU2ZMSBQUA5achFGwKDWT3uiRXP393Gu8jpBMVtKwPO3mZ3V0k3KkiG8/w400-h300/P2100007.JPG" width="400" /></a></b></div><b> </b>The Gator was helpful in getting all the parts out to the job and we ferried or carried all the rotten pieces out to the road for later pickup. Mark had to make several trips to get more posts and fence rails.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbE2renY_LO07Py0WeSZCt4rx7XNlS-hUPIJ-d24pQ7KJB6IdbL0HnDknFYgDRVd2vbqFs84ebVyNzB11edWEGqSbyZvK8XEx97H29NWKXNUXRuiQLqC5aDeubVWQAL70OlXsYyBZheypqZ9mbM4qSbs8BJBh_CMCAcTGgxZkps2AHK2HFkZ8Men0N5aL-/s2642/P2100011.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2174" data-original-width="2642" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbE2renY_LO07Py0WeSZCt4rx7XNlS-hUPIJ-d24pQ7KJB6IdbL0HnDknFYgDRVd2vbqFs84ebVyNzB11edWEGqSbyZvK8XEx97H29NWKXNUXRuiQLqC5aDeubVWQAL70OlXsYyBZheypqZ9mbM4qSbs8BJBh_CMCAcTGgxZkps2AHK2HFkZ8Men0N5aL-/w400-h329/P2100011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Luis was helping hold the post straight while Zach and Zion tamp in the backfill around the new post. The round end of the digging bar for pounding the loose soil to compact the soil firmly around the post. Many, many times.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzvaTxpsgo4p8wNiTxEf0aquYo1YUZvYhTJZjwXUECJJQ67iWNKYVia_vtU3_pRbZ-ol1VPqzKPBlkjAizbloQgjVIIvOhs6UjGdy9A1zWl5YjfH3NNGFqe0U0a6gEE1FPVQ9Srbk_7eur_RbV1bpiE4kMk17Fu0Kz5Z1t3JYUooiRPKxPiPQt_tbNbQGH/s4000/P2100018.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzvaTxpsgo4p8wNiTxEf0aquYo1YUZvYhTJZjwXUECJJQ67iWNKYVia_vtU3_pRbZ-ol1VPqzKPBlkjAizbloQgjVIIvOhs6UjGdy9A1zWl5YjfH3NNGFqe0U0a6gEE1FPVQ9Srbk_7eur_RbV1bpiE4kMk17Fu0Kz5Z1t3JYUooiRPKxPiPQt_tbNbQGH/w400-h300/P2100018.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>And that new fence is solidly in place. Great job. It's gratifying sometimes to see trail work where you go out and at the end it is a dramatic improvement like that.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWK4krOkIJ51HGy-0vEqHM1BLB7ey-fwhogHLcvGup9tL14uhd0xv6xrOkB7W4aCS19QkVLJvQS3__dv20AU74jiQn_dhEUJaj0_ywysnqZFAm-ljXJ71bzJ2_aSCsBiTqQ-ohjumxC4VtZ47zvKU6N2C1_YkRnkwzuT-RvfcFueQb6Hx-ia7cccMFyeq/s4000/P2100017.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWK4krOkIJ51HGy-0vEqHM1BLB7ey-fwhogHLcvGup9tL14uhd0xv6xrOkB7W4aCS19QkVLJvQS3__dv20AU74jiQn_dhEUJaj0_ywysnqZFAm-ljXJ71bzJ2_aSCsBiTqQ-ohjumxC4VtZ47zvKU6N2C1_YkRnkwzuT-RvfcFueQb6Hx-ia7cccMFyeq/w400-h300/P2100017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The old fence posts and rails were hauled out to Constitution Blvd. N. for later pick-up.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-fv4ePljDXDf0wu3rXK6Cg3wcw6uTEaPQkrA_qDPWi5AErxErI27M3CsU1G3wVy3OrdfPvpktMVH79i0wNHsl6XZoJ38tAJNht7Gbz5AcZ6od2II5i_KbYVsKaiJkpxlmIMd1kVFw-lLtBMtGe4BDoztRsv8lYQck5myNZMwRi3phj_LpUtG5MZknU5f/s4000/P2100014.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-fv4ePljDXDf0wu3rXK6Cg3wcw6uTEaPQkrA_qDPWi5AErxErI27M3CsU1G3wVy3OrdfPvpktMVH79i0wNHsl6XZoJ38tAJNht7Gbz5AcZ6od2II5i_KbYVsKaiJkpxlmIMd1kVFw-lLtBMtGe4BDoztRsv8lYQck5myNZMwRi3phj_LpUtG5MZknU5f/w400-h300/P2100014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Today was a good morning's work. The RecPath was pretty busy during the work party and all the trail users liked the fence being repaired. It was really helpful to have a lot of trail volunteers on this job to take turns digging, setting the new fencing, haul all the materials on and off the RecPath, etc. Thanks to Bodie, John, Zach, Zion, Brooklyn, Val, Annie, Luis, Gary, Jeff, Mark, Bill, and Terry. <br /><p>And nobody fell off the dam. </p><p>Val posted more, and better, pictures on the Facebook page.<br /></p>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-39418518541687347902024-02-05T15:32:00.004-05:002024-02-05T15:32:54.595-05:00Shelton's "Hank the Hiker" <p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxY6rP_KXrYRgk8IOX_RQ6iQp29IOwhDT36XedWNT3GsDO4IWtP6CV2AKIauryuD0b4Jcj9Vi2Nb7sg46CicgH6h3WibIjU1R9RxLmtkIFbrKPs-_2eSO9NgYoPEsQpZROVwL5HiRtokBAnr-PkRLSbuZ09Bp50mgFoAXWadracM3prg1GlQQjSPCGtQc/s2210/0804211811a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2210" data-original-width="1775" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxY6rP_KXrYRgk8IOX_RQ6iQp29IOwhDT36XedWNT3GsDO4IWtP6CV2AKIauryuD0b4Jcj9Vi2Nb7sg46CicgH6h3WibIjU1R9RxLmtkIFbrKPs-_2eSO9NgYoPEsQpZROVwL5HiRtokBAnr-PkRLSbuZ09Bp50mgFoAXWadracM3prg1GlQQjSPCGtQc/w321-h400/0804211811a.jpg" width="321" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Hank the Hiker" before installation</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Have you see this guy? He's been living at the Trails Barn, the newish one over at the Dog Park. The style of the barn begged for a weather vane, and what better than a hiker for a Trails Barn. There didn't seem to be any hiker weather vanes on sale, so it was custom made in Vermont. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTo7_e3cUMeq-UGttM_6ROnevoNjX8po1xew4oOH5cH-tA8CSzYuhDclk3X3tw9mXeMB3Ac9OlO8gaeSNIK1CgcEImxXj3GU1lsfa3TKupUE6YdLM2Xk4JCeW2O7Olwjn9_hqo2V27igaKk04YDQctlsatLmaw0SJRKO6lMrCulxNHU7SSOj_YSXBK_6ZZ/s3467/0919220812a-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3467" data-original-width="2581" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTo7_e3cUMeq-UGttM_6ROnevoNjX8po1xew4oOH5cH-tA8CSzYuhDclk3X3tw9mXeMB3Ac9OlO8gaeSNIK1CgcEImxXj3GU1lsfa3TKupUE6YdLM2Xk4JCeW2O7Olwjn9_hqo2V27igaKk04YDQctlsatLmaw0SJRKO6lMrCulxNHU7SSOj_YSXBK_6ZZ/w298-h400/0919220812a-001.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hank can be hard to see.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Prior to installation, the copper hiker was leaning up against the walls of the barn while Trails Committee members held their monthly meetings there. Joining in, so to speak, although he didn't have much to say. Eventually, the committee members decided to name him Hank the Hiker. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKIL0uiH94nWDkWurAeEcHFcubxVwcXfPuaTh9fepiTALxBzVEcDemhi9UdAPhyMBx0QernekVR3Gdrd3iItKCv9A7I69UD7KkZnRWPscOO4lOwnYZ1WPgkZ_ZBUWdRiKZEN5YUNdq8RTAHDcWV5v9yalhwCPJPc_l6olg3O6IN5MDotaJqD1K7cULcDU/s1150/0919220812a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1122" data-original-width="1150" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirKIL0uiH94nWDkWurAeEcHFcubxVwcXfPuaTh9fepiTALxBzVEcDemhi9UdAPhyMBx0QernekVR3Gdrd3iItKCv9A7I69UD7KkZnRWPscOO4lOwnYZ1WPgkZ_ZBUWdRiKZEN5YUNdq8RTAHDcWV5v9yalhwCPJPc_l6olg3O6IN5MDotaJqD1K7cULcDU/w400-h390/0919220812a.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There he is.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So next time you're at the Shelton Dog Park, give him a wave. People will wonder what you're up to. We're introducing you to Hank because he's involved with our next trails challenge, the 2024 Shelton Trails Marathon, starting with the logo:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8Y-dBbjhHSBfYL07FunRajM_pGlksAhyphenhyphennC6IQVEYsekGUffZ3x7afo0kvOfrNSMz6P3M45h-c9EmMx_0j-OehyphenhyphenBfUaOsWD8azL84ZOGLb_lTzvxLTn7MzwctHntVZKtPqCTxpXqRdMCoSef1pTCv2j_cDfZnYYzdfV_BoBfIy1fUedF9UbulGh4hB7OA/s3054/Hank%20the%20Hiker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3054" data-original-width="3034" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8Y-dBbjhHSBfYL07FunRajM_pGlksAhyphenhyphennC6IQVEYsekGUffZ3x7afo0kvOfrNSMz6P3M45h-c9EmMx_0j-OehyphenhyphenBfUaOsWD8azL84ZOGLb_lTzvxLTn7MzwctHntVZKtPqCTxpXqRdMCoSef1pTCv2j_cDfZnYYzdfV_BoBfIy1fUedF9UbulGh4hB7OA/s320/Hank%20the%20Hiker.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The logo for our next trails challenge. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;">For the challenge, hikers need to complete a specific set of hikes that total 26.2 miles, the length of a marathon (since it's an Olympics year). You'll have all year to do it. We've set up two levels of difficulty, so everyone can choose a level that works best for them. The challenge preparations are almost complete and will be done by March 1. Check back here on the Shelton Trails blog for more info this spring. Happy Trails!</div></div>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-38625051398233436022024-01-22T12:24:00.006-05:002024-01-22T13:09:48.289-05:00Bears!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSe1FOWXQG_BsO9RXV6K8T19bNTUPl7UFZKpSb_aWNwI8cEfgawP32LK2mmp5oMLA_1rE4LuF_1jjM42qo_dRZf5FYBqUe1Ymj7djGBcalHkBmdZNPflu0vxAAvoXeab-K_efMyuJNWHebI8MtWbMdjy_a-NhNOnbzEJUQVnz74kh512OUPL27r7WhHDl/s3264/20150514_174750%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1836" data-original-width="3264" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSe1FOWXQG_BsO9RXV6K8T19bNTUPl7UFZKpSb_aWNwI8cEfgawP32LK2mmp5oMLA_1rE4LuF_1jjM42qo_dRZf5FYBqUe1Ymj7djGBcalHkBmdZNPflu0vxAAvoXeab-K_efMyuJNWHebI8MtWbMdjy_a-NhNOnbzEJUQVnz74kh512OUPL27r7WhHDl/w400-h225/20150514_174750%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 2015 "Shelton Bear" shortly before his capture downtown. <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Hi, this is Teresa, here to talk about bears. A lot of people tell me they've been avoiding the trails in Shelton because they're afraid of bears. This makes me sad, because Black Bears are pretty easy to deal with and not something to be overly afraid of once you understand them. I have personally come across bears several times while solo hiking (not in Shelton) and once had to chase one away from my tent while I was backpacking. These encounters were the best part of my hikes, except for that one snooping around my tent. But even the tent investigator moved on when I pressed the issue. <div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrw_GYvISvVRWmYiZw_kAtLMQjy8e00hvjYG0cGSBN2DLk2LbYz-Vwb47JdfU5ikYMR0GBkgEIc0PI7PNASlrkADCyVdvzEv5bFqAVpyjfvAKmAhLjTLl9dDXqARAlTId5VQPyZh2xnOT_iRYxfX2ONcrkT0LL-QNc0TxXKzlZXBw1IRgjO_8dAW-mL95-/s2149/20230623173556_IM_00742~2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1471" data-original-width="2149" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrw_GYvISvVRWmYiZw_kAtLMQjy8e00hvjYG0cGSBN2DLk2LbYz-Vwb47JdfU5ikYMR0GBkgEIc0PI7PNASlrkADCyVdvzEv5bFqAVpyjfvAKmAhLjTLl9dDXqARAlTId5VQPyZh2xnOT_iRYxfX2ONcrkT0LL-QNc0TxXKzlZXBw1IRgjO_8dAW-mL95-/w400-h274/20230623173556_IM_00742~2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woodsend Trail (game cam)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>So while we don't need to panic, the bear population is rising rapidly, and everyone should know what to do if they find themselves near one, whether they go on the trails or not. The risk of a bear attack is very low, but it is never zero, especially if you respond the wrong way. You might find a bear in your backyard, garage, or even in your car (some bears open car doors!). Every year, the chance of coming face to face with a bear in Shelton increases, whether you go hiking or not. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>NEVER run from a Black Bear!</b></p><p><b>It helps to know a bit about Black Bears. </b>We don't have Grizzly Bears in the East. Grizzlies are the more aggressive and unpredictable type of bear. Mother Grizzlies are extremely protective of their cubs. Black Bears not so much. A startled Grizzly will reflexively go on the offense and attack. A startled Black Bear will instinctively run up a tree. </p><p><b>Black Bears are surprisingly skittish: </b> They might not look afraid, especially the tamer individuals, but they evolved amongst bigger predators and were themselves attacked for generations. So they are hard-wired to startle easily and flee up trees at the first sign of danger. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s2RXVHCCces">Here's a video of cats chasing bears.</a> Even when a Black Bear acts aggressively, it is usually just bluffing and testing whatever it's afraid of. Use this knowledge to your advantage! </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqc2bi0bRQ0EQVR4COwCkXA5B2zG_hZWF_I3d_3km6yb8LSYbrsINEtqWN3_MGCixKPTO2nV9NIIx1bx-xCfed3kOeb8nW4Yp2kGYvWFaA9XTz7oFen-6gnAVYKry3GXJO6b9c81VkKU47ObfvJ2kRs1zvJCGNvPH83CTCPDyUyZ291JrQF6jGEP1ZqYkc/s4032/PXL_20230529_102548970.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqc2bi0bRQ0EQVR4COwCkXA5B2zG_hZWF_I3d_3km6yb8LSYbrsINEtqWN3_MGCixKPTO2nV9NIIx1bx-xCfed3kOeb8nW4Yp2kGYvWFaA9XTz7oFen-6gnAVYKry3GXJO6b9c81VkKU47ObfvJ2kRs1zvJCGNvPH83CTCPDyUyZ291JrQF6jGEP1ZqYkc/w400-h225/PXL_20230529_102548970.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bear along the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><b>Black Bears are very hungry and have supernatural noses: </b>Black Bears are big eating machines with an amazing sense of smell. Most of their time is spent foraging for things like roots, greens, nuts, berries, and the occasional fawn. They can smell that peanut butter and jelly sandwich you had for lunch, especially if you wiped your hand on your pants while eating it. And your berry-flavored lip gloss. They would like to know more about that. Their eyesight is poor, so they need to get close for a better look to see if there is something for them to eat. How about that backpack you're wearing? Any flavored beverages in there? Any snacks? The bear can smell them. And want them very much. When I am backpacking, a large part of my daily focus is avoiding any smells that might attract a bear. I have odor-proof bags, don't cook where I sleep, and put all scented items in my Kevlar bear bag that is hung away from the tent. The important thing here is that they are looking for your food, not to eat you (with rare exceptions). </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>"If it runs, chase it"<br />(Never run from a Black Bear)</b></p><p><b>Bears have a chasing reflex:</b> Just like my nutty terrier, a bear can be triggered by certain types of fast motions. "If it runs, chase it." This is a predatory reflex. Sometimes joggers or mountain bikers find themselves being followed by a bear for this reason. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHJ8wO3io5Y">Here's a video of a bear going after a little kid on a scooter.</a> The bear stops when the boy stops (you can almost see the bear thinking tentatively about this situation it finds itself in), and then runs away when a man comes out with his arms outstretched to make himself appear larger. All the humans did the right thing! This is why you never run from a Black Bear. You would only trigger its predator response. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lhLEhm4UUOU">Here's another example of a bear going after a mountain biker.</a> This kid is another hero. He stops and picks up his bike to seem larger and more menacing. It works great! See the bear flinch and turn around when the kid waves his bike. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVD5CARnxvjOgf3X21LJuAyRhgyCurPy3YXDOWEtGfJ69PP8DgCpbK7QBTjR1oo28MdzJWVdI2IiTgJiB5Qb17w36DwMHPNw_0yZyJYa23UZhybcafKL2dNaTVM2YqmcF_2nUXsi0gzDEmRCBFaiv67XUkcGd4AM9t9bTboPB-unGsRHWbF4IHykzs4xX/s3189/0511191304.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3189" data-original-width="2269" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVD5CARnxvjOgf3X21LJuAyRhgyCurPy3YXDOWEtGfJ69PP8DgCpbK7QBTjR1oo28MdzJWVdI2IiTgJiB5Qb17w36DwMHPNw_0yZyJYa23UZhybcafKL2dNaTVM2YqmcF_2nUXsi0gzDEmRCBFaiv67XUkcGd4AM9t9bTboPB-unGsRHWbF4IHykzs4xX/w285-h400/0511191304.jpg" width="285" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CT DEEP trail sign in Connecticut's "Bear Alley"</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b>What to do if you encounter a Black Bear along the trails: </b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>If it's in the distance and not approaching you, everything is fine. Enjoy your bear sighting and all the stories you will be telling your friends. All of my sightings while hiking have been like this. One had cubs and was coming up the trail towards me until she realized I was there. She quickly took her cubs off the trail and left the area. PS there are a LOT of bears on the Tunxis Trail. </li><li>Your dog is on a leash, right? Right?</li><li>If you are jogging or biking and a bear is following you, stop. Your motion triggered the bear, so stop the motion (we have received one report of a bear doing this to a jogger on the Rec Path near Pine Lake). </li><li>If a bear approaches you: Face the bear. (This happened to me at my tent - the bear was 15 feet away). Make yourself as large and menacing as possible (you might pick up a large branch or hold up trekking poles or a bike and wave them around). It is OK to swear loudly at the bear in this situation. Bear can be startled into running by opening an umbrella or snapping a large garbage bag (I can attest that the latter one works very well! The bear just about did a backflip, ran behind a big tree, and peered back - photo below. Yelling had not worked). If there are multiple people around, everyone should get close together and all be as large and obnoxious and menacing as possible towards the bear. Do not run away or turn your back to the bear even if it charges or makes noises. These are probably bluff charges designed to test you. Pass your bear test by not running away. If the bear refuses to leave, back away slowly and call 911. Encounters with aggressive bears should be reported to the CT DEEP. </li></ul><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtDKQ0UcpnEH35mWG8-PITJIFcqzstEiqswGfWThOkjxJpSBSD9ieKDCesCgMdlDU0_a1BcYBA9HBUmlqhykMasZhCxjcsK02kHLHf3soKoCmhteloqqheHqHZU2tGhStTPjXhdkAfvTi1QDYUGlPl3t2u30ZLYkapXueBFgNtAyu8k2lGI8bRPby0aph/s1222/Bear,%20backpacking%20NET%20Simsbury%202021-004.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="843" data-original-width="1222" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtDKQ0UcpnEH35mWG8-PITJIFcqzstEiqswGfWThOkjxJpSBSD9ieKDCesCgMdlDU0_a1BcYBA9HBUmlqhykMasZhCxjcsK02kHLHf3soKoCmhteloqqheHqHZU2tGhStTPjXhdkAfvTi1QDYUGlPl3t2u30ZLYkapXueBFgNtAyu8k2lGI8bRPby0aph/w400-h276/Bear,%20backpacking%20NET%20Simsbury%202021-004.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had just chased this bear away from my tent <br />by snapping a garbage bag liner. He's hiding behind a tree.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><b>What to do if you encounter a bear (or coyote) at home: </b></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Be careful not to accidentally corner or trap a bear in a garage or tight space, especially if there are cubs. Back away immediately if you do. <br /><br /></li><li>Never leave bear food outside unless they are hibernating. That includes birdfeeders (even empty ones attract bears), garbage, pet food, and sweets or bread on a compost pile. If you find a bear (or coyote) near your building (or tent, in my case), hazing is a good option for the animal's own safety. This involves harrassing the animal until it completely leaves the premises. Respect wildlife, but demand that they respect you. Your home is your territory. Bear and coyote instinctively understand that concept because they guard their own territories. Go ahead and claim your own. The less food that is left out, and the more homeowners haze bear, the fewer "problem bear" there will be. Problem bear that repeatedly enter homes or appear to threaten people are at risk for being euthanized or relocated (which is traumatic for the bear). </li></ul><div><b>If a Black Bear physically attacks you: </b>This is highly unlikely, but not impossible. Fight back with everything you have. Do not play dead (that's for Grizzlies). </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Do you need bear spray? </b>Not normally, but if it makes you feel safer, go ahead. Bear spray is more often used out West where they have Grizzlies. Regular pepper spray can be easier to carry around and is useful in case of a dog attack (which is more likely than a bear attack). </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Do hikers ever get attacked? </b>Very rarely, yes. On longer backpacker trails like the Appalachian Trail or Long Trail, hikers are carrying lots of food and sleeping in tents. Some bears have learned to target campsites and a few individuals have even learned to bully backpackers into abandoning their packs. At that point, the authorities may need to relocate or euthanize the bear. This is why there are rules on how backpackers need to store their food. </div><div><br /></div><div>There was a tragic case on a trail in New Jersey where a group of hikers ran away from a large bear that had been lingering on the trail and scaring other hikers. Once they started running, the bear chased them and killed one of the hikers, which the bear began to eat. <br /><br />There have also been a few cases in Connecticut where a bears have harassed hikers in a threatening way. There was <a href="https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/black-bear-sessions-woods-burlington-bradley-aggression-animal-euthanize/1956681/">one in 2015 that needed to be euthanized after circling a woman </a>and exhibiting aggressive (not curious) behavior. This particular bear had a long "rap sheet." The CT DEEP has wildlife specialists that can better interpret bear behavior to judge whether the behavior is potentially dangerous for trail users. </div><div><br /></div><div>So the risk is not zero, and people should have some basic bear knowledge and know what to do. Having said that, the risk is very low. You're probably more likely to be in a serious car accident driving to the trailhead, and that doesn't stop anyone. So go out and enjoy the woods!</div><p></p></div>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-16778910251712580952024-01-04T10:39:00.005-05:002024-01-04T11:25:27.776-05:00As Muddy as it Gets<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNMqo8C8n9ZjhJv-yZnqego3WpvKvABImQAbmA0rgwoIMwTYESb7Vrk_k46TeHQQBwYJ582yrcQOg8_xjKFZE-QZpwktF71vMHClR7CJRNWb0LpveGZEno-_kzaSppMB4ttN3zPii66uwNrxAys8T7-1KaZw1yG-15m5k2xuf4RMzgCYDnyy-0bpKZipv/s4032/PXL_20240103_175911976.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNMqo8C8n9ZjhJv-yZnqego3WpvKvABImQAbmA0rgwoIMwTYESb7Vrk_k46TeHQQBwYJ582yrcQOg8_xjKFZE-QZpwktF71vMHClR7CJRNWb0LpveGZEno-_kzaSppMB4ttN3zPii66uwNrxAys8T7-1KaZw1yG-15m5k2xuf4RMzgCYDnyy-0bpKZipv/w400-h225/PXL_20240103_175911976.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White sneakers not recommended<br />(Indian Well State Park)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>So many pristine white sneakers on our hiking trails! That may work in August, but not in mud season after torrential rains. Hiking boots were invented for these kinds of conditions. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPraQdQ08qEJAhH28yj37ug0rXDs-_NlFnEeFqX5tWAG24tMEIfwe0XIJzhc5JxLJwp_kiNjJ0QnGTf60D-ZWJJ-BuWvGEwwZxWgloS8-f832600YsqeqcHUkB2sbdz_0hauqBl1OfwdsCzbhz0ulQFldk9Cug-YLabcMFVboKTEktyK7GMa8P5ehy4Cd/s4032/PXL_20231223_204826695.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPraQdQ08qEJAhH28yj37ug0rXDs-_NlFnEeFqX5tWAG24tMEIfwe0XIJzhc5JxLJwp_kiNjJ0QnGTf60D-ZWJJ-BuWvGEwwZxWgloS8-f832600YsqeqcHUkB2sbdz_0hauqBl1OfwdsCzbhz0ulQFldk9Cug-YLabcMFVboKTEktyK7GMa8P5ehy4Cd/w225-h400/PXL_20231223_204826695.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waterproof hiking boots work.<br />(Birchbank Trail)<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnysV4pLGP_pjQuzHszvVQeWSekYivIOBRerxaO2e30vlfWNA8PMEBDDgR_0WTCO8QFT7U9x9S5YC1hcXPmJA0zVLkqNzrNXQWqeBa8-o3AcS4k5eKKnc-7gIYlFN58GJxhSLsjz2HxjZt670eFuUYPPzi78ocBCt_vyOqde6byQMDP-c9yh046_e2xG2x/s4032/PXL_20231228_135943227.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnysV4pLGP_pjQuzHszvVQeWSekYivIOBRerxaO2e30vlfWNA8PMEBDDgR_0WTCO8QFT7U9x9S5YC1hcXPmJA0zVLkqNzrNXQWqeBa8-o3AcS4k5eKKnc-7gIYlFN58GJxhSLsjz2HxjZt670eFuUYPPzi78ocBCt_vyOqde6byQMDP-c9yh046_e2xG2x/w400-h225/PXL_20231228_135943227.