HIKE – Sunday Hikers Trails

ISSN 098—8154

The Newsletter of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Volume 36, Number 3 118 Park Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180-4609 March 2007 www.patc.net

Historic Michener: A Cabin Nearly Lost he good news is that visitors to the Anna Michener Cabin in TPennsylvania’s Michaux State Forest can still enjoy swinging on the porch, in the big great room, and preparing meals on a nice stove. The unsettling news is the cabin suffered a good bit of damage in a fire, which could easily have been much worse.

On Dec. 10, Thomas Jorgensen and some buddies hiked by the cabin, saw damaged windows, and reported it appeared someone had broken into Michener and set it on fire. The cabin logs were blackened particu- larly along the wall and window by the right bunkroom, on the floor,

and along the ceiling and walls. Photo by Pat Fankhauser Windows and sashes were busted The broken windows are just a small part of the damage done, and repaired, at Michener out, and there were two burned Cabin. The use of flammable items is not avoidable at the cabins, but proper care must be See Michener, page 6 exercised when handling burning light sources.

In This Issue . . . Massarock Crew Volunteers Needed Council Fire ...... 2 Lee’s Overlook ...... 3 View from Great North Mountain Half Tales: Doggie Fashion . . .3 SNP Summer Crews ...... 4 The 2007 Massarock Crew will construct new trail on Great Tribute to Darwin Lambert . . .4 North Mountain located on the VA - WV border. Four weeks Gypsy Moth Emergency in MD .5 are available to volunteers: June 3 - 8, June 10 - 15, Sept. Bears Den Family Weekend . . . . .5 Tails from the Woods ...... 6 9 -14, and Sept. 16 - 21. After Sunday evening in Green R Living ...... 7 Edinburg, including dinner at a local restaurant, each Hiker’s Notebook ...... 7 weekly crew loads up supplies and food for the week and Trails Organization 101 ...... 8 Give IRA to PATC ...... 9 leaves Monday morning to camp and work in one of our Silberman Cabin Nearly Ready . .9 more remote and beautiful areas. The crew welcomes new Forecast ...... 10 members. Details are available from Heidi Forrest, Trails Bob Pickett’s Appalachian Nature . . .16 Massarock Summer Crews . .17 Management Coordinator, ([email protected]) 703/242- Volunteers Appointed ...... 17 J 0315. Also see page 17 for more details. Trailhead ...... 19 Stream Monitoring Begins . .22 www.patc.net/volunteer/trails/summercrews.html. Volunteer Ops/Swap Meet . .23 Help Needed ...... 24 Council Fire resident Lee Sheaffer sounded a Mallard duck call rent one in operation in that council members will be Pand brought his first PATC Council meeting to order responsible for updating the content in their business at 7:00 p.m. on Jan. 9, 2007, at the Club Headquarters. areas. Supervisor of Trails John Hedrick provided the Administrator Wilson Riley reported for Grants and SNP trails status after the Thanksgiving ice storm. Very Donations Chair Susan Nelson that as of the meeting, serious damage occurred with many fallen trees block- 217 donors had contributed $17,141 in response to the ing the AT and Skyline Drive. The estimate was that 2006 fund-raising appeal. Typically, donations will con- there were about 2,500 blowdowns that were cleared by tinue to trickle in over the next couple of months. Lee PATC sawyer crews and the Charlottesville and made a special presentation of a gavel to outgoing Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapters. President Tom Johnson. He talked briefly about the club organization and about the most efficient means of Supervisor of Lands Jim Peterson provided the 2006 bringing issues before council. He also welcomed Pat Fankhauser back from her recent illness. Conservation Easement Sales status. Supervisor of Facilities Mel Merritt described the measures that North Treasurer Ric Francke provided the November Monthly Chapter has taken to repair the damage to Michener Budget, Cabin/Shelters/Building Lands, Trail Lands, Cabin sustained during a December fire; many people and Capital Repair Funds reports. Cabin rentals remain have pitched in to make the necessary repairs at little or the highlight of the PATC financial picture. no cost to PATC. Doyle River Cabin is closed because the southern part of SNP cannot be reached except by walk- Trails, Lands, and Facilities ing in. Council approved a motion to transfer Vos Vice President for Operations Tom Johnson described Shelter funds to the Rocky Run account - this was to the potential impact of the Dominion Power-proposed, fund road work and does not involve additional money. 500KV powerline that is slated to cross the AT. Lee pre- Cabins Construction - Charlie Graf said Argo Cabin con- sented his observations of his meeting with Allegheny struction has resumed, and one trip per month is Power. PATC Archive & Library Committee member April planned; Butternut Cabin is moving along well. Henry Miller raised the issue of the fire hazard that the Horn (Shelters) reported a Garvey shelter hiker had fall- archival film from the 1930-40 period has represented. en and was evacuated; Lesser Shelter has been repaired This was presented in an e-mail exchange in December except for the window glazing. Bears Den - Vern and it has been decided that the remaining films will be Conaway said Bears Den manager Lori Watkins has converted to VHS (VHS has been shown to be the most stable archive video format – many recordable DVDs returned rested but can't do the maintenance; using display dropouts after about five years). Tom urged more contractors to do heavier work; Dave Appel flew council members to provide records for the archives. home to Wisconsin. Supervisor of Membership - Jim Tomlin said the Membership Monthly Report shows J Kerry Snow demonstrated a new PATC Web site current- membership at 6,530, with 133 new members. ly under development. The site is different from the cur- —Alan Day, Secretary

HOW TO CONTACT US: HEADQUARTERS, SALES, CABIN RESERVATIONS, AND MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION Address: 118 Park Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180 Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Phone #: 703/242-0315 and Thursday and Friday 12 noon to 2 p.m. 24-hr. Activities Tape #: 703/242-0965 Facsimile #: 703/242-0968 To receive an information packet: Extension 10 Club e-mail: [email protected] Club President (leave a message), Lee Sheaffer: Extension 40 World Wide Web URL: www.patc.net STAFF: DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS Director of Administration: Wilson Riley (Ext. 11) e-mail: [email protected] Trails Management Coordinator: Heidi Forrest (Ext. 12) e-mail: [email protected] Business Manager: Monica Clark (Ext. 15) e-mail: [email protected] Membership/Cabin Coordinator: Pat Fankhauser (Ext. 17) e-mail: [email protected] Sales Coordinator: Maureen Estes (Ext. 19) e-mail: [email protected]

Club Officers and chairs contact info: Potomac Appalachian www.patc.net/about/contact.html Chief Editor: Linda Shannon-Beaver, [email protected] or call the main club phone number. Features Editor: Joanne Erickson Contact list published twice annually in the PA. Forecast Editor: Vince Ferrari, [email protected]

2 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian Lee’s Overlook: 63,360,000 hat’s a large number: so large that I calculated it that it stays clear of debris and obstruction, in other Ttwice just to make sure it was correct. Give or take a words, make sure that a few problem inches do not stop few hundred thousand, it is the number of inches of many inches of trail. We will continue to add inch after trail PATC maintains. inch of trail as time goes on. The only thing that will limit us is the number of volunteers to actually build and main- Why inches and not feet or miles? If you build trail, tain all those inches. So if you are not already looking over maintain trail, or oversee a trail, you know that you a few thousand inches of trail, please come and join us. don’t do those things by the foot or mile, you do it by the You can be part of a 63-million-inch trail system. J inch. Trails are built one inch at a time. If you are an —Lee Sheaffer overseer, problems with the trail usually come to inches. Miles of trail can be clear, and the blow down that Note 1: You may have noticed a name change for this col- blocks the whole thing can be a few inches in diameter. umn. I would like to thank all those who sent in suggestions; there were many, and all were thoughtful. I like We have such a good trail system because we sweat the this one; I picture it as a broad rock outcrop where I can inches. Next time you go out hiking, look at waterbars, see all that is ahead. Thanks for the great suggestions. those structures that channel water off the trail. They are just a few inches wide, but without them, the whole Note 2: I usually will not mention specific projects as I trail could be unwalkable. Look at steps along the trail. think we all do such a great job at our tasks. Two recent They can be made of logs or stone or shaped into the turf projects need to be mentioned as above the ordinary. and they are usually only a few inches wide, but by mak- First, an ice storm hit SNP just after Thanksgiving, closing steps, the trail is less steep and easier to maintain. ing a large section of the AT and all of Skyline Drive. Yes, trails are made by the inch, and PATC has made over PATC went to work with extra crews and many addition- 63 million of them. The most amazing thing about this al thousands of hours of volunteer labor and was able to number, other than its sheer size, is that each of those 63 reopen the trail in record time, even before Skyline Drive million inches of trails were built and maintained by vol- was open. Without our emergency help and labor, much unteers. PATC has trails in four states, through national of the AT and high-elevation side trails would still be and state parks, over national and state forests, and over closed as you read this. The second project worth special our own and friendly neighbors’ land. attention is the reconstruction of the Mather Side Trail (see article in the February PA) from the AT to ATC’s We have not stopped there, however. We are building new offices in Harpers Ferry. The trail is steep and was great- trail, relocating old trail, and finding ways to get trail that ly eroded. Using volunteer labor and specialized tools, is now on road off the road. Each time we build or relocate PATC has now reconstructed this trail into a beautiful trail we do it in the same way, inch by inch. After the trail stairway that is both easier to walk and far more durable is built, someone must look after the trail and make sure than the original trail. Great work on both these projects.

