FootNotes * * Newsletter of the Highlanders Chapter, Trail Association March – April 2021 Volume 22, Issue 2

Mission of the Association

The Florida Trail Association develops, maintains, protects and promotes a network of hiking trails throughout the state, including the unique Florida National Scenic Trail. Together with our partners we provide opportunities for the public to hike, engage in outdoor recreation, participate in environmental education and contribute to meaningful volunteer work.

Highlanders Nature Notes – The Sabal Palm

numerous palms in my yard were planted by birds. Wherever they drop a palmetto seed, a seedling is sure to follow. And many birds eat the palmetto berries (which are mostly seed) for their sweet flavor and nu- trition. The seeds pass through their digestive tracts and end up everywhere. I’m forever pulling palm seedlings up from the ground where I definitely can’t have a tree growing: in the middle of my butterfly gar- den, against the side of my house, under the utility lines, and at the very edge of the street or driveway. Because of this tendency to grow where they’re not welcome, some might consider these trees to be a nui- sance. I’ve even seen them growing out of the center of manicured hedges on city street median strips.

Sabal Palms However, just because they are common, doesn’t en.wikipedia.com mean they’re uninteresting. John C. Gifford wrote, “Respect the common things. They are common be- For this next essay on trees I’m going to choose the cause they have survived.” And Professor Brene Sabal Palm or “Cabbage Palm” (Sabal palmetto). This Brown once said, “We’re all so busy chasing the ex- is probably the most prevalent palm tree species na- traordinary that we forget to stop and be grateful for tive to . It not only grows in many of the ordinary.” This is certainly an ordinary part of our the wild habitats through which the Florida Trail landscape, but it has several extraordinary characteris- passes, but it also grows in residential communities tics. and cities throughout our area. This proliferation oc- curs even without the assistance of people. All of the

1 This palm was known by some Native American tough enough to hold up to repeated use in things like tribes as “the tree of life” because it has so much to baskets and mats. The common name of “Cabbage offer wildlife and humans alike. Everything from nest- Palm” comes from the fact that the heart of the bud ing materials and nest sites (for squirrels and other can be cooked and eaten, and is said to taste a little small mammals, various species of birds, reptiles, am- like cabbage. Removing this part of the tree kills it. I phibians and insects) to food (the berry-like fruits are once tried to eat one of mine that was growing under eaten by song birds, Bobwhite, Wild Turkeys, bears, the power lines and required removal. Apparently I White-tailed Deer, and small mammals). My wife, did something wrong as mine wasn’t very tasty. Nancy, and I were once hiking in a nature preserve near Kissimmee Lakes State Park and passed under a Biologically, the Sabal Palm is more closely related Sabal Palm beside the trail. She was behind me and to grasses than other trees like oaks and pines. They just as she passed the tree a large Southern Black are monocots: flowering plants with only one seed Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus) dropped from the leaf. With no limbs nor annual growth rings, a young canopy onto the ground behind her with an audible palm slowly attains its adult diameter. Once it does, “plop.” Luckily it didn’t fall on her head, as she would the trunk doesn’t get much thicker as the tree grows have been a very unhappy hiker! Unlike me, Nancy’s taller. Though the average height is about 50 feet, they not particularly fond of snakes. This snake was either can reach heights of 70 and 80 feet (according to the hunting for prey in the fronds or had used them for Oehlbeck reference below). shelter. I’ve also seen a Dusky Pygmy Rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius barbouri) curled up in the base of Lastly, the Sabal Palm was chosen as the Florida one of the “boots” on a tree beside a trail in Wekiwa State Tree (it is also the State Tree of South Carolina). Springs State Park in Apopka. A good choice for that honor. Dr. Henry Nehrling, in his publication My Garden in Florida (1946), wrote They also provide a place where other plants can this about Sabal Palms, “A single well-developed grow, such as various ferns and vines, including Vir- specimen with its massive trunk and dense leaf crown ginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), Trum- is a most beautiful object, but far more effective are petcreeper (Campsis radicans), and Coral Honey- groups and masses of a hundred or more. They simply suckle (Lonicera sempervirens). The common fern I defy description.” see most often growing from the base of the palm fronds or “boots” (the part of the frond remaining on It’s an attractive and ecologically beneficial species. the tree trunk once the leaf of the frond dies and falls You are certain to see many of them as you walk our off) is Golden Polypody or Goldfoot Fern (Phlebod- local trails. Take a closer look and you may find evi- ium aureum). These ferns are large enough to be eas- dence of some of the many other critters that call this ily noticed as you look at the tree. They add a bit of tree their home. botanical and aesthetic interest to the trunk, especially when bright green and thriving. –Mike Barnett