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flooded section of Birchbank Trail<br />(a drainage channel was cleared for this to drain away)<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Last month we had one of the wettest Decembers on record and there is mud everywhere. In Danbury, it was the wettest December since 1983. There were two major rainstorms on top of saturated ground and high pond levels. The first was around 4" and then we had another 2.5" or so. If it was summer, the tree roots would be sucking up some of that water, but since the trees are dormant, the ground is still saturated, and that water is oozing out of the hills all over the place. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWsZe3qPull3uUoKmFQujP73cKccxmcdEp-5hunfmzW6J1-Q9qP0cX4T_0MhkCLNqFY-3yP-OYbM2lHDLq8m9uGBljERhkgbTFTqYhY0PXAhCBocIIg8OAIEoyhc6vPkzeR2aI1QONmFmPoFZYF-_RYhoxjWkBlQ-kTlJRIJGEchAYuPxrTx9I2l6V87h/s4032/PXL_20231228_145549389.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiWsZe3qPull3uUoKmFQujP73cKccxmcdEp-5hunfmzW6J1-Q9qP0cX4T_0MhkCLNqFY-3yP-OYbM2lHDLq8m9uGBljERhkgbTFTqYhY0PXAhCBocIIg8OAIEoyhc6vPkzeR2aI1QONmFmPoFZYF-_RYhoxjWkBlQ-kTlJRIJGEchAYuPxrTx9I2l6V87h/w400-h225/PXL_20231228_145549389.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After clearing out the old drainage channel to the right, <br />the water began to drain off Birchbank Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><p>There are certain spots that are always a problem during mud season, but this year we have new ones for your hiking pleasure. These are mostly located where water is seeping out of a major slope, and the trail has captured that water. The fresh layer of leaves that recently fell also interferes with proper drainage in some places. Birchbank and Indian Well have been especially problematic, although they are fine if you have good hiking boots. Even the Rec Path near Silent Waters had a problem with seepage ponding across the trail. Some other trails, like Nichols Trail and French's Hill, are always muddy during the wet season and should just be avoided until it all freezes. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOGbT7foQ5mdPscITa-MQ7zHpNUSi8dXcIQA-1zK5m_e8UF7H5UuDabgdmaW_piawAkjR3MXSp06x6yBYHVa8aBqHPuAfSjyKPQ6EMmybCK-juXUL0z1H7n2RkGQAC67Wui91bQ-u1BB4xZ1Yt17FVOq2ga2KtoxIJTMiuYUCQpAa9nGq1EIrFsW-7Suc/s4032/PXL_20240103_180217713.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjOGbT7foQ5mdPscITa-MQ7zHpNUSi8dXcIQA-1zK5m_e8UF7H5UuDabgdmaW_piawAkjR3MXSp06x6yBYHVa8aBqHPuAfSjyKPQ6EMmybCK-juXUL0z1H7n2RkGQAC67Wui91bQ-u1BB4xZ1Yt17FVOq2ga2KtoxIJTMiuYUCQpAa9nGq1EIrFsW-7Suc/w400-h225/PXL_20240103_180217713.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paugussett mud hole after pulling away the downhill edge of the trail, <br />creating a drainage channel down the middle, and placing branches<br />to stop people from walking around and widening it.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>What to do? Since water is the source of the mud, trail maintainers first try and get the water off the trail. If there is a side-slope, just scraping the edge of the trail down the hill can be a big help. A very common problem with mud holes, especially in northern New England, is that people try to walk around the mud hole and destabilize the adjacent soil. That makes the mud hole bigger and bigger over time and why trail etiquette is to stay on the tread and walk through the middle of the mudhole whenever possible. Up north this can be impossible at times since the mud can be over a foot deep. But here in Shelton it shouldn't be a problem if you have appropriate footwear for the conditions. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzal7B1nTzTabVGk77N4_UfMl_laOw4TawdZiHwYtXaU9Y6gKx8tV15DtXUFfOzdG-FE1IEv6C8b6aBTdfM1dNaBP9Z6NwcQZn23SYDzTMFLgrQrkgS3-zzYJAMKxfypTbzsCvUWOVCn8_Oyq3S8-uhVN5eUnbIhT6qmBV2fKKUovkUuT_R46Qz_MPxqki/s4032/PXL_20231223_204257093.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzal7B1nTzTabVGk77N4_UfMl_laOw4TawdZiHwYtXaU9Y6gKx8tV15DtXUFfOzdG-FE1IEv6C8b6aBTdfM1dNaBP9Z6NwcQZn23SYDzTMFLgrQrkgS3-zzYJAMKxfypTbzsCvUWOVCn8_Oyq3S8-uhVN5eUnbIhT6qmBV2fKKUovkUuT_R46Qz_MPxqki/w400-h225/PXL_20231223_204257093.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scraping off the edges didn't help much for this chronic<br />wet seep on Birchbank Trail since the seepage rate was so high...<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OKjjwhOUNWuT8-H-zUWXiXSIqMJRLNA7gCA5sMSu0BmxQRyKFhh4sM4UW63A_kK_8L_UlCtSOGS_Jb9RacUcMuLVmPMu4ehpfDLVrkkhm-1z3gYX17N2eud1TzzCtA_hWmFfhwDmCo-KkTEM3AAUfuYK3QihDE_osKk8h1F-6bVLBu8VavAzWDs4C-rK/s4032/PXL_20231226_203134484.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6OKjjwhOUNWuT8-H-zUWXiXSIqMJRLNA7gCA5sMSu0BmxQRyKFhh4sM4UW63A_kK_8L_UlCtSOGS_Jb9RacUcMuLVmPMu4ehpfDLVrkkhm-1z3gYX17N2eud1TzzCtA_hWmFfhwDmCo-KkTEM3AAUfuYK3QihDE_osKk8h1F-6bVLBu8VavAzWDs4C-rK/w400-h225/PXL_20231226_203134484.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...so a dewatering trench was created on the uphill side<br />to intercept seepage before it gets to the trail.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Sometimes the volume of water seeping out of the hillside is so great that a channel needs to be dug across the trail. Occasionally a ditch parallel to the trail on the uphill side is needed to redirect that seepage. If there are existing pipes and ditches, those may need to cleaned out. This is the case for a chronic problem spot on the Rec Path at the northern junction with the Paugussett Trail/Turkey Trot. Water comes off the steep hillside and is normally intercepted by a shallow ditch along the Rec Path that directs the water to a pipe. But that system clogs up easily, as happened this year. The spot is due for an upgrade. </p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mBwmqHEf8ySkplvyBPRXwpyWgrTBptwBrTYS2QdoHvSZkBXPhycOAzr4WU0diZdpDC6ht_ml9xcf9PZSFbVUA6qQgZWxryH7Afs34aPh_3UqFshZUXLxqRKkyeaFbVwNVp6BiHdWmW_gJsONIHRwvrOSSgzpbk_zBN5FcFKZDlTRJwpPQ2h7huBgCPoi/s2877/PXL_20231221_182042397%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1790" data-original-width="2877" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mBwmqHEf8ySkplvyBPRXwpyWgrTBptwBrTYS2QdoHvSZkBXPhycOAzr4WU0diZdpDC6ht_ml9xcf9PZSFbVUA6qQgZWxryH7Afs34aPh_3UqFshZUXLxqRKkyeaFbVwNVp6BiHdWmW_gJsONIHRwvrOSSgzpbk_zBN5FcFKZDlTRJwpPQ2h7huBgCPoi/w400-h249/PXL_20231221_182042397%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark Vollaro clearing a log from the Rec Path that was contributing <br />to some ponding on the trail.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8meTEMsDk5QpOIrZjZ0miUjqbe_AsxKww7JcTY79BGwHQxzbQ-vwAhCqbvzQKVOZBEMNT4GTBrWVSHLLTakWoH3Tj1Amb9DUlvwQ9tcfcu1sGH9Q50okA_38SQKzchHjfUMKUoa1hdeJWHwR5PLK7crAxPBl5s__Kx4vbmMkQ32n-pvm5Fo5U5yUVyIH4/s4032/PXL_20231221_193310213%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8meTEMsDk5QpOIrZjZ0miUjqbe_AsxKww7JcTY79BGwHQxzbQ-vwAhCqbvzQKVOZBEMNT4GTBrWVSHLLTakWoH3Tj1Amb9DUlvwQ9tcfcu1sGH9Q50okA_38SQKzchHjfUMKUoa1hdeJWHwR5PLK7crAxPBl5s__Kx4vbmMkQ32n-pvm5Fo5U5yUVyIH4/w400-h225/PXL_20231221_193310213%20(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The same spot after the drainage trench was cleared out</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At Birchbank, some of the flooding issues were made worse by a clogged culvert under Indian Well Road. Beside backing up the flood waters, it may have raised the water table. Some of the lowest parts of Birchbank Trail may have been near the water table line. These are areas where we never had a water problem before. <div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Z4cBoiHKEYSgy8IKnpSoWrlTGvUd1g_QWXDFqJltIjkvZnJpXtqcJUQHUJcoVA3a8AwVt4tIe6wF2UgxDCXw7KQXnICQa6XK7OdqeSjS_HrbaCj_hGvuEizc8rLygUsbRw2x-Yvay2-NW6UDlcAXw70VUdc2g1_2WVbRqD83E-Hdk8lAECYU0LICBKxF/s4032/PXL_20231223_210046583.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Z4cBoiHKEYSgy8IKnpSoWrlTGvUd1g_QWXDFqJltIjkvZnJpXtqcJUQHUJcoVA3a8AwVt4tIe6wF2UgxDCXw7KQXnICQa6XK7OdqeSjS_HrbaCj_hGvuEizc8rLygUsbRw2x-Yvay2-NW6UDlcAXw70VUdc2g1_2WVbRqD83E-Hdk8lAECYU0LICBKxF/w400-h225/PXL_20231223_210046583.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clogged culvert under Indian Well Road</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivev_UqfRLmHV9DWVVAjgNQKOeJ7wR9qfHzjJNJkWuPs8J7GlCVEZjUrNihGiXJnddXxX595lxdGg4zo3ak1PUXaZMEVuBYQWcE6UvVTQn4FgletPagVvZ_JRLnfX0bupKxwPPsOwG1x7ZBQivAoW1A7W2cMksj1YteUQt3mWSLiyngSKRTbVgINgG1nGG/s1858/PXL_20231227_164055112~3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1858" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivev_UqfRLmHV9DWVVAjgNQKOeJ7wR9qfHzjJNJkWuPs8J7GlCVEZjUrNihGiXJnddXxX595lxdGg4zo3ak1PUXaZMEVuBYQWcE6UvVTQn4FgletPagVvZ_JRLnfX0bupKxwPPsOwG1x7ZBQivAoW1A7W2cMksj1YteUQt3mWSLiyngSKRTbVgINgG1nGG/w400-h255/PXL_20231227_164055112~3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleared culvert</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>If the muddy spot is the lowest around and there is nowhere for the water to go to, then the long-term solution may be to build a bog-walk, bridge, causeway, or well-spaced stepping stones. These are big projects and we can always use more (attention Eagle Scouts!). Nichols Trail, French's Hill, and parts of the Paugussett near the High School would benefit from such efforts. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuT2cO2B2nVFtMPlC_mywH6s_dODtrApN38xHLsQ2vCyONu50L96TQfjv-v-DpOJh7J6cV1U6D9MfjzF1zcSOQZefCz9e0tEkw9l9P_V3M8jEK-0vUdkM2UBGlZDvYLxJcuD9TbvV4oRvR09e0N5mzhHGabWrfhyrkbebvdXRs-3qXeKL8nT9FFxcxJYt6/s4656/0401210958c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2620" data-original-width="4656" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuT2cO2B2nVFtMPlC_mywH6s_dODtrApN38xHLsQ2vCyONu50L96TQfjv-v-DpOJh7J6cV1U6D9MfjzF1zcSOQZefCz9e0tEkw9l9P_V3M8jEK-0vUdkM2UBGlZDvYLxJcuD9TbvV4oRvR09e0N5mzhHGabWrfhyrkbebvdXRs-3qXeKL8nT9FFxcxJYt6/w400-h225/0401210958c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first trail bridge ever built at Shelton Lakes</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Sometimes people want to help fix a spot in a trail they use, and that's terrific if it's done right and does not block the drainage. Otherwise, it actually makes the problem worse and creates a bigger problem for trail managers to fix later. Always allow for water to drain off of the trail!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8c-b_8Qv4z-65HRItCcCqJR1RrdzrIvw5pjsgBNetRAgvDNMB2gXzTtj_-jv9XbgLbGO_siDO1TsB-tgzJ9jUeLdtbSF6-YeWSiADj-kgiA6krm5yC-Kqw6s6IWhftLe09x34BZ9j3_eMFErDbyP-dE8wjeFBROP0O4aoq9hksbQ97_ZHAKdXYQg8AcV/s292/images%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="172" data-original-width="292" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij8c-b_8Qv4z-65HRItCcCqJR1RrdzrIvw5pjsgBNetRAgvDNMB2gXzTtj_-jv9XbgLbGO_siDO1TsB-tgzJ9jUeLdtbSF6-YeWSiADj-kgiA6krm5yC-Kqw6s6IWhftLe09x34BZ9j3_eMFErDbyP-dE8wjeFBROP0O4aoq9hksbQ97_ZHAKdXYQg8AcV/w400-h236/images%20(3).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How water should flow off a trail. This can get blocked. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>The above image shows how water needs to drain off a side-slope. It's normal for that drainage to get blocked over time. A trail lip (rim or berm) tends to develop from normal trail usage, while leaves, sticks, logs, and rocks add to what is now a dam. The result is a mudhole. Throwing sticks and rocks across the mudhole tends to make it worse (especially if placed on the downhill side of the trail), as does walking around the edges. Instead, clear the blocked outflow and let the water drain. </p><p><b>HOW TO HELP: </b>Here are some helpful actions that lead to a dryer trail: </p><p></p><ul><li>cleaning out clogged drainage pipes and drainage ditches </li><li>clearing out blocked drainage channels</li><li>removing the downhill edge of the trail ("lip") if it's blocking drainage</li><li>well-spaced, stable stepping stones (that do not block water flow)</li><li>If there is a slippery mud spot without much water, some bark thrown on the mud can help with the footing (many fallen ash trees are offering up their bark just now)</li></ul><div></div><div><b>BUT PLEASE DON'T DO THE FOLLOWING: </b>Here are some things that can make matters worse by blocking drainage. Over time the water level rises and things get worse for the next hikers, and then the trail volunteers have an even bigger problem to address. Please don't add the following: </div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Stepping stones right next to each other across the water flow, creating a dam (this often happens across Upper White Hills Brook near the Birchbank Chimney). There should enough spacing between stepping stones to allow water to pass. The greater the flow, the wider the spacing needs to be. </li><li>Stepping stones right in the middle of a drainage channel crossing the trail (constant problem all over). Just step over the channel. </li><li>Sticks and branches tossed across the mud (creating a dam). This is a frequent issue on the Paugussett at Indian Well. The photo below shows sticks tossed over the top of stepping stones. The sticks are slippery and can cause a fall; they obscure the stepping stones; and they block drainage. Several times a year they need to be cleared out, so that's just extra work for the volunteers. Instead, use a stick or boot to pull leaves away from the drainage channel. </li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxjiVGDKk7DU71gaVbNGqkv9ezoDHxdP1j5FEydk9lGrJmm5XTKrlP8ZuscXx_hnHCBcEWIPAqQNAVn2gQmvpsZlpPCu9WWAlbtnIStssZQdTTM_IhFId-2yZ8s5oTdIooCIL1TxjA1yK-AptY_JMlkBu6itHo9XmDTJQUohs2qXsu0p790zTHXJDFlfG/s4032/PXL_20240103_182816151.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxjiVGDKk7DU71gaVbNGqkv9ezoDHxdP1j5FEydk9lGrJmm5XTKrlP8ZuscXx_hnHCBcEWIPAqQNAVn2gQmvpsZlpPCu9WWAlbtnIStssZQdTTM_IhFId-2yZ8s5oTdIooCIL1TxjA1yK-AptY_JMlkBu6itHo9XmDTJQUohs2qXsu0p790zTHXJDFlfG/w225-h400/PXL_20240103_182816151.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not helpful: <br />Slippery sticks on top of the stepping stones</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpE_uVW25jbiDcIiNCNC8_96hpZNfLuFYVA4ETsksUUMnMFdOT-kKUdhPsVgK8WJ0rypD7VvDcQSlWQLIB_FxaNJij7tQW8zQcVbVfj3jGcsPpQuZx7aS3033uGXwCqLyUqY7RM4nBH4m5vxreKLl0PhicIIMVo1qqtPY70CvX0IV04xxrc3TGyGJvT_iE/s4032/PXL_20240103_184416977.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpE_uVW25jbiDcIiNCNC8_96hpZNfLuFYVA4ETsksUUMnMFdOT-kKUdhPsVgK8WJ0rypD7VvDcQSlWQLIB_FxaNJij7tQW8zQcVbVfj3jGcsPpQuZx7aS3033uGXwCqLyUqY7RM4nBH4m5vxreKLl0PhicIIMVo1qqtPY70CvX0IV04xxrc3TGyGJvT_iE/w400-h225/PXL_20240103_184416977.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Same spot after sticks, leaves and mud were pulled away <br />to allow for drainage. Note the gaps between stones for drainage<br />that the sticks had been blocking.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Soon this all will probably freeze for the winter and footing will better. Even then, sunny afternoons can melt the top layer of trail and turn it into a slippery soup. Hiking in the morning when everything is still frozen can be more enjoyable. And remember to leave the white sneakers at home or wait until trail conditions improve!</div></div></div>
Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-48121704526224589042023-12-28T11:27:00.004-05:002023-12-29T12:36:11.650-05:00Birchbank Drainage Wars: Episode #179 - "The Culvert"<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisXHbyTK_hpZfYhV0Yw_3spbeazoN7YeUtpQbvzoH9f-poPQoqM4n_ngK4igCJllKNVN2E0OvDvLJAYL2jOgvW1UMASF6zuxQKSty9unOVThsv7s9yhStpPecRkqtYSd2cUNkShTq1AFvtaQZMemSQg0IYHZ6e7uj225yd04bFykZe9bP8X5fKslEJTF6M/s4032/PXL_20231024_182649911.LONG_EXPOSURE-01.COVER.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisXHbyTK_hpZfYhV0Yw_3spbeazoN7YeUtpQbvzoH9f-poPQoqM4n_ngK4igCJllKNVN2E0OvDvLJAYL2jOgvW1UMASF6zuxQKSty9unOVThsv7s9yhStpPecRkqtYSd2cUNkShTq1AFvtaQZMemSQg0IYHZ6e7uj225yd04bFykZe9bP8X5fKslEJTF6M/w400-h225/PXL_20231024_182649911.LONG_EXPOSURE-01.COVER.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cascades at Birchbank</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p>Challenge question: Where does Upper White Hills Brook flow to? That's the scenic brook at Birchbank with the cascades, two bridges, and a random chimney in the forest. <div><br /></div><div>Sorry, that was a trick question. It doesn't flow to anywhere, but disappears into the sands of Birchbank. Once the brook hits the big flat area at the bottom of the hill, it braids out into various ever-changing channels across the sandy floodplain. During a typical dry summer, the water will disappear into the ground. If it's the wet season, the channels will come back together when they hit the railroad embankment, which acts like a dam to keep the brook from reaching the Housatonic River. </div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGVtfLkTore31IjfvPAYKsEPwlqmvEor0KyOXmDuQAuFFuJfm8cW_INXhlENRU0khyphenhyphenPAOzt5TwIhFXNphVoEKLJYgg9LLKDK36MC545D6GGYvFJJvA53PPw9BrGmCwpCUYtP1TQ77PtOCM4qRTvRbsU3JhW4bmgBAPYmeu_EKaLcbi3KCJ_QYWzLFI6OS/s1355/Fullscreen%20capture%2012282023%20120724%20PM.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="1355" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGVtfLkTore31IjfvPAYKsEPwlqmvEor0KyOXmDuQAuFFuJfm8cW_INXhlENRU0khyphenhyphenPAOzt5TwIhFXNphVoEKLJYgg9LLKDK36MC545D6GGYvFJJvA53PPw9BrGmCwpCUYtP1TQ77PtOCM4qRTvRbsU3JhW4bmgBAPYmeu_EKaLcbi3KCJ_QYWzLFI6OS/w400-h178/Fullscreen%20capture%2012282023%20120724%20PM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LIDAR image showing brooks, recharge ponds, and RR tracks<br />(click to enlarge)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>(As an aside, people often assume there must also be a matching "Lower White Hills Brook." There is not. This is a brook that flows through an old Huntington district called "Upper White Hills." So the word 'upper' describes the district, not the brook.) </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXpcSoW9IQKDnSJR2jlRlh_u54xc6MLen-6NbF-mKRXfhnEq8rCDJAKkYYWzWGcg03MCv-s7BcioHGu0EX9L9WQtlSHP7VMvbTR3onisjIkVGnw4_0BrVI0ZAJfly_Jklzs3TdZZ4HvnMOcT4ksfkjKz_X3DwQH7esLUogDLxW30_XoX2Q5HsNzjveFO0/s3264/1212181350.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1836" data-original-width="3264" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzXpcSoW9IQKDnSJR2jlRlh_u54xc6MLen-6NbF-mKRXfhnEq8rCDJAKkYYWzWGcg03MCv-s7BcioHGu0EX9L9WQtlSHP7VMvbTR3onisjIkVGnw4_0BrVI0ZAJfly_Jklzs3TdZZ4HvnMOcT4ksfkjKz_X3DwQH7esLUogDLxW30_XoX2Q5HsNzjveFO0/w400-h225/1212181350.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the smaller recharge ponds. <br />The water level dropped after ice formed.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Water in the man-made channel along the railroad tracks will make it's way to the first of several man-made groundwater recharge ponds that feed a wellfield operated by the Aquarion Water Company. The wellfield is only used in times of drought, since it's expensive to pump the water out of the ground and up the hill and yonder to Means Brook Reservoir. The recharge ponds were originally designed for Housatonic River water to be pumped in, but are now filled exclusively with Birchbank runoff. Aquarion's pipeline goes straight up the precipitous hill at the trailhead parking lot. Pro tip: Don't try to walk up the pipeline, it's steeper than it looks.</p><p>That's how the drainage normally works at Birchbank. There are some smaller intermittent waterways that spill down the hillside to feed the recharge ponds, like the little brook near the bench. But every so often, maybe once or a few times a year during the rainy season, we'll have a lot of rain when the recharge ponds are already full and can't take any more water. At that point, the excess water runs south down a man-made channel at the base of the railroad tracks to an old culvert that crosses Indian Well Road and the tracks near the trailhead. It's right where the road crosses the tracks. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXA9RhAqkfbG85Jx38EYLtJWXv33fMIraKulzzBlPf1JPu3QGlmrVPuhiDHAnn3iuIQHHwwaPfOErlb2e1hHuuA112DnZEe0rkNx8yfwWL81zbJGyORC_YIBiO6sScwrgtYdVDv3Nw0gNkLN8GEUOC3GpKYQaa4ixIEzFSy6Mp466ipBIO0aClvlFVYgY/s4032/PXL_20231227_163235140.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXA9RhAqkfbG85Jx38EYLtJWXv33fMIraKulzzBlPf1JPu3QGlmrVPuhiDHAnn3iuIQHHwwaPfOErlb2e1hHuuA112DnZEe0rkNx8yfwWL81zbJGyORC_YIBiO6sScwrgtYdVDv3Nw0gNkLN8GEUOC3GpKYQaa4ixIEzFSy6Mp466ipBIO0aClvlFVYgY/w400-h225/PXL_20231227_163235140.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This old culvert channels floodwaters across<br />Indian Well Road and the tracks</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div>Did the brook always disappear into the sands or was it diverted and captured? LIDAR images seems to show an old channel going straight to the Housatonic, although it most of the water probably always sunk into the sands because the railroad track were built right across the channel with no bridge or culvert. The recharge ponds were not built until the 1970s. <div><br /></div><div>At any rate, that all seemed to be working pretty well. Occasionally the emergency overflow channel would get clogged up with fallen trees at the south end, and then the floodwaters would jump the channel and flow across the Plant Management Area, spreading invasive seeds. A volunteer trails crew recently cut up some of the logs that were blocking the channel. <br /><br />And then, during an exceptionally rainy day last week (maybe 4" on top of saturated ground), we were sent the picture below: </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElrEYqsGFpXdb_qKN8c80X4m4L5d5h-R6ki-kyjrzWSuDok2FqswUH251Q-Spjg-Kn0YLdP-F6WDvJYcwd8WQQooScsQATbyMCzA_SD0SxcuMJU3t3x0_OGy_eGkRjICLbKNCYRQ88PGd6IOeODja5hTOnRMckoZ0_kLRDA9l2cWkDnd5JthGRlNLH-PF/s800/724608859%5B1%5D%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElrEYqsGFpXdb_qKN8c80X4m4L5d5h-R6ki-kyjrzWSuDok2FqswUH251Q-Spjg-Kn0YLdP-F6WDvJYcwd8WQQooScsQATbyMCzA_SD0SxcuMJU3t3x0_OGy_eGkRjICLbKNCYRQ88PGd6IOeODja5hTOnRMckoZ0_kLRDA9l2cWkDnd5JthGRlNLH-PF/w300-h400/724608859%5B1%5D%20(1).jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birchbank Trail. That's not good.<br />(Photo from Ted)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />We had never seen the water that high. In the past, it never even got up to the trail, and now it was a foot or two deep on the trail. A few hours later, the water had receded by about a foot, but was still up to the top of the old stone culvert and swirling into it with great force and (photo below). <div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPP-AlUtTD28ceyyJ6uwuEfo3OBYvl1bu8l5Jynecp9FsGohpVZovagQCtF6TK7vfrMY3PeFPxZPooB5wNVVXP5DoWrA_cu59ys4rPn04fB4-QKENTkKbEXh_Luo6dmWs8lcW4PWrO522Wnvu0-vkY8zuByRjI1gJ-UcUYL9oZ08Z-DokfOBtbta3CcM9o/s4032/PXL_20231218_174119730.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPP-AlUtTD28ceyyJ6uwuEfo3OBYvl1bu8l5Jynecp9FsGohpVZovagQCtF6TK7vfrMY3PeFPxZPooB5wNVVXP5DoWrA_cu59ys4rPn04fB4-QKENTkKbEXh_Luo6dmWs8lcW4PWrO522Wnvu0-vkY8zuByRjI1gJ-UcUYL9oZ08Z-DokfOBtbta3CcM9o/w400-h225/PXL_20231218_174119730.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flood waters going into the culvert</td></tr></tbody></table><br />As we suspected, when the flood waters dropped, there were some logs, branches, and leaves clogging up part of the culvert. Once the water level receded to a safe level, the clog was ripped apart, and backed-up water really gushed into the culvert. <div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhWGxbyf6o9jLXn0atIwcxZHOfzO-IQjlt0gE40vLvLZuhXsVsClsYtfL3R6tAfv3NHD8xbU25xkOcDZmM0ZRrQjqouD99ixjzR5dMzYE_s44sXf91d2fM5jeAYH5PsA_UDJtCRNhYTaYeuXcSGx3Uy24DLVR4n_QiyrvpIrWiYBR0_V2U7vhIduortj7/s4032/PXL_20231224_174751307.