Half Tales: An Opinion on Doggie Fashion

was in the car on the way to a hike all a dog will ever need. If we need to As for dog booties, I, for once, am Iwhen I heard something complete- make a fashion statement we can speechless! Booties – what are you ly unbelievable on the radio. As is change collars. I have several of my thinking? Dogs all have great and often the case in our car, the radio own: one is in a camouflage design, complete feet, tough pads and claws was tuned to NPR, and they were air- so when I feel like it, I can become for traction on everything but hard- ing a segment on dog fashion. The invisible. wood floors. This is also why all perky announcer was going on about dogs get that look when their what all the fashionable dogs would The other reason dogs do not need humans get the misguided idea of be wearing this winter. The items clothing is that we were born with it. dressing them up. You know the included dog booties, hats, and down I was born with a great and fashion- look: one of embarrassment and and Gore-Tex coats. To quote the able white fur coat. Quite nice, disgust all rolled up into one. Here, movie “Apocalypse Now,” “the horror, breathable, warm in winter, and cool let me interpret the look: “kill me the horror.” in summer, with just the hint of color now, before I kill you.” So remem- for accent. All dogs have great and ber, dear reader, when you take Now I have to tell you, that while I fashionable coats, so adding another your dogs out for a walk or hike, am sitting here writing to you, I con- tends to make them look like bag make sure they are properly attired J sider myself fully dressed. I am men. Just add a cart full of junk and – nothing but a collar and a smile. wearing a collar and a smile. This is the look would be complete. —The Famous Peabody Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 3 SNP Summer Crews A Tribute to Darwin Lambert April 29 – May 4, January 28, 1916 – February 11, 2007 and Aug. 12-17 arwin Lambert, an honorary life member of PATC, was widely Dknown as a naturalist and historian, as an author, and as a con- Shenandoah National Park servationist. To club members, he may be best known for donating (South District) Trail Crews six acres of his land for Tulip Tree Cabin which was built using at his Both crews will be housed at the suggestion the same construction methods practiced by the Blue Schairer Trail Center in the Ridge Mountain people generations earlier. South District. A PATC member will act as crew leader and drive More than 40 years ago Darwin turned his back on his career as a a park-provided vehicle to and newspaper editor and what he called “the frantic-paced world.” Leaving behind his native state of Nevada and adopted state of from the work site. Alaska, he brought his wife Eileen to Virginia. Living close to nature in a restored pre-Civil War cabin just outside SNP in Shaver Hollow May 6 – 11, fulfilled the couple’s dreams of “entwining our roots with the basic and Aug. 19 - 24 earth and the eternal flow of all life.” Shenandoah National Park This began the “earthman” period of Darwin’s life, as he and Eileen (Central District) Trail Crews lived simply and in harmony with the natural world while he Crews will be housed at the researched and wrote his books and articles. “Herbert Hoover’s Pinnacle Research Center or Hideaway” and “The Undying Past of Shenandoah National Park” are White Oak Cabin in the Central two of his best-known titles. District. Though Darwin was happiest in Shaver Hollow, he willingly traveled May 14-18 to Washington to testify before Congress on conservation issues. And though he was extraordinarily knowledgeable about both the natural and Aug. 26-31 history and human history of SNP (and had been the park’s first Shenandoah National Park employee at the time of its formation), Darwin’s concern for parkland (North District) Trail Crews extended far beyond its boundaries. His efforts and influence led to Crews will be housed at the the establishment of Nevada’s Great Basin National Park in 1986, Pinnacle Research Center near and five years later his “Great Basin Drama: The Story of a National Park” was published. the Pinnacle Picnic Area in the Central District. Vehicles may be Those who knew Darwin Lambert and saw him match his life to his driven to the Center. personal philosophy will remember him with both affection and respect. But all of us can share in his legacy: his books, the Tulip For all crew weeks, crew mem- Tree Cabin preserve, and the results of his conservation efforts. J bers will pack their own lunch- —Carolyn Reeder es, and breakfast will be self- serve at the cabin. The crew will eat out for dinner. A PATC district manager will stay with the PATC Presents: crew and work together under the supervision of a park A Traditional Tools Workshop ranger. Donate a week or more April 28-29 - Pinnacles Research Station, SNP of honest sweat and fun in The traditional tools workshop is intended to familiarize overseers with prop- exchange for meeting new peo- er crosscut saw and axe techniques. Instruction will be provided on how to ple, and sleeping under celes- size up and safely clear a blowdown with hand tools and when and how to use tial splendor. For details on this a wedge, swing an axe, and perform a single underbuck. The workshop leader thrilling and rewarding oppor- will discuss situations you’ll likely encounter on the trail and conduct field exercises demonstrating the various tools used to tackle these challenges. tunity, free grub, and crew Note that this is a workshop only and will not result in a certification. Cost is shirt, leave your name and $20.00 to cover course materials, Saturday dinner, and Sunday breakfast. J address on 703/242-0693 X 12 Further INFO: Dan Dueweke 703/266-3248 or [email protected] for more information. J 4 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian Emergency Occurring on Trail Lands in Maryland – How You Can Help serious environmental challenge and erosion damage followed. This increase in funding earmarked for is unfolding in Maryland forests. fouled our streams and rivers. This state-owned property. TheA most significant gypsy moth outbreak could repeat itself this year damage in 15 years will occur in if immediate action is not taken. You can help. While the 2007 central and western Maryland this Only an initiative by the governor Maryland state budget is already set, summer if there is no intervention. can put forth an emergency appro- the governor can initiate an emer- priation to tackle this crisis. gency appropriation. As a concerned Gypsy moth populations destroy PATC member, you can send a letter The Maryland Department of timber and ruin the trail lands we to newly elected Maryland Gov. enjoy. Unlike many natural disas- Agriculture will be spraying to erad- Martin O’Malley requesting an emer- ters, gypsy moths can be predicted icate gypsy moth populations this gency appropriation for the gypsy several months in advance by the spring. Their budget is dependent moth suppression program. The gov- counting of egg masses in the on federal, state, and local funds. ernor's address is 100 State Circle, forests. The Maryland Department of Due to how funding is allocated on Agriculture estimates that 2007 will public versus private lands, the Annapolis, MD 21401. state’s allocation does not protect have the worst gypsy moth outbreak If funded, this will allow for more in central Maryland since 1990. state-owned property as effectively as private property. In order to aggressive spraying this spring, pro- In the 1980s, a severe outbreak of properly protect our trails this year, tecting the forests and keeping our J the gypsy moth generated large the Maryland Department of trail lands safe and beautiful. parcels of dead and dying trees in the Agriculture’s gypsy moth suppres- —Rick Canter, Mid-Atlantic. Clear-cutting ensued, sion program needs a significant Maryland Trails Manager

Bears Den Family Weekend: May 5-6 ndividuals and families with children of all ages are Fee for the weekend includes meals (lunch, dinner and Iinvited to enjoy the outdoors for a family weekend at snacks Saturday, and breakfast Sunday), lodging, and Bears Den. Activities will be scheduled noon Saturday to crafts supplies. noon Sunday. The fun will include kid-friendly hikes, Lodge Cottage Camping Sat. only Adults, 18+ $30 $25 $20 $10 nature crafts, games, and special guests giving presen- Kids, 4-17 $20 $15 $10 $5 tations on hiking with kids, regional wildlife, and more. Kids under 4 Free Free Free Free New this year: teen and ’tween activities. We are still looking for volunteers to lead games, crafts, Bears Den Trail Center, located in Bluemont, Va., is and hikes, or to manage the kitchen. Everyone is about an hour’s drive from D.C. This year there are encouraged to pitch in with meal preparation and gen- three overnight options based on your preferences, eral cleanup. To obtain further information contact available on a first-come, first-served basis. There will Anne Regan ([email protected]) 703/689-3883. be bunks in communal rooms inside the lodge, with To register please fill out the following form, and follow electricity and flush toilets. Another option is bunks mailing and payment directions. (If your lodging choices and beds in a cottage, with electricity and privy are no longer available at the time your check is access. Finally, there is an option for camping (bring received, I will contact you and adjust your rate, or you J your own gear) with privy access. may cancel your reservation for a refund if you wish.)

Bears Den Family Weekend 2007 Registration Form Name ______Phone ______E-mail address: ______Home address ______Lodging Preference (Cabin, Cottage, Camping, or Saturday only) ______Weekend Fee: (See chart above for fees based on lodging options) # _____ Adults @ $ ______each Adult total $ ______# _____ Kids 4-17 @ $ ______each Kid total $ ______# _____ Kids under 4 (free, but let us know they are coming) Family grand total $ ______Mail completed form along with check for grand total payable to: Anne Regan at 1016 Charlton Place, Herndon, VA 20170.

Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 5 Michener, from page 1 benches. One out of three fire extinguishers was melted. Only after Thomas’ call did PATC Cabins Coordinator Pat Fankhauser begin uncovering what had happened to Michener.

Eight days before Thomas’ discovery, a rental group arrived late on a Friday night and began lighting candles and setting them around. One person’s jacket caught on fire, and nearby was a container of kerosene fuel that should not have been brought into the cabin. The coat set the container on fire and it blew, spewing flames and black smoke all over. Members of the party in the bunk area panicked, and feeling trapped, started busting out the windows. Possibly because it was so dark, they did This bench indicates just how extensively the fire burned. not realize there was an unlocked back door out of the room. The renter had the presence of mind to shout at Recovery took concerted effort from a number of individu- the others to stop breaking up the windows and help als. Al Black and Jim Peterson (overseer for Gypsy Spring him find the extinguishers to put out the fire. / Silberman cabins) contacted a fire specialist for guidance Fortunately they did. They spent the night, did some in just how to clean the soot off the wood. Al himself recon- cleaning up, and significantly shaken, left the next structed the windows. Cabin Overseers Steve and Tess morning and said nothing. Koeppen hauled a lot of the contents of the cabin back to their home for a special scrubbing. Pete Brown, the North Chapter president, joined PATC Cabins Maintenance Chair Mel Merritt in putting out the call for volunteers. A large group of 25+ people arrived on Jan. 6 to work on the repairs. Bob Oliver, the North District cabins supervisor, and his wife Lynn prepared lunch for the entire crew. Mel took advantage of some of the abundance of labor and was able to replace the cook stove during the trip.

Amazingly, by the end of the weekend, what had been a blackened cabin was ready to go back in service. Mel summarized his reaction to the clean-up effort, “It is very reassuring to know that I have so many great volunteers that I can call on throughout the cabins system and the club who will freely give their time to keep our J The ceiling was completely charred. It is amazing that the fire did unique facilities open and well cared for.” not consume this old wooden structure. —Catherine Kelleher

Renters Beware: AILS FROM THE OODS T by George WaltersW For the safety of yourselves AND the cabin, you should bring your own light sources that are familiar to you, such as flashlights, candles, and lanterns powered by batteries, propane, or liquid fuel. Upon leaving, DO NOT!! leave candles or fuel of any kind at the cabin. And during your stay NEVER leave anything burning that is not under your direct supervision (especially around children). J

6 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian Green R Living: Chemical Cleaning Are Toxic Chemicals Really Necessary? few years ago I made a decision to get rid of all our Ahousehold cleaning products that contained toxic chemicals. I started reading articles and learning about the ways people used to clean in the days before advertising and widespread chemical use. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised the first time that I used white vinegar to clean the shower. Not only did it clean the mold and mildew easily but it didn’t make me feel sick. I have since used this versatile cleaner on almost everything in the house. I use it to clean the dishwasher (1/2 c. in the rinse cycle every once in a while), to clean the stove, countertops, and sinks. Hiker’s Notebook Common Name: Skunk Cabbage, Clumpfoot A Natural Home magazine included an article with infor- Cabbage, Swamp Lantern, Polecat Weed mation on how to use vinegar as a disinfectant. Scientific Name: Symplocarpus foetidus (Genus from Greek symploke meaning connected and meaning fruit which refers to fact that the Susan Sumner, a food scientist at Virginia Polytechnic karpos flowering stalk consists of tightly packed fruits; Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Va., pub- foetidus – foul smelling in Latin) lished the following formula in Science News. “Purchase a bottle of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and a bottle of The skunk cabbage is among the first plants to plain white or apple cider vinegar. Pour each liquid into emerge in the yearly deciduous cycle; so early its own spray bottle. Spritz the item to be disinfected that it starts growing well before the warmer tem- with both the vinegar and the hydrogen peroxide, then peratures of spring. It is able to do this through rinse with water. Using one mist right after the other is a process of heat generation known as thermoge- nesis. The plant uses oxygen in the air to oxidize 10 times more effective than using either spray by itself stored starches to generate heat. This heat may and more effective than mixing them together into one serve a couple of purposes. One theory is that the bottle. Tests at VPI&SU found the two sprays used heat attracts insects to the warmth of the pocket together killed virtually all Salmonella, Shigella, or E. inside the spathe that holds the spadix flower, coli bacteria on heavily contaminated food and surfaces; thus winning the competition for pollinators. The this spray combination is more effective than chlorine second reason postulated for the heat is that it bleach. It doesn’t matter if you spray with the vinegar triggers and spreads the plant’s characteristic aroma, which is similar to that of rotting flesh. first, then the hydrogen peroxide, or vice versa. There is no lingering taste of vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, and The skunk cabbage is a perennial plant with a neither is toxic if any residue remains.” well-established root system that can extend up to two feet into the ground with a mass of roots My husband is against using bleach in our home so radiating in all directions. The roots have cir- when I found this solution it made a lot of sense. cumferential ridges at regular intervals that con- tract to pull the plant down into the ground every Some other great natural products for household clean- spring so that the stems and leaves stay at ing are lemons, salt, and baking soda. Throwing used ground level. The root structures are virtually indestructible, save by loss of the swampy habi- lemons into the garbage disposal can keep it smelling tat, and can be hundreds of years old. fresh. You can use salt and baking soda together to clean out the refrigerator. For more nontoxic cleaning Skunk cabbage produces the calcium oxalate solutions check out, “The Nontoxic Home & Office” by that is considered toxic and can cause a burning Debra Lynn Dadd (J.P. Archer, 1992). sensation when ingested. However, it was widely used by Native Americans in small doses as a J If you would like to send comments or questions please poultice and inhaled to cure headaches. e-mail me at [email protected], and put PATC in —William Needham the subject line. J Visit the Hiker’s Notebook Web site: www.mwrop.org/W_Needham/h_notebook.html —Eliza Beth Engle Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 7

