Working In Foxlands

by Phil Crookshank

Saturday, May 1 was set as the day that the members of HNPA would meet at the Foxlands section of the Preserve to work on the trails. The trail system had almost disappeared as vegetation took over this 40 acre addition to the preserve. The area had been a sod farm in years past, totally cleared of all trees. But now – there are medium sized trees, and the ever encroaching honeysuckle and autumn olive bushes. A request was made by a local minister and nearby resident – to clear the trails of this favorite place where he walks and jogs. The sharp pointed bushes had grown over the trails so completely that it was treacherous to run – or walk in many areas.

A plan was made to get two lawn tractors to the site, have several folks find the old trails and walk them, hanging surveyors tape to mark where the cutting needed to be done. A chain saw would be used to remove the large invasive bushes, loppers to cut back the medium branches, and the two tractors following and cutting the shorter brush down. It sounded simple – but proved quite challenging to get the stuff cut down without getting all scratched up in the process.

We were hoping for at least 10 folks to help, but a bakers dozen showed up on the chilly damp morning. There were folks that came from three counties, several organizations and two young local landscapers. The equipment was unloaded, assignments made, tools passed out, and we zoomed off into the preserve like a herd of – trimmers. The usual peace and tranquility of the Foxlands was transformed into roaring saws, mowers and voices for the next several hours. Phil manned the saw, others cleared the cut brush, and Jack and John followed up with the mowers. Robert and Brandon knew the trails better than most and assisted by mowing the clearings.

At the end of two hours, much had been cleared, the trails re-established, brush cut and piled up for small animal habitat. We met back out at the road for donuts and juice, cleaned up, put the tools away, got the mowers back on the trailers and all went home to clean up. A great job was done by all – but of course in all things natural – we need to do this again, and again, and again – to keep ahead of the brush that tries to crowd us out.

Thanks to – Dorothy and Jack, Phil, John, Jack, Kathy, Dean and Daughter, Robert, Brandon, Dan, Rochelle, and Dave. Feel free to be a part of the next bakers dozen. Look for the coming work project dates in the newsletter or on the website – and come to help next time. It’s good for the soul, and for the Preserve!