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhWGxbyf6o9jLXn0atIwcxZHOfzO-IQjlt0gE40vLvLZuhXsVsClsYtfL3R6tAfv3NHD8xbU25xkOcDZmM0ZRrQjqouD99ixjzR5dMzYE_s44sXf91d2fM5jeAYH5PsA_UDJtCRNhYTaYeuXcSGx3Uy24DLVR4n_QiyrvpIrWiYBR0_V2U7vhIduortj7/w225-h400/PXL_20231224_174751307.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yup. The culvert is clogged. <br />(Photo about 1 week after the flood)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The biggest log was too heavy to drag away. After about ten days, the channel was completely dry and the log could be safely cut up and removed. The surrounding thorny brush was also cut back. It had been catching leaves and sticks and made access to the culvert difficult. Once the work was done, the old stone culvert was revealed. It may date back to the 1800s and is pretty big inside (maybe 5 feet tall?). Take a look. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFnPx2KEq87BGSOL68oAxT8KVTZpsXH4gKFmT9e6dxEAXkiJqkY7M8g6ogY-wjjae-yTYvSeCLgOiRk0Bsqgz2YmsLLkMvR2HA5RhNU6ABI0Suku0PhgDlnve8SuXmN9aY2QEsUH0y1IebZA8X2vW1tXVcmbYpI6zy_RgHyBMCZbDhvssi9E5GpeTmMdr/s4032/PXL_20231227_163055187.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNFnPx2KEq87BGSOL68oAxT8KVTZpsXH4gKFmT9e6dxEAXkiJqkY7M8g6ogY-wjjae-yTYvSeCLgOiRk0Bsqgz2YmsLLkMvR2HA5RhNU6ABI0Suku0PhgDlnve8SuXmN9aY2QEsUH0y1IebZA8X2vW1tXVcmbYpI6zy_RgHyBMCZbDhvssi9E5GpeTmMdr/w400-h225/PXL_20231227_163055187.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All cleared!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0sE7TxSL88xnn9wYCd504tGTee-q-9KCSNQ6TveZHCSCPTiyeFChhI1es0Mjs-lTob2X-6grcYjCsQXbL9f2z7gI6bzQbCrZ7ZMSIoewbhXTcdGd1-I9Et9nGtu6fH4y7Z9HP2E1tpqWBJPMO8z-LFnQu7xno3uW1LqFCT8jcjDjPngTEqOaSBMACCnK/s2184/PXL_20231227_164055112~2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1471" data-original-width="2184" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM0sE7TxSL88xnn9wYCd504tGTee-q-9KCSNQ6TveZHCSCPTiyeFChhI1es0Mjs-lTob2X-6grcYjCsQXbL9f2z7gI6bzQbCrZ7ZMSIoewbhXTcdGd1-I9Et9nGtu6fH4y7Z9HP2E1tpqWBJPMO8z-LFnQu7xno3uW1LqFCT8jcjDjPngTEqOaSBMACCnK/w400-h270/PXL_20231227_164055112~2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the same view point as the previous flood photo </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The culvert was cleaned out just in time as it turned out, because heavy rain was forecast for that night. The channel was also cleaned out where flood waters had created dams. The next morning, water was everywhere and once again flooding Indian Well Road at the state park. What would Birchbank look like? </div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhbAteLQU7tHV2usVD2NFr2EmhM_blA4u1GNONVEcZPPMiZdI3-PlquQ-ad9YOZMdLiRxE3qZI50QP-kz09di2pARQjzYPsHKo5ZweeATIASfksa_OIBOjnSmbp21dCfGa-AadSmpc-ljkt-27JYldXts3-6GBCg0KzJWMF9EWeOn_2UyNA8kLQl0fXF1/s4032/PXL_20231228_134316458.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAhbAteLQU7tHV2usVD2NFr2EmhM_blA4u1GNONVEcZPPMiZdI3-PlquQ-ad9YOZMdLiRxE3qZI50QP-kz09di2pARQjzYPsHKo5ZweeATIASfksa_OIBOjnSmbp21dCfGa-AadSmpc-ljkt-27JYldXts3-6GBCg0KzJWMF9EWeOn_2UyNA8kLQl0fXF1/w400-h225/PXL_20231228_134316458.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The culvert. Wow. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsi9vGtg84RSKOqWShTQCzJ8wpuG2ccYUgIX987eg9WT9VOqn1UgIPrJKkqGXRgtvY8lBn2iPn79O9bAh0Agp7dF5obIcHay5ROldSzP2DhUwVsV0zFRF2TXgLVCDUeaShhzKRZneUHyqavPIjn60uoXbK9SmwMTnVhXx3KD74yTsY6Cx7RpF0mBZagNf/s4032/PXL_20231228_134352121.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsi9vGtg84RSKOqWShTQCzJ8wpuG2ccYUgIX987eg9WT9VOqn1UgIPrJKkqGXRgtvY8lBn2iPn79O9bAh0Agp7dF5obIcHay5ROldSzP2DhUwVsV0zFRF2TXgLVCDUeaShhzKRZneUHyqavPIjn60uoXbK9SmwMTnVhXx3KD74yTsY6Cx7RpF0mBZagNf/w400-h225/PXL_20231228_134352121.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But the trail isn't flooded. It's a normal flood.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />It was surprising how much water was flowing through the culvert considering the channel was bone dry the day before. Good thing the log had been cut up and carted away the day before, or it would have been blocking the culvert again. At any rate, we're now aware that we should be checking that culvert routinely or the trail can get flooded. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-41967336388361925842023-12-09T21:51:00.002-05:002023-12-10T08:15:47.501-05:00Rigging Up These Lights<p>Bill Dyer had a bright idea to put holiday lights on the Trails Barn, so Saturday we did. We added lights on the Old Barn too.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwICZA_FDK-bUrjFPd-RKSAEzCObvxaOyCJuvOTVXiilVF4h7BKsHb0d2XpaXveoVbdKrCB2iqXZhRZh3ppe_r-MRgmPdAqjt98UlIdxTNdhl2reh2VNJxqlMeN5uDWNC3PvhL2ZHtxKa8jxWgx5qbTwqdvlzcy4GR0Yjm4JtUfWjFFMqAZPwH56W_0_aR/s2206/PXL_20231209_144002563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1513" data-original-width="2206" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwICZA_FDK-bUrjFPd-RKSAEzCObvxaOyCJuvOTVXiilVF4h7BKsHb0d2XpaXveoVbdKrCB2iqXZhRZh3ppe_r-MRgmPdAqjt98UlIdxTNdhl2reh2VNJxqlMeN5uDWNC3PvhL2ZHtxKa8jxWgx5qbTwqdvlzcy4GR0Yjm4JtUfWjFFMqAZPwH56W_0_aR/w400-h274/PXL_20231209_144002563.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Bill, Mark, Ellen, Val, Luis, Mike, Mark & Terry fiddled around with lights, unrolled extension cords, plugged in plugs, set time on timers, didn't fall off ladders, hammered nails without hitting thumbs, ate some doughnuts, and did whatnot to put lights on the 2 barns and the trees this morning.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkXb6bfVjmI8bu07K01rT4UiVTcIZhbT7i50tCHdMrZDBfxy4Za07o55RU0V62omETmyBgRn7M2Tqi3A0XP_RshDifm74rW6Xomtg0tBeW3fGSzMMxgDMpaO9zGhhyphenhyphen6N7BLmKwmpLGdcuF81BGyV3c1gCT8ds13Tv8WGTBxAhoPeAgDYo22p7s8Gs9efK/s4032/PXL_20231209_135636102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkXb6bfVjmI8bu07K01rT4UiVTcIZhbT7i50tCHdMrZDBfxy4Za07o55RU0V62omETmyBgRn7M2Tqi3A0XP_RshDifm74rW6Xomtg0tBeW3fGSzMMxgDMpaO9zGhhyphenhyphen6N7BLmKwmpLGdcuF81BGyV3c1gCT8ds13Tv8WGTBxAhoPeAgDYo22p7s8Gs9efK/w400-h225/PXL_20231209_135636102.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The New Barn and the winterberry bush were very festive looking.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1tpn1PcutBKT78VzRIZBwz_EUepa-Ev0lY8_69CYaTBHnzqKmeE8JBhnRNi3Uvrv7VIFzQCguHuR_CpaDN-TbXOlN_bq7vykEDpp3gDGNz2iHDxQkeXkRLU34xMZnkyFEugiPd5THTR2djVgug1yPkt-F6NszzPc5OdQR0SiZpO4cigELlkO63ZCAIxk/s2916/PXL_20231209_142346716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1668" data-original-width="2916" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1tpn1PcutBKT78VzRIZBwz_EUepa-Ev0lY8_69CYaTBHnzqKmeE8JBhnRNi3Uvrv7VIFzQCguHuR_CpaDN-TbXOlN_bq7vykEDpp3gDGNz2iHDxQkeXkRLU34xMZnkyFEugiPd5THTR2djVgug1yPkt-F6NszzPc5OdQR0SiZpO4cigELlkO63ZCAIxk/w400-h229/PXL_20231209_142346716.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hank the Hiker was spinning on the cupola this morning. The wind was unsettled with the storm coming up from the south.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFL0vCOIz9U3TdrMhiUC4HhDDUFCO-pF5wcpY_R8fE8_Hixq3pMt6Vc94cpxx2ACXu8GvdAn81qrsWdgCApEX5IEHmas8ctNX3b_LtVXo4o7IpNC8NaiGgfuqFFyj2slOq1ej0zltlN-xzpdLbQNeLMqJ9BdPk574YsZi2G3Wm1G6f3E9FsEZVmDHBOdlj/s4032/PXL_20231209_151713441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFL0vCOIz9U3TdrMhiUC4HhDDUFCO-pF5wcpY_R8fE8_Hixq3pMt6Vc94cpxx2ACXu8GvdAn81qrsWdgCApEX5IEHmas8ctNX3b_LtVXo4o7IpNC8NaiGgfuqFFyj2slOq1ej0zltlN-xzpdLbQNeLMqJ9BdPk574YsZi2G3Wm1G6f3E9FsEZVmDHBOdlj/w225-h400/PXL_20231209_151713441.jpg" width="225" /></a></div><p>Mark was tacking in some nails for lights, and Mike was steadying the ladder so it didn't tip over.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQnSw-v8-cW-Av9rXfuw4ez2m1KlHasB3zCu_YDbBxUxVla7FjFqQ85E6ZUg78iu7j6tp5HunNbaJry1fRBcw5EHT7D9KkHXc8toNoNXUHQw6pmys2rxxeYW3TrsquWzBhavClaj5gCI31pxOdEeYjdUKoG86WgafymhWYLrMVTmep1oTloj_JeqLUbv0/s2362/PXL_20231209_151718901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1532" data-original-width="2362" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQnSw-v8-cW-Av9rXfuw4ez2m1KlHasB3zCu_YDbBxUxVla7FjFqQ85E6ZUg78iu7j6tp5HunNbaJry1fRBcw5EHT7D9KkHXc8toNoNXUHQw6pmys2rxxeYW3TrsquWzBhavClaj5gCI31pxOdEeYjdUKoG86WgafymhWYLrMVTmep1oTloj_JeqLUbv0/w400-h260/PXL_20231209_151718901.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Luis, Bill, Ellen and Val were also stringing some lights on the Old Trails Barn.</p><p>It was a busy morning around the barns; a lot of folks were using the dog park, and Allison, Paul and other volunteers were working to put the flower gardens to bed for the season.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccDDC5P1sqD3umwNe3sVzKg_WEbXtfFDsg7_H2x9i4_Jdn0ogi_0f8A66VADD2Q2nsjVWjYKmkLktGgXz9EASlzqC3qU7BjVFmG3l5qaR5SR8xbCwamBXBbp0ZHpBMvIUWAOBIwXFA7588eHhxg3f15Hgr2DBw4QPCKeDggAH4SdDtNJ55hZP7UN0M1XE/s4000/PC090132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccDDC5P1sqD3umwNe3sVzKg_WEbXtfFDsg7_H2x9i4_Jdn0ogi_0f8A66VADD2Q2nsjVWjYKmkLktGgXz9EASlzqC3qU7BjVFmG3l5qaR5SR8xbCwamBXBbp0ZHpBMvIUWAOBIwXFA7588eHhxg3f15Hgr2DBw4QPCKeDggAH4SdDtNJ55hZP7UN0M1XE/w400-h300/PC090132.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Came back at dusk and the timer was working. The Parks & Rec folks are going to hang some additional lights along the Barn fascia next week, and some wreaths should be going up too. It should look nice for the holidays.</p>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-32176922249732977142023-12-03T10:16:00.003-05:002023-12-03T11:36:48.487-05:002 Cycle Gas Preparation<p>We use a variety of power and hand tools. The power tools really help with maintaining all of Shelton's 31 miles of trails; particularly given the limited number of core volunteers. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiff6bIVcRA24jR9ut6m6IGDvs1jxgnL59KRe8xAjxYb8KZJ5blYiMwJxVdY2tccGI_ck_o9QWLIWAy8FAYvTRHfMBm2mHyEgweQcXF2bAZV47OWYFE5uw9to3v3SiJFE4RaiWhTqhIy25bhOfaZ_JurCZUhfZZmNR8DsRJEiihQxvKFksSCehzvreLXUay/s4000/PA210009.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiff6bIVcRA24jR9ut6m6IGDvs1jxgnL59KRe8xAjxYb8KZJ5blYiMwJxVdY2tccGI_ck_o9QWLIWAy8FAYvTRHfMBm2mHyEgweQcXF2bAZV47OWYFE5uw9to3v3SiJFE4RaiWhTqhIy25bhOfaZ_JurCZUhfZZmNR8DsRJEiihQxvKFksSCehzvreLXUay/w400-h300/PA210009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>When we were first starting out we had a variety of tools that used
different mixtures: 50:1, 40:1, 32:1 and it was hard to keep things
straight. We standardized on using a 50:1 gasoline: 2 cycle oil mixture for all the tools to make our tasks simplier and avoid confusion. Keeping the fresh, proper 2-cycle fuel mixture is the first step in starting and using our trail tools. The typical 50:1 mix we use is:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>1 gallon 89 Octane Gasoline (high test, but not super hi-test)</li><li>1 <u>small</u> container of 2 Cycle Oil (pre-mixed for 1 gallon of gas)</li><li>1 oz. of SeaFoam stabilizer</li></ul><p>The 2 cycle oil is generally dumped into the empty gas can before adding the gasoline to help with mixing. The 89 Octane was suggested by Bill Girard; CFPA's chainsaw instructor, and it seems to work well for us. The stabilizer helps keep the gas fresh for a few months. We generally have two to three 1 gallon cans that we rotate to use up the older gas first.</p><p><b>Note of Caution: </b><u>Most</u> of the little 2 cycle oil containers are pre-mixed for 1 gallon of gas, but check the label. We have a few containers that are pre-mixed for <u>2 gallons</u> of gas. Don't put two much oil in or the tools will sputter. And don't put the 2-Cycle oil in the Gator or DR Mower - those take the regular gas in the larger gas containers.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBz-cFqx0HrB_jfApBbh39RjtrHKY7Ub-vORLL4ywFIRjUDT2Qyy9zR4wDEn4__0NVLafRtG-43mZCz6xRJNrrh5TXmUyKEH0MeaBHu2HKSGqcG-h4fWtj6VKjjT9HKzQR_9LXw_TBJJ7i4FES8uDEhrfM8DoQtVxJ0QgbZUp7CjKjMc3KHPMnoqGaqcw/s4000/PA210010.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBz-cFqx0HrB_jfApBbh39RjtrHKY7Ub-vORLL4ywFIRjUDT2Qyy9zR4wDEn4__0NVLafRtG-43mZCz6xRJNrrh5TXmUyKEH0MeaBHu2HKSGqcG-h4fWtj6VKjjT9HKzQR_9LXw_TBJJ7i4FES8uDEhrfM8DoQtVxJ0QgbZUp7CjKjMc3KHPMnoqGaqcw/w400-h300/PA210010.JPG" width="400" /></a></p><div><p>Use the little mixing shot glass to pour out the SeaFoam stabilizer and add it to the gas can. Make a note on the label of the date it was mixed up, so we can use up the older gas first.</p><p><b>Trail Safety Tip: Don't use that shot glass for drinking. SeaFoam may be good for engine innards, but not so sure about your innards. And that goes for any of the other measuring containers on the fuel/chemical area of the Barn.<br /></b></p><p>There you have it; another valuable trail maintenance guide from your friendly neighborhood Shelton Trails Committee.<b> </b><br /></p></div>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-32558600850363363652023-11-26T13:00:00.003-05:002023-12-04T18:09:57.327-05:00Turkey Trot Hike<p>The 2023 Turkey Trot Hike went off without a hitch. A dedicated group left from Shelton Intermediate School to work off some of that holiday stuffing and gravy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyXWDBtDFiaznM6x4EwHBJnUchxQJgZrG_03Fz1ZZirv0e55yJnkAhJXXiBzCb5NhvGiEvbRdY1Pw-ci7uyVIqJO2tVebmwXvivVvSm-TDm4_U9DV1-QN0rLF-35LhYM1MsT54E3rgercy6FEQW3gD0PfagH2Eq8uQGM3a2tkwXoPSkbsyK-4Qkmo8jtg/s3091/PXL_20231126_193547071.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1752" data-original-width="3091" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyXWDBtDFiaznM6x4EwHBJnUchxQJgZrG_03Fz1ZZirv0e55yJnkAhJXXiBzCb5NhvGiEvbRdY1Pw-ci7uyVIqJO2tVebmwXvivVvSm-TDm4_U9DV1-QN0rLF-35LhYM1MsT54E3rgercy6FEQW3gD0PfagH2Eq8uQGM3a2tkwXoPSkbsyK-4Qkmo8jtg/w400-h226/PXL_20231126_193547071.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>It was a brisk start, but we warmed up quickly. We were able to do the outer loop on the Turkey Trot Trail now that Eversource was done with construction along the powerlines.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGghlhuacrAdoD7G1HmX3uzFCPmj1KiOldR0J9TRgTOHgHkbmNQNHcVxPbh9vymCdchION9vm2huhmbLYwTXjl4oAEolothPh4Kr-z0tnSKJsRTh3o5djFEHm3DJgFhMXAk1VhHof0U9iQ4q9XabedFV7uWT3lxVLXS729hntDNtswFdB6jae_ZstIx3Km/s4032/PXL_20231126_183442629.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGghlhuacrAdoD7G1HmX3uzFCPmj1KiOldR0J9TRgTOHgHkbmNQNHcVxPbh9vymCdchION9vm2huhmbLYwTXjl4oAEolothPh4Kr-z0tnSKJsRTh3o5djFEHm3DJgFhMXAk1VhHof0U9iQ4q9XabedFV7uWT3lxVLXS729hntDNtswFdB6jae_ZstIx3Km/w400-h225/PXL_20231126_183442629.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The oak leaves were a little slippery on some of the slopes, but it was a fine hike. Wish I'd taken a few more pictures. The route crossed the powerlines, out to Willoughby Road, and back over to Silent Waters and the school. There were a lot of fellow walkers, hikers, and families out enjoying their post Thanksgiving outing. Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-65786118720906108852023-11-18T20:55:00.001-05:002023-11-24T16:18:01.008-05:00Stockmal Bridge Successfully Replaced <p>The bridge over the stream on the Stockmal Trail was falling apart - literally falling apart. Despite recent emergency patch repairs by Teresa Gallagher, this bridge was one fat butterfly landing on it while someone was walking their dog across it from collapsing into the brook. It was in sad shape and needed to be replaced.</p><p>And today it was. The rain forecast from yesterday looked like it was going to hold off, and it did, until we got about as far out in the woods as we could, and THEN it rained. But we had our raincoats and muddled on. We dropped off lumber and materials and wheeled or carried them in with a great group of volunteers and high school students (2 students - thanks Jason and Jevu) who hauled in the lumber along with Luis, Val, and Ellen. </p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWw-Nbg1IPQs1G6jpJ2w5lGxQ59oVNKp4KBQZDbdtyf5uQp5JIi1gFCOr4bq1_KlzVVzgPv75dNr30ASr1_BZYZLep2T-WG_LJvV75IcqiNLhatiDuh2Lyo7xdIGeDzzXXSTTYxElHc7uy-etWuBhsPMNVj3eDJ9WMEAQ4S69SwT4XLUK3qo1ZHxUsLRMu/s4032/PXL_20231118_173043100.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWw-Nbg1IPQs1G6jpJ2w5lGxQ59oVNKp4KBQZDbdtyf5uQp5JIi1gFCOr4bq1_KlzVVzgPv75dNr30ASr1_BZYZLep2T-WG_LJvV75IcqiNLhatiDuh2Lyo7xdIGeDzzXXSTTYxElHc7uy-etWuBhsPMNVj3eDJ9WMEAQ4S69SwT4XLUK3qo1ZHxUsLRMu/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_173043100.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Here's the Trails Committee Proof-Loading the new bridge after construction. Not only do we stand behind our work we also stand on top of it. If it's safe enough for us it should be safe enough for the public.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnsR0RYjPCokSCxjsrIVSjPYGcrjWjiGRbnsNm9CDpEjF6Dc5diSo0UUhMajcyEEMSp2hcSq5a6NyBdT64yGhy6BnSzIwlQb5k9NWasSak-j48c7Kl_qXHs5FEPJLGRU5dsMZa0-hWgEfu6apTD4UoVI7MuVl6SEX6bNpYtdgyKxOl5Hpl4qXdexfLnhB/s4032/PXL_20231118_143619937.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYnsR0RYjPCokSCxjsrIVSjPYGcrjWjiGRbnsNm9CDpEjF6Dc5diSo0UUhMajcyEEMSp2hcSq5a6NyBdT64yGhy6BnSzIwlQb5k9NWasSak-j48c7Kl_qXHs5FEPJLGRU5dsMZa0-hWgEfu6apTD4UoVI7MuVl6SEX6bNpYtdgyKxOl5Hpl4qXdexfLnhB/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_143619937.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Here we are setting up to remove the old bridge. Note the recent patch boards in the far end.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZAmTUENBjVycAujytKAjCQwVt5lhvg6_umHxd_HXSmzazRtx7LvCM9bgtUE2HplhSEGtMlLRAL3mXw8Uan_k5F6OLzNhsAywUiEOLccCt0reTjHvB21LJVyNDyDBeJM7JtFv-6SnHQfuSiGqsOQYwSL6f_0Gx0NWrM5vv3L2TMVuhuf0ehne60uIOp_r/s4032/PXL_20231118_143625027.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZAmTUENBjVycAujytKAjCQwVt5lhvg6_umHxd_HXSmzazRtx7LvCM9bgtUE2HplhSEGtMlLRAL3mXw8Uan_k5F6OLzNhsAywUiEOLccCt0reTjHvB21LJVyNDyDBeJM7JtFv-6SnHQfuSiGqsOQYwSL6f_0Gx0NWrM5vv3L2TMVuhuf0ehne60uIOp_r/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_143625027.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The causeway had been extended by Teresa earlier in the week. This was the approach across the floodplain to the bridge.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIyeOAaeDo73uCma14TLFP88jfX4vc-viOOnqEEPhMdFNxn1CbpfGxtqlVS1jG7BhGIvOrXksSr_cLceA7RXIx07PZv6laXOoGVt5wBysZigwwKJyy60z2yn_FTi0MZaOgdRto6RMFH4VDow5m84ZluF8He3gxwUKLH68zHtaqAyy29rKB9mgHXnO2x-r/s4032/PXL_20231118_151544751.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIyeOAaeDo73uCma14TLFP88jfX4vc-viOOnqEEPhMdFNxn1CbpfGxtqlVS1jG7BhGIvOrXksSr_cLceA7RXIx07PZv6laXOoGVt5wBysZigwwKJyy60z2yn_FTi0MZaOgdRto6RMFH4VDow5m84ZluF8He3gxwUKLH68zHtaqAyy29rKB9mgHXnO2x-r/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_151544751.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The old bridge was used as a bed to construct the new bridge. Here is Mark working on the new stingers.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_NC1Vu8Z34Inxz2JQcwGf-OFzD5ymmOSRSJ0KS-cg7wRO8kTc9nPkTRmVwr2nnU2moTEuhc4IBi9pxQM6ouJZTvdcTW6wjEANeag7F-ZAkTNS81GLilt9kues556Z15yLiAo34C79tDfs30V9eN2aMGIEqHTdPaYMYoxCQ6QUeiCn63J-6eOT0SNdTMw/s4032/PXL_20231118_151535962.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_NC1Vu8Z34Inxz2JQcwGf-OFzD5ymmOSRSJ0KS-cg7wRO8kTc9nPkTRmVwr2nnU2moTEuhc4IBi9pxQM6ouJZTvdcTW6wjEANeag7F-ZAkTNS81GLilt9kues556Z15yLiAo34C79tDfs30V9eN2aMGIEqHTdPaYMYoxCQ6QUeiCn63J-6eOT0SNdTMw/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_151535962.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>So, we glued, screwed, and bolted the 16 foot long beams together. Mark is applying the construction adhesive.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIb3bu6s3oq-046C6LS8gbJYAnxph26sSP6GQEc73X73Pn7RrNru6J8THf0GDWPFzp8HxEDOjaFLIJbHPg85MDqgM6QhC-4Grs-dH9VF7OjCeQABaEC9AMEsyBsM9W7AIdlBm8V5T9uNdrKUphh1z_2NU88AOwNOKiCqV6VczbENzxaR6pEFKU8cT8fr4/s4032/PXL_20231118_152541869.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTIb3bu6s3oq-046C6LS8gbJYAnxph26sSP6GQEc73X73Pn7RrNru6J8THf0GDWPFzp8HxEDOjaFLIJbHPg85MDqgM6QhC-4Grs-dH9VF7OjCeQABaEC9AMEsyBsM9W7AIdlBm8V5T9uNdrKUphh1z_2NU88AOwNOKiCqV6VczbENzxaR6pEFKU8cT8fr4/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_152541869.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Mike and Bill cut the spacing blocks for the bridge undercarriage.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7Kb3H3kQDgRJTFbAPnNl_wV6hG7mVbMwDyx3B1045n9vK2jW6-5Gu_LhPEqDeL2B6jcuejXcaEJMYz3LqpeiwM5ESK1RkP9t4hUYuditfWNBKxh8rikOAN9VTZV6iUV07b8PhdK_KW1W0y3juhCDvGUb_RM7Hw-xLZTmb21wOUyjZlQvjA537qeOYCv0/s4032/PXL_20231118_162448831.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7Kb3H3kQDgRJTFbAPnNl_wV6hG7mVbMwDyx3B1045n9vK2jW6-5Gu_LhPEqDeL2B6jcuejXcaEJMYz3LqpeiwM5ESK1RkP9t4hUYuditfWNBKxh8rikOAN9VTZV6iUV07b8PhdK_KW1W0y3juhCDvGUb_RM7Hw-xLZTmb21wOUyjZlQvjA537qeOYCv0/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_162448831.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The new bridge frame was assembled, and then shifted off to the side so we could move the existing bridge out of the way. It was heavy so we tried to lighten the weight of the existing bridge by taking off some of the lumber. Mike removed some deck boards from the existing bridge to lessen the weight when we moved it. The bridge was pretty heavy due to the soggy boards. Luckily, the existing bridge did no collapse into the stream when Mike removed the rotten deck boards, but Mike really tried. Note that Val was standing close to one of the abutments, just in case everything went south in a hurry.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MJyLKlfJSqYCPbOJVpjqktZgN_OWwc-WHDwPfV8TMp5EWnBGDK5O0InN8reT4ZvD4la0CLW8QUUci7PndfiwAZBTDmWnCrCC95_Q_HwUO_TamOYe_UdgiH6zFLWKMqjIyZKBuqZek4-iT0XWGUm5HaJla2xTDqioBljNzy9vRWjzKRc-Xp0FT7t_f_pk/s4032/PXL_20231118_173048065.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MJyLKlfJSqYCPbOJVpjqktZgN_OWwc-WHDwPfV8TMp5EWnBGDK5O0InN8reT4ZvD4la0CLW8QUUci7PndfiwAZBTDmWnCrCC95_Q_HwUO_TamOYe_UdgiH6zFLWKMqjIyZKBuqZek4-iT0XWGUm5HaJla2xTDqioBljNzy9vRWjzKRc-Xp0FT7t_f_pk/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_173048065.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>We got the old bridge dragged out of the way, put the new bridge back into place and started screwing 2x6 decking boards back into place. Jevu and Jason helped Mike and Terry screw them in, along with Bill and Mark. Everyone got a turn. We had a great time lining up the boards, stripping driver bits, dropping things into the stream; in short, a real trail work party. But we got it done. And lowe and behold, the new bridge is much sturdier than the old bridge.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHdl3xggjbawCsYhAMk6PLFyBQpgeK8we8xeWvi53nphFHt5SuKIb4V1q3q3syNSGPajtuNpsEPcN2jhFmh4Awkl8sXEB8EYfZk-vC5jj7QK6h18dSqWFMX4WWOz5dNpi0j5eDgQATC7bSXShyphenhyphenpJe9Jg7o0Tnx_7aEnFVuRfqeWf9LtZHvlvcwOu3KSQX/s4032/PXL_20231118_175251065.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaHdl3xggjbawCsYhAMk6PLFyBQpgeK8we8xeWvi53nphFHt5SuKIb4V1q3q3syNSGPajtuNpsEPcN2jhFmh4Awkl8sXEB8EYfZk-vC5jj7QK6h18dSqWFMX4WWOz5dNpi0j5eDgQATC7bSXShyphenhyphenpJe9Jg7o0Tnx_7aEnFVuRfqeWf9LtZHvlvcwOu3KSQX/w400-h225/PXL_20231118_175251065.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Mike and Luis reattached some boards to the old bridge section so it was safer to walk on. There are a lot sticks and mud scattered in the muck. We left the old bridge in the swamp temporarily for elevated footing during flooding. We plan to replace it with a proper section on bog bridge in 2024, but this should hold for now. <br /></p><p>It was a good, if wet, work party. Thanks to Jason, Jevu, Luis, Mark, Annie, Val, Ellen, Bill, Mike and Terry. And Thank You to the Bennett and Stockmal families for hosting the trail on their property.