TA Report: West Rocks State Park

Blowdown to be removed

Gearing up. Safety first!

Trail clear and everyone with all fingers and toes attached.
(Chris is forefront in black and ball cap.)

Date of Activity: Jan 23 2010
Condition of Trail(s): Mostly frozen and leafy
Trail Ambassador Name: Eric M & Amanda M, Plus friends of NEMBA Chris and Neil
Town: Hamden
Location: From Hill St entrance
Trail(s) Ridden: Red n White
How did you use the trail?: My feet
What was the time of day?: About 930a
Duration (Hours): 1.5
Distance (Miles): 1

Observations & Encounters: Had located the blowdown below across the Red w White trail along the base of the ridge a while back and had not had an opportunity to clean it up until now. Was able to get permission from Lori the land manager to go in with a chainsaw and remove it. I would usually use my hand saw, but this was a nice dense tree that was going to need more than 1 cut before I could think about dragging it around. Was able to round up accomplished sawyer Chris Nowacki (my friend and friend of CT NEMBA) from down the street for a quick outing this morning. Grabbed the dogs, chainsaws, and two spotters and went to work.

Took off enough of the tree to allow free passage, but not so much as to disturb the surrounding area. Chris is handy with the tool and made quick work of the blockage.

Ran into 2 gentlemen walking their dogs, 3 people enjoying the sun in the field below, and an AMC hiking group getting together in the lot as we were heading out. Guess the sun brings everyone out! All were pleasant and happy to see CT NEMBA working to improve the trails for ALL non-motorized users!