The GLCT kicks off its 2012 Spring and Summer Walk Program on March 8 with an evening adventure to Jared Eliot in search of Woodcocks. In the following months until mid June there will be hikes to places like, East River Preserve, Broomstick Ledges, Westwoods and Dudley Barrows. More information can be found on our Event Calendar.

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Dudley Barrow Woods – October 1, 2011
Judging from the weather report (looking out the window and watching the drops in the big puddle outside the front door) it’s going to be a wet morning. I’ve recommended that the Environmental Club cancel this workparty and re-schedule for another time. When that happens, I’ll let you know.

Rob Valley

Work continues in the aftermath of August’s hurricane or tropical disturbance, as I’ve heard it downgraded to and the more recent ice storm.  Both events contibuted to make a mess of the trails, and it is going to take lots of effort to get everything back to pre-storm conditions.  Throughout the month we’ll be heading into areas of known problems and clearing away deadfalls, dropping, then clearing ‘leaners’, or taking down trees snagged in the surrounding canopy.  We need all the help we can get, and there’s a lots of tasks for all ranges of talent, experience and equipment.  Here’s some rough categories of the work involved:

CHAINSAW:  Anyone experienced in operating a chainsaw will be a big help.  You need to bring your own saw along, and know how to operate it safely.  While removing snags or leaners is not for everyone, the deadfalls are more straight forward and good to start with.  We have many experienced operators whom can help direct this work.  Bring your saw, 2-cycle mix and bar oil, and maintenance tools.  A helmet & screen, chaps and steel tipped boots are recommended for safe operation.

BOWSAW & LOPPERS:  Contrary to expectations, much of the clearing work can be done with hand tools.  A sharp bowsaw or set of compound loppers can often do the entire job.  But even with big trees, these tools will be a great help in clearing the way for the needed chainsaw cuts.  Bring along the sort of tools you’re comfortable using.  Be sure they’re sharp, and that you have covers on the blades.  Sturdy leather gloves are recommended.

A STRONG BACK:  Once the saws have finished, the real task is to clear the resulting branches and logs off and away from the trail.  One sawyer can keep several trail clearers very busy.  This task really can be done by anyone, as there are always a range of branches and logs to clear, ranging from 1/4 inch sticks to three foot sections of trunk.  Bring along gloves and heavy boots.  A pry bar or leaver can also help move the big stuff.  

WALKING SHOES:  Yes, there’s even a place for people whom aren’t into the lumber jack experience.  We need scouts whom can be sent out onto the trails to report where the problems are.  It’s disheartening to lug the saws and support equipment into an interior trail only to find that the problem has already been taken care of, so helping us locate the trouble spots is a very big contribution.  Walking shoes and a smile is all you really need.

The schedule of activities go to the calendar page.  We expect all of the work parties to be about 2-1/2 to 3 hours in length.  If you get there a little late, just head for the sound of the chainsaws.