Photo Credit: Cameron Gillie
We’re going to continue the series of University Ridge workdays on
Sunday, July 9. It’s no National Trails Day, but it is apparently
Nunavut Day. We will finish clearing buckthorn and honeysuckle from a patch started on Monday, June 12, and resume working northwards near the clubhouse.
What: Clear invasive brush to improve forest health, reveal the area’s natural beauty and enhance the hiking experience.
When: Sunday, July 9, 9 AM to 2 PM.
Where: University Ridge Golf Course. Enter through the main gate at 9002 County Hwy. PD, Madison. See the attached map.
What to expect:
We will cut, move and pile brush & small trees.
As noted on the attached map, we will be tackling two work areas. Depending on turnout, we expect to start a crew in each area immediately after roundup. (Otherwise, in case of a small turnout, we’ll work as one crew to finish work area 1 and then move to work area 2.)
Parking:
Please park in the back of the parking lot near the clubhouse. We’ll round up and distribute tools there, and then a small group (3-5 people) will depart for Work Area 1. The remaining group will tackle Work Area 2 near the clubhouse.
** The course is open and golf season is in full swing, so be aware that many golf carts will be moving about on the paths throughout the day.
What to expect / what to wear / what to bring:
All hand tools will be provided.
– Safety glasses and disposable ear plugs will be available – if you have your own ear/eye protection, please bring them.
– Wear a hat, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, socks and lightweight boots. There is plenty of thorny gooseberry and multiflora rose, as well as poison ivy and some wild parsnip in open areas. Leather gloves are a must.
– It is tick season. Wear outer clothing treated with Permethrin. Tick-borne illness is no fun!
– Bring plenty of water, snacks and lunch.
Volunteers in Parks (VIP) program: The National Park Service asks that all volunteers file, on a yearly basis, a Volunteer Service Agreement form. In the unlikely event of an injury, a VIP’s medical expenses are covered by the federal government. Go to https://www.iceagetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/Packet-Individual-301a-IATR-Staff_508-1.pdf
Courtesy: If you are going to arrive late or cannot come as planned, I understand. Please afford me and your fellow volunteers the courtesy of a phone call, text or email to me as early as possible. Thank you.
If you plan to help on July 9, please contact me (see info below). This is very important so I can plan for enough tools and supplies. It also allows me to communicate with you, should plans change due to weather, etc.