</p><p>There was a lot of pre-planning and materials assembly by Mark, Ray, Ellen & Bill, but it all made things go smoother in the swamp on Saturday. The sun came out and it wound up finishing as a nice Saturday Afternoon. The Stockmal Bridge is replaced and we can check this one off the To Do List.<br /></p>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-68816566431853896062023-10-31T15:00:00.001-04:002023-12-03T09:41:53.641-05:00Stablizing the Old Barn<p>Bill Dyer and Mark Vollaro met Dan & Dave Construction at the Old Trails Barn to see if something could be done to stabilize it before it falls down. The Barn dates back to the 1800's, and time and the elements have taken their toll.</p><p>Dan & Dave checked the barn and the timber foundation was pretty shot. They tried to tie straps around the Barn and pull it back to vertical, while jacking up the foundation. The Barn started to shift a bit, so they did some quick work.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6aNRJY1FYjZKvCo-ziMFPyaz-HcwMHyvScfERWURtyr2dmao75m-lJwFT4ii_noI-wrR81AZ8ob3IXx8L9_PTBDynYKsuyDfg_CJqDFUOlRdFRdi9KfgDBnCMiywSdgZSE_n30bI_bLMZl3KEP36fZtTsuk3pHfQ0ADQVYI6LczYF-BpINE4EFxJmmJJ/s640/IMG_3921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6aNRJY1FYjZKvCo-ziMFPyaz-HcwMHyvScfERWURtyr2dmao75m-lJwFT4ii_noI-wrR81AZ8ob3IXx8L9_PTBDynYKsuyDfg_CJqDFUOlRdFRdi9KfgDBnCMiywSdgZSE_n30bI_bLMZl3KEP36fZtTsuk3pHfQ0ADQVYI6LczYF-BpINE4EFxJmmJJ/w300-h400/IMG_3921.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p>They were able to shore up the northeast corner of the Barn and add some rocks under the sill to give it some more support. They also added some interior bracing to the post and beam timber frame inside the Barn.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi__8f00K3xxklLa43M0fevkvPCrSL1DKt9GYcYIeufciLnJVVy-CWpbp7iV64DCnBNlYLJtZAHT7D_dYIfJ5efNxunwhIzq1erjCK2fnJeEHbXDjuzA2IGDl6ECRj3GKJA06YYIXdElZv8HN8oEld-atBd8TZyUfL6uVy7UZhdDSxDNcR8WsyhYddQShQJ/s640/IMG_3920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi__8f00K3xxklLa43M0fevkvPCrSL1DKt9GYcYIeufciLnJVVy-CWpbp7iV64DCnBNlYLJtZAHT7D_dYIfJ5efNxunwhIzq1erjCK2fnJeEHbXDjuzA2IGDl6ECRj3GKJA06YYIXdElZv8HN8oEld-atBd8TZyUfL6uVy7UZhdDSxDNcR8WsyhYddQShQJ/w400-h300/IMG_3920.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>When the Barn shifted Dan & Dave had to make a few minor adjustments to the door frame in order to close them again.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzIxTknjdkBS_tr5nYQudOixXnqZRL_vYDCCoOekW6xzvY1y1ChBeULaxS0Fj_l26ztST_okCaQs9rA00mYUON8tCGbBivUdgmwz4XzVjub0rZgy9Gb1uJ8guiERXFzKNdwbnNRQ5m_DCu_4GU1e1UAuY5XqU_UpXmmZ4ylzbj4DgtpRG-goyV-APcEGn/s4000/PB050161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzIxTknjdkBS_tr5nYQudOixXnqZRL_vYDCCoOekW6xzvY1y1ChBeULaxS0Fj_l26ztST_okCaQs9rA00mYUON8tCGbBivUdgmwz4XzVjub0rZgy9Gb1uJ8guiERXFzKNdwbnNRQ5m_DCu_4GU1e1UAuY5XqU_UpXmmZ4ylzbj4DgtpRG-goyV-APcEGn/w400-h300/PB050161.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The Old Barn looks better. Now we'll be able to store our supplies and lumber out of the weather.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O2djGF2nrc_ZVoh66hLk5OGNDdtK8Mev97Xop1YNGmaY936GR0uSMTTaEc7vkIvvWa-zxzTEcZoLaLjuESKCDiqnuz99KJtp3YcmVMadi61QjzxGdPViwKlH4D85es851VpsYVRXA9bs0ILpznCZ-wRSUpQF0-YL5GeevCiJuaxFAYa-4eQYP3LojN1i/s4000/PB050162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5O2djGF2nrc_ZVoh66hLk5OGNDdtK8Mev97Xop1YNGmaY936GR0uSMTTaEc7vkIvvWa-zxzTEcZoLaLjuESKCDiqnuz99KJtp3YcmVMadi61QjzxGdPViwKlH4D85es851VpsYVRXA9bs0ILpznCZ-wRSUpQF0-YL5GeevCiJuaxFAYa-4eQYP3LojN1i/w300-h400/PB050162.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>The Barn still has a <u>littttle </u>curvature to it, but the doors open and close. Maybe we can get another 100 years of it. <br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p><br /></p>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-88904368132745033802023-10-28T19:00:00.003-04:002023-11-24T16:18:28.951-05:00Fall Full Moon Hike<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqr0A6BQNXQVX1QKxWjEQPfxYMzlWW5RiYAVtYVEctSUksa94j_DdUYomqx8RKPg_MtBl6wPgTZtRxdxZuR1T_MjpdDX0AmwulmWl6rehW3mUHkIIubIhvfflzNtth3bYRjIKyGcSciYNm5WoOK-IMwTGrsR2g880Y49pc65nzdR4tLZ-lbm1mJ6ZqnM4j/s4000/PA280037.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqr0A6BQNXQVX1QKxWjEQPfxYMzlWW5RiYAVtYVEctSUksa94j_DdUYomqx8RKPg_MtBl6wPgTZtRxdxZuR1T_MjpdDX0AmwulmWl6rehW3mUHkIIubIhvfflzNtth3bYRjIKyGcSciYNm5WoOK-IMwTGrsR2g880Y49pc65nzdR4tLZ-lbm1mJ6ZqnM4j/w400-h300/PA280037.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>We were blessed with some uncommonly warm and dry weather for our Full Moon Hike. The hike started on the RecPath at Lane St and proceeded along the RecPath to Great Ledge. It was about 1.5 miles each way, total 3.0 miles.<p></p><p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCLX-5GjB4S13ig_a8uMs8FRl1slSvZTM-sIweeguM03XQra1Ma4zeTuVeIpJH3JwlilamO3OEPr6MXtyqz4-Y09KQcH2RRcd9_3MyKDBQMLs1yq6-lRvpty4brAt9wziwOkNRpcIkR6ZHwRSIVcKPj8646MnQn7k6RTSW4s4jdF2YWcbcrkfzSNVbZvo/s4032/PXL_20231028_225839357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCLX-5GjB4S13ig_a8uMs8FRl1slSvZTM-sIweeguM03XQra1Ma4zeTuVeIpJH3JwlilamO3OEPr6MXtyqz4-Y09KQcH2RRcd9_3MyKDBQMLs1yq6-lRvpty4brAt9wziwOkNRpcIkR6ZHwRSIVcKPj8646MnQn7k6RTSW4s4jdF2YWcbcrkfzSNVbZvo/w400-h225/PXL_20231028_225839357.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /></p><p>There were a lot of flashlights and headlamps, which made it look a little like the movie Close Encounters of a Third Kind at the beginning. We think that we started with about 22 people. <br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCZ-2MvMM8e0PTb4EQy7u6YcCQi5rqEe_97qsFIjssVX-dI-I-P6kt_yUqK4QXEGl1XuTsF6tC10EtXuP0meR2KKibl2nHqKFL972CQAIJtGsy7QTQAREQtLVjwpb2F1k3I2mmnrPFOsSQj00LI6ygb5bvIbdEkd7Y0CL5-WxLlJHRCWFYtpjpiMv8AEk/s4000/PA280038.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCZ-2MvMM8e0PTb4EQy7u6YcCQi5rqEe_97qsFIjssVX-dI-I-P6kt_yUqK4QXEGl1XuTsF6tC10EtXuP0meR2KKibl2nHqKFL972CQAIJtGsy7QTQAREQtLVjwpb2F1k3I2mmnrPFOsSQj00LI6ygb5bvIbdEkd7Y0CL5-WxLlJHRCWFYtpjpiMv8AEk/w400-h300/PA280038.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>It was a beautiful night out. The moon was clearly visible throughout the hike - this photo was taken at the Land Trust Meadow on the Hawley Preserve.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVI-QrLvnoNeR_Z3w-TfwFob9xFJ_1JyDlUdiPwODXAgPLVam77NoRysAjIEXqI18CSIwehyPsOsC2SSfzB9dtrGXxhl0_lJqlCEEi3orFq3raTcMNiV41Ztg3WWWqqw9fj8sHeudlfctjStQhsTiWoUUCyxI3h3Iwi0qItTpbTVS_Sqj0E3g0z3Vmytjk/s4032/PXL_20231028_235125265.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVI-QrLvnoNeR_Z3w-TfwFob9xFJ_1JyDlUdiPwODXAgPLVam77NoRysAjIEXqI18CSIwehyPsOsC2SSfzB9dtrGXxhl0_lJqlCEEi3orFq3raTcMNiV41Ztg3WWWqqw9fj8sHeudlfctjStQhsTiWoUUCyxI3h3Iwi0qItTpbTVS_Sqj0E3g0z3Vmytjk/w400-h225/PXL_20231028_235125265.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The views of the moon were really good when we came out to the powerlines by Great Ledge. Everyone took in the night sky. I think it was Saturn that was just below the moon.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ay-XbjvlRHR0cppIeb-JMXG6v-vAfDkYl8ywCsWgyFss00Osz-UgP4zuk1PcS_Fg-rb967p6NXFnHEIMCYsVSSwNYHN65r5_lUJ2DOEjeZA5dx8359Q1reKtEjz88BZ5uKiWrmqN4pzezO9FF2Fmd6_2aq2UyQ19Wu6F7ym3UZzYw-7l6E0mahTMmjIb/s4032/PXL_20231028_234855972.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ay-XbjvlRHR0cppIeb-JMXG6v-vAfDkYl8ywCsWgyFss00Osz-UgP4zuk1PcS_Fg-rb967p6NXFnHEIMCYsVSSwNYHN65r5_lUJ2DOEjeZA5dx8359Q1reKtEjz88BZ5uKiWrmqN4pzezO9FF2Fmd6_2aq2UyQ19Wu6F7ym3UZzYw-7l6E0mahTMmjIb/w400-h225/PXL_20231028_234855972.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>And we had a pleasant walk back. We think we finished with about 12 people. Some turned back earlier near Huntington Woods. So we were batting .500, which was good. We had wanted to have another night hike for a while, and this one turned out really well. Thanks to everyone who came out.Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-12084653836793691802023-10-28T16:08:00.002-04:002023-11-24T16:18:47.861-05:00Hey It's Not Raining Today; Clearing Brush on the RecPath Oak Valley Rd to Great Ledge<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiujsnN_ELHaUyJoQU0p4q-T6bJ1sgmzsjukE8TrAAXcnE58wlnIbNkEkbgjh5dK5QVwq03ycYsvsC9xPxr0PvWWVOnngMqfYAd8v7Ta9uKKRLcyadQmByTJ4jGruIyGA0HwnvRIM3xzQ1eckEVjILHfNiVQ9MUT_VpSjPtIWXhvkDGpAU4SMl4C-VVozc/s3134/PA280021.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1922" data-original-width="3134" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiujsnN_ELHaUyJoQU0p4q-T6bJ1sgmzsjukE8TrAAXcnE58wlnIbNkEkbgjh5dK5QVwq03ycYsvsC9xPxr0PvWWVOnngMqfYAd8v7Ta9uKKRLcyadQmByTJ4jGruIyGA0HwnvRIM3xzQ1eckEVjILHfNiVQ9MUT_VpSjPtIWXhvkDGpAU4SMl4C-VVozc/w400-h245/PA280021.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />We had a great turnout of volunteers at Oak Valley Road this morning. We had been rained out a lot of Saturdays this fall, but not today. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-DJBDN34pHY_KbpAbNa4jDIAwdvk4uDAMEMyB7X4YNcnxiaYzD810BHfWi4K0kBjf_7w9Xlw7OuxtntzdnNHNqDIa4DslJIuMOI6iweA_F4jDqniQqme8uzfBbqS9E-A2FcemsCQ61uR5ttGlXCPAXJQK1HUe37qpgheGqk5_i_6aIri65f-nVMZWc5g/s2462/PA280023.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2058" data-original-width="2462" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn-DJBDN34pHY_KbpAbNa4jDIAwdvk4uDAMEMyB7X4YNcnxiaYzD810BHfWi4K0kBjf_7w9Xlw7OuxtntzdnNHNqDIa4DslJIuMOI6iweA_F4jDqniQqme8uzfBbqS9E-A2FcemsCQ61uR5ttGlXCPAXJQK1HUe37qpgheGqk5_i_6aIri65f-nVMZWc5g/w400-h334/PA280023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>On group when N. along the RecPath, and the rest went S. We were cutting back brush along the side of the RecPath some of these areas were closed during the Eversource powerline construction.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCUA7ld94Zt20VE0JhSROret1bmA8Rh4itCdQPkiKU6_aRCmg5K_EkSKK7G2vpomuvMiD9hFLZ-rsW1iGpSyDf5-40uw5ihicUarsDdegN78zil0j_KV6uFooHCQ40vi4dMwIX459e3Vpv3w1rXJXoDZVxJbTETCDbLPhqc7EbuzfYHTVIrg5kt-QV5Ws/s4000/PA280022.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHCUA7ld94Zt20VE0JhSROret1bmA8Rh4itCdQPkiKU6_aRCmg5K_EkSKK7G2vpomuvMiD9hFLZ-rsW1iGpSyDf5-40uw5ihicUarsDdegN78zil0j_KV6uFooHCQ40vi4dMwIX459e3Vpv3w1rXJXoDZVxJbTETCDbLPhqc7EbuzfYHTVIrg5kt-QV5Ws/w400-h300/PA280022.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>There were also mundane tasks, such as finding, and clearing, drainage pipes under the RecPath and channels on on either side of the Path.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2ts2jK-nM0cWUkzoyG8ITdY4udjLN_5CFJW1yGTOkbBs8RgCgKg1zZjjvl7afeIWxJVVkgMxsfLN9qM7EPKhrMJqYk75mfBYX-SKTKLfjcVGIFP_ouugHT3hUK2kMds2f1LiNlHP2n-NKDTuf_HkAGAKb9A0iH_ZqPbRl5eNowq0GL_kc-4HyIi1Cv0T/s2363/PA280025.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2363" data-original-width="2323" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2ts2jK-nM0cWUkzoyG8ITdY4udjLN_5CFJW1yGTOkbBs8RgCgKg1zZjjvl7afeIWxJVVkgMxsfLN9qM7EPKhrMJqYk75mfBYX-SKTKLfjcVGIFP_ouugHT3hUK2kMds2f1LiNlHP2n-NKDTuf_HkAGAKb9A0iH_ZqPbRl5eNowq0GL_kc-4HyIi1Cv0T/w394-h400/PA280025.JPG" width="394" /></a></div>We cut back a 2' wide shoulder on each side of the 8' wide RecPath. Some native shrubs such as these Winterberries were preserved. Winterberry provide food for birds in late fall and early winter.<p></p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRS1kkDfTHx8ve1B6IhP3VhRckkOF0fzmDUBcob_vGekkCigVix4jVkpSZE_re6Kta5fOfzd3q7Y9UZqV6VpZKbEDjG5nKlXskOxQcyX8UanSU3QkG2URSlK0fg6kwz1upUoSDNtzVqbEKSN3abZsoX_MucVXYn5td7MWNOlqJcPzvGjok4HsERvhkL1_/s2192/PA280026.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2039" data-original-width="2192" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRS1kkDfTHx8ve1B6IhP3VhRckkOF0fzmDUBcob_vGekkCigVix4jVkpSZE_re6Kta5fOfzd3q7Y9UZqV6VpZKbEDjG5nKlXskOxQcyX8UanSU3QkG2URSlK0fg6kwz1upUoSDNtzVqbEKSN3abZsoX_MucVXYn5td7MWNOlqJcPzvGjok4HsERvhkL1_/w400-h373/PA280026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Cutting out around the corners too, for better sightlines.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghbwI-Q2eujQeccA4Nn0EqimxdkW0jxvn6W1vheDA6ywEww2jE_LNcbdGB-5Wy8uE8cNSiUH5BksbEyb44O_-C6-op0JsSD6wV4dvujbvVow84HDtpTYOrZufA0M9xhqsz7F-SRynheccuz-vPeTH0Mv0KaNiXw98vwdzzafrNSZ_nSvSuO6fIclbrZsf/s4000/PA280036.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghbwI-Q2eujQeccA4Nn0EqimxdkW0jxvn6W1vheDA6ywEww2jE_LNcbdGB-5Wy8uE8cNSiUH5BksbEyb44O_-C6-op0JsSD6wV4dvujbvVow84HDtpTYOrZufA0M9xhqsz7F-SRynheccuz-vPeTH0Mv0KaNiXw98vwdzzafrNSZ_nSvSuO6fIclbrZsf/w400-h300/PA280036.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Eversource had restored the portions of the RecPath that had been damaged. They mulched the crushed stone RecPath for some reason.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfv7Gw0BiNLmn3DoWrbWAWh2VXSSefv-ONbSwHe1BH4Uef1Q-BRVTM-SarZGtd2CFOobq3UCG6uhWnwDY0DTw4JNw9hpc20v-7_5kOhlCfyI94aU9P1buTBBxMxVpuPEOgxoiQr-9pXIvTV3Q95e1AOW5BdNzdvmq4ISogJZFunQ6ELpQttdzNq3p4P1n/s4000/PA280035.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfv7Gw0BiNLmn3DoWrbWAWh2VXSSefv-ONbSwHe1BH4Uef1Q-BRVTM-SarZGtd2CFOobq3UCG6uhWnwDY0DTw4JNw9hpc20v-7_5kOhlCfyI94aU9P1buTBBxMxVpuPEOgxoiQr-9pXIvTV3Q95e1AOW5BdNzdvmq4ISogJZFunQ6ELpQttdzNq3p4P1n/w400-h300/PA280035.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The stones along the edge with Spooner Swamp were a nice touch. The top course of stone needs to be checked. It looks like Eversource used coarser stone than we specified - something to be discussed for the final punch list with Eversource.Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-46893582835597445052023-10-14T08:30:00.002-04:002023-11-24T16:19:14.504-05:00RecPath Work Party at Lane St<p> We managed to squeeze in a work party at Lane St. before the rain hit. The meadow had grown in so much that our 8' wide RecPath was down to 2' in some places.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdVMPv-_TUsctiXi-pHc3lQzyjIOV1oByavVqopbtGrBqXey0GCLBlsK_WWqc2M_kBTzjwQLQckFNma-c-PPEu6jICB91FxJV1qHvP5vJTOaDHydCnpGL8iKbdh_SqrcX7ag7H7EOtV2-vgXlkIFaqwc3WGNlFffj4gxDUMOeo_nj1h1dX6K7jzsbhA3T/s4000/PA140128.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNdVMPv-_TUsctiXi-pHc3lQzyjIOV1oByavVqopbtGrBqXey0GCLBlsK_WWqc2M_kBTzjwQLQckFNma-c-PPEu6jICB91FxJV1qHvP5vJTOaDHydCnpGL8iKbdh_SqrcX7ag7H7EOtV2-vgXlkIFaqwc3WGNlFffj4gxDUMOeo_nj1h1dX6K7jzsbhA3T/w400-h300/PA140128.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Mark had the crew clear out the briars and stubs around the Sycamore Tree.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpCtJnctY4xMaKkx-m9rcGQVr8DcBaO4LqW1m-6vFCdQ5TOgpD_qABAg6eCYX2EuN6vOGnwgj1r6_q4MACXwaokFmiR2CqOq0NkyLC7D0juOHYNfaLNHHW0BHXQDK-lJApD_NBFJY9WNdqpYMWPgWgC_Rq7OSQB086aEBCCEb-UNV3wA3aqe_U-ZQFkYH/s2155/PA140124.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2155" data-original-width="1832" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpCtJnctY4xMaKkx-m9rcGQVr8DcBaO4LqW1m-6vFCdQ5TOgpD_qABAg6eCYX2EuN6vOGnwgj1r6_q4MACXwaokFmiR2CqOq0NkyLC7D0juOHYNfaLNHHW0BHXQDK-lJApD_NBFJY9WNdqpYMWPgWgC_Rq7OSQB086aEBCCEb-UNV3wA3aqe_U-ZQFkYH/w340-h400/PA140124.JPG" width="340" /></a></div><p>Val and Annie cutting brush and raking along both sides of the trail.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxbgMnmAkU2ZsP-k_ZqbvZsvzrule2V2pOnnY44PmyhtQjHayUe3lORxyyFc_84UT5901OoFclkXSHAi-L9z12H37s-yCtAL1zZtx6g4x9HgJGx3iGR1yUM8HX5KXWL2AKTj3pYaI3Xdnjl79mbNVK7yPlVE6i9GdSvGkBTOmy3wDkxfWzWwBgWe9KJ5s/s3027/PA140126.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2432" data-original-width="3027" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxbgMnmAkU2ZsP-k_ZqbvZsvzrule2V2pOnnY44PmyhtQjHayUe3lORxyyFc_84UT5901OoFclkXSHAi-L9z12H37s-yCtAL1zZtx6g4x9HgJGx3iGR1yUM8HX5KXWL2AKTj3pYaI3Xdnjl79mbNVK7yPlVE6i9GdSvGkBTOmy3wDkxfWzWwBgWe9KJ5s/w400-h321/PA140126.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Dora & Jason cutting brush.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLWdZkK7nuyUFXtfExQuJVjnJ1DqEpptGJBTUgw-TZZJsdhTk1kFIFRd8Nbh2jhfM-CqjqLEUXksCs4c_jbaOFHzEj1nYvw_0jHoMCdPeCVq5G9_fX_4vOOemg6YliXRkqMniRqVll6cuB1yU7stwy_haCU6d24-aNyHcUHkW6xyrY03EZHA8Werd26YZ/s4000/PA140129.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFLWdZkK7nuyUFXtfExQuJVjnJ1DqEpptGJBTUgw-TZZJsdhTk1kFIFRd8Nbh2jhfM-CqjqLEUXksCs4c_jbaOFHzEj1nYvw_0jHoMCdPeCVq5G9_fX_4vOOemg6YliXRkqMniRqVll6cuB1yU7stwy_haCU6d24-aNyHcUHkW6xyrY03EZHA8Werd26YZ/w400-h300/PA140129.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The crew clearing out debris.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVkooj7181pE6K_mN0zhErL7zA9e3yT9Z6y6-auBx9GLf7HIcllAXE1oI-pxFsWQdbY6Wy4RLrviHfHRKYQuQnKz9hH1N74XofECldarUZVA5e3ah1UbSnAzZZNRcyRIHWz2D7a2BY0uD3Fn4Yay8hNas7sTUbMtw7uLJrLcu2twnAp1jDCIKW6l0rTmr/s4000/PA140132.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVkooj7181pE6K_mN0zhErL7zA9e3yT9Z6y6-auBx9GLf7HIcllAXE1oI-pxFsWQdbY6Wy4RLrviHfHRKYQuQnKz9hH1N74XofECldarUZVA5e3ah1UbSnAzZZNRcyRIHWz2D7a2BY0uD3Fn4Yay8hNas7sTUbMtw7uLJrLcu2twnAp1jDCIKW6l0rTmr/w400-h300/PA140132.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>After: the RecPath edges still need work, but they are a lot better than they were. Thanks to everyone who came to help out.Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-54545972636247214812023-09-03T09:15:00.002-04:002023-09-03T09:23:45.138-04:00French's Hill Eversource Update<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6jQEKFjClWUbkLLkX9iOM8oonrYORVR7GUyY7DMdsvH6TRSt3oj1uKS2W7Ons0GkR5RTlwuwiG1RpTeSckt3cApPNBjtIXz32QJTQ9hLpxpQ_KZ4Iq4vXrotoCI72ylH2b3Cm8koR6EvWgjWHEmxbL_aibHNDsbO8Q2TqZcKwgmur6Mg6UwRuxju-zp2/s4032/PXL_20230901_162831583.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim6jQEKFjClWUbkLLkX9iOM8oonrYORVR7GUyY7DMdsvH6TRSt3oj1uKS2W7Ons0GkR5RTlwuwiG1RpTeSckt3cApPNBjtIXz32QJTQ9hLpxpQ_KZ4Iq4vXrotoCI72ylH2b3Cm8koR6EvWgjWHEmxbL_aibHNDsbO8Q2TqZcKwgmur6Mg6UwRuxju-zp2/w400-h225/PXL_20230901_162831583.MP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wood matts cover the main trail at French's Hill</td></tr></tbody></table><br />While Eversource is in the clean-up and restoration stage over at Shelton Lakes, their work at French's Hill is still in the construction phase, with some of the new towers not yet installed. The trail has been marked as "closed" all summer and we've skipped the trail maintenance for that reason. Eventually, though, we'll need to have a work party and clear it out even if the trail isn't open for public hiking. So a quick check on the trail was on order and here are some photos from that walk. <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCSnThAv-CAsIiSYBFcPcRLPym-beqFp-nuqM8P_Z5KJSJE1jnmby8Owb5CG67_C2IHvQZ_DNoHkHJj0CY-fubyfwBUADsh_tA7S2xQnkyD_S_0UKinT24wOvrO_oAzPo5G1OfI_IcLjPOKvh7e-xcFVdMIOFnJO7dxGkTRmWIkhFCzoWPD-kLZBsBWCL/s4032/PXL_20230901_162229060.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCSnThAv-CAsIiSYBFcPcRLPym-beqFp-nuqM8P_Z5KJSJE1jnmby8Owb5CG67_C2IHvQZ_DNoHkHJj0CY-fubyfwBUADsh_tA7S2xQnkyD_S_0UKinT24wOvrO_oAzPo5G1OfI_IcLjPOKvh7e-xcFVdMIOFnJO7dxGkTRmWIkhFCzoWPD-kLZBsBWCL/w400-h225/PXL_20230901_162229060.MP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New millings on the parking lot</td></tr></tbody></table>The parking lot was nice and dry thanks to some work done last spring by the Shelton Highways & Bridges Department. They graded out the muddy lot for drainage and put some millings down. Previously, there were some pretty fierce mudholes and people needed to be careful not to get stuck. The entryway and drive are a bit shaggy with tall invasive mugwort and other vegetation which could be could be cut back, but it's not terrible. <div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7bzaycUCpIzfLrECRcUlPDgA92O2tRgdCArG-iehwPGoZxF_yE71wn8rZsFFWd3OEx86Ktp9jE5PlujW_2wibANNprZir3ajAVrhhyJ7OpS5QJdsOiLCaXUeHxcU2BZDX-4AO2wR8MPZKgCNIgk3U1Zohdf0vcMI02UnEbmCAUdjuWVRylccGASd5Q-Y/s4032/PXL_20230901_162334270.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh7bzaycUCpIzfLrECRcUlPDgA92O2tRgdCArG-iehwPGoZxF_yE71wn8rZsFFWd3OEx86Ktp9jE5PlujW_2wibANNprZir3ajAVrhhyJ7OpS5QJdsOiLCaXUeHxcU2BZDX-4AO2wR8MPZKgCNIgk3U1Zohdf0vcMI02UnEbmCAUdjuWVRylccGASd5Q-Y/w225-h400/PXL_20230901_162334270.MP.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the trail</td></tr></tbody></table>The very first 100 feet or so of trail is by far the worst. It looks like a deer path through tall meadow vegetation and seriously needs a brushcutter. People or deer have been going through it. Hard to tell which. Except that both of the Eversource "Trail Closed" signs have been ripped out and tossed aside. Don't do that, people! If you want to ignore the signs, that's on you. But don't remove the signs, which alert other trail users and explain why the trail is in such bad shape. <div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxUqxD8TmOB92bbg4_7mogdM4vX22mtAH3HUAN5OGkGbukbmTqnT3frpjUSXvu6ysdOGOAYTw6zE1peCJKcCrODdLAlx4UuBWN020vCjbIzX8H4qcNiolr-3JBWC2dTizoMsP_l8Sfs4jjTnEJDA974xPEcD-tYRQ2jIJh56q2JjhDvipoki-JrhT7eVJ/s4032/PXL_20230901_162337499.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYxUqxD8TmOB92bbg4_7mogdM4vX22mtAH3HUAN5OGkGbukbmTqnT3frpjUSXvu6ysdOGOAYTw6zE1peCJKcCrODdLAlx4UuBWN020vCjbIzX8H4qcNiolr-3JBWC2dTizoMsP_l8Sfs4jjTnEJDA974xPEcD-tYRQ2jIJh56q2JjhDvipoki-JrhT7eVJ/w225-h400/PXL_20230901_162337499.MP.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eversource "Trail Closed" sign</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkFP1bw7vb3jb5hFHROtfnBLAuW9g242pAmVVRWn1pkE8VHN6-UyfkbpEM0bc527A2AGlhEkLHdBWSZeufUEbMp7Q_ZqJy-XBh2bsMA1i1s_-0ffYYyjt7KE9bJ8RSFk1JiViVyJJ_zBpBow9DLreEcFZ_ZUyiyH34fjsYvCg7vxCm8A-jJIbxe4zM8EgK/s4032/PXL_20230901_171611900.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkFP1bw7vb3jb5hFHROtfnBLAuW9g242pAmVVRWn1pkE8VHN6-UyfkbpEM0bc527A2AGlhEkLHdBWSZeufUEbMp7Q_ZqJy-XBh2bsMA1i1s_-0ffYYyjt7KE9bJ8RSFk1JiViVyJJ_zBpBow9DLreEcFZ_ZUyiyH34fjsYvCg7vxCm8A-jJIbxe4zM8EgK/w225-h400/PXL_20230901_171611900.MP.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New tower, old tower</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Once in the woods, the trail isn't too bad. Clearly, people have been removing sticks from the trail, and there are no big blowdowns across the trail. Coming out to the Eversource powerline corridor, there's a short overgrown section, and then a stretch of heavy timber mats covers the trail for a bit. All our trail markings seem to have survived (thank you, Eversource). </div><div><br /></div><div>The trail crossing the powerlines where there are no towers, so the only real hazard is any equipment that could be traveling back and forth on the timber mats. After construction has been completed, the timber mats will be removed. We're happy that there won't be a big new gravel road to mar the scenery.</div><div><br /></div><div>After the trail crosses the powerlines, it becomes a loop. This part was in pretty good shape. Again, a bit shaggy and some spots could use a hedgetrimmer or hand pruners where stray barberry shoots have crossed the path, but not bad overall. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXZZbbEc1dypicPnTkiq6xruqDRq3cubOEGIshVzJJrTqVwRTFF0xXwTVAzgkA4v-6gJeRCHJhxneCrlH1GgFiqWP6bxCODBo4Yw2ZXj5G_vL_N98pPqjyCthRw7KDnaZbdK06PfZJtmzOmWGfuICOd7uDysv2gkFGsea0Fmv9HWtuLAI8kI415uCpTTf/s4032/PXL_20230901_162503523.