Trails Organization 101 Basic Wilderness First Aid and CPR and AED ATC has an established organization to fulfill its pri- April 14-15, 2007 Pmary mission, which is to maintain the AT between Emergency Response Training and Trail Patrol presents Rockfish Gap, Va., and Pine Grove Furnace State Park, this Adult CPR and AED and American Heart Pa. (240 miles), as well as the Tuscarora Trail (260 Association First Aid class. Certification is good for two miles), and over 500 miles of other hiking trails. PATC years. Cost is $120 for Trail Patrol Members and $130 has a large number of members who volunteer, and the for Non-Trail Patrol members. Pre-Registration is vast majority of these volunteers are involved in the required before April 2, 2007. For more information or to maintenance and management of these trails. How are download the registration form, go to www.patc.net/ we organized to be able to do this huge job? volunteer/trailpatrol.com or contact Saleena DeVore at J [email protected] or 540/972-8394. Trail Overseers The heart, soul, foundation, bedrock (and many more superlatives) of PATC are our trail overseers. These invaluable volunteers sign up for a trail segment of their choice, usually under two miles in length. Trail over- Backpacking 101 seers perform most if not all of the tasks that are An Introductory Backpacking Course required to maintain a hiking trail. Being a trail overseer Expand your enjoyment of the outdoors through the prac- is a very large responsibility. PATC, and often the public tice of backpacking. Designed for persons 18 years and lands organization that manages the land where the trail older who have no prior backpacking experience, as well is located, expect trail overseers to regularly visit and as former backpackers seeking to update their skills. Introduction Night: manage their segments of trail. Sometimes, challenges Mon., April 9, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Instructional Weekend: can outpace the best of overseers. For difficult or remote PATC Headquarters. April 14 & 15, Overnight Backpacking Trip: trail segments, co-overseers may be necessary to be able Prince William Forest Park. May 5 & 6. For more information, see www.patc.net/ to keep up with maintenance. volunteer/trailpatrol/Outreach/BP101.htm or contact J John Bridges ([email protected]) 703/726-0188. One of the most frequently asked questions of PATC is: “I’m curious about being a trail overseer. What are trail overseers required to do?” As any overseer would know, the answer to this question is more complicated than a simple list of generic tasks. Each trail segment is unique Metro Area Overseers Workshop and will require different tasks. But the “one size fits all” May 19-20, Prince William Forest Park answer, if there is one, would be: First Ever! Come all ye young overseers and some not so 1. Make at least four visits to the entire segment each young. Learn the duties of an overseer and about the year, preferably six or more; tools used, and practice building erosion controls, restor- 2. Clean debris from water-diversion devices so that they ing tread, etc. We have three cabins reserved that can will work correctly; hold about 30 people. Spring in the park is usually beau- 3. Cut back encroaching brush, branches, and weedy tiful, so you can hike and enjoy nature when not learning vegetation; about trail maintenance. We plan a communal evening to 4. Maintain painted trail blazes along the trail; swap lies and tell stories; the best ghost story wins. Sign 5. Pick up litter; up ASAP and obtain details by contacting Liles Creighton, J 6. Remove fallen branches and trees up to the size you ([email protected]) 410/573-0067. can safely handle; 7. Inspect the trail for bigger problems and either correct them or report them; 8. Submit a trail report for the hours spent working on the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Trail Patrol Presents trail (by the Web or other means); and Leave No Trace Trainers Course 9. Be a PATC representative to curious and interested hik- Saturday - Sunday, April 28 & 29, 2007, SNP ers that are inquisitive about what tasks are being On completion of this course, participants will be registered done and what PATC is. as Leave No Trace Trainers with the national Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and will receive a certifi- District Managers cate of course completion. Registration forms are available A system of many hundreds of individual, lone, PATC on-line at www.patc.net/volunteer/trailpatrol/Outreach/ trail overseers would probably work but in a very primi- LNTClasses.htm. Send registration form along with pay- tive fashion. Imagine if SNP staff wanted every trail over- ment to: PATC, LNT Trainers Course, 118 Park Street, SE, seer in the park to know of a new regulation, unusual Vienna, VA 22180-4609. Please include your e-mail weather damage event, or other information item. The address on the check. Information: Cindy Majewski J distribution of information would be very haphazard. ([email protected]), 410/939-5029. See Organization, page 16 8 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian Silberman Trail Center Nearly Complete: Dedication Sunday, May 6

ATC’s newest cabin will be in the rental system soon! PVolunteers are putting the finishing touches on the interior of the Silberman Trail Center and obtaining fur- nishings and equipment. With good weather and good worker turnout the cabin may be available for rental by the time you read this.

PATC expects this will be a very popular cabin because of the abundance of hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities nearby, so make your reservations early. This is especially true for this coming summer and fall, since the cabin will be held out of the rental system two weekends each month. Work crews will be finishing Garvey Shelter Damage work on the outside of the cabin, doing work restoring A recent emergency evacuation of a long-distance the building site, and working on roads and trails on the Aughwick Creek Property. injured hiker led to the need to remove some of the rails at the Garvey Shelter. The hiker was removed via The formal dedication of the cabin will be Sunday, May a backboard, and the removal of the rails made that 6, at 2:30 p.m. Reserve this date to join us and meet the effort more safe.The hiker was then carried 1.5 miles people responsible for the cabin and see the wonderful 54-acre Aughwick Creed Tract, complete with the to the roadway. The hiker and shelter are doing fine. Tuscarora Trail and a trout stream!

You are also invited to join work crews, usually on the 2nd and 4th weekends of each month. Contact IRA to PATC: Avoid Tax Bite Jim Peterson at Petersonatpleasantgrovefarm@ id you know about the new law that came into effect msn.com or 410/775-7753 for more information on last fall known as the “charitable transfer?” It cabin work trips. expiresD at the end of this year (2007) but there’s still Watch for more information in the April and May time for you to give as much as $100,000 tax-free to J your favorite charity, which we hope is PATC. Here’s Potomac Appalachian. how it works: —James Peterson

Instead of withdrawing your money from your IRA and paying taxes on it as taxable income, you transfer the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Trail Patrol Presents IRA directly to your favorite charity – would that be PATC? – and thus bypass the tax sting. The gift must go Hike Leader Training Course directly to the charity rather than to a donor-advised March 24 - 25, 2007 fund or trust. This course will be conducted at the PATC Headquarters in Vienna and is designed to prepare you to lead hikes. The two- People 70 or older can roll over up to $100,000 a year day course uses classroom and outdoor instruction to prepare from their IRAs to charities. Note that this provision participants to lead safe and enjoyable hikes while minimizing expires at the end of 2007. There are many organiza- impact to the environment. Topics covered include medical tions and groups, such as the American Council on Gift emergencies, personal equipment, Leave No Trace, leader- Annuities that are trying to extend the law. Will it hap- ship, planning, standard procedures, and navigation. pen? Who knows. But you can take advantage of the law Scenario exercises will also be used to emphasize hike lead- this year for sure. Don’t let this opportunity slip by. ership skills. Cost*: $20 for PATC members, $35 for non- PATC does not profess to provide legal or financial coun- members Registration: Send payments to PATC, HLT Course, sel. This article is intended to be informational only. 118 Park Street, SE, Vienna, VA 22180-4609. Pre-registra- Consult your tax or financial advisor or personal lawyer tion is required. Information: Eric VanNortwick for further details. The source for this information was ([email protected]) Day; 202/675-2520, Evening; 703/878- The Wall Street Journal, Jan. 27-28, 2007, “Personal 7025 Cell; 571/264-9513 * Join PATC at the time of registra- J J Finance” page B2. tion and get the members price! —Jack Reeder Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 9

FORECAST Chapters Charlottesville Chapter Southern Shenandoah Valley Chapter PATC Hikes The Charlottesville Chapter hikes every See www.ssvc.org or the one linked to the PATC offers diverse organized hikes. There Saturday; summer, winter, and in between. PATC Web site for descriptions of hikes and are K-9 Hikes, which invite you to bring your work trips. We usually hike in the southern and Hikes are usually 8 to 10 miles with some favorite dog; Family Hikes tailored to kids; central districts of the SNP and in the GWNF. shorter hikes. We usually maintain trails on the Natural History Hikes stalking the fascinating last Saturday of the month. Meet at Albermarle Contact the listed hike leader for information but often elusive flora and fauna of the region; High School in Charlottesville at 9:00 a.m. with about a specific event, or contact Mark food and water for the day. The majority of Gatewood 540/248-0442. hikes featuring varying levels of difficulty with hikes are in the South and Central Districts of West Chapter the Easy Hikers, In-Between Hikers, and SNP, with some in the North District and in The West Chapter meets twice a year in March Vigorous Hikers; Birding Hikes with experts to and September. The Chapter maintains the George Washington National Forest. Our help sight and identify our avian neighbors; Black Locust circuit trail in Gambrill State Park. Chapter hikes are posted at Work trips and hikes are usually scheduled Historical Hikes tracking little-known struc- www.avenue.org/patc/future_ monthly from March through December. We tures in SNP; Series Hikes tracing the entire hikes.htm. INFO: Jere Bidwell 434/295-2143 or also lead overnight weekend trips for day hikes length of the Tuscarora Trail or the trails of John Shannon 434/293-2953. or backpacking. All activities are listed in the PA Pennsylvania, section by section; North Chapter Forecast and on the chapter’s Web site Backpacking Hikes traversing the tracts of The North Chapter conducts monthly trail work (www.patc.net/chapters/west). Contact Dave West Virginia and Southern Virginia; hikes trips on the Maryland and Pennsylvania sec- Jordahl ([email protected]) 240/777-7741. scheduled for weekends; ones scheduled for tions of the AT and Tuscarora Trail. We also Ski Touring Section lead hikes on these and other trails. Maryland The Ski Touring Section has served since 1974 weekdays; Geology Hikes led by experts from AT work trips are generally held on the first and to introduce Washington area residents to the Smithsonian focused on the unique third Saturdays – contact Nancy Hammond cross-country skiing and to provide skiing stratigraphy of our area; Mushroom Hikes ([email protected]) 301/739-0442. opportunities to experienced skiers. The with mycologists; Waterfall Hikes to beat the Pennsylvania work trips are generally held on Section sponsors winter weekend ski trips for summer heat; and Outreach Hikes to get all levels of skiers to nearby mountains in the AT on the first Saturday and on the together with the members of area groups like Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania, as Tuscarora on the third Saturday – contact Pete the Sierra Club or the Congressional Hikers. Brown(peter.brown4@worldnet. well as periodic social events year round. Check out the Forecast calendar and hear att.net) 410/343-1140. Pennsylvania AT work INFO: Bert Finkelstein ([email protected]) trips also include an optional Saturday evening 703/715-8534. updates on the weekly tape (703/242-0965). dinner at the Gypsy Spring Cabin. For informa- Mountaineering Section tion on upcoming hikes, contact Chris Firme We’re a diverse group of local Washington, DC Other Clubs’ Hikes area climbers. We also share common inter- ([email protected]) 717/765-4833. North Capital (www.capitalhikingclub.org) and ests in promoting safe climbing, conserving the Chapter home page outdoors, developing new climbers’ skills, rep- Wanderbirds (www.wanderbirds.org) hike on (www.patc.net/chapters/north/). resenting the Washington area climbing com- Saturdays and Sundays, traveling by bus and Northern Shenandoah Valley Chapter munity, and having fun! We provide instruction leaving from downtown, with suburban stops The Northern Shenandoah Valley Chapter for those wanting to learn the basics – we’re as well. Center Club, Northern Virginia Hiking sponsors hikes in national and state parks and not a school, but we can get you started. We go Club and Sierra Club hike on both Saturdays forests in the Shenandoah Valley vicinity, open climbing, either locally or further afield, nearly and Sundays using carpools. Schedules are to the public, on a monthly basis except during every weekend. In the winter we organize trips available at PATC Headquarters and are pub- the winter. Hikes are posted in the Forecast. for beginning and advanced ice climbers. Other activities are in the NSV Chapter Contact Dave Raboy (draboy@ lished in area newspapers on Fridays. West Newsletter. For further information contact pattonboggs.com), or Vincent Penoso Virginia Highland Conservancy outings Betsy Fowler ([email protected]). ([email protected]). information at www.wvhighlands.org.