Among the many uses of this tree are the fibrous Sources: strands of hair-like material that occur at the base of Bartlett, R.D. and Patricia Bartlett. Florida’s Snakes. the fronds. As the trunk grows and expands, the fronds Gainesville, FL: University Press of Florida, 2003. split apart at the center of the base, creating these Miller, James H. and Karl V. Miller. Forest Plants of fibers stretched between the two sides of the boot. the Southeast and Their Wildlife Uses. Athens, GA: When dry, they can be collected and used as tinder to The University Press of Georgia, 2005. start your campfire. Hummingbirds, squirrels, and Oehlbeck, Barbara. The Sabal Palm. Naples, FL: mice also use them for nest building (some strands are Gulfshore Press, 1997. very fine, almost as thin as a human hair). And Indians Wherry, Edgar T., Ph.D. The Southern Fern Guide. used to weave many items with the palm leaves, Garden City, NY: Doubleday & Co., Inc., 1964. stripped to long segments of equal width. They are

2 Notes from the Chairperson – Highlanders Elections

Hello Hikers and Activity Supporters, Thanks again once and all!

Again, I want to thank all those who have worked –Mike hard leading, maintaining, and contributing to the suc- cess of the Highlanders Chapter! Your efforts are P.S. The Leesburg Library meeting rooms are still not noted and appreciated! available.

Now on to chapter business: Be Safe and Sane

This year we hold an election for the positions of Chapter Treasurer (currently held by Diane Roesch) and Chapter Secretary (currently held by Mary Ring). These positions are elected by the membership at large. A simple majority of cast ballots determines the victor. Currently, the Executive Board is accepting names of members who have an interest in fulfilling these positions (Two Year Term).

Both Diane and Mary are open to passing their respec- tive torches to the next generation. But, in a show of awesomeness they both are willing to be considered for the upcoming term.

Also, the position of Program Chair is available. Gin- ger Leach, who has held the position, is stepping down (her past guests have been tremendous). The new individual would be responsible for lining up speakers for our monthly meeting. This position is very important to the fabric of our meeting. I am told it doesn't take a huge time commitment. The position of Program Chair is selected by the members of the Executive Board and do not require an election by the membership. Ginger is willing to assist in the transi- tion for a new person as a Program Chair. Mike Tamburrino - Photo by The Villages Daily Sun

All three positions are critical to the healthy function- ing of the Highlanders Chapter. If you are interested in adding your voice to our chapter, please contact my- self or any member of the Executive Board with ques- tions.

3 Gift for Past President of Highlanders Chapter of FTA

For many years, it has been a tradition to present a gift to the immediate Past President of the Highlanders Chapter of the Florida Trail Association. Unfortunately, we were unable to have a formal installation of our new officers in 2020; our outgoing President Bill Leach did not receive a token of appreciation from the Chapter. Bill and Ginger have been two of our most devoted and active members for many years. I have always thought that a true gift should be something that the giver treasures.

On February 7, 2021, Mary Ellen and I took a load of scrap metal to Bill and Ginger's home. When we had un- loaded the metal and were ready to leave, I took the opportunity to thank Bill for the great job that he did as our Chapter President and told him that I had one of my treasures to present to him as a token of our appreciation. I gave to him a brass FTA belt buckle that had belonged to one of my best friends and another great Chapter Pres- ident; that being Howard Pospesel. Bill seemed genuinely pleased and I'm sure that he will make good use of it. A link between two great men, who were supported in their work by two great women.

Thanks again Bill and Ginger.

–Bill Milton

Bill Leach Receiving Past President Gift

4 Outdoor Photos by Nora

5 To all Florida Trail Members and Prospective Members

Please be considerate of those members with sensitivi- We ask for everyone's cooperation to accommodate ties to various chemical or scented products. Some others' health concerns by trying to use unscented scented products such as hair sprays, perfumes, products before attending a recreational or work hike. scented deodorants, sunscreens and scented body If you are using a long-lasting clothing insect spray, washes can trigger reactions such as respiratory dis- please try to spray a few days before the event to give tress, coughing, migraine headaches and other asth- time to air the clothing. We appreciate your help. matic type symptoms. Thank You

COVID 19 Pandemic – Please Note

Due to the spread of the COVID-19 Pandemic, most FTA and Highlanders group activities (including chapter meetings) have been canceled or put on hold to minimize large groups until further time. Chapter trail mainte- nance has been approved with smaller teams in accordance with FTA Covid 19 rules. If the situation changes and we can start our activities and chapter meetings again, we will notify everyone by email.

Please note that in the Governor's Executive Order 20-91, that “recreational activities (consistent with social distancing guidelines) such as walking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, running, or swimming” is allowed. Some locations, such as parks, the national forest, and the state forest may have areas closed (i.e. campgrounds, boat launches, or other areas where people have been found to congregate in large numbers) and that restrooms may be closed and locked. Due to the changing environment surrounding the spread of the COVID-19 Pan- demic, this can change. You may want to check first.