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXZZbbEc1dypicPnTkiq6xruqDRq3cubOEGIshVzJJrTqVwRTFF0xXwTVAzgkA4v-6gJeRCHJhxneCrlH1GgFiqWP6bxCODBo4Yw2ZXj5G_vL_N98pPqjyCthRw7KDnaZbdK06PfZJtmzOmWGfuICOd7uDysv2gkFGsea0Fmv9HWtuLAI8kI415uCpTTf/w400-h225/PXL_20230901_162503523.MP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaggy trail, but passable</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The bigger issue in here is the terrible footing (mud-rock-roots) and the fact that a lot of wheeled traffic has been making it worse. The trail is for foot travel only due to the vulnerable trail tread. But there were lots of fresh dirt bike tracks churning up the mud. So it was time to check the security camera and harvest photos of these guys. They may have been coming in via the powerlines. The photos will be forwarded to the Police Department. City ordinance allows for the PD to seize any quad or dirt bike that's been ridden on City property. </div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLcGOsW3B2Id_Qm3iazSsAcDVXvFzVBQB3PcT-ANtsu3Vzr4vy7ihSGWHJftL_S4guKAunZuhDo9Hhd1vNbiDfXbwMfHKoNrN0rPRhZU3Eaz2xliaMQ4THmKy4teVqD7bZgTshFXmFpetf93I0sXmT_5573fA17GydlBjgYXf5ECi3Z-1Sud5XD-8rqcui/s4032/PXL_20230901_163127694.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLcGOsW3B2Id_Qm3iazSsAcDVXvFzVBQB3PcT-ANtsu3Vzr4vy7ihSGWHJftL_S4guKAunZuhDo9Hhd1vNbiDfXbwMfHKoNrN0rPRhZU3Eaz2xliaMQ4THmKy4teVqD7bZgTshFXmFpetf93I0sXmT_5573fA17GydlBjgYXf5ECi3Z-1Sud5XD-8rqcui/w225-h400/PXL_20230901_163127694.MP.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Red Trail crossing point</td></tr></tbody></table>There's a short red-blazed access trail that leads to the big meadow on a hill. This trail is very overgrown and passes right next to the existing towers, which have not yet been replaced. The long-term goal was to have the trail go onto the new gravel pads that would be constructed around the new poles. But it's not clear if Eversource's plans have changed, since we see timber mats there instead of gravel. Bottom line is that we'll wait until they are done and then determine where the exact trail crossing should be. It's a very wet area. <br /> </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV1kbMNQ8gmQ-SQ0IiHCdy4vt1p1CvlkE6r-4OT5N36yNqxBOwMDDwHXsR2T6u4FaAom8yi-s_c-hrqPTlhExXXjvrmnBPQhH5xXhveEoDjbHE7XgB56II_vgSvYpYB1C5gGIAdv6nJutz3lNziF_6VpcPBuOgv_kQKgEBOSyzDk2--kXsoBWFCqJjBWvK/s4032/PXL_20230901_165316439.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV1kbMNQ8gmQ-SQ0IiHCdy4vt1p1CvlkE6r-4OT5N36yNqxBOwMDDwHXsR2T6u4FaAom8yi-s_c-hrqPTlhExXXjvrmnBPQhH5xXhveEoDjbHE7XgB56II_vgSvYpYB1C5gGIAdv6nJutz3lNziF_6VpcPBuOgv_kQKgEBOSyzDk2--kXsoBWFCqJjBWvK/w400-h225/PXL_20230901_165316439.MP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old farm road</td></tr></tbody></table>The hayfields have been cut, along with the old road that the trail follows for a bit. Overall, it was a pleasant site walk with the only real problem being the dirt bikes damaging the trail. The goal for the Trails Committee is to get the summer overgrowth cut back so that when Eversource is done working, the trail will be immediately open and ready to hike. Stay tuned for a potential September work party there. Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-16692676255570864242023-08-31T08:55:00.001-04:002023-08-31T08:55:34.213-04:00Birchbank Deer Exclosure Removed After Completing Its Mission<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRC5-mf3t7uEO_VUV9Wwix2mh8vYwUnsPtrlpJIfNvG9QLKQ6ZyXPAe4R5ZrIjt9KPcZb4tFltnHZuduFvSHaTdaRudPBQTh7kYYzpRheuXjBio-TfWp72iFT17VF9cX6bXzBeL1aZCRPwSOGqop9GJ4q1wuvaxGGdb59Hu3pPqsYX9Sjs5r1zPT8-pLu/s2048/P1220116.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRC5-mf3t7uEO_VUV9Wwix2mh8vYwUnsPtrlpJIfNvG9QLKQ6ZyXPAe4R5ZrIjt9KPcZb4tFltnHZuduFvSHaTdaRudPBQTh7kYYzpRheuXjBio-TfWp72iFT17VF9cX6bXzBeL1aZCRPwSOGqop9GJ4q1wuvaxGGdb59Hu3pPqsYX9Sjs5r1zPT8-pLu/w400-h300/P1220116.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2015 Birchbank Trail - a sea of invasive Japanese Knotweed</td></tr></tbody></table>This is story about Birchbank Deer Exclosure #1, which was located near the trailhead parking area off Indian Well Road. A deer exclosure is a fence designed to keep deer out (an enclosure would keep them in). Back in 2015, a vast sea of invasive Japanese Knotweed would block the hiking trail each summer until crews could get to it with a brush cutter. The Knotweed patch was 250 to 300 feet long and maybe 100 feet wide. With help from a summer intern, the Knotweed was cut back repeatedly all summer. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84DwQtEE1Vo8UCbPudRk0SDRkIuCeptvHUqn4A-jh5DCfbtLSjq5b6GosR0fR5uFH9IjLGef-IVgsz_OApVEeQoHpWwhTYsWsJ0HMBUDvCj_7YP73by1XTs2GYeFTamvvbqqFE6MLvZslFmeYNyIpHTlWwUmheaSJjzE-Op5HW04cYbIEirzdlV2_bHIL/s1600/20150630_124706.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84DwQtEE1Vo8UCbPudRk0SDRkIuCeptvHUqn4A-jh5DCfbtLSjq5b6GosR0fR5uFH9IjLGef-IVgsz_OApVEeQoHpWwhTYsWsJ0HMBUDvCj_7YP73by1XTs2GYeFTamvvbqqFE6MLvZslFmeYNyIpHTlWwUmheaSJjzE-Op5HW04cYbIEirzdlV2_bHIL/w400-h225/20150630_124706.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2015 - The knotweed is cut repeatedly all summer</td></tr></tbody></table>Later in the summer, we decided to install two deer exclosures along the trail to see what impacts the deer might be having on the native vegetation. The first exclosure was placed right on the edge of where the Knotweed had been growing, at the toe of the river slope. The second was further down the trail, beyond where the Knotweed had been growing, but both exclosures were in areas that had blankets of Dutchman's Breeches and Red Trillium every April. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRhSI1BCfvtMwXUbH4-_Rv2SwT_RfhjZrIKF5CaIxPNWEK4rn8B56ahKXX_9oDEFA1VrJ5EyTXuosUhYSgKAduPOLcJUnLVwUSRafndBotgCeD8Ya1EFCcrk8WmNkMvNWMWWEnQsb6ZpBA5BwIOjl5upllIQTacuh_daujDgSjzeQm_Noj5lsWfElYXj1/s1600/P1220754.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRhSI1BCfvtMwXUbH4-_Rv2SwT_RfhjZrIKF5CaIxPNWEK4rn8B56ahKXX_9oDEFA1VrJ5EyTXuosUhYSgKAduPOLcJUnLVwUSRafndBotgCeD8Ya1EFCcrk8WmNkMvNWMWWEnQsb6ZpBA5BwIOjl5upllIQTacuh_daujDgSjzeQm_Noj5lsWfElYXj1/w400-h225/P1220754.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 2015 - Deer Exclosure #1 to the left of the trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Upon identifying some of the unusual plants and looking at the geology, it became apparent that this spot was a "Rich Mesic" forest with unusual growing conditions for our area. There is a lime seam in the bedrock, sandy, well-drained subsoil with rich topsoil, and water seeping out of the 350-foot slope. Bladdernut is a shrub that only grows under these conditions. Over the next few years, the shrub began to thrive within the exclosure. But as soon as a portion of the shrub grew through the fencing, it would be nipped off. Turns out that Bladdernut is a deer favorite.<div><br /><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bVBJPU0x0RIZzWuTkJU7jEJe_4BMgA0ppOLFrbpUAt1VIpeBMwnGYBVxiclrutkXs0zqOLoI6w4WZs8NBp2lvcVdoatwgbZfSkOycKVBOI_9ZzAW7Nz07wDZpZfWzMvAdZY2djq-FTBmCpOHYXKmjBa81ReLgXTDR_TAV8EczcG-eq0f-BW-C8eC2SDH/s3264/20170619_135330.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1836" data-original-width="3264" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bVBJPU0x0RIZzWuTkJU7jEJe_4BMgA0ppOLFrbpUAt1VIpeBMwnGYBVxiclrutkXs0zqOLoI6w4WZs8NBp2lvcVdoatwgbZfSkOycKVBOI_9ZzAW7Nz07wDZpZfWzMvAdZY2djq-FTBmCpOHYXKmjBa81ReLgXTDR_TAV8EczcG-eq0f-BW-C8eC2SDH/w400-h225/20170619_135330.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2017 - lots more growth inside the deer exclosure</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Over the next few years, the battle with Japanese Knotweed continued with lots of digging and pulling. The plants within the deer exclosure grew quickly. Red Trillium plants grew larger each year, blooming and setting seeds, as did the Dutchman's Breeches. Outside the fencing, these plants became more stunted each year, failing to set seeds as deer nipped off their blooms. The annual wildflower hike was even canceled because the vast blankets of blooming Dutchman's Breeches carpeting the forest floor were a no-show. But inside the deer fencing, the Breeches were blooming fine.</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFlW1Ym_ID_jXCrkw5OJw2jSuKzNPJ7ZWfVrVdLyY7HXNvABd_3ZZUaacIB33aERCZwe3X9KWuH-AtW8H-mlRzj3SA6a90GqbByuJq2LsJzZpXrHKFrm_5Y34wM0AHp4YP1-M5vktD_scX2lCUlprYkLZJCqKoVuH39pt1QpyALGlTv6B7Vpwk4r9W-FiS/s3264/0603221605.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1836" data-original-width="3264" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFlW1Ym_ID_jXCrkw5OJw2jSuKzNPJ7ZWfVrVdLyY7HXNvABd_3ZZUaacIB33aERCZwe3X9KWuH-AtW8H-mlRzj3SA6a90GqbByuJq2LsJzZpXrHKFrm_5Y34wM0AHp4YP1-M5vktD_scX2lCUlprYkLZJCqKoVuH39pt1QpyALGlTv6B7Vpwk4r9W-FiS/w400-h225/0603221605.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">June 2022, second year of using deer repellent</td></tr></tbody></table>Outside the deer fencing, invasive plants quickly overtook the area where Knotweed had been removed. Mugwort, Garlic Mustard, and Japanese Stiltgrass were impossible to keep up with, and the Japanese Knotweed continued to resprout. In 2021, after six years of this losing battle, it was noted that there were no invasive plants inside the deer fencing. The lush native plants were outcompeting the invasive plants. A decision was made to start spraying deer repellent throughout the area where the Japanese Knotweed has been, and to transplant a few vigorous native species where mugwort was a problem. The invasive plants continued to be removed, while the deer repellent gave protection to the native plants. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZnGaks2p7HsX1oc6rbSnR1n6QWZVhd3aVwCvXgY3rfio6JUM1ke5clUUftcpiSgRgJNQPXwjhTzI_sqiGdcbc6HEUtxEG8hYt1KLKK-1FXBI1GCjOWqNE_UauM-94_kKCO9mEc4QQhxkzGhMYM3Lc5LxRuhZbIUttK4411ShhPla1DmnvKfbKCBlTiBb/s4032/PXL_20230830_170403137.MP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdZnGaks2p7HsX1oc6rbSnR1n6QWZVhd3aVwCvXgY3rfio6JUM1ke5clUUftcpiSgRgJNQPXwjhTzI_sqiGdcbc6HEUtxEG8hYt1KLKK-1FXBI1GCjOWqNE_UauM-94_kKCO9mEc4QQhxkzGhMYM3Lc5LxRuhZbIUttK4411ShhPla1DmnvKfbKCBlTiBb/w400-h225/PXL_20230830_170403137.MP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 2023 after removing the deer fencing</td></tr></tbody></table>After a few years of using deer repellent, the deer exclosure became surrounded by lush native plants. Goldenrod, asters, grasses, Jewelweed, Horsebalm, Clearweed, and others took over. In August of 2023, with a large dead ash hung up and ready to crash through the exclosure at any time, it was time to remove the deer fencing. </div><div><br /></div><div>The deer exclosure had served its purpose. It not only demonstrated the degree to which an excessive deer population was damaging our native plants, but showed also how the lack of competition from native plants then created an opportunity for invasive species to take over. </div><div><br /></div><div>The second exclosure remains in place. It's located in an area that is shadier and not so lush, and to the untrained eye it might not look much different inside the fence than outside. However, if you look closure, you'll see that the wildflower plants like Trillium and False Solomon Seal inside are larger, bloom successfully, and set seeds, while the ones outside do not. <br /><br /></div>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-463271975673107652023-08-12T18:31:00.004-04:002023-08-22T20:37:36.674-04:00Turkey Trot Work Party - Starting AgainThe Trails Committee had our first work party on the Turkey Trot Trail this summer. Actually it was the second, but the first was part of an Oak Valley Trail workparty that got ambitious, and then there were wasps.
This section of the Turkey Trot has been closed due to Eversource Transmission Line Construction most of this summer. Now they are starting to wrap up the southern end of their project, and moving into restoration. So the trail may be closed from time to time this August and September, but we were able to get out and do some badly-needed cutting on Saturday.
It's amazing what a summer of sun and rain will do for briar growth out in the open. But we had a good crew of 13 volunteers who came out and got to choppin.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuCziDCK1g9ZDcxZG4lRIoEXHyDSzF6qLMfMHILI2oT82HEIoXbE871wauXboalxB4m2DcGwCamEv7PhoaYB6JCPkvOJ95KuMQhcOsor6voLSYI1cnpGw7A4nj1Fs7l7OCRjkyeO98utQqsGd_O4uVOz6Weo1S1eiAUrEKfCx_ozG_hENZbu4eG4CcVjx/s4032/PXL_20230812_135305066.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuCziDCK1g9ZDcxZG4lRIoEXHyDSzF6qLMfMHILI2oT82HEIoXbE871wauXboalxB4m2DcGwCamEv7PhoaYB6JCPkvOJ95KuMQhcOsor6voLSYI1cnpGw7A4nj1Fs7l7OCRjkyeO98utQqsGd_O4uVOz6Weo1S1eiAUrEKfCx_ozG_hENZbu4eG4CcVjx/s400/PXL_20230812_135305066.jpg"/></a></div>
Derek used one of the brushcutters clearing out the trails. Nothing like a little quality time with hot, messy machinery.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHaIoBqWl4Wva483Kd3ijaFvHetX85zpRLs1M3r7hnsc2qxdBvnGuc_Nf2RJrOBX-N17obENtv2bw9JE_np5aLKWwRBUP5Q8uhbH78qT-XZBzEAITsXrUzxAcn73bCy4J08QLCu2ik1g1PiV88zYavaWvmaY7ZqfgX7kfCYakobPbpFxO9DKi0Fe0U2Kl/s4032/PXL_20230812_132438655.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHaIoBqWl4Wva483Kd3ijaFvHetX85zpRLs1M3r7hnsc2qxdBvnGuc_Nf2RJrOBX-N17obENtv2bw9JE_np5aLKWwRBUP5Q8uhbH78qT-XZBzEAITsXrUzxAcn73bCy4J08QLCu2ik1g1PiV88zYavaWvmaY7ZqfgX7kfCYakobPbpFxO9DKi0Fe0U2Kl/s400/PXL_20230812_132438655.jpg"/></a></div>
There was one older blowdown on the Turkey Trot Bypass that needs to be sawed, but the rest of the trail was cleared and cut back.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddYP5UIP5c7Jg1m7hHpCOBUOVMZRLGP5jpaGjbjRE6R6vKNJHjM9VyDnHDFCfRCuxUaDRJLRuOkcempwVeqj_Z3q_pGQB7zb-nhfqACz4D13qlY7BzGBrC9ovLSLwfHYkYyNYYaWoXYG6MW9mb1MX2r2iwUWuBfxl8ffbGUMDf4AAr-szeJQZzg2UcElA/s4032/PXL_20230812_133117492.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" height="400" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddYP5UIP5c7Jg1m7hHpCOBUOVMZRLGP5jpaGjbjRE6R6vKNJHjM9VyDnHDFCfRCuxUaDRJLRuOkcempwVeqj_Z3q_pGQB7zb-nhfqACz4D13qlY7BzGBrC9ovLSLwfHYkYyNYYaWoXYG6MW9mb1MX2r2iwUWuBfxl8ffbGUMDf4AAr-szeJQZzg2UcElA/s400/PXL_20230812_133117492.jpg"/></a></div>
Hopefully Eversource is able to remove their bridge and leave a good crossing for us to use mowing the trails in the future.
We have to appoligize that we did not get more photos of all the folks who came out and worked. Thanks to Annie, Mike, Matt, Declan, Val, Ellen, Niko, Lorenzo, Matteau, Mark, Derek, Luis, and Terry for helping out.
Hope that whoever got hit by the wasps near the footbridge was OK. Some of us went through there, quickly, and managed to not get hit. We got a lot done along the Turkey Trot, powerlines, and portions of the RecPath.
These were areas that would ordinairly been maintained earlier, but due to Eversource's construction, have been off limits technically to the public.
The trails in this area were very busy today however, and we got some nice comments about how the trail work was appreciated. It was really pretty out, and it was fun to be able to work on some of Shelton's trails that have been closed during all the powerline construction this summer.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUvk4-qtnWjA3w0aky67UTvedX7_ZFJyQ8ONyshVbLEtXunEtzYwYPrg8u4H3gAjvvcYXSlcPKFGKiT1bZ7FhqPXLvwqM3SiJz9xjHjRrdnFwZeB0UTxTez00KZ7dlJ1E0U2HzoYJ_muiyTvb_Evkm5LpxYkHoo-LlYtKP0kD2gLioN91lv1UnBdK88Bt/s4032/PXL_20230812_151919208.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0; text-align: center; "><img alt="" border="0" width="400" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifUvk4-qtnWjA3w0aky67UTvedX7_ZFJyQ8ONyshVbLEtXunEtzYwYPrg8u4H3gAjvvcYXSlcPKFGKiT1bZ7FhqPXLvwqM3SiJz9xjHjRrdnFwZeB0UTxTez00KZ7dlJ1E0U2HzoYJ_muiyTvb_Evkm5LpxYkHoo-LlYtKP0kD2gLioN91lv1UnBdK88Bt/s400/PXL_20230812_151919208.jpg"/></a></div>
The Woodland sunflowers were doing great along the portion of the RecPath at Silent Waters. Try to find time to go exploring and enjoy them while they're in bloom this August.
Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-26308666530519195862023-08-09T12:30:00.003-04:002023-08-23T21:52:16.840-04:00Field Walk with Eversource - Restoration Tasks<p></p><p></p><p></p><p>The Trails Committee had a field walk with Eversource representatives to confirm restoration measures by Eversource on the portions of Shelton's open space and greenways that were disturbed during their construction. Eversource is completing most of their new transmission line construction in the south end of Shelton.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBWk1I9BHRdi4QgpIbgkq0PFLNZzve_kSytLVyUJFhL6TxIBD5KUEU-k7TVHZIOQNcuOlGO0H4RM6rRo6WxCZ3y7yeZcLLtJsNh2DKcxjauKqpFvtN-MqLaLRwJPoODhb3GTrWirvsSv3bmlmPMLJiMaq1Zy6Xvv8s7ULGhFk7AgApoZRrGwXOulMstmV/s4000/P8090003.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBWk1I9BHRdi4QgpIbgkq0PFLNZzve_kSytLVyUJFhL6TxIBD5KUEU-k7TVHZIOQNcuOlGO0H4RM6rRo6WxCZ3y7yeZcLLtJsNh2DKcxjauKqpFvtN-MqLaLRwJPoODhb3GTrWirvsSv3bmlmPMLJiMaq1Zy6Xvv8s7ULGhFk7AgApoZRrGwXOulMstmV/w400-h300/P8090003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Here we are north of Derby Junction at the Maybeck Open Space. It was a big group; the Eversource team outnumbered us 9 to 7, like earlier meetings. We covered a lot of ground from north of Constitution Boulevard North down toward Buddington Road. </p><p>Eversource has finished their work here and said they will remove the timber platforms placed over the wetlands and allow the area to re-vegetate naturally. The crushed stone roads will be feathered back down to match existing grades so we can maintain some areas with our newly-repaired Gator and mower. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3O-5NN6t60MAq_GDpriRUnXfEaPwQXCqDKsWWOUGi5w3UOy4G7cHrlvrcUTpzcy11gvsZWfir_AfkXFOU--_DNniNqsqNaFrSn2xQ0TDiDNfvC5wI0Fe86BW5avqfzRlzVddCHoozoiga5YKiIov_sXuWS_EaesCOSEqBQVHHOtpOQirf5R1agSMns2iJ/s4000/P8090001.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3O-5NN6t60MAq_GDpriRUnXfEaPwQXCqDKsWWOUGi5w3UOy4G7cHrlvrcUTpzcy11gvsZWfir_AfkXFOU--_DNniNqsqNaFrSn2xQ0TDiDNfvC5wI0Fe86BW5avqfzRlzVddCHoozoiga5YKiIov_sXuWS_EaesCOSEqBQVHHOtpOQirf5R1agSMns2iJ/w400-h300/P8090001.JPG" width="400" /></a></p><p>We requested that they replace stone wall boulders where the stone walls were broken to create construction accesses, so that dumping and ATV's do not damage the open space. We think that they agreed to that, but it was tough to tell sometimes. It was not clear which members of the Eversource team were deciding on which issues at times.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkzn-ceeKaKhiUsOD1-5szqCDjA5pP1MA2Zl6rrcWYomcSiVEiiBfs28ZWcgXEsAVnW1w8S5rz-4V3Gejd6yFRubTsx94A8pa5eVqS5o38bFoPH4jY9ZniJskoLPI94D6NOSTtwBRupKQVR9BW3xpSm3o60I4hrH_rVJuXmadt3DP-oB-qFmoMXAOeBXi/s4000/P8090002.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkzn-ceeKaKhiUsOD1-5szqCDjA5pP1MA2Zl6rrcWYomcSiVEiiBfs28ZWcgXEsAVnW1w8S5rz-4V3Gejd6yFRubTsx94A8pa5eVqS5o38bFoPH4jY9ZniJskoLPI94D6NOSTtwBRupKQVR9BW3xpSm3o60I4hrH_rVJuXmadt3DP-oB-qFmoMXAOeBXi/w400-h300/P8090002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>This is one of the areas along the Paugussett Trail that we have not been able to maintain well this summer due to the powerline construction. These timbers are to be removed over the next couple of months.</p><p>We then went south to Wellington Court and reviewed the construction and Paugussett Trail restoration there.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Jsg6rl2-7weMB3LfZt19TaZsxh9uWPegB54lvffEUZji9kMm2BYRRTjKexanF3EeozlNoKe027OYuXgU4pSXnhrg6YzZ6hH4ukw_KHMm3VDYsduHPtSwno9GRYEjBqTOZuYS-pnT6kCticYhdvH7d2_brf_UaaWL_1nP2y9A_eQSRMy6EQUzZnDJ6enL/s4000/P8090006.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Jsg6rl2-7weMB3LfZt19TaZsxh9uWPegB54lvffEUZji9kMm2BYRRTjKexanF3EeozlNoKe027OYuXgU4pSXnhrg6YzZ6hH4ukw_KHMm3VDYsduHPtSwno9GRYEjBqTOZuYS-pnT6kCticYhdvH7d2_brf_UaaWL_1nP2y9A_eQSRMy6EQUzZnDJ6enL/w400-h300/P8090006.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>At Independence Drive we had a long discussion about reducing the access road widths, and regrading where Eversource has raised the grade, sometimes by several feet, at existing trail junctions. The roads need to remain in place while they complete demolition of the existing transmission towers, but we did not think they needed to be as wide as they are now that construction is completed. Eversource may add a gate on the north side of Independence to control dumping. The gate on the south side of Independence Drive will be restored.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDrkPnGJNVUAez8wI87fVJJbG4kJmwU37GNCLZiGF5sayFto8-h_2utGh5TKv-WLcwg4KgDEqQAkRlojJjiqPNcdV6J0PILDQAcC-t4BGacBrqK1sCVA9Ok5eEu9aX99SPQyFGvMS442mVP9pgKvx4vCfPKn30DW-vFZ-E0RHR7RSLPhIju_vj9S6WQFv/s4000/P8090007.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDrkPnGJNVUAez8wI87fVJJbG4kJmwU37GNCLZiGF5sayFto8-h_2utGh5TKv-WLcwg4KgDEqQAkRlojJjiqPNcdV6J0PILDQAcC-t4BGacBrqK1sCVA9Ok5eEu9aX99SPQyFGvMS442mVP9pgKvx4vCfPKn30DW-vFZ-E0RHR7RSLPhIju_vj9S6WQFv/w400-h300/P8090007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Finer material will be added over the top of the crushed stone roads to remain so it's not a tripping hazard to hikers and bikers. The tower pads will also be covered with compost and be seeded with a native wildflower meadow mix to make the pads and roadways look less industrial.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvprrpLeVS7K72AFx7A6G64Ul5fketQPDZ8GzTc8hN0wA8inYWS-rXGd6nkPQxh5TGb5LMxQLB8V9TTMJk6MxIexMEAY_nXUu-0Fks2q46HlrLq8TmbTCetHVR2bs-prMdfVoFpm-t0pi40BDN6X-FsNaaI2314tis6aHFFjtDBwiC8tYL-CVNOCijMgx/s4000/P8090008.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxvprrpLeVS7K72AFx7A6G64Ul5fketQPDZ8GzTc8hN0wA8inYWS-rXGd6nkPQxh5TGb5LMxQLB8V9TTMJk6MxIexMEAY_nXUu-0Fks2q46HlrLq8TmbTCetHVR2bs-prMdfVoFpm-t0pi40BDN6X-FsNaaI2314tis6aHFFjtDBwiC8tYL-CVNOCijMgx/w400-h300/P8090008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Going up the steep roads South of Independence Drive they will add a number of waterbars to divert runoff from the road and prevent erosion. We asked that the sides of the roads be composted and seeded to reduce the visual impact from City streets. We'll see what they do.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikD8ghDo_SkdeS3B1g4S69xiRqasbQnFxYSxPy6LKHI0GzUmRw7nXkMA2Je4JQOQZ_4uTAO2PQD7IY12CsN6I2D7HR1e9owyZ-ZqfzWdnxTNB5v8IReCoTd37Z4xJd_pPgJVBhudwWmzsrHw9UKsPOLg8WMUIiIElEyRjx5G7H3jNEVkmQjVh7dHnBpBFg/s4000/P8090009.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikD8ghDo_SkdeS3B1g4S69xiRqasbQnFxYSxPy6LKHI0GzUmRw7nXkMA2Je4JQOQZ_4uTAO2PQD7IY12CsN6I2D7HR1e9owyZ-ZqfzWdnxTNB5v8IReCoTd37Z4xJd_pPgJVBhudwWmzsrHw9UKsPOLg8WMUIiIElEyRjx5G7H3jNEVkmQjVh7dHnBpBFg/w400-h300/P8090009.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>We also discussed restoring the disturbed areas to lessen the visual impact from City open spaces. The haul roads were a special area of concern, as was the view of the large crushed stone pads around the towers on the City-owned property.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqFdeVtHp2sss22hXwicPxghuqo-J-stLzZSDFVEnk1iZ-qF1_F4SyOy4xoP_mLZ8a7qCqncHzFyIpLeCeVte-yGPFAacCnQNjrH0H76t2ieaGThzQ4XDl8ckbVp0CCpH-S_DH9c7DZ4QklHx3FHHxA5VWVSvhvxZy2-YOMU6OSqG_pcQrlvD_TyrCyQn/s4000/P8090012.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtqFdeVtHp2sss22hXwicPxghuqo-J-stLzZSDFVEnk1iZ-qF1_F4SyOy4xoP_mLZ8a7qCqncHzFyIpLeCeVte-yGPFAacCnQNjrH0H76t2ieaGThzQ4XDl8ckbVp0CCpH-S_DH9c7DZ4QklHx3FHHxA5VWVSvhvxZy2-YOMU6OSqG_pcQrlvD_TyrCyQn/w400-h300/P8090012.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>We went over to Rt. 108 and reviewed the Turkey Trot Trail, Paugussett Trail, and restoration of the old timber bridge crossing the brook. We explained that this was a busy area in the summer with a lot of public use along the trails and the haul roads by hikers, bikers, and the cross country track teams. We asked that the roads be grading down at the bridge so we can drive our Gator over it again to mow the roads and trails for trail users. <br /></p><p>It sounds like they will be seeding by the end of the September, which will help prevent the spread of invasive plant species in the disturbed areas. Cutting invasive plants is turning into a major task for trail volunteers, and we didn't want to see it get worse following Eversource's construction.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAxhdRXFBlw0M8mdtK4RT9WasOSpTZa4ANS1VESIMn-d0KOGgTY9Ra1_FxX9CKiGq5LDUsJAXvi_fFJ1j5pf3NaDbsf-3ODcGW8p1NcA8g1ugiqhYVB3ZmefLDR2-QmXvJQQtHaB1UAJHXc7HFQr51sK6JHoXKvNlN-sX9K4KgzH-lGi58c4ymeuep8tA/s4000/P8090013.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAxhdRXFBlw0M8mdtK4RT9WasOSpTZa4ANS1VESIMn-d0KOGgTY9Ra1_FxX9CKiGq5LDUsJAXvi_fFJ1j5pf3NaDbsf-3ODcGW8p1NcA8g1ugiqhYVB3ZmefLDR2-QmXvJQQtHaB1UAJHXc7HFQr51sK6JHoXKvNlN-sX9K4KgzH-lGi58c4ymeuep8tA/w400-h300/P8090013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Ellen, Val, and Bill were going over restoration of the drilling debris and haul roads following demolition removal. We also requested clean up of the fill piles from blasting and