KEY to Forecast Activities Meetings Meetings PATC Council – Second Tuesday All events are marked for easy identification. Meetings at PATC HQ, 118 Park Street, The council meets at 7:00 p.m. sharp. The Late changes or cancellations are listed on the PATC Council meets every month to con- weekly information tape (703/242-0965), which S.E., Vienna, Va., unless otherwise noted. New Members – First Week of the Month duct business of the club and once a year is updated on Sunday evening for the follow- for a dinner meeting. All members are ing seven days. The Forecast can also be Check Forecast schedule. Curious about the always welcome. Come see how we make found on PATC’s Web site at club? Want to learn more? The best way is decisions about your club. INFO: Wilson www.patc.net/activities/forecast.html. to attend a New Members Meeting (both current and non-members are welcome). Riley ([email protected]) 703/242-0693 x11. ` Trail Patrol – First Tuesday Hiking Trips Attend the meeting and find the mysteries of ~ 7:30 p.m., except January. Trail Patrol Backpacking Trips PATC revealed in full. INFO: Jim Tomlin . volunteers are PATC’s goodwill trail Trail Work Trips ([email protected]) 301/713-3265 x141. Q Mountaineering – Second Wednesday ambassadors to the hiking public. They provide a visible, reassuring presence on Cabin/Shelter Work Trips 8:00 p.m. – We meet every month s the trails, and strive to educate the public Special Events on the second Wednesday except for on good hiking practices, minimum impact Meetings August, unless noted in the Forecast. hiking, and camping ethics. Patrol mem- Classes INFO: Dave Raboy(draboy@patton bers are trained in land navigation, emer- boggs.com), or Vincent Penoso (vdotma- õ K9 Trail Blazers (dogs permitted) gency procedures, radio communications, ? [email protected]) or our Web site: and personal equipment. Some equip- XC Ski Events www.potomacmountainclub.org ment and uniform items are provided Shenandoah Mountain Rescue Group Note to all hike leaders: Please ask non- upon completion of training. INFO: members on your hike if they would like Business meeting - Last Tuesday of each Katrina Hedlesky ([email protected]) to join PATC, then get names and month, 7:30 p.m. INFO: Doug Sigman 703/533-3652, or see our section in addresses so a club volunteer can send ([email protected]), 703/255-5034, or PATC’s Web site: www.patc.net/ them information packets. Thanks! www.smrg.org. volunteer/trailpatrol. 10 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

FORECAST ?6 – 11 (Tuesday – Sunday) including meeting place, time, leader's March CROSS COUNTRY SKI TRIP – STS name and phone number, and a detailed Bryce Canyon and Cedar Breaks, UT 1 (Thursday) description of the hike are available on the Shhh! These two enchanting parks in the far DEADLINE – April Potomac Appalachian PATC Activities Recording: 703/242-0965. West offer astounding yet little publicized Material due to editors 5:00 p.m. Nordic skiing opportunities. They lie high on All items for the next issue of the newsletter 7 (Wednesday) the Colorado plateau at elevations of 8,000 due. Send Forecast events to PA-Forecast@ MEETING - New Members (PATC), 7:30 p.m. to 10,000 feet. The resulting snow accumula- patc.net and all other articles to the editor tions explain why Cedar Breaks (at the high- at [email protected]. NOTE: Do not send photos 10 (Saturday) er elevation) does not open to the non-skiing ` HIKE – Long Distance or articles to headquarters. E-mail for public until May each year. The terrain at Luray, VA address. both locations is gently rolling ideal for cross- country skiing and snowshoeing. This is a 5 A 17-mile circuit hike that will start at Q2 – 4 (Friday – Sunday) night trip. We’ll spend the first night in Las Edinburgh Gap in Massanutten Mountain CABIN WORK TRIP – Argow Cabin Vegas and the other four at Ruby’s Inn, just and proceed north along the Massanutten South District, Shenandoah National Park, VA outside Bryce Canyon. Trip cost for lodging Loop Trail to Woodstock Gap for a view of Bring your pioneering spirit (and camping and local transportation is only $300. Air fare the Shenandoah Valley from the fire tower. gear), and join us in the continuing restora- and meals extra. Where else can you get The return will be on the ATV trail over tion of an old, mid-1800s, log cabin built by premier skiing conditions (and the locals' Opochee Peak. Total elevation gain is 3,500 Confederate Soldier James Samuel Eaton. Western twang) for only $60/day? INFO: Rob feet. Moderate pace with stops for flora There are plenty of projects both large and Swennes ([email protected]) and fungi of interest. Inexperienced hikers small for all skill levels. Communal meals pro- 703/532-6101. contact leader for details. INFO: William vided for Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast, Needham ([email protected]) and Sunday lunch for minimal fee of $15/ 7 (Wednesday) 410/884-9127. person. INFO: Jeff Testerman (blueridgehik- CLASS – Fast and Light Backpacking (REI) [email protected]) 434/589-2081. Rockville, MD 10 (Saturday) 7:30 p.m. Join REI Rockville’s ultra-light guru ` HIKE – Natural History Hike 3 (Saturday) for some great insight into lightening your . TRAIL WORK TRIP – Yankee Clippers North District, Shenandoah National Park, VA load. From head to toe, we’ve got some PATC's own cultural resources specialist, Len Appalachian Trail, PA great tips to make your outdoor adventure Wheat, leads us to the Clatterbuck ceme- INFO: Pete Brown (peter.brown4@ more enjoyable and easier. Check out some tery on the west side of Gravel Springs Gap. worldnet.att.net) 410/343-1140. of the new gear on the market. With special tips for cold weather travel. INFO: Mark The cemetery has an unusual tombstone, 6 (Tuesday) Nelson ([email protected]) 703/379-9400. sort of like a five-foot tower. The tombstone is ` HIKE – Family Hike that of Annie Clatterbuck, 1879-1919. On the Sterling, VA 7 (Wednesday) tombstone is this inscription: “The golden Come enjoy a kid-friendly circuit hike in CLASS – Intro to Trail Running (REI) gates were open wide, a gentle voice said beautiful Claude Moore Park. We will hike Bailey’s Crossroads, VA come. And angels from the other side wel- about 2.5 miles. Weather permitting, we will 7:30 p.m. This is a two-part series focusing on comed our loved one home.” Join Len and picnic along the way, next to a pond. After trail running. The goal is to introduce runners Bob Pickett on a not-too-difficult, 6-mile the hike, we will enjoy the activities and tur- to the basic principles of trailing running, bushwhacking adventure. There are several tles in their visitor center and/or visit the regardless of outdoor environment. This homesites nearby we will also visit. INFO: Bob Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum located in series is designed for all levels of runners who Pickett 301/681-1511. the park. Park Web site: have or might have an interest in trail run- www.co.loudoun.va.us/prcs/parks/claude.h ning. Topics covered include, but are not lim- 10 (Saturday) tm. INFO: Lauren Lang ([email protected]) ited to, trail safety, clothing, planning, nutri- ` HIKE – North Chapter 571/242-3950. tion, hydration, and footwear. Finally, there Appalachian Trail, PA will be an essential gear display and discus- Mount Holly Springs at PA Rte 94 to Pine 6 (Tuesday) sion following the talk, presented by Alex ` HIKE – Vigorous Hikers Grove Furnace State Park at PA Rte 233. Papadopoulos, an avid runner and trail INFO: Christopher Firme (bncfirme@inner- Central District, Shenandoah National Park, VA enthusiast for over 10 years. Alex owns and net.net) 717/794-2855. Circuit hike of 18.5 mi. with 4,000 foot climb operates Athletic Equation Inc. INFO: Mark up Sam’s Ridge Trail, down between Hot and Nelson ([email protected]) 703/379-9400. Short Mountains, then up Hannah Run to AT `11 (Sunday) north to Meadow Spring and Hazel Mountain 7 (Wednesday) HIKE – Sunday Hikers Trails. INFO: Chris Nolen (chrishiker@ ` HIKE – Easy Hikers Rosslyn, VA verizon.net) 301/469-8931. Wheaton, MD The Sunday Hikers are re-visiting the A 4-mile hike in Wheaton Regional Park, with Potomac Heritage Trail, doing the entire 10 6 (Tuesday) a stop at the Brookside Garden Greenhouse. miles from Rosslyn to the American Legion MEETING - Trail Patrol, 7:30 p.m. Meet at 10:15 a.m. near the miniature train Bridge. We’ll share a cab ride back to our station. From the Beltway, I-495, take starting point at the end of the hike. Minimal s6 (Tuesday) Georgia Avenue North exit. Drive about 4 elevation gain, but some rocky terrain and SPECIAL EVENT – Rockies Heli-Hiking (REI) miles north (past Wheaton Plaza and the water crossings. No pets. Hike will be can- Fairfax, VA Regional Library) to Shorefield Road traffic celed in the event of high water in the 7:30 p.m. REI invites you to a taste of light (small shopping center on right). Turn Potomac. INFO: Vince Ferrari (vincentfer- Canadian Mountain Holiday’s heli-hiking right onto Shorefield and drive 0.25 mile into [email protected]) 301/249-2210. experience. Journey to the heart of the the park. Turn right again to parking lot near Canadian Rockies where walks and hikes miniature train station. If the forecast is for 13 (Tuesday) are tailored to your wishes and abilities. dry 45 degree or better weather bring lunch; ` HIKE – Family Hike Picture yourself in luxurious mountain lodges otherwise, we will go to a nearby restaurant Leesburg, VA with stunning views, and dining on gourmet for lunch. INFO: John Giblin, 301/585-5172. meals with fresh local ingredients. Come explore Red Rock Regional Park, a Recognized as the world’s leading heli-ski 7 (Wednesday) small park with views of the Potomac River. and heli-hiking tour operator, CMH focuses ` HIKE - Midweek Hikers This kid-paced circuit hike is 1.5 miles long, on safety, excellence of service, responsi- Location to be determined and is jogging-stroller passable, barely. After ble stewardship for environmental harmony The PATC Midweek Hikers carpool each the hike, we will visit the Museum of Natural and maintaining the family atmosphere on Wednesday from the Washington, D.C. area History Annex near Leesburg Airport, which which CMH was founded over 40 years to various trailheads. Hikes are at a moder- has some great hands-on children’s nature ago. INFO: Mark Nelson ate pace and about 8 to 12 miles in length activities in their front room. INFO: Lauren ([email protected]) 703/379-9400. with varied elevations. Current information, Lang ([email protected]) 571/242-3950. Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 11

