[RoanokeATC] Fallen trees along the trail

This is just one of the 'derecho' blow downs cleared by our sawyers from the AT on July 6-7th. Other clubs have been hit hard with even more extensive damage.  (Photo: Dave W.)

From: Laura Belleville

All,

Please see Mike Vaughn's note below. I really want to thank everyone at RATC for their efforts to clean up a big mess after the storms we experienced. I think the Roanoke area was hit the hardest. I know other areas also sustained damage and I appreciate all of the volunteer efforts to clear the trail.

I think this is a perfect time and opportunity for clubs to work together to assist each other with post-storm clean-up. If any volunteers are willing to travel to help each other out, let's try to coordinate some work trips. I appreciate that we have a limited number of sawyers. The Virginia ATC office is very happy to help coordinate inter-club work trips. Just let us know what help you may need, and possible work dates. We'll post those for all clubs to see and respond to.

Thanks again everyone for all your help, especially now. And as Mike notes below, please continue to work safely -- take time cutting trees, and be aware of potential hazards.

Laura Belleville

Director of Conservation

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

P.O. Box 174

110 Southpark Drive

Blacksburg, VA 24063

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail – ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come. To become a member, volunteer, or learn more, visit www.appalachiantrail.org.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Mike Vaughn
Date: Tue, Jul 10, 2012 at 2:15 PM
Subject: [RoanokeATC] Fallen trees along the trail

RATC members:

As many of you have probably heard, the storm on June 29th blew down hundreds of trees along the 120 miles of the trail that we maintain. Trail supervisor Dave Jones and his hard-working team of trail maintainers have already cleared many of the blowdowns. Club members were out the day after the storm clearing trail and have been working hard even through the 100 degree days last week. They have cleared much of the trail, particularly around Roanoke. There is still a lot of work to do in the more remote southern section that we maintain. The trail maintainers certainly deserve our thanks for the great job they are doing in exceptional difficult circumstances.

Please be careful when out hiking, particularly when passing overhanging broken tree limbs. Many loose limbs will be falling off of trees for weeks to come, particularly on windy days.

Mike Vaughn

RATC President

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