foundation work, narrowing of the haul roads, composting and seeding of
the disturbed areas. Eversource said they would seed once in the fall and come back and reseed bare areas in the spring. Hopefully this is enough to stabilize all the disturbed areas on City open space.</p><p>We then went south of Rt. 108 and looked at restoration of the junctions with Oak Valley Trail. The issues there were the same; regrading filled areas, removal of timber platforms, composting and seeding, narrowing haul roads, resetting our trail kiosk, restoring visual impact from roads and open spaces, etc. Eversource volunteered to add a 4x4 sign post at the junction of Oak Valley Trail and their haul road. The issue there is that their roads are now so big that some of the public may follow the roads rather than the trails by mistake.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4RKL9d-Ngsmq7TGp4P2oBH4MR6B5cK49qe-gWlxLw2BWtH_nAaLAMrtWGElyLAx6WPAqTUb1EiFUr2WHsucUxmtorkdAAO8sjDIi8rkkIul6UlXXrACy5CMfNWatnu1mbIJcx0_S6kpnIC7idZDJ9UNvpW7Aiqru3i3sRkNvUXqK8GR_GTrd184K6-1i/s4000/P8090015.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4RKL9d-Ngsmq7TGp4P2oBH4MR6B5cK49qe-gWlxLw2BWtH_nAaLAMrtWGElyLAx6WPAqTUb1EiFUr2WHsucUxmtorkdAAO8sjDIi8rkkIul6UlXXrACy5CMfNWatnu1mbIJcx0_S6kpnIC7idZDJ9UNvpW7Aiqru3i3sRkNvUXqK8GR_GTrd184K6-1i/w400-h300/P8090015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>We then went down to Great Ledge at the end of Oak Valley Road to go over restoration of the Shelton Lakes Recreation Path. This is our main handicapped accessible multi-use path that was damaged by the haul road construction. We requested that it be regraded going between the monopoles, left at 12' wide with shoulders along the wetlands, and topped with the 3"-4" layer of the 3/8" minus fine crushed stone mix. </p><p>Eversource will remove the timber platforms and haul roads from the wetlands, but they do not propose any seeding or plant restoration in Spooner Swamp or the wetlands near Great Ledge. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUq0CsSrdEmTG3mTfI747eqRsO4INv3oG5-php71d-kn_o7n8uDQHO169NQqNAA55fOTjQhqYBA6_rADU2zcGVSQgTou_PElyFCT-TkmkYaUg5niE2chs0tTfLX1diDlZE3-PQB12J4eDm95IsupKI1jAB74NAHXAZXpTF8ggo1dVsDyIEyY25NdQ5JIC/s4000/P8090018.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguUq0CsSrdEmTG3mTfI747eqRsO4INv3oG5-php71d-kn_o7n8uDQHO169NQqNAA55fOTjQhqYBA6_rADU2zcGVSQgTou_PElyFCT-TkmkYaUg5niE2chs0tTfLX1diDlZE3-PQB12J4eDm95IsupKI1jAB74NAHXAZXpTF8ggo1dVsDyIEyY25NdQ5JIC/w400-h300/P8090018.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Bill, Bob, and Mike wore modeling the latest in Eversource safety vests. The neighbors were probably enjoying the high visibility gang walking up and down the powerlines. Nobody was lost during the field walk.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzn5LhbfULHxWD4tnQ0onHb-SXxdUZd0lStrMbLCxOHX4vtdpkj9D3BFeOsTQoLC6I0MEzSuAct3lk5cLnbaIzOaVfehUo36oFj8TgYzcEvWTJH5Y0ti8fF4_JLp38-lwv7YH1gL7hiaycO499__B1rm3KNj4-OrvtWtD_0C9aEU5A6dm8NgsHKoZJHFKZ/s4000/P8090021.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzn5LhbfULHxWD4tnQ0onHb-SXxdUZd0lStrMbLCxOHX4vtdpkj9D3BFeOsTQoLC6I0MEzSuAct3lk5cLnbaIzOaVfehUo36oFj8TgYzcEvWTJH5Y0ti8fF4_JLp38-lwv7YH1gL7hiaycO499__B1rm3KNj4-OrvtWtD_0C9aEU5A6dm8NgsHKoZJHFKZ/w400-h300/P8090021.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>There was a lot of disruption to the mountain laurel and swamps further south along Nells Loop Trail. We requested that the gravel haul roads be covered with compost and seeded following removal of the timber platforms to stabilize the area and reduce the visual impacts on City open space. We think they agreed to this, but it was tough to tell with so many people on the field walk - we'll see.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6f3kMup7T2IGFeHmb7fqkDUbyCuPOsXdTiRfijPulRBDgeMMZK_W2e4Y_LJ6UGik6jXB0wBLKEHDex-hgOVjclcOzJwo0NkcE5tDYmpcBmToW4_K4-Do2Vv9fhTr6T5EUhTD50SqFbUZI5ZqKBkrWp6XxB982g8Y33m2O6kCJUXYkRtEfBJdMoj0u63Bn/s4000/P8090023.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6f3kMup7T2IGFeHmb7fqkDUbyCuPOsXdTiRfijPulRBDgeMMZK_W2e4Y_LJ6UGik6jXB0wBLKEHDex-hgOVjclcOzJwo0NkcE5tDYmpcBmToW4_K4-Do2Vv9fhTr6T5EUhTD50SqFbUZI5ZqKBkrWp6XxB982g8Y33m2O6kCJUXYkRtEfBJdMoj0u63Bn/w400-h300/P8090023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The last remains of one of the former towers that marked our trail coming out across the powerlines. Eversource crews are cleaning these up as they work their way north.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJJ6azwLyWXFnC1x6ZZ4GtHFRtrrmYduIX76x76bdlWSBVH4p0QmYxmIuwPaxS7a2iye9bxMUWX90n4BkgmYIxRS_4GPQ3B4nTxkQXDiM7-012Mf7frU9mFBfYczzizQXjWFUDv9slGoLkyBh3RADUuAAhw8skDkN4y5Tvgl2AIYZvaBZQKeC6ypKmvJj/s4000/P8090024.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYJJ6azwLyWXFnC1x6ZZ4GtHFRtrrmYduIX76x76bdlWSBVH4p0QmYxmIuwPaxS7a2iye9bxMUWX90n4BkgmYIxRS_4GPQ3B4nTxkQXDiM7-012Mf7frU9mFBfYczzizQXjWFUDv9slGoLkyBh3RADUuAAhw8skDkN4y5Tvgl2AIYZvaBZQKeC6ypKmvJj/w400-h300/P8090024.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The Nells Loop Trail crossing coming out onto the powerlines.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eP_qlOyZmxCTgbvGf1V5LI8z1HALtEh3F9PSBen-frgJSBT4Ud0V6bzUoS6zFZYfV788tAdDBzrZrMDiCemteZQuvrCKlxrEvIkLemTDK_qethX3UFF-oSkborQTJpKSUYjdLF63dVEtgCCk6CcXkq5_6-hGjGNof_lB8DGj05cyiIuhnErE0Bci3XUP/s4000/P8090030.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eP_qlOyZmxCTgbvGf1V5LI8z1HALtEh3F9PSBen-frgJSBT4Ud0V6bzUoS6zFZYfV788tAdDBzrZrMDiCemteZQuvrCKlxrEvIkLemTDK_qethX3UFF-oSkborQTJpKSUYjdLF63dVEtgCCk6CcXkq5_6-hGjGNof_lB8DGj05cyiIuhnErE0Bci3XUP/w400-h300/P8090030.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Teresa pointing out a possible re-route for the Paugussett Trail. These are some of the big bridges and haul roads to be removed and restored in and around the wetlands.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1SiVWhKWvTIAenc2Z-0KcNuWS8ZiuRpYi69y7dUDgi_CB8CpfqlXk0GN-bHNIztqLU1P3I9zTFGIYHm7N1dVuvLDN0aOp3olWQQu9rcfJlOXr8XnOXmbqOafcZ4zmF-IVHtRYCVnqtbE3abgOxzLbFIgO0g18NC2JYppkxqTihon1fzlefjZKvfaBYwZa/s4000/P8090031.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1SiVWhKWvTIAenc2Z-0KcNuWS8ZiuRpYi69y7dUDgi_CB8CpfqlXk0GN-bHNIztqLU1P3I9zTFGIYHm7N1dVuvLDN0aOp3olWQQu9rcfJlOXr8XnOXmbqOafcZ4zmF-IVHtRYCVnqtbE3abgOxzLbFIgO0g18NC2JYppkxqTihon1fzlefjZKvfaBYwZa/w400-h300/P8090031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Teresa and Ellen as we worked our way out thru Spooner Swamp. The timber matting is to be removed by Eversource.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLU-aVcvAU_MkLi9PY45uC_eiL1FK2hXiM2j4Lyq-2aTlCUttiXYdBkL1x367ToR494c82suhvC5fbuREE7GsnpNLYngw3o2J5knpTiNUxSbqt7oDd4rhejnwy8Vc9y74SfGQkhnj2IFOMcuiGblmX6abVhuiOqUJVgpQncOhufzhq8rK3AfrpfEoC0BE/s4000/P8090035.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLU-aVcvAU_MkLi9PY45uC_eiL1FK2hXiM2j4Lyq-2aTlCUttiXYdBkL1x367ToR494c82suhvC5fbuREE7GsnpNLYngw3o2J5knpTiNUxSbqt7oDd4rhejnwy8Vc9y74SfGQkhnj2IFOMcuiGblmX6abVhuiOqUJVgpQncOhufzhq8rK3AfrpfEoC0BE/w300-h400/P8090035.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p>Eversource demolishing the old towers and foundations along Oak Valley Road as we were leaving.</p><p>Eversource said that they anticipated completion of this southern area by end of September - give or take a little. Work on the northern area of town near the French's Hill Open Space will continue through the winter into Spring 2024. <br /></p>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-55764233577690129442023-07-12T15:10:00.001-04:002023-07-12T15:23:52.789-04:00Indian Well's Great Gully<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11Hiu5XZYEp2ga09iMGKOzke-kamZSIYesNLJx3LKjfazTlE9kq6-xPOqUhXKmAe03d-ZnfQtpukEKpQKSEinhm7RclJXuGiq2yyHfMe0wu1mApoxvz85PrxbdZu9TEeLCX63Ut7-5ABTFLOuPmD50WXLFGalnv-LMJqN4WP_lVUp-G-nFWq-2p0aVuQI/s796/Fullscreen%20capture%207122023%20105659%20AM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="796" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11Hiu5XZYEp2ga09iMGKOzke-kamZSIYesNLJx3LKjfazTlE9kq6-xPOqUhXKmAe03d-ZnfQtpukEKpQKSEinhm7RclJXuGiq2yyHfMe0wu1mApoxvz85PrxbdZu9TEeLCX63Ut7-5ABTFLOuPmD50WXLFGalnv-LMJqN4WP_lVUp-G-nFWq-2p0aVuQI/w400-h275/Fullscreen%20capture%207122023%20105659%20AM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Great Gully" location at Indian Well State Park</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><p>The vast, mostly man-made gully at Indian Well State Park has cut the park in half and is getting close to the Paugussett Trail. After every major storm, torrents of sand rush down the hillside and are dumped on Indian Well Road.</p><p>Much of the sand likely washes into Lake Housatonic, filling in the reservoir that generates hydroelectricity. With no efforts to stop it, the head of the gully advances up the hill a few feet every year towards the homes along Village Drive. </p>It's not easy walking up the gully, but you can do it. Park at the hiker lot located just across the street from the main park entrance to the beach and boat launch facilities. This is where a white-blazed trail goes steeply up the hill towards the Paugussett Trail. Instead of going up the trail, follow the utility road off to the right (north), through an open area with giant piles of sand, until you reach the normally dry streambed. Just go up that, dodging fallen trees. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidO5cQNhZA2xxRyyCUo5GQhoaZAVudJbglbnzmxvsWx3pmeUYKXYSp_P0SlXbW0xQvWp_CNnQT5YNCgEFlDvQfjWQ2BDgvI32Jl7f1KtgysRi7uXd1QrZ-_zkSNjGso3yyegGWsqlJ8GIlOOET9X_4LFaHqIowDEZGHOoaNLxI_1w6Uyj-fH8FobXwze0X/s1600/PXL_20230707_202509929.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidO5cQNhZA2xxRyyCUo5GQhoaZAVudJbglbnzmxvsWx3pmeUYKXYSp_P0SlXbW0xQvWp_CNnQT5YNCgEFlDvQfjWQ2BDgvI32Jl7f1KtgysRi7uXd1QrZ-_zkSNjGso3yyegGWsqlJ8GIlOOET9X_4LFaHqIowDEZGHOoaNLxI_1w6Uyj-fH8FobXwze0X/w400-h225/PXL_20230707_202509929.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Undermined trees fall into the gully</td></tr></tbody></table><br />If you're a geology geek, you'll love this. There are glacial sediments deposited by temporary glacial lakes. There's lots of unstable sand and obvious bedding. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPL_ATUcT6vgNlGJzlDwMfpHuiLT4SAK4cL5zNLwuLYyZ8Yhb62Z6pUA6e07XBmIX-N9TRDHp0b0tETzgogKGrEJXqhc4XZkSzpyhVUTcEPXxuL96rfTKIK1ULyjAU7m2J6jR_laXdmy7EKvCbXOFM9vkisKcSiNQEJ1ckyxHqu30bMUkjAhX9tRgCm23N/s1600/PXL_20230707_202643494.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPL_ATUcT6vgNlGJzlDwMfpHuiLT4SAK4cL5zNLwuLYyZ8Yhb62Z6pUA6e07XBmIX-N9TRDHp0b0tETzgogKGrEJXqhc4XZkSzpyhVUTcEPXxuL96rfTKIK1ULyjAU7m2J6jR_laXdmy7EKvCbXOFM9vkisKcSiNQEJ1ckyxHqu30bMUkjAhX9tRgCm23N/w400-h225/PXL_20230707_202643494.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lower parts almost never have water in them. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />As you proceed up the gully, it gets larger and steeper. You probably can't get out of it by climbing up the sides at this point. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzTYKOkKy0v4aZQRX6skNEvhoPDhUUxc41nCWkiz3AZXtDqNq8rMtFyZFYM42wthJyBOL5GIgSYLa5AQCW5QfCRs_6R2hEpKDJjBGDtQE8IZ6x7WYNhkVczpTHMfO8xjOhlnn3VRqVpE0wxRSOD4moFQvKKLrwvADJOOD9qidP8LDcuhN_c6zCgK-pJHd/s1600/PXL_20230707_202757989.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzTYKOkKy0v4aZQRX6skNEvhoPDhUUxc41nCWkiz3AZXtDqNq8rMtFyZFYM42wthJyBOL5GIgSYLa5AQCW5QfCRs_6R2hEpKDJjBGDtQE8IZ6x7WYNhkVczpTHMfO8xjOhlnn3VRqVpE0wxRSOD4moFQvKKLrwvADJOOD9qidP8LDcuhN_c6zCgK-pJHd/w400-h225/PXL_20230707_202757989.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the head of Great Gully.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The rock under foot is loose, so bring a walking stick and some good boots. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfRxseGI6XjEKUVzReXbZedZ6cg5Sk6pjENNoQmNciUQY1C1y79Y4IyJJQrWuzEAKTOzBkI4bB_wlEbop1UBJnx18bmBpEBIrMTxvgoQKuM2uDd5XGQihX6LibVNpchLYTe5Poqhqe0SGDV2w3mw3-TAAAXPsq3c8Pr_nZwmNgwCPsWqKZaD1ctQkhyZF/s1600/PXL_20230707_203023222.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfRxseGI6XjEKUVzReXbZedZ6cg5Sk6pjENNoQmNciUQY1C1y79Y4IyJJQrWuzEAKTOzBkI4bB_wlEbop1UBJnx18bmBpEBIrMTxvgoQKuM2uDd5XGQihX6LibVNpchLYTe5Poqhqe0SGDV2w3mw3-TAAAXPsq3c8Pr_nZwmNgwCPsWqKZaD1ctQkhyZF/w400-h225/PXL_20230707_203023222.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pass under some roots next to 'the island'</td></tr></tbody></table>Nearing the top, there is an island of sorts on the left that will eventually collapse, but for now a large Black Birch is hanging on to dear life. Duck under some tree roots to reach the head of Great Gully. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9u35-2RCMMcOA4gb4ywPSnXiR8wEhina1UhaYW-83el2fH5J5W371HLce-FKb_6Jrp-BE9peAYhd6KrdTEinM4FDs8v6c4_vt2G70HLVofPUIh3EYwQItlUK7z2WzI7ZLe8W4ivg1e4FPxd5CEq5rBcBvXCoClVMzjjnpewBD3MR7P6CUn3E2xWlXkqx/s1600/PXL_20230707_203120033.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW9u35-2RCMMcOA4gb4ywPSnXiR8wEhina1UhaYW-83el2fH5J5W371HLce-FKb_6Jrp-BE9peAYhd6KrdTEinM4FDs8v6c4_vt2G70HLVofPUIh3EYwQItlUK7z2WzI7ZLe8W4ivg1e4FPxd5CEq5rBcBvXCoClVMzjjnpewBD3MR7P6CUn3E2xWlXkqx/w400-h225/PXL_20230707_203120033.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The head of the gully</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The head of the gully is constantly changing as it chews its way up the hill. As of 2023, it's now wide enough to enter from below. For a few years, it was as narrow as a construction trench and 12 feet deep. Very unsafe to enter. But it's pretty wide this year. Sadly. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvezc6ldIZEVTRnahNF2AJzdd4tHE4uxY5RbCNimAz9PjAaqm3w3rLlYPEAPzXFav2WFqubYu2YgMP3LzKdpSpY9w6ZinXa2OSE0wMCKBRO1V_y3u_bd5xFJHAGxSeV1Xnl_cM72R1jLkabHd2NjE7ZwbbEU0ORJmanchiFT8PFLaFvt1kF0JDgSUJstNM/s1600/PXL_20230707_203158667.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvezc6ldIZEVTRnahNF2AJzdd4tHE4uxY5RbCNimAz9PjAaqm3w3rLlYPEAPzXFav2WFqubYu2YgMP3LzKdpSpY9w6ZinXa2OSE0wMCKBRO1V_y3u_bd5xFJHAGxSeV1Xnl_cM72R1jLkabHd2NjE7ZwbbEU0ORJmanchiFT8PFLaFvt1kF0JDgSUJstNM/w225-h400/PXL_20230707_203158667.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Head of Great Gully</td></tr></tbody></table>The gully is both interesting (for geology nerds) and tragic. The way to stop it from getting worse is to stabilize the head. That's where water falls over the edge and eats away at the bottom, undermining the layers above until they collapse. There are engineering ways to do this, but the state has taken no interest. <p></p><p>While there was undoubtedly always a stream channel here, Giant Gully is man-made. The houses and roads up the hill off Village Drive were built back before stormwater measures were required. If the housing developments were built today, a stormwater detention pond would probably be required so that floodwaters from the roads, driveways, and rooftops don't immediately wash into the stream channel. The steep slope and sandy soil are no match for the uncontrolled runoff from these hard, man-made surfaces, and there is no room up above for a retro detention pond. The only solution is to come in from below and stabilize the head of the gully. It will be easier to do it now than later when it gets near the houses on Village Drive. </p>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-35967956330298549132023-07-10T14:55:00.001-04:002023-07-10T14:58:31.160-04:00Birchbank Trail Register Removed<p>If you're wondering why there is no longer a logbook in the Birchbank Trail register up at the overlook, this is why: blank and wasted space. Something apparently contagious began happening a few months ago. A lot of people started skipping pages and lines in the logbook, or scrawling across the diagonally in huge letters. We used to get maybe 3-5 entries per page. Occasionally someone would waste space in the logbook, but it was the exception and not a big deal. It used to look normal, like this: </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYqG_5Vhf0H_C01--d-IgaSrb4p14O3iYVNvuD79NT2kYG_dbhm4DMIopUyTO4TaVdhnwc1xPeBzGqRMZWAEKeb_1ij4xvz3Ps_EqnY3Mag8pgxNSH4bMNo_Q6uAITyKO2czyDhvKBF1aIblS808uWp8a2Wcn9pMLVk8HZIdTrxzce74zQbcEMo0WlmwB/s1600/0812201002b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguYqG_5Vhf0H_C01--d-IgaSrb4p14O3iYVNvuD79NT2kYG_dbhm4DMIopUyTO4TaVdhnwc1xPeBzGqRMZWAEKeb_1ij4xvz3Ps_EqnY3Mag8pgxNSH4bMNo_Q6uAITyKO2czyDhvKBF1aIblS808uWp8a2Wcn9pMLVk8HZIdTrxzce74zQbcEMo0WlmwB/w400-h268/0812201002b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Normal logbook entries from back in 2020</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Pretty neat, right? A full logbook was our souvenir for maintaining the trail. It's no different that having a guest book for a cottage where you let your friends stay. </p><p>And then shortly after starting the latest new logbook, several people in a row had entries with oversized writing, skipped lines, starting new pages when there was lots of room on the previous page, and even skipping entire pages. People started to think everyone is entitled to use one full page for a few lines of text, and the next person should start a new page. This was a new, leather-bound logbook we volunteers placed there on our own time and with our own money, so that was a little sad. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sEnUGhOiMvzIFzTP3GNXSBSticAtCpD3eMpnSzD951-AakegKnTqOpOtq2uPVvDy76mcOVwmZrlIxqAdBG9m8pjUL_i89HqOvTZgowc-g0IE4VGGSL51FDkX41ezQ6-JftJkhJP7oBeyV8Rmte7jpsrd0AasenrV0ZksFRv_a59wYlgTdQD3OD6V31vg/s4032/PXL_20230710_183240781.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sEnUGhOiMvzIFzTP3GNXSBSticAtCpD3eMpnSzD951-AakegKnTqOpOtq2uPVvDy76mcOVwmZrlIxqAdBG9m8pjUL_i89HqOvTZgowc-g0IE4VGGSL51FDkX41ezQ6-JftJkhJP7oBeyV8Rmte7jpsrd0AasenrV0ZksFRv_a59wYlgTdQD3OD6V31vg/w400-h225/PXL_20230710_183240781.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxFHXEi8eiakuCbYHCEWdiV1DwZm2h7vnxa2kEpo8k6inBoTx4HdZ1Wv8qj61bOnVbQIfVZnXTSSTD-fY-sr9q5hL382Llyi8bVu1_8HZ4VWNiFchPQFV10BXen5CavyzGJ9Kq_ZLspv3HH1p44os5Cox7X9GwXg6vcXcvMEpGXtaJO2BzE6Q81HDg3uv/s4032/PXL_20230710_183302990.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxFHXEi8eiakuCbYHCEWdiV1DwZm2h7vnxa2kEpo8k6inBoTx4HdZ1Wv8qj61bOnVbQIfVZnXTSSTD-fY-sr9q5hL382Llyi8bVu1_8HZ4VWNiFchPQFV10BXen5CavyzGJ9Kq_ZLspv3HH1p44os5Cox7X9GwXg6vcXcvMEpGXtaJO2BzE6Q81HDg3uv/w400-h225/PXL_20230710_183302990.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oz3xegaUXw_nu9AAXFb4bpaDogmbSWSw4PUqI2ecLS9fswLEWq7Hl9733h9fHqe8KIBP7xnxQNdaLCi7chH383JwNWSUPqr4RKRj2S9MVzXAYh-Fp49kXnykpDa0F-D_5ae7zETg_9XP6lO8LuokHDOOvrGk8w7WUEvnTQhgGqs2KS3xrDQVFCQKHlM9/s4032/PXL_20230710_183311634.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oz3xegaUXw_nu9AAXFb4bpaDogmbSWSw4PUqI2ecLS9fswLEWq7Hl9733h9fHqe8KIBP7xnxQNdaLCi7chH383JwNWSUPqr4RKRj2S9MVzXAYh-Fp49kXnykpDa0F-D_5ae7zETg_9XP6lO8LuokHDOOvrGk8w7WUEvnTQhgGqs2KS3xrDQVFCQKHlM9/w400-h225/PXL_20230710_183311634.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>But maybe people were simply not familiar with trail register logbooks and what the tradition is. These books are normally in the back country, so they crammed with ink (small print) and very little blank space. I started leaving notes in the book asking people not to skip pages and so forth. Every time I got to the logbook, the note was stuck in the back and the new entries were just a ridiculous as before. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43metlejhu6BUN8ReaxR6R7khpkywXiye8BAaYPXdMA7qwsRx-DqqG-BFwuqgR4DmwvhK-GRO-Am2OYUYTrY2fM1qI5EnsgQqaIDVmIOhBfOhtlUPcrI6a61KUh96yyZ27r1MNhT6ghPifahEdEYmJ8hQpdIB80XUaj929hupYp4OFBrttVWJSfKVgr8t/s4032/PXL_20230710_183244915.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43metlejhu6BUN8ReaxR6R7khpkywXiye8BAaYPXdMA7qwsRx-DqqG-BFwuqgR4DmwvhK-GRO-Am2OYUYTrY2fM1qI5EnsgQqaIDVmIOhBfOhtlUPcrI6a61KUh96yyZ27r1MNhT6ghPifahEdEYmJ8hQpdIB80XUaj929hupYp4OFBrttVWJSfKVgr8t/w400-h225/PXL_20230710_183244915.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of blank pages between entries</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF06rxqOl-M5aoW5210_kVEsaCFJ8l1Z313BX6UOxKZkPtuhniAQeIA-z5t0EPBxRUHVPjkzEBkrXXjeOr0s8Vq9Tfezad9Lof8jpna8d3z68LHqJAIV0EaZ6OFUtXiRY_4rzt5U-wJVWetG8Zg69TIRJknp7kR2SospeR6feIsiudI0SIZ9jE0rC03uny/s4032/PXL_20230710_183156712.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF06rxqOl-M5aoW5210_kVEsaCFJ8l1Z313BX6UOxKZkPtuhniAQeIA-z5t0EPBxRUHVPjkzEBkrXXjeOr0s8Vq9Tfezad9Lof8jpna8d3z68LHqJAIV0EaZ6OFUtXiRY_4rzt5U-wJVWetG8Zg69TIRJknp7kR2SospeR6feIsiudI0SIZ9jE0rC03uny/w400-h225/PXL_20230710_183156712.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of half-filled pages</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF06rxqOl-M5aoW5210_kVEsaCFJ8l1Z313BX6UOxKZkPtuhniAQeIA-z5t0EPBxRUHVPjkzEBkrXXjeOr0s8Vq9Tfezad9Lof8jpna8d3z68LHqJAIV0EaZ6OFUtXiRY_4rzt5U-wJVWetG8Zg69TIRJknp7kR2SospeR6feIsiudI0SIZ9jE0rC03uny/s4032/PXL_20230710_183156712.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gdNXy4_cPOtbEbX0bJdV6mNZKcMs2Co0wrDqmKV-MWMoQ9S6pAUv8EQJssJLyreDUhcIdsNxRhMmBvzIUWXkUeyRy2gMXfIbk84t6GlGtxKNOTtY9zbOpMV9E5yOWoSUDkXKKNK4Cud5fY00rCE1M6pfiP1y5e60m4VaPWPDWsrFp7Bfg9xYXe605n-x/s3418/PXL_20230710_183215141.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3418" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gdNXy4_cPOtbEbX0bJdV6mNZKcMs2Co0wrDqmKV-MWMoQ9S6pAUv8EQJssJLyreDUhcIdsNxRhMmBvzIUWXkUeyRy2gMXfIbk84t6GlGtxKNOTtY9zbOpMV9E5yOWoSUDkXKKNK4Cud5fY00rCE1M6pfiP1y5e60m4VaPWPDWsrFp7Bfg9xYXe605n-x/w265-h400/PXL_20230710_183215141.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why write so big? Leave space for others.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_d6lXsWXuVh6TluS4MBJIwiawsetWHQrlgUL3ML_8GAjkZ5Eo9tPTwNj80omurIjnlWvAcdhvi_xQLQUQYrvrjvT8zZZVNgUiNBlEB4n1C3fxgmC-wjhemDOTmyr_5vAB0cfcGxXKvAYes_cZWUYv2vnD6ikIFw4I5umLpl-M6tfTVIxgSTuRKSBZijs7/s4032/PXL_20230710_183221776.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_d6lXsWXuVh6TluS4MBJIwiawsetWHQrlgUL3ML_8GAjkZ5Eo9tPTwNj80omurIjnlWvAcdhvi_xQLQUQYrvrjvT8zZZVNgUiNBlEB4n1C3fxgmC-wjhemDOTmyr_5vAB0cfcGxXKvAYes_cZWUYv2vnD6ikIFw4I5umLpl-M6tfTVIxgSTuRKSBZijs7/w400-h225/PXL_20230710_183221776.