FORECAST

`13 (Tuesday) is not jogging-stroller passable. After the `18 (Sunday) HIKE – Family Hike hike we will enjoy the kids touch table, puz- HIKE – In-Between Hikers McLean, VA zles, and coloring pages in the visitor’s cen- Great Falls, VA Come join us for a 3-mile out-and-back hike ter. If you would like, bring along a picnic One-way and scenic 6.5 miles in Great Falls along the Potomac River on the Potomac dinner to enjoy outside the visitor’s center area, consisting of 2.2 miles from Leigh Mill Heritage Trail. We will hike down the steep after the hike. This hike is designed as a fam- Rd. to CCT terminus in Great Falls Park, and hillside to the Potomac River and then along ily activity, so an adult must accompany then partly hilly, 4.3 riverfront miles in that the river until we reach a stream with a crop- children. Web site: park and Riverbend Park. Meet at 9:30 a.m. ping of rocks. This hike is not jogging-stroller www.nps.gov/gwmp/grfa/. INFO: Lauren at Riverbend Park visitor center. Car shuttle friendly. INFO: Jennifer Chambers (jpck- Lang ([email protected]) 571/242-3950. [email protected]) 301/588-1716. required. Joint event with Sierra Club MWROP. Bring lunch and water but no pets. 17 (Saturday) 13 (Tuesday) INFO: Henri Comeau ([email protected]) ` HIKE – Natural History Hike ` HIKE – Long Distance Hike or Frank Wodarczyk ([email protected]) Fairfax County, VA North District, Shenandoah National Park, VA 703/569-6737. CCT-VI The Sixth Annual Cross County Trail Join Bob Pickett on a 10.7-mile hike from Hike. This one-way, 32-mile hike along the Elkwallow Wayside down Jeremys Run and 20 (Tuesday) stream banks and through the woods of back up Neighbor Mountain trail to the Drive ` HIKE – Family Hike Fairfax County will start at "first light" to allow at milepost 27 where a shuttle will take us Great Falls, VA us to finish before sunset. Follows Pohick back to our starting point. Neighbor Join us for a kid-friendly hike along this jog- Mountain has a population of white birch, Creek, Accotink and Difficult Run. Great ging-stroller-passable trail in Riverbend Park. rare for our park, which we'll find. Hepatica, training for the big hikes coming up -- the This 2.5-mile hike follows the Paw Paw bloodroot and some violets should be pop- Brandywine, the Hike Across Maryland, the Passage Trail down to a pond, then along Redbud, and the Sierra Club's 100K. Will post- ping up for us to find. This should be consid- the Potomac Heritage Trail along the river. pone if awful weather is forecast. INFO: Chris ered a moderately difficult hike, with a INFO: Lauren Lang ([email protected]) Nolen ([email protected]) 301/469-8931. descent of 1,500 feet and back up. INFO: Bob Pickett 301/681-1511. 571/242-3950. 13 (Tuesday) MEETING - PATC Council, 7:00 p.m. 17 (Saturday) `20 (Tuesday) ` HIKE – Waterfall and Wildflower Series HIKE – Vigorous Hikers North District, Shenandoah National Park, VA `14 (Wednesday) Central District, Shenandoah National Park, VA HIKE – Easy Hikers A 13-mile circuit hike to the two Miller Head Overall Falls. From Thompson Hollow climb Great Falls, MD Falls: Miller Head and Hawksbill on the Miller Overall Run, view the falls, continue to AT We’ll do a 5-mile circuit on the Gold Mine Head; Appalachian, Salamander, and White and Elkwallow, returning via Heiskell Hollow, Loop. Start near Old Angler's Inn above Oak Trails. There will be a 1.6-mile, steep and 16 miles and 3,500 foot climb. INFO: Chris Towpath, hike to Old Gold Mine and then challenging bushwhack to and from the Nolen ([email protected]) 301/469-8931. down to Great Falls on the C&O Canal tow- falls. Good views from the two peaks. Total path. Brown bag lunch outside Great Falls elevation gain is approximately 3,600 feet. 21 (Wednesday) Tavern, side trip to view falls. Meet at 10:15 PATC Map 10. INFO: Jack Thorsen CLASS – Intro to Orienteering (REI) a.m. in parking lot across MacArthur Blvd. ([email protected]) 703/339-6716. Rockville, MD from Old Angler's Inn. Directions: from 7:30 p.m. Take your puzzle-solving skills into Beltway (I-495) Exit 41, go west on Clara Barton Pkwy 1.5 miles to its end at MacArthur .17 (Saturday) the wild. Learn how to navigate through the Blvd. Turn left, go 1.1 miles to Old Angler's Inn, TRAIL WORK TRIP – North District Hoodlums woods and find precise locations based on turn left into parking lot across road. INFO: North District, Shenandoah National Park, VA your knowledge of the map and terrain. Helen Shaw 301/365 1933. Join with the Hoodlums in their annual “Irish” Presented by the Quantico Orienteering work trip. We’ll be doing spring clearing of Club. Find out what events are happening in various trail sections in the North District. The `14 (Wednesday) your area. INFO: Mark Nelson HIKE - Midweek Hikers crew will be hand sawing and clearing ([email protected]) 703/379-9400. Location to be determined limbs, as well as chain-sawing to remove See Mar. 7 event for more information. blowdowns. The work trip will be based at 21 (Wednesday) Range View Cabin where we will have our ` HIKE – Easy Hikers 14 (Wednesday) Irish dinner after a day of work. Come for the Seneca, MD MEETING - Mountaineering Section, 8:00 day, stay for dinner, and camp overnight if Five-mile, easy C&O Canal hike. Bring lunch p.m. you wish. Or just come out and work with us and water. Take Beltway to River Road exit during the day. Newcomers are always wel- towards Potomac. Continue until River Road 14 (Wednesday) s come! We’ll meet at Piney River Ranger dead ends at Seneca and turn left. Turn left SPECIAL EVENT – Rockies Heli-Hiking (REI) Station, milepost 22 on Skyline Drive, at 9:00 Bailey’s Crossroads, VA again at Riley's Lock Road and park in the lot a.m. on Saturday. INFO: Dick Dugan by the canal. INFO: Harriet Rotter 7:30 p.m. The Canadian Rockies are majes- ([email protected]) 304/856-3511. tic, awe-inspiring, and more. Heli-Hiking is ([email protected]) 202/363-5095. one of the world’s greatest and rarest sum- 17 (Saturday) 21 (Wednesday) mer mountain experiences. The combination . TRAIL WORK TRIP – South Mountaineers ` HIKE - Midweek Hikers of luxurious lodges, service, guides, and Frederick, MD casual gourmet cuisine is as good as it gets, Location to be determined The South Mountaineers Trail Crew kicks off anywhere. And the mountains are remote their 14th season with this event. See Mar. 7 event for more information. wilderness inaccessible without the careful Newcomers welcomed, tools provided. and sensitive use of helicopters. Come out 21 (Wednesday) for an evening’s glimpse of what you can Everyone goes home happy and a bit tired from South Mountaineers’ events. We start MEETING – West Chapter experience in Canada! INFO: Mark Nelson Martinsburg, WV ([email protected]) 703/379-9400. at 9:00 a.m. in Frederick County. Please bring water, lunch, boots, and gloves. INFO: Meeting will take place at 7:00 p.m. at the Living Room located at 50 Monroe Street 15 (Thursday) Nancy Hammond ([email protected]) ` HIKE – Family After-School Hike 301/739-0442. next to the Berkley County plaza right off US Great Falls, VA Rte. 11 in Martinsburg, W.Va. Upcoming Take advantage of the new daylight sav- .17 (Saturday) spring and summer hikes, backpacking, ings time, and come join us for an exciting, TRAIL WORK TRIP – Yankee Clippers and trail work trips will be discussed. INFO: kid-friendly hike. We will hike along the River Tuscarora Trail, PA Beth Lipford ([email protected]) or Trail, with great views of the Potomac River INFO: Pete Brown (peter.brown4@ Dave Jordahl ([email protected]) along Mather Gorge. This 3-mile circuit hike worldnet.att.net) 410/343-1140. 240/777-7741. 12 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

FORECAST 24 (Saturday) 27 (Tuesday) 29 (Thursday) ` HIKE - West Chapter Tuscarora Trail Series ` HIKE – Family Hike ` HIKE – Family After-School Hike Front Royal, VA Harpers Ferry, WV Comus, MD Rte. 55 to Waites Run Rd. 8.9 miles, moderate This 2.5-mile circuit hike will take us up the AT Come hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain hike. Elevation loss of 700 feet. This section of to some great views at Jefferson Rock. We amonadnock (a mountain that remains after the Tuscarora will straddle the WV/VA border will continue along the AT into the historic the erosion of the surrounding land). This 1.5- on Great North Mountain with several views town of Harpers Ferry. The flat and scenic mile, circuit hike has some kid-sized rock on either side. We will have a lunch stop at trails on Virginius Island, along the scrambles, and good views from the top. The the Paul Gerhardt Shelter. INFO: Jason Shenandoah River, will complete the circuit. trail is rocky and steep in places. We will Rainville ([email protected]) The trail is not jogging-stroller passable. Web climb up to the summit via the Sunrise Trail, 304/262-0994. site: www.nps.gov/hafe/. INFO: Lauren Lang hike down the A. M. Thomas Trail, and ([email protected]) 571/242-3950. Northern Peaks Trail to the Bill Lambert 24 – 25 (Saturday – Sunday) Overlook, then return to our cars via the CLASS – Hike Leader Training 27 (Tuesday) Mountain Loop Trail. Because of the steep Vienna, VA ` HIKE – Family Hike rocky parts the trail is not jogging-stroller This weekend course will be conducted at Potomac, MD friendly. If you would like, bring along a pic- the PATC Headquarters building in Vienna Come join us for a 2-mile circuit trail that is nic dinner to enjoy at the picnic area near and is designed to prepare you to lead not jogging-stroller passable, on the Billy the parking lot. This is designed as a family hikes. The two-day course uses classroom Goat Trail (part B). We will hike a rocky but activity, so an adult must accompany chil- and outdoor instruction to prepare partici- pretty trail along the Potomac River and dren. Web site: www.sugarloafmd.com/. pants with skills to lead safe and enjoyable INFO: Lauren Lang ([email protected]) then back along the C&O Canal Towpath. hikes while minimizing impact to the environ- 571/242-3950. There is an opportunity for the kids to climb a ment. Topics covered include medical emergencies, personal equipment, Leave No big rock slab. INFO: Jennifer Chambers (jpck- 29 (Thursday) Trace, leadership, planning, standard proce- [email protected]) 301/588-1716. s SPECIAL EVENT – Secrets of Sambu (REI) dures, and navigation. Scenario exercises Rockville, MD will also be used to emphasize hike leader- `27 (Tuesday) 7:00 p.m. In the quiet place near the Indian ship skills. Cost: $20 for PATC members, $35 for HIKE – Vigorous Hikers village Sambu, lies a secret that the local non-members. Registration: Send payments Luray, VA Embera call, “Yarre Mongara,” the Monkey to PATC, HLT Course, 118 Park Street, SE, Camp Roosevelt Area of GW National Stone, pristine evidence of a long gone civi- Vienna, VA 22180-4609. Pre-registration is Forest. Gap Creek, Scothorn Gap, lization. To be the first American to see the required. INFO: Eric VanNortwick Massanutten, and Stephens Trails. 18 miles dramatic archeological site, explorer Robert ([email protected]) Day: 202/675 2520. and 3,300 foot climb with 15-mile option. Hyman and his team endured a grueling 3- Evening: 703/878-7025 INFO: Chris Nolen ([email protected]) day hike through the legendary Darién Gap 301/469-8931. a 10,000-square-mile swath of jungle, swollen .24 – 25 (Saturday – Sunday) by heat and humidity, laced with sucking TRAIL WORK TRIP - Cadillac Crew 27 (Tuesday) mud, crocodile and leech infested waters, Martinsburg, WV MEETING - Shenandoah Mountain Rescue biting insects, and centuries of dramatic liter- The Crew plans to start a Tuscarora Trail relo- Group (Business meeting), 7:30 p.m. ary accounts. Photographer-mountaineer, cation at the north end of Sleepy Creek Robert Hyman has organized and led WMA. This will be the initial work on a seven- 28 (Wednesday) numerous scientific expeditions for The mile trail relocation to route the trail through CLASS – Women’s Backpacking Clinic (REI) Explorers Club. INFO: Mark Nelson (mnel- the Devils Nose area. Bring water and a Bailey’s Crossroads VA [email protected]) 703/379-9400. lunch for Saturday noon. Community dinner 7:30 p.m. Yes! Women ought to experience on Saturday night. Overnight location to be the adventure of backcountry travel, on Q30 – April 1 (Friday – Sunday) determined. INFO: Jon or Katherine Rindt their own terms. Gear designers have been CABIN WORK TRIP – Argow Cabin ([email protected]) 540/635-6351. busy, and packs and sleeping bags, as well South District, Shenandoah National Park, VA as boots and clothing, are now available in Bring your pioneering spirit (and camping .25 (Sunday) models designed specifically for women. gear), and join us in the continuing restora- TRAIL WORK TRIP – West Chapter Join REI’s women’s outdoor adventure spe- tion of an old, mid-1800s log cabin built by Frederick, MD cialists for an evening of eye-opening dia- Confederate Soldier James Samuel Eaton. Start of the spring 2007 West Chapter trail logue and demonstration of gear, skills, There are plenty of projects both large and work sessions at Gambrill State Park. The regional destinations, menu planning, and small for all skill levels. Communal meals pro- Chapter has and will continue to work on training for enjoyable backcountry adven- vided for Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast trails in addition to the Black Locust Trail ture. INFO: Mark Nelson ([email protected]) and Sunday lunch for minimal fee of $15/ (which the West Chapter is the official spon- 703/379-9400. person. INFO: Jeff Testerman (blueridgehik- sor of) based on the needs of the Maryland [email protected]) 434/589-2081. Park Service. Starting this spring there are 28 (Wednesday) sections of the Green Ash Trail and the ` HIKE – Easy Hikers 31 (Saturday) campground trail at Cunningham Falls State . TRAIL WORK TRIP – South Mountaineers McLean, VA Park that need immediate attention. Meet Frederick, MD The Easy Hikers will hike five miles on the 10:00 a.m. at the Nature Center. RSVP pre- Join us for a fun-filled event involving dirt and Potomac Heritage Trail, from Turkey Run to ferred, but not required. INFO: Dave Jordahl teamwork. Newcomers always welcomed. ([email protected]) 240/777-7741. Fort Marcy. This will be a somewhat-more- We meet in Frederick County at 9:00 a.m. strenuous hike than usual, with ups and Please bring layers if it is chilly; water, lunch, 27 (Tuesday) downs and two stream crossings but no gloves, and boots. INFO: Nancy Hammond, CLASS – Intro to Trail Running (REI) other rocky sections. Meet at Fort Marcy at ([email protected]) 301/739-0442. College Park, MD 10:15 a.m. Directions: Take GW Parkway 7:00 p.m. Relax and de-stress in natural sur- northbound from Rosslyn about 3.5 miles to 31 (Saturday) roundings while getting your workout! We’ll Fort Marcy exit. There is no access to Fort s WATER QUALITY MONITORING introduce hikers and runners to the basic Marcy from the southbound Parkway! A car Gore, VA principles of trail running, regardless of out- shuttle will be used since this is a one-way Start of the spring 2007 PATC water quality door environment. This presentation is hike. INFO: Gary Abrecht monitoring season. Monitor water quality by designed for all levels of hikers and runners ([email protected]) 202/546-6089. Cell on collecting and identifying benthic macroin- who have or might have an interest in trail day of hike: 202/365-2921. vertebrates residing in streams that run running. Topics covered include, but are through PATC lands adjacent to the not limited to, trail safety, clothing, plan- `28 (Wednesday) Tuscarora Trail. Barclay Run, a small stream ning, nutrition, hydration, and footwear. HIKE - Midweek Hikers that runs through the Howze-Gore Tract near INFO: Mark Nelson ([email protected]) Location to be determined the recently relocated section of the 703/379-9400. See Mar. 7 event for more information. Tuscarora Trail will be monitored. Previous Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 13