Highlanders Activities

Thursday, March 11, 2021 Bicycling at Lake Beresford Park - Meet at 9:30 AM at Lake Beresford Park, 2100 Fatio Road, Deland, Flor- ida (be sure you go to the county park entrance). We will bicycle a few miles around the paved trail at the park and then continue on to the Spring to Spring paved trail for four plus miles to Blue Springs State Park. There is a $2.00 per person entrance fee. Please have correct change as we will be using an iron ranger system. We will spend some time exploring the park and hopefully see some manatee, then return to Lake Beresford Park where we can do a short hike for those that choose to do so. Helmets are mandatory. Remember mask, snacks/lunch, water, and sunscreen. This is a great trail - hope you can join us. Your leaders are, Melodie and Dennis Hardy. Phone: 207-450-5736 (Melodie's cell) or email: [email protected] 28.99137, -81.33793

Saturday, March 13, 2021 Firefly Hike and Dinner in the Woods - Meet at Lake Norris trailhead at 5:30 PM. Bring your own dinner and we will transport the food and your chairs to the camp by car while we hike the 1.5 miles in. There will be no sharing of food this year due to Covid restrictions. There will be a camp fire so if you want to roast hot dogs, marshmallows, or something else you can do so. We'll enjoy the sunset, watch the birds soar over the lake, and have dinner around the fire. Then after dark, around 8:30 PM, we'll hike back and see the fireflies along the

6 trail. The hike is usually done around 9:30 PM. This is a very easy level hike along a forest road and a lot of fun for kids too. Bring a chair, flashlight, bug spray, jacket, and something to drink. No pets or alcoholic drinks al- lowed. This event is limited to fifty people per FTA Covid rules. Masks need to be worn at the trailhead while waiting for the hike to start or when in close proximity to others. You do not have to wear your mask while hik- ing. Please observe a six foot distance from those not in your household. The address to the Lake Norris Trail- head is 38645 Lake Norris Road, Eustis, FL 32736.

Email Diane with your RSVP at [email protected] - Phone 352-205-9620. GPS: 28.913943, -81.544539

Directions to Lake Norris Trailhead

From I-4 and State Road (SR) 46 exit (Sanford Mall) go west on SR 46 for about seven miles. Turn right onto SR 46A. Go about 5.5 miles on SR 46A until it dead ends at SR 44. Turn left (west) on SR 44 and go 1/2 mile. At the light, turn right onto County Road (CR) 437 and go 1.7 miles. Turn right onto CR 44A (also known as Burlington Avenue) and go about 1/2 mile. Take the second left onto Lake Norris Road and go about 2.5 miles. Turn left into the Lake Norris Conservation Area trailhead which is right before the sharp 90 degree turn in the road. If you reach the bridge – you’ve gone a bit too far.

Saturday, April 3, 2021 Hike in the Seminole State Forest - Meet at the Cassia Trailhead on Brantley Branch Road, in Eustis at 9:30 AM. There is a $2.00 per person forest fee which is paid online through Reserve America (new system, no cash accepted). This needs to be done on day of hike and can be done post hike. We will hike eight miles at a moder- ate pace. Shorter option available. Please remember your mask, ample water, bug spray, sunscreen, snacks and lunch. Melodie and Dennis Hardy will lead this activity. Phone: 207-450-5736 (Melodie's cell) or email: [email protected] 28.99137, -81.33793

Highlanders Trail Maintenance Schedule

Please Note

This work hike schedule is VERY tentative. Always check the emails sent about one week before the work hike for updates.

All volunteers are expected to protect each other by cooperating with the FTA COVID-19 procedures and Job Hazard Analysis (http://floridatrail.org/covid-19/). Please, if possible, bring your own face mask, gloves, pen for sign-in, and hand sanitizer.

Saturday, March 6, 2021 Trail Maintenance Work Hike, BSA Camp Meet before 9:00 AM at Clearwater Lake Recreation Area off County Road 42 near Paisley. Please be on time and let us know if you plan to attend so that we can plan teams and equipment. Bring lots of water, insect spray, hats, lunch, face masks, along with any other needed items. If you have further questions email or call Bobbi Keenan at [email protected] or 352-787-8654. 28.976677, -81.550236

7 Tuesday, March 16, 2021 Trail Maintenance Work Hike, Seminole State Forest (SSF) Meet in Cassia at the Brantley Branch Trailhead Road entrance off CR 44 before 9:00 AM. Please be on time and let us know if you plan to attend so that we can plan teams and equipment. Bring lots of water, insect spray, hats, lunch, face masks, along with any other needed items. If you have further questions email or call Bobbi Keenan at [email protected] or 352-787-8654. 28.890749 -81.461616

Saturday, April 10, 2021 Trail Maintenance Work Hike, Flat Island Preserve Meet before 9:00 AM at the parking area. Bring hat, gloves, sunscreen, bug repellent, and lots of water. Flat Is- land Preserve is just southwest of Leesburg.