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two entire pages for one group of hikers </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: left;">So I gave it one last shot. I taped a typed message to the cover pleading with people to not leave a lot of empty space and to finish each page before starting a new one ("please please please"). Then I clamped the earlier pages shut so people couldn't use those as an example. It didn't work. Soon after, Stephen asked people if they were planning on following the rules on the cover "asking for a friend." And then unironically says "Spread love, be kind." The next entry skips to the next page. The one after that starts yet another page. It's all mostly blank space. </span><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-53Grk9BVejcEXHZNIvoJhlhBaL4iO6oihy_q6bHsAnlIAmtgaVUCUhDGiNk3eZ0xu-qRkuXnJCzOTa3XVGscknLv2PZWArl9vBNv--MMXrMljt1bzGsIVeBIb605-wNpbvSbEobSHiwNBG1gRRIfvRqfyGmAUb63H3eAubfwOOgN-ZVXTGEPx-onHqXG/s2743/PXL_20230709_133701902%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2150" data-original-width="2743" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-53Grk9BVejcEXHZNIvoJhlhBaL4iO6oihy_q6bHsAnlIAmtgaVUCUhDGiNk3eZ0xu-qRkuXnJCzOTa3XVGscknLv2PZWArl9vBNv--MMXrMljt1bzGsIVeBIb605-wNpbvSbEobSHiwNBG1gRRIfvRqfyGmAUb63H3eAubfwOOgN-ZVXTGEPx-onHqXG/w400-h314/PXL_20230709_133701902%20(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The response to our request to not leave a lot of blank space.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>What is so strange is that we didn't used to have the problem, and suddenly we did. I think a lot of people visiting this trail register have no experience with them and were just copying what other people did. So long as the first several pages were done by people using common sense and respect for the volunteers who maintain the trail they were enjoying, this worked. But then when a bunch of people in a row started setting a bad example, it was all over. </p><p>The bottom line is that we've given up on maintaining a logbook for now. It was nice while it lasted, and our 2020 logbook is a real keeper. This one, not so much. </p></div>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-78409647988597404272023-06-03T13:45:00.001-04:002023-06-03T13:45:29.469-04:00Revisiting the Paugussett Relo near Buddington<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1JBh2iw2YY2figMankx7O00RLnwDk7BkZbRIIbNNTmSe8lWsrmq4BBmznJdgTI45IqX4dYVZe1a9eKptBF95LaH1MRIUkvzbtzRPLeGNFvTXRhs5SY19qpSToZLlvQI7Pl3DFAweSeFnq2owH79hlUOFLOriy8dv-r1xsSxSfrXp8rrwByUMoAwUrhQ/s4032/PXL_20230603_163618652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1JBh2iw2YY2figMankx7O00RLnwDk7BkZbRIIbNNTmSe8lWsrmq4BBmznJdgTI45IqX4dYVZe1a9eKptBF95LaH1MRIUkvzbtzRPLeGNFvTXRhs5SY19qpSToZLlvQI7Pl3DFAweSeFnq2owH79hlUOFLOriy8dv-r1xsSxSfrXp8rrwByUMoAwUrhQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230603_163618652.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the new trail location</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Late last fall, the Trails Committee & volunteers relocated a section of the Paugussett Trail in order to get it away from some towers that were going to be replaced in 2023. The original route used the access road for a bit and then went directly under one of the old towers. The relocation has allowed the trail to remain open at the south end near Buddington Road during Eversource's "Pootatuck Rebuild Project," and the new route is working out pretty well. There's even a nice mountain laurel show going on right now. <div><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAfvuxnlE9UxMhUmsemjoQnl3CR36TkPXjXPlePfqEUj-9sEvLRsn3YBdFbDt_3nv50pLoXtJD3BJlWH01azOA3qNqLdWm94lMtoHIGJIQ-5Xfm1x_U44zUhSURIv6naY2t_K3yHpKALGURamm6WYoIe-zjDprXnTC_DlXP1hGxVhXuEpuC1ZZp4wVg/s4032/PXL_20230603_164040719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAfvuxnlE9UxMhUmsemjoQnl3CR36TkPXjXPlePfqEUj-9sEvLRsn3YBdFbDt_3nv50pLoXtJD3BJlWH01azOA3qNqLdWm94lMtoHIGJIQ-5Xfm1x_U44zUhSURIv6naY2t_K3yHpKALGURamm6WYoIe-zjDprXnTC_DlXP1hGxVhXuEpuC1ZZp4wVg/w225-h400/PXL_20230603_164040719.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original route went right beneath the tower</td></tr></tbody></table></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The new route crosses the powerline corridor a bit to the north of the original route, down at the bottom of a ledge outcrop instead of up on top where the towers are. There is no utility access road in this stretch, since the next set of towers are accessed from the opposite direct (Oak Valley). So there is a clearing, and lines overhead, but no road. Here's what it looks like now: <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcG4BrdFcIY9V6oucvLbknBWMzs3gdjvkpc3jJa-Nw0lusffUyVBc3gBnfJZ7x2LFJnmPbvyCXG7-ymozZBHsuEt5ri960CBJ_Pk3XNvllXPUsUov32Y4_Pl69uqi7ViglRSiVmxFGfBRKsAofuiy7DV2nLl28jxrpMEtFyiEizxsgeK0hVLE1YY9EgA/s4032/PXL_20230603_163936269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcG4BrdFcIY9V6oucvLbknBWMzs3gdjvkpc3jJa-Nw0lusffUyVBc3gBnfJZ7x2LFJnmPbvyCXG7-ymozZBHsuEt5ri960CBJ_Pk3XNvllXPUsUov32Y4_Pl69uqi7ViglRSiVmxFGfBRKsAofuiy7DV2nLl28jxrpMEtFyiEizxsgeK0hVLE1YY9EgA/w400-h225/PXL_20230603_163936269.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new route begins (northbound)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9gSbbFSnA0l5tNwjQp2fnLkEBFH_CINSWXNlPrU448l1lCjibzwrX91RAblwptpnSfHKUIiTXPIWdJ_relZdRZ-N5QJdd0ZyP3bwszoGP-AGAiQYPr1bxPWn-EYlSajotO_Xzrt5Bmux12IE4NmquPquX6wWdv-rK7IdczvXa3f7l_B_fF7AhHY0hQ/s4032/PXL_20230603_163719133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9gSbbFSnA0l5tNwjQp2fnLkEBFH_CINSWXNlPrU448l1lCjibzwrX91RAblwptpnSfHKUIiTXPIWdJ_relZdRZ-N5QJdd0ZyP3bwszoGP-AGAiQYPr1bxPWn-EYlSajotO_Xzrt5Bmux12IE4NmquPquX6wWdv-rK7IdczvXa3f7l_B_fF7AhHY0hQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230603_163719133.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing under the powerlines</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIo_U0bBOH-is4dM2TGLYvv2u3es0k2SLoUyEt4XlddlZlquvgJSLWcqG4l23Q_LnDmW20Zp-cZKJPM-HE6cHO7BlNQN2f1CWer29WKuSd8B5glAJq_MwTl-1ajqWQ58PQ6cJUKAfavKxYs_LS8E9JskW3g7AaSKF_PfQedYDFjHZTF_XkH-pDStY7w/s4032/PXL_20230603_163700300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIo_U0bBOH-is4dM2TGLYvv2u3es0k2SLoUyEt4XlddlZlquvgJSLWcqG4l23Q_LnDmW20Zp-cZKJPM-HE6cHO7BlNQN2f1CWer29WKuSd8B5glAJq_MwTl-1ajqWQ58PQ6cJUKAfavKxYs_LS8E9JskW3g7AaSKF_PfQedYDFjHZTF_XkH-pDStY7w/w400-h225/PXL_20230603_163700300.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crossing the powerline corridor below the ledge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicR4ls6gbogVcHVtd7ZebK-0q_Lj1jEIPCBbkun0AKLvvFwSySOYX7LuGHv1xF1Y5iWUm6yiUyPWeRDZqTYgs9vr8ZCE-TiKZDFpU6fGrnKiON1I61p38T3LMAJVbhekdFvcVrvXxYwr144J2s0ybn9pnlXAGvtoWt_TZ6eEPix0AgGUa8XfJeevABEQ/s4032/PXL_20230603_163635829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicR4ls6gbogVcHVtd7ZebK-0q_Lj1jEIPCBbkun0AKLvvFwSySOYX7LuGHv1xF1Y5iWUm6yiUyPWeRDZqTYgs9vr8ZCE-TiKZDFpU6fGrnKiON1I61p38T3LMAJVbhekdFvcVrvXxYwr144J2s0ybn9pnlXAGvtoWt_TZ6eEPix0AgGUa8XfJeevABEQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230603_163635829.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail goes through the laurel tunnel</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXPXr2X5HFUmXQ6D6dheWsVpRWQnnZiHhSOXCwrsbiBblb0atd81rl_9B2lWItneqT8ibSOlwb-reqxzjhk0hvPz-jn8G2OCP6JbpJfztpL9KgzEr_0KyyOI_pznPDxHYOKuZi3dTi86pD9Hn4V__2gXbMGZYn_gNjn4684IMK8HGnGundiSLRUF-GA/s4032/PXL_20230603_163443735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXPXr2X5HFUmXQ6D6dheWsVpRWQnnZiHhSOXCwrsbiBblb0atd81rl_9B2lWItneqT8ibSOlwb-reqxzjhk0hvPz-jn8G2OCP6JbpJfztpL9KgzEr_0KyyOI_pznPDxHYOKuZi3dTi86pD9Hn4V__2gXbMGZYn_gNjn4684IMK8HGnGundiSLRUF-GA/w225-h400/PXL_20230603_163443735.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back in the trees</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-37397478926167580512023-06-03T08:50:00.002-04:002023-06-04T11:24:48.766-04:00Trails Day 2023; Housatonic Woods Preserve<p>We had a great inaugural hike on Woodsend Trail for <a href="https://ctwoodlands.org/events/ct-trails-day/">CT Trails Day</a>. The weather cooperated and it was cool and breezy rather than raining. The Connecticut Forest and Parks Association was coordinating hundreds of outdoor events around the state this weekend.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYUmUeK--OkbVJy_3W9G8W87zeLk5VjuZjTl-Z54kGvN5WX81GkxsqbGcQ3xOq0Qi5tCCpcYqd9Lz0aFitRYJ_xJAV2kOsGr7GN8gtc4cH3J8t38QPiWix2yFhjWI9Aq6Mb7-VqPkILQGu5R9a9YBMguYA2LAKmFdu-iYHaDjV-RYp_lsMk9oaD9aAQ/s3653/P6030003.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1670" data-original-width="3653" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirYUmUeK--OkbVJy_3W9G8W87zeLk5VjuZjTl-Z54kGvN5WX81GkxsqbGcQ3xOq0Qi5tCCpcYqd9Lz0aFitRYJ_xJAV2kOsGr7GN8gtc4cH3J8t38QPiWix2yFhjWI9Aq6Mb7-VqPkILQGu5R9a9YBMguYA2LAKmFdu-iYHaDjV-RYp_lsMk9oaD9aAQ/w400-h183/P6030003.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>The starting point was at the Woodsend Avenue trailhead. There were 22 people plus 3 dogs from Shelton, Monroe, Ansonia, and Stratford. We had good representation from the Shelton Trails Committee, Conservation Commission and <a href="http://www.sheltonlandtrust.org/">Shelton Land Trust</a> on the hike, and at least one neighbor who joined us.</p><p>The new trail was built this spring following purchase by the City of an open space property from a local family. That parcel connected several other open space properties, including a Shelton Land Trust parcel with the Paugussett Trail, which allows for a larger band of open space; hence the new <a href="http://www.sheltonconservation.org/recreation/maps/Housatonic%20Woods%20April%202023.pdf">Housatonic Woods Preserve and Woodsend Trail.<br /></a></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfzJe7e-cFbFT-kuxGApm1MzxrvICyLCm-zysiDbRlrvubqX8UyWeW45SX8cf__hzk8n6URpLFYqk63hEFX9RZ5bhUieeVeke3GEIirR88lBXNcHezzdvw0T8MMQn0GdK-eTdpWME4vDxp_wMCHkN9k6j22t9tnjr19kGjv9cvlRcH6wQKKL3MgDkwQ/s4000/P6030002.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitfzJe7e-cFbFT-kuxGApm1MzxrvICyLCm-zysiDbRlrvubqX8UyWeW45SX8cf__hzk8n6URpLFYqk63hEFX9RZ5bhUieeVeke3GEIirR88lBXNcHezzdvw0T8MMQn0GdK-eTdpWME4vDxp_wMCHkN9k6j22t9tnjr19kGjv9cvlRcH6wQKKL3MgDkwQ/w400-h300/P6030002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>There were plenty of take aways at the sign up station, with Royal Bakery doughnuts, and including previous blog posts of all the great work by volunteers in constructing the new trail.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zaXG9wKQyGdwxQGIs8s65fnYDNYPFHS7cwpvbsPB1EHBeO3YJZHyfrZlsxNC2mqJZx9Kn0GvlPzmpIXCvW755QED8sa7-xWOpjx_3MtSYiNIp5Rp4efXSct-4Domv3CKrYUp1vU6--89RvJukH80NIkyw0F9ZbNiy2x4Qsgs235XChA-8fW0eW0L4A/s4000/P6030004.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zaXG9wKQyGdwxQGIs8s65fnYDNYPFHS7cwpvbsPB1EHBeO3YJZHyfrZlsxNC2mqJZx9Kn0GvlPzmpIXCvW755QED8sa7-xWOpjx_3MtSYiNIp5Rp4efXSct-4Domv3CKrYUp1vU6--89RvJukH80NIkyw0F9ZbNiy2x4Qsgs235XChA-8fW0eW0L4A/s320/P6030004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>And we got away just after 10:30. We split into 2 groups for various speeds on the moderately difficult hike.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTB7ztzPSQRt8rcB5aImNBNLOl-sSJ6tvnLal1fj6QLO8c6a9EWL27dINI39ZuGycM2-eKz7_FlJdPnZ974dk81M_Qr0TDQ6x-L0Msj4xYWjmhEK7xqin0-9wa5eZL8GW_Clzazz_bzchak-7_p3x7t3JA3s3-Yq4U1vsBswuvykQoWGtPlWEHTbdc5g/s1458/P6030006.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1458" data-original-width="1110" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTB7ztzPSQRt8rcB5aImNBNLOl-sSJ6tvnLal1fj6QLO8c6a9EWL27dINI39ZuGycM2-eKz7_FlJdPnZ974dk81M_Qr0TDQ6x-L0Msj4xYWjmhEK7xqin0-9wa5eZL8GW_Clzazz_bzchak-7_p3x7t3JA3s3-Yq4U1vsBswuvykQoWGtPlWEHTbdc5g/w305-h400/P6030006.JPG" width="305" /></a></div><p>Mike Flament made sure none of us got lost on the way in acting as sweeper. The trail tread was mostly dry, with a few wet spots. The vegetation had grown in some during the last two weeks, and the views of the Housatonic River were mostly green now. We did note the old charcoal mound and the areas of the previous debris removal looked great. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqMtTynLiVWwjEUVmlmNbL3fV2EspKie-TEX5kw-JSFkGQmUsXbqCWZp-X0VCX-ksRvrbuOYT0Fc-8S7b3IEIl6wWpPOVsnhWw2ZCeWP8uH9-JGgTvlBQ_N4e9UGphCfVQzmfHBSgaNF-zQE6kqWH99M41OksiBFC2JGF71nL_mTdYm1JsNbksxQCXw/s4000/P6030007.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqMtTynLiVWwjEUVmlmNbL3fV2EspKie-TEX5kw-JSFkGQmUsXbqCWZp-X0VCX-ksRvrbuOYT0Fc-8S7b3IEIl6wWpPOVsnhWw2ZCeWP8uH9-JGgTvlBQ_N4e9UGphCfVQzmfHBSgaNF-zQE6kqWH99M41OksiBFC2JGF71nL_mTdYm1JsNbksxQCXw/w400-h300/P6030007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Everyone got thru the "Tangerine Squeezer" OK. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsiZHn4KUFn3XzLazutwInOukSM8Zs2z_GkGHtIyfAMxeZUCa3VCGD3Hub-fsK7bX6-bvomCuW1FwAowqQXpMRFkf33D_j2IsccM9sTfRfOlyjEF0kM2o0InRCIy8orwE6JHsUE7NraFwTouuy0Bxzs9Z6FP4I4q-jAKmH_1hm41cWJYC_FZ0c4_exw/s2378/P6030011.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1864" data-original-width="2378" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsiZHn4KUFn3XzLazutwInOukSM8Zs2z_GkGHtIyfAMxeZUCa3VCGD3Hub-fsK7bX6-bvomCuW1FwAowqQXpMRFkf33D_j2IsccM9sTfRfOlyjEF0kM2o0InRCIy8orwE6JHsUE7NraFwTouuy0Bxzs9Z6FP4I4q-jAKmH_1hm41cWJYC_FZ0c4_exw/w400-h314/P6030011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>There were a number of stone wall crossings along the hillside.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBPwuKexna0N7LNTDmmVjqGVaaUKQxYICcRypPPGABrHWsul8DLPrlQGCpR-7MCU6RpbMGzL-lVTGmN_EkFv7nnya2tf0Nhn4GzZGSg_1ewkk4dCYUCr2-3faTQrSNrmmfgIZ_bcjHQNdx_56TSKDBQPBaGohdDtzgn_1ggXB7bqBwTLQDxqtZ3moVA/s2849/PXL_20230603_151225227.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1834" data-original-width="2849" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBPwuKexna0N7LNTDmmVjqGVaaUKQxYICcRypPPGABrHWsul8DLPrlQGCpR-7MCU6RpbMGzL-lVTGmN_EkFv7nnya2tf0Nhn4GzZGSg_1ewkk4dCYUCr2-3faTQrSNrmmfgIZ_bcjHQNdx_56TSKDBQPBaGohdDtzgn_1ggXB7bqBwTLQDxqtZ3moVA/w400-h258/PXL_20230603_151225227.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ellen Cramp was leading over some of wetland crossings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxl-bnrlxTT7NtHNw00741H8YNUl16w2UQGRnL6UIebkyxtAEHOIlp2j0ODA3VdGhERYGQHPekgpQ8P2IaTjq3cx50A2jgwZgCwH_eKSw_A_3r_dg2ccSczQUTgfS2IZey0lUGK4HF4Lcjs0THHFteQ6gkf_Wu0SNJR3WmIjYDv9KmMn8m1JlQu4SgiQ/s4000/P6030012.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxl-bnrlxTT7NtHNw00741H8YNUl16w2UQGRnL6UIebkyxtAEHOIlp2j0ODA3VdGhERYGQHPekgpQ8P2IaTjq3cx50A2jgwZgCwH_eKSw_A_3r_dg2ccSczQUTgfS2IZey0lUGK4HF4Lcjs0THHFteQ6gkf_Wu0SNJR3WmIjYDv9KmMn8m1JlQu4SgiQ/w400-h300/P6030012.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A lot of trail work had been done this spring to make the trail tread easier to walk. When the water is running you can hear it going underground.<br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhPs8yccuHPLmBWWoysallcPVOSUy5Ma-RBKIrDfbHUDOR77Tm-oEpfL5Gi_B1qGi2MaAD1glJfgFouA0xEH53s83TaUGNT5FZJo9nVpTl33n2MlRiTes8uFA02LqwoNoFeDYeujar6SaV9saEdLVH419hj76zUpqL5ybdVW0c3GLGcJ58CwSyZBZkg/s3239/PXL_20230603_151439451.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3239" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhPs8yccuHPLmBWWoysallcPVOSUy5Ma-RBKIrDfbHUDOR77Tm-oEpfL5Gi_B1qGi2MaAD1glJfgFouA0xEH53s83TaUGNT5FZJo9nVpTl33n2MlRiTes8uFA02LqwoNoFeDYeujar6SaV9saEdLVH419hj76zUpqL5ybdVW0c3GLGcJ58CwSyZBZkg/w280-h400/PXL_20230603_151439451.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><p></p><p>All the blow downs had been cleared and all the little stream crossings seemed in good shape.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_j5Wz7ADopE01o4hQ0DWC95ciU2Fvr52lqnitipv91hl33aSBh0GN3aEdp7fsTRObw3nYwqYsjmLMDYL6O9a4abg4sO0p45_NjSq8K-TqO354NadkRWutzGHCFR5Ec5smC2AeV2ULEiiCYiKWAmNdwC3kILoirQvbcNt1vfAw_yLpE004j4g7Yde2fA/s4000/P6030014.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_j5Wz7ADopE01o4hQ0DWC95ciU2Fvr52lqnitipv91hl33aSBh0GN3aEdp7fsTRObw3nYwqYsjmLMDYL6O9a4abg4sO0p45_NjSq8K-TqO354NadkRWutzGHCFR5Ec5smC2AeV2ULEiiCYiKWAmNdwC3kILoirQvbcNt1vfAw_yLpE004j4g7Yde2fA/w300-h400/P6030014.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><p>There were a lot of areas along the Paugussett Trail with much more light coming thru the tree canopy. The <a href="https://web.uri.edu/ipm/2023/04/beech-leaf-disease-in-ri-2023-update/">Beech Leaf Wilting Disease</a> is taking a toll on the beech trees. The beech leaves get all wilted and fall off, and it's thought we may loose all our beech trees in the next few years. This is on top of Beech Bark Disease, which has been afflicting the trees for years. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr9hyE4XECep2UYBMUBJojGKY-s2K2Ljz77WZu-2PU2mASIJjr1241Maq5TyXLSW7wqlR8QBYfl_Gb5RxgfVOxbUMD2XbhZxG00zFpABh5L2RgIj3HdTPI0uEcY6x6Hl8Sm2P6EL4UFhI0Kha5FOSc-9iFVKVA3zFeFxjXRH25Pjv0s_6AeO7axCs3zQ/s3763/P6030015.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2159" data-original-width="3763" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr9hyE4XECep2UYBMUBJojGKY-s2K2Ljz77WZu-2PU2mASIJjr1241Maq5TyXLSW7wqlR8QBYfl_Gb5RxgfVOxbUMD2XbhZxG00zFpABh5L2RgIj3HdTPI0uEcY6x6Hl8Sm2P6EL4UFhI0Kha5FOSc-9iFVKVA3zFeFxjXRH25Pjv0s_6AeO7axCs3zQ/w400-h230/P6030015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Joe Welsh from the Shelton Land Trust was explaining some of the problems facing the beech trees and how their loss might impact the composition of Connecticut's forests.<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjreLAtNmRbFUoqSxwULMiyfCHCncHh9I7LTSmUl0sUHdfaJABw0uhgqUeGPDYOcrB4pPy9YwyaOPnt1_yS3zUtBRlaojbvzI2XajnzCzMexbjgQVSGjFSu7n0AR_BPodvWJWGfDHwBuC0Gb7Lz4HlIp5y67u45tnUxwr4-F0vaqHkr_zHBPqwSSTOHqw/s2396/PXL_20230603_152611155.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1540" data-original-width="2396" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjreLAtNmRbFUoqSxwULMiyfCHCncHh9I7LTSmUl0sUHdfaJABw0uhgqUeGPDYOcrB4pPy9YwyaOPnt1_yS3zUtBRlaojbvzI2XajnzCzMexbjgQVSGjFSu7n0AR_BPodvWJWGfDHwBuC0Gb7Lz4HlIp5y67u45tnUxwr4-F0vaqHkr_zHBPqwSSTOHqw/w400-h258/PXL_20230603_152611155.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>There were a lot of nice sights along the trail. <a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Learn-About-Wildlife/Bobcats-in-Connecticut"> A bobcat was spotted </a>at the detention ponds below Sinsabaugh Heights after the first group went thru. It was camera shy and bounded up the hill before we could get a picture of it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbkHrtIhFmB_bphKla1HYVTGt1HRESObKJRsGj9qX2NWap9TcVyZdmOiTuZ6a8BuHF0qvrXbgmKGkzpYg1xgzXGss8UDblxdqfrfXw1vLclZQUFZ_5M-aWg7bT5V7odf2CpMBS1Hce7kdc4XVp5Ll6jVW7WIEGYuQUJLd56KlxqckHvqe0DOEibsH2A/s2517/P6030019.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="2517" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbkHrtIhFmB_bphKla1HYVTGt1HRESObKJRsGj9qX2NWap9TcVyZdmOiTuZ6a8BuHF0qvrXbgmKGkzpYg1xgzXGss8UDblxdqfrfXw1vLclZQUFZ_5M-aWg7bT5V7odf2CpMBS1Hce7kdc4XVp5Ll6jVW7WIEGYuQUJLd56KlxqckHvqe0DOEibsH2A/w400-h248/P6030019.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>We stopped and admired all the work done by trail volunteers in the boulderfield and along the switchback on the way back to the trail head. It makes for a very nice 2 mile loop with lots of connections to various neighborhoods.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJRz7pkfTBrzXyUCZYcXhuDAESHd8SpQH7DtClMFiVDhSeZPb87K1BpFVNcZ8__f4kafRyM5Eyu8BEToloaUnE05-gWfhYQqwgPkdNlwuoxr9s3LU02RL5eAR9N_OO4BLAhbaerJe5npwog2_T1niTYAU0AoeG8NWQEiW9XoeO5vghsdxntxDH8ztFQ/s4000/P6030020.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOJRz7pkfTBrzXyUCZYcXhuDAESHd8SpQH7DtClMFiVDhSeZPb87K1BpFVNcZ8__f4kafRyM5Eyu8BEToloaUnE05-gWfhYQqwgPkdNlwuoxr9s3LU02RL5eAR9N_OO4BLAhbaerJe5npwog2_T1niTYAU0AoeG8NWQEiW9XoeO5vghsdxntxDH8ztFQ/w400-h300/P6030020.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Lee and everyone else made it back thru the Tangerine Squeezer. The Squeezer is a little easier to navigate going back uphill. It's a moderately challenging trail, with a lot of interesting spots. </p><p>After the hike we let everyone know that <a href="https://www.celebrateshelton.com/">Celebrate Shelton </a>was having a Food Trucks on the River event on the Riverwalk in downtown Shelton.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzM8H8hDdZE2zzQ6vFtJ8xEsKzMUQ56g25I6boMo2TXNt9sWjjJi_70o7HebeL_wqeoxX_FGEZsq0cjqUVylS9BhvGIZaMDjGr-vVH9xB8FsR5FJLdH38sJ1awJTfUzIOdnbbgQJ2osoC1EGVRbN2Vj9EJSaR_mRdTAe-x-pLp5YId6wJp2LSO0dp-g/s4000/P6030022.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzM8H8hDdZE2zzQ6vFtJ8xEsKzMUQ56g25I6boMo2TXNt9sWjjJi_70o7HebeL_wqeoxX_FGEZsq0cjqUVylS9BhvGIZaMDjGr-vVH9xB8FsR5FJLdH38sJ1awJTfUzIOdnbbgQJ2osoC1EGVRbN2Vj9EJSaR_mRdTAe-x-pLp5YId6wJp2LSO0dp-g/w400-h300/P6030022.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Some hikers ventured down to enjoy the bands, vendors, and food trucks. It was a festive way to finish a Trails Day hike. Nice that that was scheduled for the same weekend as Trails Day.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyjFhy7ta1pl5-4Z-IHGbEouzBDfAluJk65Edmmtgxq8nEB4IwEY0exxwBysxme7wCdr82OxJ-Mj7dHGt0LM_El4U-UJgZxPHcDsOGNR7AmW3IrxL_sz8rHpT_U3t5kT56eG7kuJOgZY7OHw7awfnyEXqqB1JgNLcGDyC0dE2AxAeUApNRigkH3s5Uw/s4000/P6030021.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvyjFhy7ta1pl5-4Z-IHGbEouzBDfAluJk65Edmmtgxq8nEB4IwEY0exxwBysxme7wCdr82OxJ-Mj7dHGt0LM_El4U-UJgZxPHcDsOGNR7AmW3IrxL_sz8rHpT_U3t5kT56eG7kuJOgZY7OHw7awfnyEXqqB1JgNLcGDyC0dE2AxAeUApNRigkH3s5Uw/w400-h300/P6030021.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p>Also after the hike, after putting away some of the gear in the Shelton Trails Barn. I noticed some guy attacking the Japanese knotweed along Nells Rock Road near the Barn. It turned out to be Bob Woods, who decided to get rid of some invasive species on Trails Day. Good work Bob.</p><p>It was a successful 2023 Trails Day. We christened a new trail, folks got to do some exploring, saw some wildlife, and we didn't loose too many hikers.</p>Terrance Gallagherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03116990638495947813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-72967395461245969202023-05-17T10:28:00.003-04:002023-05-17T10:28:27.149-04:00Eversource Tower Project Along the Trails<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhckFqsjrB_4hgjZ-8SvE4eYxz8kPg-AoRWiySpm8726bLsYIwwsNbmrnRcZqP3QAMJiN5T_jNR6Aj-Uqzu4fFayZGOtxBVpT4LMl8W1_VXInKEnv9zwEtIzzg5mxogRKLPIbit4rD0NbFjjTWl3YZzyyqZHGUQE99675nmLJKUm0Y_c2f0WOffswJg/s4032/PXL_20230430_164308282.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhckFqsjrB_4hgjZ-8SvE4eYxz8kPg-AoRWiySpm8726bLsYIwwsNbmrnRcZqP3QAMJiN5T_jNR6Aj-Uqzu4fFayZGOtxBVpT4LMl8W1_VXInKEnv9zwEtIzzg5mxogRKLPIbit4rD0NbFjjTWl3YZzyyqZHGUQE99675nmLJKUm0Y_c2f0WOffswJg/w400-h225/PXL_20230430_164308282.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partly dismantled old towers and the new monopole replacements <br />along the Paugussett Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Eversource's "Stevenson to Pootatuck Rebuild Project" is in full swing throughout Shelton Lakes and French's Hill, with new towers being installed and the old ones taken down. Additionally, there are plenty of newly constructed or enlarged gravel access roads and pads impacting the trails.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWYKpcKusWvhHldtcFiVLttHA4LWHiBWidOWCxxGkMKvYHVphe1wD-NbSDyUIYxmVA1Hd-pVo7bjQEhIOY0lc1FDqdMjfwnXgLft4vT9UufmR4cZBiq-6xByi0ixPl3dJY6llhxy3F1CJGHO3vbWVroTlAgw1LHJdMJA_pQIDUpXPV-8sk3h7DUNqAA/s4032/PXL_20230405_200637689%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUWYKpcKusWvhHldtcFiVLttHA4LWHiBWidOWCxxGkMKvYHVphe1wD-NbSDyUIYxmVA1Hd-pVo7bjQEhIOY0lc1FDqdMjfwnXgLft4vT9UufmR4cZBiq-6xByi0ixPl3dJY6llhxy3F1CJGHO3vbWVroTlAgw1LHJdMJA_pQIDUpXPV-8sk3h7DUNqAA/w400-h225/PXL_20230405_200637689%20(3).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gravel access road and timber matt pad as seen from Nells Rock Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The work stages seem to leapfrog up and down the powerline corridor, so the outsider has no way to predict what's coming next, except that the work is generally going from south to north (work at French's Hill only just recently commenced). New monopoles have popped up seemingly far in advance, surrounded by the old towers.