FORECAST training in sampling and identifying benthic 4 (Wednesday) `14 (Saturday) macroinvertebrates helpful, but not MEETING - New Members (PATC), 7:30 p.m. HIKE – Long Distance required. INFO: Dave Jordahl Central District, Shenandoah National Park, VA ([email protected]) 240/777-7741. .7 (Saturday) A 16-mile circuit hike that will start on the Rose TRAIL WORK TRIP – South Mountaineers River Fire Road and proceed via the Upper Appalachian Trail, MD Dark Hollow Trail over Double Top Mountain. April The South Mountaineers always have a We will descend on an old RV road to the good time working along the Appalachian Rapidan Fire Road for a visit to Camp Hoover. 1 (Sunday) and Catoctin Trails in Maryland. We meet Return will be via the Fire Road and Upper at 9:00 a.m. in Frederick County. Please DEADLINE – May Potomac Appalachian Dark Hollow Trail. Elevation Gain 3,000 feet. Material due to editors 5:00 p.m. bring lunch, water, lunch, and boots. INFO: Nancy Hammond ([email protected]) Moderate pace, stopping for flora and fungi. All items for the next issue of the newsletter 301/739-0442. Inexperienced hikers contact leader for due. Send Forecast events to PA-Forecast@ details. INFO: William Needham patc.net and all other articles to the editor 7 (Saturday) ([email protected]) 410/884-9127. at [email protected]. NOTE: Do not send photos . TRAIL WORK TRIP – Yankee Clippers or articles to headquarters. E-mail for Appalachian Trail, PA .14 (Saturday) address. INFO: Pete Brown (peter.brown4@ TRAIL WORK TRIP – Rock Creek Park worldnet.att.net) 410/343-1140. Washington, DC 1 (Sunday) 8:15-Noon. Help make our first work trip of ` HIKE – In-Between Hikers `10 (Tuesday) the year a success. Meet at the Rock Creek Reston, VA HIKE – Family Hike Nature Center located south of the Military VA Cross County Trail Hike #2. Scenic and Darnestown, MD Road NW park entrance. INFO: Alex Sanders one-way 7.7-mile hike in Reston/Great Falls Come join us for a 3-mile, out-and-back hike ([email protected]) 703/465-8140 or area, from Leigh Mill Rd. to Lawyers Rd. Meet through a field and into the woods on the Ranger Ken Ferebee 202/895-6221. at 9:30 a.m. at Raccoon Ridge Ct. off Seneca Greenway Trail, along Seneca Creek to an Old Mill House. This is a pretty hike into Lawyers Rd. Car shuttle required. Joint event 14 (Saturday) three different ecosystems. INFO: Jennifer with Sierra Club MWROP. Bring lunch and . TRAIL WORK TRIP - South Mountaineers Chambers ([email protected]) water, but no pets. INFO: Frank Wodarczyk Appalachian Trail, MD 301/588-1716. ([email protected]) 703/569-6737 or Henri Join us for a fun-filled event involving dirt and Comeau ([email protected]). 10 (Tuesday) teamwork. Newcomers always welcomed. ` We meet in Frederick County, Md. at 9:00 1 (Sunday) HIKE – Vigorous Hikers s WATER QUALITY MONITORING Central District, Shenandoah National Park, VA a.m. Please bring water, lunch, gloves, and Hancock, MD Ascend the Jones Mountain Trail to Bear boots. INFO: Nancy Hammond Continuation of the spring 2007 PATC water Church Rock, continuing to Cat Knob, ([email protected]) 301/739-0442. quality monitoring season. Monitor water returning on the Fork Mountain, Staunton quality by collecting and identifying benthic River Trail with options up to 18 miles and 4,300 feet of elevation gain. INFO: Chris 14 – 15 (Saturday – Sunday) macroinvertebrates residing in streams that Nolen ([email protected]) 301/469-8931. CLASS - CPR/AED/Basic Wilderness First Aid run through PATC lands adjacent to the Vienna, VA Tuscarora Trail. An unnamed stream that runs 10 (Tuesday) 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. This 2-day class provides through the Vos Tract very close to the new MEETING - PATC Council, 7:00 p.m. American Heart Association certification in Dugan Hollow Shelter will be monitored. The Adult CPR, AED, and Basic First Aid. The second location of the stream is actually on the West `11 (Wednesday) day the student will learn American Safety and Virginia side of the Potomac River directly HIKE - Midweek Hikers Health Institute (ASHI) Basic Wilderness First Aid. across from Hancock, Md. Previous training Location to be determined All certifications are valid for two years. Cost of in sampling and identifying benthic macroin- See Mar. 7 event for more information. the class is $120 for Trail Patrol Members and vertebrates helpful, but not required. INFO: $130 for Non-Trail Patrol Members. Pre- Dave Jordahl ([email protected]) 11 (Wednesday) Registration is required by April 2. Go to 240/777-7741. MEETING - Mountaineering Section, 8:00 p.m. www.patc.net/volunteer/trailpatrol.com for 3 (Tuesday) ` HIKE – Vigorous Hikers Central District, Shenandoah National Park, VA Climb Leading Ridge Trail to the AT south to lunch at Corbin Cabin. Then climb Indian Run Trail to return via Crusher Ridge. 18 miles with 4,000 foot climb. INFO: Chris Nolen ([email protected]) 301/469-8931.

3 (Tuesday) MEETING - Trail Patrol, 7:30 p.m.

4 (Wednesday) ` HIKE – Easy Hikers Washington, DC Tidal Basin hike – we hope the cherry blos- soms will be out! We will walk about 5 miles around the Tidal Basin and the Mall. Meet at 10:15 a.m. at the Smithsonian Metro Station Mall Exit (top of the escalator). Bring water. Lunch at the Reagan Building. INFO: Renee Schick ([email protected]) 301/493- 9525.

4 (Wednesday) ` HIKE - Midweek Hikers Location to be determined Picture of trail on Hightop Mountain, after the Valentine’s Day Ice Storm. Although the See Mar. 7 event for more information. storm deposited a lot of ice on the entire region, there is remarkably little tree damage. 14 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