Driving South on US 27:

From the intersection with Florida 25A (about .6 miles south of the intersection of US 27 and SR 44) drive southwest on 25A 1.1 miles to Owens Road. Turn right (west) and follow this clay/sand road to the end. Turn right into the pasture for parking. If you have further questions email or call [email protected] 352-787- 8654. 28.778647, -81.900262

Monday, April 19, 2021 Trail Maintenance Work Hike, Meet before 9:00 AM at Clearwater Lake Recreation Area off County Road 42 near Paisley. Please be on time as we will be shuttling to another area to work. Please be on time and let us know if you plan to attend so that we can plan teams and equipment. Bring lots of water, insect spray, hats, lunch, face masks, along with any other needed items. If you have further questions email or call Bobbi Keenan at [email protected] or 352- 787-8654. 28.976677, -81.550236

Chapter Officers and Committee Chairs

Chapter Chair, Mike Tamburrino, [email protected] or 303-809-3284 Vice Chair, Glenda Moore, [email protected] or 352-324-2570 Secretary, Mary Ring, [email protected] or 352-250-1426 Treasurer, Diane Roesch, [email protected] or 407-469-3638 Trail Coordinator, Hugh (Sandy) Bell, [email protected] or 912-322-4336 Activity Chairs, Mary Ellen Milton, [email protected] or 352-669-3628, Bobbi Keenan, [email protected] or 352-787-8654, and Mary Ring, [email protected] or 352-250-1426 Membership Chair, Mary Ellen Milton, [email protected] or 352-669-3628 Chapter Coordinator, Bobbi Keenan, [email protected] or 352-787-8654 Outreach Coordinator, Cathy Leavers, [email protected] or 352-360-3953 Newsletter Editor and Meetup Coordinator, Wade Williston, [email protected] or 989-891-7540 Program Chair, Ginger Leach, [email protected] or 352-728-6438 Chapter Council Representatives, John Grob, [email protected] or 352-750-0341 & Mike Tamburrino, [email protected] or 303-809-3284 Webmaster, Wade Williston, [email protected], or 989-891-7540 Chapter Photographer, Diane Dammiller, [email protected] or 352-205-9620 Grant Writer, Dee Bender, [email protected] or 352-460-7085

8 Quartermaster and Archivist/Historian, Christine Pena, [email protected] or 908-499-2215 Media PR Coordinator, Glenda Moore, [email protected] or 352-324-2570 Calendar Editor, Bobbi Keenan, [email protected] or 352-787-8654 Memorial Committee Chair, Stuart Force, [email protected] or 352-303-5623 Recycling Coordinator, Bill Leach, [email protected] or 352-728-6438

Trailmasters and Activity Leaders

Trailmasters: Arlene Beal, Sandy Bell, Dee Bender, Gene Bouley, Richard Devine, Stuart Force, Dennis and Melodie Hardy, Karen Harrington, Greg Hart, Brad Hoopes, Francis Keenan, Bill and Ginger Leach, Mary Ellen Milton, Tom Mowbray, Steve and Bernice Nemeth, Mary Ring, Mike Tamburrino, Wade Williston, and Bruce Zollner.

Activity Leaders: Richard Abrams, Mike Barnett, Arlene Beal, Gene Bouley, Diane and Ken Dammiller, Doris Danzer, Richard Devine, John Grob, Dennis and Melodie Hardy, Brad Hoopes, Bobbi and Francis Keenan, Marilyn LeMire, Bill and Mary Ellen Milton, Steve Nemeth, Diane Paul, Bob and Suzanne Sippey, Mike Tam- burrino, Don Valcheff, Wade Williston, and Bruce Zollner.

Links

Florida Trail Association: http://www.floridatrail.org Highlanders Chapter, FTA: http://highlanders.floridatrail.org Meetup for Highlanders: https://www.meetup.com/Florida-Trail-Association-Central-Florida-Chapter/ Highlanders Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/highlandersfta/albums/

Previous Newsletters : https://sites.google.com/view/fta-highlanders-chapter/newsletters Boondocking Tips https://sites.google.com/view/fta-highlanders-chapter/articles/boondocking-101

Note: http://highlanders.floridatrail.org redirects to https://sites.google.com/view/fta-highlanders-chapter/

"sometimes I sits and thinks, sometimes I just sits"

--- Virginia Edwards, Suncoast Chapter Activity Leader (deceased)

Submitted by Richard Devine

9