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG-RgsD2QR3VXDDS2BJqVpwDwOGxIycOZ6E8xdy5grsq07MP6DW6G60qE6S_E9JNQV8hx-cHTf8DEiuGr2S7kAkLvhYfbluzliQplYt5SN6Oql8cxTKUWVpOtZCT9Z-ceR6pigYMBHTOLtdObdLPG9LEG_4ONZDH0ffafqlRckT0R8oLy5WvPNIBeBQ/s4032/PXL_20230430_164515430.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG-RgsD2QR3VXDDS2BJqVpwDwOGxIycOZ6E8xdy5grsq07MP6DW6G60qE6S_E9JNQV8hx-cHTf8DEiuGr2S7kAkLvhYfbluzliQplYt5SN6Oql8cxTKUWVpOtZCT9Z-ceR6pigYMBHTOLtdObdLPG9LEG_4ONZDH0ffafqlRckT0R8oLy5WvPNIBeBQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230430_164515430.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timber matt and new monopoles ready to be installed.<br />This is a new pole location on the Paugussett Trail near <br />Independence Drive</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58pQhBOKe5Qqb1IxiKez_wfY3PoNpSFefIQEycsUUparkwN_Mas_eHrS4BTyD5quGhbNRIoVKP2dpIAv-eXKl6ufvt4HQKRr5fbDLA7_isDps0xKZyWX7kSIepOhpQOluKGk5dixdUAvrB415Cx2ca-j-tsZ6udi0nva3xEXu0ru41ur5HoojxYbQyA/s4032/PXL_20230430_164540866.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58pQhBOKe5Qqb1IxiKez_wfY3PoNpSFefIQEycsUUparkwN_Mas_eHrS4BTyD5quGhbNRIoVKP2dpIAv-eXKl6ufvt4HQKRr5fbDLA7_isDps0xKZyWX7kSIepOhpQOluKGk5dixdUAvrB415Cx2ca-j-tsZ6udi0nva3xEXu0ru41ur5HoojxYbQyA/w400-h225/PXL_20230430_164540866.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the new monopole foundation</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_PQ0aBs1HXr4QIRhBSbEnjrrqMf7t71lii3ROCrb0VRs3fxBZ7JVj64iqMRzMUYdYwYNJNIzIpBNAnq0e_byO7Mc1jKgIofM-9S2k78EsYzHwG06Lp9vYcTFXrG_Dn71Gm5iaPH3YekZqqKKyxD_7FG5H4NnJiCnJQ4jrkRTblE8oT8hi0qpfiMCFQ/s4032/PXL_20230430_165200505.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_PQ0aBs1HXr4QIRhBSbEnjrrqMf7t71lii3ROCrb0VRs3fxBZ7JVj64iqMRzMUYdYwYNJNIzIpBNAnq0e_byO7Mc1jKgIofM-9S2k78EsYzHwG06Lp9vYcTFXrG_Dn71Gm5iaPH3YekZqqKKyxD_7FG5H4NnJiCnJQ4jrkRTblE8oT8hi0qpfiMCFQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230430_165200505.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the old towers</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>For any given location, the first step involves crews preparing an accessway and construction pads. These pads may be made of gravel or temporary timber mats (mats are used in sensitive areas such as wetlands). The accessway and pad need to be large enough to accommodate the cranes and drilling equipment that will be used. Additional space is required on the pad for staging materials. In some areas, extensive grading and chipping away of ledge had been necessary. Subsequently, another crew arrives to drill foundations for the new monopoles. In cases where the rock is particularly hard, the drilling process can take a considerable amount of time. Once the foundation is complete, yet another crew installs the new monopole. The wires are then transferred from the old tower to the new monopole, and the top half of the old tower is sawed off and left nearby in a crumpled state.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OAGL5oz7A-5XgBmtLlxbCgpPpq7hZqnJyCQa3lQh0oERTQmZqPYi9ese1wAWkfhHYj6--1Q5uULLRtMWAKcGyUNAbWY5B0pqeyfr7OEgxJd_ibc38LJIs_rCA4NpKWM7h4GQ9LRs2x36scYhAQ1MGm-NLX3CWvfmq5JtJzFFUoNvNyXoUl86r0LujQ/s4032/PXL_20230310_132613798.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OAGL5oz7A-5XgBmtLlxbCgpPpq7hZqnJyCQa3lQh0oERTQmZqPYi9ese1wAWkfhHYj6--1Q5uULLRtMWAKcGyUNAbWY5B0pqeyfr7OEgxJd_ibc38LJIs_rCA4NpKWM7h4GQ9LRs2x36scYhAQ1MGm-NLX3CWvfmq5JtJzFFUoNvNyXoUl86r0LujQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230310_132613798.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rec Path near Great Ledge (Oak Valley/Wesley Drive)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The Eversource crews, who are actually subcontractors, have placed "trail closed" signs wherever our hiking trails intersect or follow the powerline corridor. They have also erected construction fencing across the trail, which we suggested they do because our experience shows that some trail users disregard signs and pass through the Trails Committee's active work zones, even under leaning trees that are in the process of being cut down with a chainsaw. We've encountered people without basic survival skills sneaking up behind someone using a gas-powered brush cutter with blades that can easily cut through small trees. Therefore, we warned the Eversource staff to expect that some trail users would ignore the signs.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJtuPCKUDswW11HaA50q60mksKv2C-DjTwf7s60yx6WkC0aDmQW_gO2Iet2DB8wcs1CSR3SDhWc9xhWsApuO9xTU-HfjiDeHaMxIIpldTwXfidheaGwTlSOsVHrVSm0_f1MiAryPwu6It_iubZklZWJNbhbSZRhZmSQT8TrQSJU5zUJAeX-bc-CbwWA/s4032/PXL_20230405_200251278.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJtuPCKUDswW11HaA50q60mksKv2C-DjTwf7s60yx6WkC0aDmQW_gO2Iet2DB8wcs1CSR3SDhWc9xhWsApuO9xTU-HfjiDeHaMxIIpldTwXfidheaGwTlSOsVHrVSm0_f1MiAryPwu6It_iubZklZWJNbhbSZRhZmSQT8TrQSJU5zUJAeX-bc-CbwWA/w400-h225/PXL_20230405_200251278.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Construction fence blocking trail was down early<br />(Nells Rock Trail)</td></tr></tbody></table><p>And indeed, that's exactly what has happened. The construction fencing across the trail has collapsed in some spots, and clear walk-around paths have been created. Eversource crews have reported incidents of mountain bikers and hikers passing through active work zones. In one instance, someone was even using one of their survey stakes as a walking stick (note: NEVER tamper with a survey marker, as it is against state law and can result in fines amounting to thousands of dollars).</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZKnq2Rat_CQh-5cPVDTPO1SQHdx9KMgEINBQgvEDXHBPs5z_ysGNb9xQ12sB1FlQ_vlEXefMwqlJUwNTjIw1ddHIIZTCmcn9xJRg5NClVAhCeRuy_ZXjPSkOnZU-CGEusnRrvZtvTkic6lErc_4cOdg1ScPZ7mXj322sVCUVHps0z1MWz37T1kkopA/s4032/PXL_20230430_164203658.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZKnq2Rat_CQh-5cPVDTPO1SQHdx9KMgEINBQgvEDXHBPs5z_ysGNb9xQ12sB1FlQ_vlEXefMwqlJUwNTjIw1ddHIIZTCmcn9xJRg5NClVAhCeRuy_ZXjPSkOnZU-CGEusnRrvZtvTkic6lErc_4cOdg1ScPZ7mXj322sVCUVHps0z1MWz37T1kkopA/w225-h400/PXL_20230430_164203658.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the later signs<br />along the Paugussett Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><p>To be fair, most of the closed trail sections are not under active construction at any given time. And many of the 'trail closed' signs had no explanation, especially the earlier signs. People may believe that the trail closures are merely a liability precaution, similar to a warning about hot coffee, and consequently choose to ignore the signs. We have received comments from trail users expressing frustration over trail sections being closed when no actual work is being conducted there. Some people have a particular route they walk or run every day, and have been doing so for years. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg--Ks43AWXMzKHZYUQjVJgQHpdJqWMPXQXLaoDnqBp7bCRollnri-6qyF-M8rXycZKwyFYzPjVgY17MFkOQ1bHtExGJCqRaN0cojHBYy0Y-bcojARfo94uPVkQQbZKPO2SYv5F21PF9UEmGfwmpXVp8bZLbLctvHtzoWhjOQM9mSyeMfHRZzJRAckL4g/s722/trail%20map%20overview%20of%20maps%20May%202023%20with%20text.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="638" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg--Ks43AWXMzKHZYUQjVJgQHpdJqWMPXQXLaoDnqBp7bCRollnri-6qyF-M8rXycZKwyFYzPjVgY17MFkOQ1bHtExGJCqRaN0cojHBYy0Y-bcojARfo94uPVkQQbZKPO2SYv5F21PF9UEmGfwmpXVp8bZLbLctvHtzoWhjOQM9mSyeMfHRZzJRAckL4g/w354-h400/trail%20map%20overview%20of%20maps%20May%202023%20with%20text.jpg" width="354" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sheltonconservation.org/recreation/shelton_trails.html">Explore our other trails!</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>We encourage people to explore alternatives to Shelton Lakes and French's Hill and try out some of our other excellent trails. Boehm Pond offers a couple of nice loops that are relatively easy, as does Nicholdale Farm/Willis Woods. There's also the new Woodsend Trail, along with the hilly trail systems at Birchbank, Indian Well, and Tahmore Preserve. You can find <a href="http://www.sheltonconservation.org/recreation/shelton_trails.html">maps for all these trails on the Conservation Commission's website</a>. Additionally, there is a <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/viewer?fbclid=IwAR3OfMyDkW57fKwZYAnwKyrl-Z9FOZkdmjzYvYKYxXiLtgXQPN2OAzcCUh0&ll=41.327995137683196%2C-73.16966744805211&z=13&mid=1NWLM18nXMBxJWx_fU48s-_3fJO7MVUMe" target="_blank">custom Google Map featuring all the trails and parking areas</a>, which can help you locate yourself along the trails or provide driving directions.</p><p></p>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7593183258369268088.post-18525675012397848952023-05-02T10:09:00.003-04:002023-05-02T10:14:41.921-04:00Woodsend Trail Completed<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwuO-DOOyoFXAHH9ZLk2FLEcSQwQD5BkUuU9ftGa-u7T_pSefCeCcaZCAePOiEG6vXC_PTHCk08zwgvdZmQ-G2ISTy26rAXj4vf92URQxdcpnKWaNCat5XsWDlEQwNJUOiYTtx6SAoysrdpbI73MBWUm5k8FMtNuYCyJP36maP5DPwLciSO-RBPy_Iw/s4032/PXL_20230423_205958981.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwuO-DOOyoFXAHH9ZLk2FLEcSQwQD5BkUuU9ftGa-u7T_pSefCeCcaZCAePOiEG6vXC_PTHCk08zwgvdZmQ-G2ISTy26rAXj4vf92URQxdcpnKWaNCat5XsWDlEQwNJUOiYTtx6SAoysrdpbI73MBWUm5k8FMtNuYCyJP36maP5DPwLciSO-RBPy_Iw/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_205958981.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the Tangerine Squeezer </td></tr></tbody></table><p>Add another mile to our trail inventory, because the new orange-blazed Woodsend Trail is finished. This is located in Housatonic Woods Preserve above Indian Well. Sure, there are a couple problem spots that need improvement, but that's true of most trails. The <a href="http://www.sheltonconservation.org/recreation/maps/Housatonic%20Woods%20April%202023.pdf">trail map</a> is now posted on the Conservation Commission's webpage (sheltonconservation.org). Our Trails Day hike will mark the formal grand opening on the first Saturday in June (see the events link in the menu for more info.). This will be a two-mile lollipop loop hike. </p><p>The new trail was cut during the back half of winter so that we could better see the terrain and work around all the wet spots you get that time of year. Also, no wasp attacks. So it's fun to walk the completed project and see everything green up and come to life along the trail for the first time. </p><p>Take a virtual tour of the lollipop loop in early spring. There's lots of variation on this hike, from open woodlands, to cliffs, to overgrown pastureland filled with dense shrubs. We'll start at the junction of Woodsend Ave and Cynthia Drive (gps address is 50 Woodsend Ave.) Follow the orange trail markings past the guardrail and head gradually down the hill. You're above Route 110 and will get some road noise. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOOje2ZWmuew41zO10hCY3CgPANTxkuFSfVg6MUcD0qojAy0UOydmFCbH5E2DEt4IayMD62k3SAjwN84zE5qzj5DCjQeczbJ-d_F9H84I4MsBxMuhzIC9yCt446Ax-71fAGYQuzq9lPclzVjArzam1MxHQqeEbeqRAbQ8uLu9dQ-fFDH59IridDaZyg/s4032/PXL_20230423_210447433.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOOje2ZWmuew41zO10hCY3CgPANTxkuFSfVg6MUcD0qojAy0UOydmFCbH5E2DEt4IayMD62k3SAjwN84zE5qzj5DCjQeczbJ-d_F9H84I4MsBxMuhzIC9yCt446Ax-71fAGYQuzq9lPclzVjArzam1MxHQqeEbeqRAbQ8uLu9dQ-fFDH59IridDaZyg/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_210447433.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hillside below Woodsend Avenue</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Eventually the trail levels out and joins an old road used by charcoal-makers back in the day, then climbs modestly to a plateau with seasonal views of the Housatonic River. There's a circular mound surrounded by a ditch marking the spot where colliers made charcoal from logging the surrounding trees. In the center of the mound are bits of charcoal. An info sheet was tacked to a tree nearby with a sketch showing what the area would have looked like. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5ZKxQANfCszULh_XurrjnIyeABXcEHXYRYGgjAbceuNtraBsNuIj7L-tsSxof8MqkaX7WMXIZC-Jcn2x5MT_FzgaDdu9_s_JWKyPNh6_QDgDPhWzuAmdi3TBDRtkTsiynbA4_inMSVZ19LUPf9I7oYFc2mFkhqqXFOrveMUm-jo6zswPK9DoBXPJRw/s4032/PXL_20230427_191319394.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5ZKxQANfCszULh_XurrjnIyeABXcEHXYRYGgjAbceuNtraBsNuIj7L-tsSxof8MqkaX7WMXIZC-Jcn2x5MT_FzgaDdu9_s_JWKyPNh6_QDgDPhWzuAmdi3TBDRtkTsiynbA4_inMSVZ19LUPf9I7oYFc2mFkhqqXFOrveMUm-jo6zswPK9DoBXPJRw/w400-h225/PXL_20230427_191319394.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charcoal mound site</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2qlidoRKSYMEVP9PyIzak7kwdSFxwvQAoyMKq1MvJo90W2VEIGZX_aWgf0hiVQ5Rr8uiV2-9NoQn3tnUhSldFGyii2p4KQCp9Gs9hSE6EufpR_YJlWtUcqwyG86n8mZN_K03XPHF_DVLGipFtC1Vkxgi3QMqQtKtqMxT7xHmbop_hPOwm6FCKd9Mfg/s4032/PXL_20230423_210013457.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2qlidoRKSYMEVP9PyIzak7kwdSFxwvQAoyMKq1MvJo90W2VEIGZX_aWgf0hiVQ5Rr8uiV2-9NoQn3tnUhSldFGyii2p4KQCp9Gs9hSE6EufpR_YJlWtUcqwyG86n8mZN_K03XPHF_DVLGipFtC1Vkxgi3QMqQtKtqMxT7xHmbop_hPOwm6FCKd9Mfg/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_210013457.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The charcoal plateau has seasonal views of the river</td></tr></tbody></table><p>This trail is moderately difficult and therefore not for everyone. It's mostly not that bad, however. There are hills to go up, brooks without bridges, and uneven footing. A walking stick or trekking pole may help. There is really only one spot that gives some people pause, especially those with shorter legs, and that's the Tangerine Squeezer. You have to squeeze between a large tree and some ledge, with the ground dropping off steeply on the back side of the tree. It's actually not as bad as it first looks; you just need to know where to put your feet. Most people find it fun, especially after they pass through it and find it's not as bad as they thought. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAavW1nZXyrMyYtg1b3TZWhN8uDNzeaw0VWQ-_LrALHWErzsuYKdQczxWs_vs1hVj0jEKgVDkTmKmtuQ_LMAOfYHYLSVzfVNUxNH91-OogbxEXNWJIDxdDWqMPVHyHA_SAxvbkrFNZryY0Mr3y84kYoYz1IZrj4WV5vNcW8aENDA3_fOeNmL0tQwJuHw/s4032/PXL_20230423_205855130.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAavW1nZXyrMyYtg1b3TZWhN8uDNzeaw0VWQ-_LrALHWErzsuYKdQczxWs_vs1hVj0jEKgVDkTmKmtuQ_LMAOfYHYLSVzfVNUxNH91-OogbxEXNWJIDxdDWqMPVHyHA_SAxvbkrFNZryY0Mr3y84kYoYz1IZrj4WV5vNcW8aENDA3_fOeNmL0tQwJuHw/w225-h400/PXL_20230423_205855130.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tangerine Squeezer</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Once through the Tangerine Squeezer, you are in The Passageway through a series of cliffs that rise up above Indian Well and Route 110. To the left, the cliffs drop down to Route 110 and there are more seasonal views of the river. To the right, the cliffs rise up the backside of Cynthia Lane, although you cannot see the houses. Upon exiting The Passageway, the trail switchbacks down the hillside and crosses a shallow brook that descends a boulderfield. We creatively call it Boulder Brook. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24fxKOUPvmRgGwiGJFM-6lFokObaBWc9Zalll_jrf1dRwDeqL6greDNQSXHp-4kGKWt217O66CNe79YfLcs8j1fxapIcLdBf6cNeioN5KLNCW04JAJXX0ORF42FIRLBFtN3jYNIZiNPd7NJkcbo8XO2qQn5ELNPY9JTdwnqNesXXcSnI4PKpCmBIJog/s4032/PXL_20230423_201726549.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24fxKOUPvmRgGwiGJFM-6lFokObaBWc9Zalll_jrf1dRwDeqL6greDNQSXHp-4kGKWt217O66CNe79YfLcs8j1fxapIcLdBf6cNeioN5KLNCW04JAJXX0ORF42FIRLBFtN3jYNIZiNPd7NJkcbo8XO2qQn5ELNPY9JTdwnqNesXXcSnI4PKpCmBIJog/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_201726549.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The switchback coming down out of The Passageway</td></tr></tbody></table><p>This area took a LOT of work. Multiple work parties with crews of teenagers helping to dig and move boulders. The end result was better than expected when the route was first flagged. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8B-Jfw-IuLU9YXJRUPHkn-uDPjq-pgoo5L7hANzHb1Z-BXzxfAbAoKwH7tvUvFAF1R3mMBuMnaLq52DoUpIupmS-BrAAas-YYuhWBCy7HbHuhETfJesM9CKanDErvMmOdiztm7HeQjOY6DaX_XPNqR8d4hUYOKFfYjPx2tuPAtu8APEL7BvzbMZ1fQ/s4032/PXL_20230423_201909190.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8B-Jfw-IuLU9YXJRUPHkn-uDPjq-pgoo5L7hANzHb1Z-BXzxfAbAoKwH7tvUvFAF1R3mMBuMnaLq52DoUpIupmS-BrAAas-YYuhWBCy7HbHuhETfJesM9CKanDErvMmOdiztm7HeQjOY6DaX_XPNqR8d4hUYOKFfYjPx2tuPAtu8APEL7BvzbMZ1fQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_201909190.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming up on Boulder Brook</td></tr></tbody></table><p>There are a lot of invasive plants throughout Housatonic Woods Preserve, including acres and acres of Japanese Barberry, Burning Bush, and Bittersweet. But if you arrive at Boulder Brook in early spring, you may see some Dutchman's Breeches or Trillium. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVVVvHH0g8WbvsbfjkqP5wQ_dlhuBG05nBn1OTRNCYKACuEq3rISrEIWYM4QsXFqfjnMDffaGyTEuqA2INdWB78tvybWnYxF5W8ssJyljgjzXw0ZTGLZWkvSjrcKoXFD20BO6VS1Ym2H3WASPNR4GX8DYs-XrsTNKA1haAWjUVbQQRCLkbd9bjn2FZA/s4032/PXL_20230416_181254877.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpVVVvHH0g8WbvsbfjkqP5wQ_dlhuBG05nBn1OTRNCYKACuEq3rISrEIWYM4QsXFqfjnMDffaGyTEuqA2INdWB78tvybWnYxF5W8ssJyljgjzXw0ZTGLZWkvSjrcKoXFD20BO6VS1Ym2H3WASPNR4GX8DYs-XrsTNKA1haAWjUVbQQRCLkbd9bjn2FZA/w400-h225/PXL_20230416_181254877.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trillium and Wild Leeks</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Woodsend Trail comes to a junction with the Woodsend Connector, blazed blue/orange) shortly after crossing Boulder Brook. This is 0.5 mile from the beginning. This is where the one-mile loop begins. Continue straight, following the orange blazes. (If you were to go left onto the connector trail, you would quickly arrive at the Paugussett Trail near Rt 110 and could cross the highway and enter Indian Well State Park). <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgranuPIRB-FVdZ7dv3_m2phUdpKdontaYKKh2Aq1p5mU4aHi-2juLn85B1ERNnapC-IpitiIbx-1VH2Amv-JLYowZDi4HwouJzWMXBoa2b9w1UICBj9nvRqFrL9siHL9W8JpcffXKWNgXzsYTHWea4uETFbsrIHnPdA37SJO91vUc4AmhIpl18Zm5L4A/s4032/PXL_20230423_205221797.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgranuPIRB-FVdZ7dv3_m2phUdpKdontaYKKh2Aq1p5mU4aHi-2juLn85B1ERNnapC-IpitiIbx-1VH2Amv-JLYowZDi4HwouJzWMXBoa2b9w1UICBj9nvRqFrL9siHL9W8JpcffXKWNgXzsYTHWea4uETFbsrIHnPdA37SJO91vUc4AmhIpl18Zm5L4A/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_205221797.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Junction with the Woodsend Connector Trail (blue/orange)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div>The trail now heads gradually but relentlessly up the hill away from Route 110, leaving the road noise behind you. Near the top of the hill, the landscape looks much different than the open woods you were walking through previously. This land is an overgrown pasture infested with invasive plants. Japanese Barberry is a thorny shrub that livestock will not eat, so it tends to invade pasturelands and then really take off when the pasture is abandoned. The trees are younger and smaller here, and under assault by Bittersweet vines large enough to require a chainsaw to cut. </div><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi_sLGh8d6SdRwPDw_KFcbdKfJtUCpa3dIo68nbj2BZxrdHCH6EvX8bXYgfV_HrFscBtkEsK_TsLjDf0SCjCoC8VJkjrR-6_Z2R1UKkv7hs9of1pKT3c6S-JA5lt06mYLkfu5MXTb_lyU2GoMjasahMN-Pp0Yh37DFdUTngnUIiMmD2215DXLvE3_sw/s4032/PXL_20230425_204524494.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvi_sLGh8d6SdRwPDw_KFcbdKfJtUCpa3dIo68nbj2BZxrdHCH6EvX8bXYgfV_HrFscBtkEsK_TsLjDf0SCjCoC8VJkjrR-6_Z2R1UKkv7hs9of1pKT3c6S-JA5lt06mYLkfu5MXTb_lyU2GoMjasahMN-Pp0Yh37DFdUTngnUIiMmD2215DXLvE3_sw/w400-h225/PXL_20230425_204524494.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading through the Barberry section, an old pasture</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>The trail brushes the backside of Sinsabaugh Heights, then comes to a "T" with the blue-blazed Paugussett Trail. From here, you could follow the blue blazes right to Shelton Lakes and Buddington Road, or left all the way to Birchbank Mountain or Webb Mountain Park in Monroe and beyond. For this lollipop loop, we'll go left down the hill for just under half a mile. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mgglJUVRWy1NW0WcMKAIcJyArwLphOzwKqXOjDT_cv71aXUhV0keFVApbpGhgZ7VMXTlYsFBQB7P6CuIiP7UfCtH7RowxIrfRHNEcJS36YxR8if78w2Jfse2iJIPivF5ZPttqobSOtYomOaxpM_lrFT-8k_TOf9wqmcqu1wQ_CMN_uYvDgxnVGaZzw/s4032/PXL_20230423_203731966.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mgglJUVRWy1NW0WcMKAIcJyArwLphOzwKqXOjDT_cv71aXUhV0keFVApbpGhgZ7VMXTlYsFBQB7P6CuIiP7UfCtH7RowxIrfRHNEcJS36YxR8if78w2Jfse2iJIPivF5ZPttqobSOtYomOaxpM_lrFT-8k_TOf9wqmcqu1wQ_CMN_uYvDgxnVGaZzw/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_203731966.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paugussett Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The blue blazes descend the hill gradually as the trail heads towards Indian Well State Park. There are seasonal views of the Housatonic Valley, along with the houses on Housatonic Rise. In the summer the trail feels more private. The woods become more open as you descend, although there are still many invasive plants in through here. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsZUxIcefJ5zq_RY6X2JfPCpsjPUycXjATsOOchnzWMOV024viVtZhaj6-Hz-7u5JzWHl9GwIKRBL8onriXDVtYuqtimXoYGz1i37LsPDKE06HGSfTkzsmrcAHRXZ_D24boJrxzVIDyIymZ2Ffl6IJviSTiBSkFxfv2QsaSHtZ01nYlsfJX09SKXygQ/s4032/PXL_20230423_204257443.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsZUxIcefJ5zq_RY6X2JfPCpsjPUycXjATsOOchnzWMOV024viVtZhaj6-Hz-7u5JzWHl9GwIKRBL8onriXDVtYuqtimXoYGz1i37LsPDKE06HGSfTkzsmrcAHRXZ_D24boJrxzVIDyIymZ2Ffl6IJviSTiBSkFxfv2QsaSHtZ01nYlsfJX09SKXygQ/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_204257443.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paugussett Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Keep an eye out for the junction with the blue/orange connector trail on the left and take that when you get to it. (If you miss it, you'll come to Route 110). Follow the blue/orange blazes across the hillside just 0.1 mile back to the junction with Woodsend Trail. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV7zHZn2n8zz_I8BTH0fUKAaZCsK7DcyMzfc3eQJAm2945QlZ1lKIJEYKd3XoM7-rmw_LyC6UN_3ZR2DXjdMBmEtv8_0GqIysom-8Vauo1X-HzsZ2y3ZQmE7F-211mIw9odT79VX8X5sClXTD90uKS9HTKoSCPZVeRtXqyCUUAJee0oW3pI0hnGkwww/s4032/PXL_20230423_205032242.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV7zHZn2n8zz_I8BTH0fUKAaZCsK7DcyMzfc3eQJAm2945QlZ1lKIJEYKd3XoM7-rmw_LyC6UN_3ZR2DXjdMBmEtv8_0GqIysom-8Vauo1X-HzsZ2y3ZQmE7F-211mIw9odT79VX8X5sClXTD90uKS9HTKoSCPZVeRtXqyCUUAJee0oW3pI0hnGkwww/w400-h225/PXL_20230423_205032242.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue/orange Woodsend Connector Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br />When you get back to the orange-blazed Woodsend Trail, you've completed the loop portion of this hike. Take a right and head back across Boulder Brook, The Passageway, Tangerine Squeezer, and past Charcoal Plateau. Climb the hill back to the parking area. This last climb may feel like the hardest!</div>Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04628471774296555013noreply@blogger.com0