FORECAST more information and the registration form. INFO: Saleena DeVore 25` (Wednesday) ([email protected]) 540/972-8394. HIKE - Midweek Hikers Location to be determined 14 – 15 (Saturday – Sunday) See Mar. 7 event for more information. ` HIKE – North Chapter Appalachian Trail, PA Q27 – 29 (Friday – Sunday) This is an overnight hike. We will spend the night at PATC’s Gypsy CABIN WORK TRIP – Argow Cabin Springs Cabin. On Saturday, we’ll do 8.4 miles on the AT: Pine Grove South District, Shenandoah National Park, VA Furnace State Park (PA Rte. 233) to Big Flats (Arendtsville- Bring your pioneering spirit (and camping gear), and join us in the Shippensburg Rd.). On Sunday, we’ll do 11.3 miles: Big Flats continuing restoration of an old, mid-1800s log cabin built by (Arendtsville-Shippensburg Rd.) to Caledonia State Park (Rte. 30). Confederate Soldier James Samuel Eaton. There are plenty of projects INFO: Christopher Firme ([email protected]) 717/794-2855. both large and small for all skill levels. Communal meals provided for Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast and Sunday lunch for minimal fee 15 (Sunday) of $15/ person. INFO: Jeff Testerman ([email protected]) ` HIKE – In-Between Hikers 434/589-2081. Oakton, VA Cross County Trail Hike #3. One-way 6-mile hike in Oakton/Reston `28 (Saturday) area, partly hilly and partly along scenic Difficult Run, starting at HIKE – West Chapter Lawyers Rd. and ending at Oak Marr Park. Bring water and lunch but Columbia Furnace, VA no pets. Joint event with Sierra Club MWROP. INFO: Frank Wodarczyk Tuscarora Trail Series. In GW National Forest; Waites Run Rd. to Cedar ([email protected]) 703/569-6737 or Henri Comeau Creek (FDR 1863). 8.8 miles, a strenuous hike. Elevation change of ([email protected]). 1,700 feet. We will be leaving West Virginia behind as we go up Little Sluice Mountain and enjoy the great views from White Rock cliff. INFO: 18 (Wednesday) Jason Rainville ([email protected]) 304/262-0994. ` HIKE – Easy Hikers Great Falls, VA .28 (Saturday) We will hike about 5 miles along the Potomac from River Bend Park in TRAIL WORK TRIP – Rock Creek Park Virginia to Great Falls Park on the Heritage Trail and return via the Washington, DC Upland Trail. Meet at 10:15 a.m. Some moderate hills and a couple of 8:15 - Noon. Meet at the Rock Creek Nature Center located south of rocky areas. Bring water and lunch. Directions: Take Beltway to exit the Military Road NW park entrance. INFO: Alex Sanders 44, Georgetown Pike/Great Falls. Take Georgetown Pike towards ([email protected]) 703/465-8140 or Ranger Ken Ferebee Great Falls for 4.4 miles and turn right on River Bend Rd. This is the first 202/895-6221. right after the stoplight at Great Falls Park. Continue on River Bend Rd. for 2.1 miles to Jeffery Rd., right on Jeffery Rd. for 0.9 miles to River .28 – 29 (Saturday – Sunday) Bend Park entrance. Meet in right hand parking lot below visitors cen- TRAIL WORK TRIP – Cadillac Crew ter. INFO: Sigrid Crane ([email protected]) 703/938-0954. Martinsburg, WV The Crew will continue work on a Tuscarora Trail relocation at the 18 (Wednesday) north end of Sleepy Creek WMA. The first phase involves moving the ` HIKE - Midweek Hikers old Meadow Branch Trail to drier ground. Bring water and a lunch for Location to be determined Saturday noon. Community dinner on Saturday night. Overnight loca- See Mar. 7 event for more information. tion to be determined. INFO: Jon or Katherine Rindt (jkrindt@com- cast.net) 540/635-6351. J 21 (Saturday) . TRAIL WORK TRIP – North District Hoodlums North District, Shenandoah National Park, MD Join with the Hoodlums in their annual Southwestern work trip. The Hoodlums Trail Crew works on the AT and the blue-blazed trails in the north section of SNP. After a day of hard work we will enjoy the cama- raderie of fellow trail workers with a Southwestern theme meal at Indian Run maintenance hut. Come for the day, stay for dinner, and camp overnight if you wish. Or just come out and work with us during the day. Newcomers are always welcome! We’ll meet at Piney River Ranger Station, milepost 22 on Skyline Drive, at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday morning. INFO: Dick Dugan ([email protected]) 304/856-3511.

21 (Saturday) . TRAIL WORK TRIP - Yankee Clippers Tuscarora Trail, PA INFO: Pete Brown ([email protected]) 410/343-1140.

24 (Tuesday) ` HIKE – Family Hike Silver Spring, MD Come join us for a 2-3 mile, out-and-back (turn around is group con- sensus) hike along Northwest Branch Creek. We can choose one of two paths, one is jogging-stroller friendly and the other is not jogging- stroller passable. INFO: Jennifer Chambers ([email protected]) 301/588-1716.

24 (Tuesday) ` HIKE – Vigorous Hikers Front Royal, VA REDBUD-V, a 30+ mile loop around Massanutten Mountain. This self- supported hike will loop starting at Elizabeth Furnace west on the Tuscarora Trail, south on the Massanutten West Trail, north on the Massanutten East Trail and the Tuscarora Trail back to Elizabeth Furnace. INFO: Chris Nolen ([email protected]) 301/469-8931.

24 (Tuesday) MEETING - Shenandoah Mountain Rescue Group (Business meeting), 7:30 p.m.

Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 15

Organization, from page 8 PATC subdivides our entire geographic area into dis- Appalachian Nature: Mammals tricts, and a volunteer district manager coordinates TC has launched a major long-term commit- information among overseers, PATC, and our government to environmental monitoring along the AT. ment partners. Called the Mega-Transect, this new project will Adirect scientific research, citizen science, and public At the level above trail overseer, PATC has 23 districts. outreach toward an understanding of the long-term Each PATC district is composed of a district manager health of our Appalachians. PATC is now initiating its and a set of trail overseers who maintain trail segments first effort under the Mega-Transect. A cooperative in that district. For example, SNP is subdivided into effort between ATC, the National Park Service, the seven PATC districts: North, Central, and South AT, and U.S. Forest Service, and the Smithsonian Institution North, Central, and South Blue Blazed (Central has a will develop a protocol for monitoring mammal species north and south end). There is a district manager for along the AT. The survey will be conducted from April each of these seven districts. Each district has a multi- through November 2007 along the AT in Virginia, West tude of trail overseers. District managers do much more Virginia, and Maryland. The survey will use infra-red than attend meetings and send e-mails and track the trip cameras to photograph wildlife species at specific efforts of their trail overseers. District managers usually points along the trail. do larger, harder, more complex projects in their districts, and often participate in a major way in a trail crew We will need volunteers to set up and move cameras for their district. Keep reading to learn about trail crews. from point to point on a monthly basis. The cooperative will supply the digital cameras, supplies, and training, If you are interested in finding out more about being a and the resulting pictures will be shared between the trail overseer there are several good ways to proceed. volunteers, the participating organizations, and the sci- Look at the back page of any issue of the Potomac entists. Volunteers will set up 50 cameras each month Appalachian and examine the list of help wanted. You at designated sites, checking each camera two weeks can also sign up for a Trail Overseer Workshop – watch into the month, for a seven-month period. the Forecast in the Potomac Appalachian for when these weekend workshops will be held. Potential overseers are I’m certainly looking forward to developing the digital welcome at these workshops, space permitting. You can photos from my sites. I understand we’ll be using a also contact the district manager for the area you would scent-lure to entice predator species to visit our photo like to volunteer in and ask to visit a trail there. sites. I’m going to guess that deer will be the most com- monly photographed species (going out on a limb, Supervisor of Trails there), followed by raccoon, opossum, gray fox, black PATC district managers report to an elected PATC officer, bear, red fox, skunk, and coyote. I look forward to the supervisor of trails. This is also a volunteer position. “catching” a gray fox or bobcat. Noting the extreme vari- The supervisor of trails (SOT) participates at every level ability in the amount of white in the pelage of skunks, and aspect of the management and maintenance of trails we should be able to note repeat visitors. Coyotes might for PATC and is the club’s primary link among govern- prove interesting. Short of a mountain lion, the biggest ment agencies, the PATC council and executive commit- treat for me will be a long-tailed weasel. tee, PATC office staff, and the district managers. The SOT submits the budget for the trails organization; negotiates Of course, black bear are always a thrill. I understand a and drafts agreements; makes decisions involving club minority of bear in our region sport white chevrons on resources; and requires many managerial, social, and cre- their chest. I’d like to get a picture of that. ative skills. The long-range future of the club depends on the individuals who fill this critical role. This is certainly a great area for seeing bear. Shenandoah has the highest density of bear of any Trail Crews national park. With an estimated population of 700- In addition to trail overseers, district managers, and the 800, this puts the density around 2.5 bear per square SOT, there are other volunteers deeply involved in the mile. trails system within PATC - the trail crews. There are two major types of trail crews, and a major subdivision with- But the ursids don’t limit themselves to the park. There in one of those types. The types are: are nearly 40,000 bear estimated in our five-state 1. Seasonal, week-long PATC trail crews. Volunteer for a region. Pennsylvania has the most with 15,000, North week or more on a very large project in a specific area. Carolina follows with 11,500, then West Virginia with The crews camp or are housed at the project site. 10,000, Virginia with 4,500, and Maryland with 325 Example: the Massarock Crew (based in the GWNF), now under the gun in Garrett and Alleghany Counties. Shenandoah Crew (SNP). 2. Ongoing (usually monthly) weekend PATC trail crews. We all recall our encounters with black bear, such a These crews meet one weekend or more per month to beautiful and intelligent animal. I recall coming 20 feet

See Organization, page 18 See Mammals, page 18 16 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

Massarock Summer Crew Weeks Free State Hiker to Open in March June 3-8 & June 10-15 Maryland’s newest hiker reststop! West 0.3 miles on Wolfsville Road to The Free State Hiker, owned by ’06 Sept. 9-14 & Sept. 16-21 thru-hiker Ken (‘Bone Pac’) and Jennel Berry. $30 includes George Washington & climate-controlled hiker room, all linens, shower, laundry, Jefferson National Forest internet, phone. Credit cards accepted. Pizza/Chinese The Crew will pitch tents at a spike camp close to the delivery available. Bikes available for shuttle into nearby trail in the Massanutten Mountains. You will need to Smithsburg for resupply. Open Mar. 15 – Nov. 15. No alco- bring your own tent. The crew will continue constructing hol or pets. Two-night maximum. 11626 Wolfsville Road, the Massanutten West Trail. Donate a week or more of honest sweat and fun in exchange for meeting new peo- Smithsburg, MD 21783, ([email protected]) ple and sleeping under celestial splendor. For details on 301/824-6338. J this thrilling and rewarding opportunity, free grub, and crew shirt, leave your name and address on 703/242- 0693 X 12 for more information. The application is available on the web at www.patc.net/volunteer/trails/files/ App%202007.pdf. J Trail Overseers Appointed in January Calling all Teachers Sherri Fickel & Lower Pass Mountain ATC and NPS announce their Trail to Every Kevin Kraditor Trail Classroom program for 2007 promoting resource stewardship, recreation, and commu- William Boyce BROT - Route 28 to nity engagement. This 3-session professional development series for educators meets in Little Rock Run Harpers Ferry WV on May 11-12 and also in Shepherdstown WV from July 30-Aug. 3. Jimmie Centers Chimney Trail Deadline for applying for this free workshop is March 30. Contact Rita Hennessy, NPS John & Frances Meneka Peak Trail ([email protected]) 304/535-6170 for more information. J Rodenhausen

Mitchell Lerner Cabin John [2 sections]

National Trails Day is June 2 Doug & Tabatha Woodland Trail Celebrate trails and bring more awareness to Viner them by hosting an event! Lead a hike; get the family out; join a trail crew – or organize one; find an event in your community, take a table and Lee Banville & River Trail handouts (provided by PATC) to introduce people Jule Gardner to hiking trails and the club. For more information and help in organizing an event go to: www.amer- icanhiking.org/events/ntd. It’s not too soon to Peggy Dennis Valley Trail start thinking about this!!! For help with setting up a table at an event contact Jane Thompson Craig Odell BROT - Ordway to Route ([email protected]) 301/349-2496. J 28 parking lot

Tips From the Crew Want great information about all things “trails maintenance” related? Get a maintainer’s tip at: www.blueandwhitecrew.org/ resources/tips.php

Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 17

Organization, from page 16 Mammals, from page 16 work for one to three days on a moderate project. from a sow and her cub while working along the There are two types of these crews: Nicholson Hollow Trail. The mother was calmly forag- • Crews which do their volunteer work in a specific ing with her nose to the ground while her cub hid geographic region. These crews primarily work in specific behind her massive body, occasionally peering out at districts, although the volunteers for any particular crew me. Continuing to sniff the ground, the sow softly mur- can come from all over the mid-Atlantic region: Examples: mured a very reassuring sound that told the cub that I North District (SNP) Hoodlums, Blue & White Crew was nothing to be concerned about. And it reassured (Central SNP), Rock Creek Filibusters (DC), Yankee me, as well! Clippers (PA), South Mountaineers (MD), Roaring Tuskers (Tuscarora), Mutton Hollow, Stonewall Brigade (Great Gary Alt, well-known Pennsylvania biologist, relates North Mountain), Maryland Metrolites (MD), Shenandoah finding a bear who, in order to elude its trackers, would Bartenders (SNP). stop in its tracks, rise on its two hind feet and twist • Independent crews. These crews work in many places, around, jumping perfectly in its previous steps and and have additional expertise in building new trails: retrace its steps for a number of feet before leaping off in Examples: Cadillac Crew, Acme Treadway Company. a perpendicular direction. Alt tracked the same bear doing this 26 times in two days, repeating the same eva- For all types of trail crews, volunteers are welcome for as sive technique every time, retracing its footsteps from 50 few or as many trips during the year that they wish. feet to 200 yards before leaping sideways off the trail! Unless otherwise specified in the Forecast or special newsletter announcement, all tools are provided, and no Finally, mammal photographer and writer Leonard Lee experience is required. This is a good choice for people Rue tells the story of two bears that had feasted too who love trails and want to volunteer but do not have the long on fermented apples. The bears were so intoxicat- time to make a dedicated commitment as a trail over- ed they could not walk. In fact, the Massachusetts seer. There is a strong social aspect to participating in State Game Commission temporarily closed the bear these trail crews and many friendships are made. Trail season for five days that year to give the bears a chance crew schedules are printed in the Forecast section, both in the PA and online at the PATC Web site. to sober up. Three game wardens were detailed to baby-sit with the bears around-the-clock while they slept through their stupor. Once the bears staggered Trails Coordinator off, the bear season resumed. The entire PATC trails organization is coordinated by a full-time paid employee of PATC, the trails coordinator. Not knowing the effect of the scent lure on species’ The trails coordinator handles everything from A to Z on appearance, I would expect our most photographed a daily basis, from the small details such as keeping mammal will be the white-tailed deer. We now have an each trail tool in good shape, to large issues such as pro- viding complex customized reports for our government estimated population of 4,760,000 deer permeating the partners. PATC is extremely fortunate to have a brilliant, same five-state area. I wonder how many photos of pie- dedicated, and experienced individual to fill this role. bald deer we’ll get. Some can have small areas of white while others can be almost all white. Albinos are very Special Trail Volunteers uncommon, although several have been reported at Fort Pickett, Va. For those occasions where urgent help is needed to tackle a specific trail issue, a list of special trail volunteers is kept by the trails coordinator at PATC Headquarters. OK. Let’s face it. Wouldn’t we all like to be the first to Please contact the trails coordinator ([email protected]) photograph a mountain lion in our mid-Atlantic region? for more information. The club is looking for those who What are your chances? Do mountain lions really exist have special skills and/or free time to take on special in our Appalachians? Most wildlife biologists and other non-trail, small projects, a 4WD vehicle suitable for state game officials recognize that a substantial number transporting PATC volunteers and equipment to work of authoritative persons have, indeed, seen mountain sites or special events, or are willing to do power weed- lions in our region. A former superintendent of the SNP ing with a brushcutter on PATC trails. has seen one. In fact, my wife, Jane, Chris Lamond, and I were dumbfounded to see one along FS 13 on Canaan For More Information Mountain, W.Va., near Blackwater State Park. For those seeking more information, nonmembers and members alike, are invited to join an informal “New While I won’t promise you’ll be the first to score a Members” meeting held the first week of every month photo of a mountain lion, I can promise a season of (check in the Potomac Appalachian newsletter “Forecast” surprises and a role in a great data-gathering effort for day, place, and time). At these meetings an experienced that will be the largest of its kind! To participate in club volunteer will give an overview of PATC’s mission and this survey, e-mail me at [email protected]. To learn activities and answer questions about the club. J more about mammals, go to my Appalachian —Jim Tomlin, Mammals Web site at www.bobpickett.org. J PATC Supervisor of Membership —Bob Pickett 18 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

Trailhead s we finish up the bit of winter we had this year, it’s time to start Aplanning for another active season of trail work. Deciding when to head out and confront the effects of the elements on your trail is certainly one step. Getting out last season’s to-do list or making a new list is another. Along with this activity planning can be a bit of safety prepa- rations. Now is a good time to go through the medical kit that’s been lodged in the bottom of the backpack, and replenish missing or dated items. A first aid and CPR course is also a good idea. The Red Cross offers many classes in the area, as do some other organizations. If you Photo by Dan Dueweke don’t remember the date of your last Charles Hillon and Jim Tomlin double bucking. tetanus shot, maybe it’s time. And that can make clearing a blowdown some sharpening tools and got a just so you’ll be at your trail-clearing easier. Examples of good and bad copy of the saw filer’s bible: “The best, make sure you have a nice pair technique will be discussed as well Crosscut Saw Manual” by Warren of good work gloves and some safety as what makes one kind of saw bet- Miller. Through a fair amount of glasses. ter or worse for a particular job. trial-and-error Dan sharpened, and After the lecture part of the work- re-sharpened those saws, then Who Needs a Chainsaw, Anyway? shop, there is a session in the headed to the woods for practice. He The massive clearing of the SNP woods to give each student ample stuck saws in binds, cracked Thanksgiving Ice Storm was eased opportunity to practice what they've wedges, damaged axe handles, and tremendously by a little motorized just learned (the WORK part of the did all the fool things a novice with help, but most trail cleanup can be workshop). no direction was likely to do. done with hand tools. In wilderness Fortunately he learned how not to areas that is the only option. For Co-leader Dan Dueweke recounted do those things by going out with those who want to improve (or the origins of the workshop. Not experienced backcountry sawyers develop) their skill with crosscut long after becoming a district man- (CT Campbell and Don Harvey) in saws and axes, take note of the ager he was called to help clear a SNP, and eventually got pretty good. Traditional Tools Workshop coming large blowdown on Saddle Trail. By the spring of 2003 he was ready up April 28 and 29. Topics include Never having used a crosscut saw for the first running of what was tool safety, forces acting on a blow- before, he grabbed the biggest saw then the crosscut saw course. down (top, bottom, side, and end he could find in the PATC tool room bind), single and double bucking, and commenced to gnaw away. By the time of the 2006 class, Dan use of wedges, and accessory tools Hours before they finally got that asked Patrick Wilson (wilderness old 28-inch oak cleared, Dan real- overseer, Upper Buck Hollow Trail) ized he didn’t know what he was if he would teach axe techniques doing, and further, why the old along with the saw instruction. Like timers referred to crosscut saws as Dan, Patrick had developed a rever- “misery whips.” ence for hand tools and was a self- taught axeman. As a college profes- After that episode he contacted Liles sor, Patrick was a natural at teach- Creighton and asked if PATC could ing, at ease in front of the group, hold a crosscut saw workshop, fig- and had a wealth of knowledge on uring that the club would have an axe techniques. The “Traditional expert somewhere. Liles’ response Tools Workshop” was born. was “sounds like a good idea, when will you be teaching it?” Gulp. That Those with a bent toward anthro- was in the fall of 2002 and Dan pology, take note. Axes have been immersed himself in all things gradually perfected during 10,000 crosscut. He went on E-bay and years of human history. They are Photo by Dan Dueweke bought a couple of old saws and Patrick Wilson making the chips fly. See Trailhead, page 20 Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 19

Trailhead, from page 19 Availability of the Pinnacles out the concrete stepping stone both utterly simple and amazingly Research Facility for PATC trail cylinders across Popes Head Creek effective as wilderness tools. From crews may be limited in 2007 due to along the Bull Run Occoquan Trail. hatchets to racing axes, Dan has use by other organizations. The Only two of the five cylinders, which tried all types and has a fair idea of White Oak Ranger Station could be weigh 1,100 pounds each, were the sorts of tools that suit various an alternative. found in the initial inspection. Later, users. He finds there’s an aesthetic with lower water, another cylinder satisfaction in carrying a single, The SNP operations budget contin- was found about 150 yards down- lightweight tool versatile enough to ues to be under pressure. The use of stream in Bull Run River. Yet anoth- do everything from clearing briars to “soft money” for designated projects er cylinder was found buried in a chopping a large tree in half. There is filling some of the trail needs in the huge gravel pile (5-feet deep) deposit- is also tremendous personal satis- park. The five-year general agree- ed along one bank near the crossing. faction from mastering one of ment between PATC and SNP is due One cylinder just disappeared! mankind's most ancient skills. to be renewed this year. Some editing remains before the agreement will be Grip hoist and rock-bar work by Highlights of SNP-PATC Meeting ready for signatures. PATC is in the Overseers Jeff LeBlanc and Shawn The annual trails coordination process of establishing a trail crew Callahan and DM Dave Fellers con- meeting between PATC and SNP for the South District to complement sumed more than 22 hours recover- was held on Jan. 27 at the the crews in the Central and North ing the two cylinders washed down- Headquarters in Vienna. PATC SNP districts. Tools and equipment are stream while using another 15 hours district managers, SNP rangers, and being purchased and volunteers recovering the buried cylinder and Karen Lutz from the ATC Mid- being recruited. placing the cylinders in the crossing. Atlantic Regional Office attended. Jan. 7 saw the first happy hikers The SNP contingent expressed its crossing with dry shoes. This dis- The PATC property that SNP will appreciation to all the PATC volun- placement is not new as many who use for parking access to Old Rag teers who maintain the trail, huts, work at stream crossings know. Mountain is a work in progress. A and cabins in the park. With park new environmental assessment is staff shortages, PATC support is On average, the Popes Head cylin- needed and some concerns of locals essential. ders are dislodged on the order of will be addressed. two to three times a year. During The Power of a Flash Flood cold weather, hip boots are a neces- Plans for the Panorama complex at Nov. 16 there was a flash flood along sity, and thanks to PATC and the Thornton Gap are evolving. The lat- Popes Head Creek in Clifton, Va., Northern Virginia Regional Park est plan calls for the replacement of recounts District Manager Dave Authority, Shawn and Dave now the existing structure with a new Fellers. Raging water, carrying big have their own hip boots. visitors’ center and CCC museum. logs, swept downstream and wiped Impromptu Cabin-Trails Synergy Pennsylvania District Trails Manager and North Chapter President Pete Brown knew it would be good to have extra volunteers to help with the aftermath of the fire at the Anna Michener cabin (see related story.) Pete offered his monthly AT trails work trip crew to work on the cabin instead of trails. However, so many would-be carpenters, painters, and general repairers showed up that there was not enough room in the cabin for all of them to work productively. So, with Al Black coordinating the repairs, Pete led a group in cleaning out and rebuilding some of the dozens of water bars leading down to the cabin. The cabin access road is in fact a trail, with the AT running f LeBlanc down it about 3/4 of a mile, then a final quarter mile of blue blaze trail

Photo by Jef right past the cabin door. Dave Fellers recovering a buried cylinder with a grip hoist. See Trailhead, page 21 20 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

Trailhead, from page 20 Keith Tondrick, an overseer of both a trail section on Massanutten and the Sugar Knob Cabin in GWNF, was one of the volunteers. The fact that by chance Keith had reserved Michener for the upcoming Martin Luther King holiday weekend was his personal motivator in helping get the cabin back in the rental program. The efforts of both cabin and trail crews were quite successful, and the extra cleaning and new interior paint job left Michener looking positively polished. The one trail observation expressed by cabin Overseers Steve and Tess Koeppen was the waterbar restorations had been so thorough, it now took more driving skill getting over them when Photo by Catherine Kelleher they needed direct access to the Vicky Bishton and Betty Steil wait to relieve Ellen Jackson as she clears a black locust cabin. Keith and friends did get sprawled across Piney Ridge Trail. their stay in the cabin the following weekend, and while there, discov- overseer led crews with hand saws The group reassembled in Front ered two bags of trash in the woods on the Fork Mountain and lower Royal’s Jalisco’s to sample the with a badly burned jacket and Piney Ridge Trails. excellent Mexican food and reflect blackened Coleman fuel container. No one could have guessed the day on some new experiences. The would turn out to be a perfect May conclusion was the day’s work had Hikers Able to Adapt to Trail Work short-sleeve day, weather-wise. The been surprisingly enjoyable as When there is some discreet jockey- misleading part was how early it got well as satisfying. One new trail ing for who is going to get the dark. By the time Jim’s group had worker observed to an experienced longest walk, you know you’re not gotten another massive oak under overseer/hiker, “Now I understand dealing with your typical trail crew. control, light was fading. Crew why you’re always flicking sticks Hearing of the SNP Thanksgiving Ice members found wrestling with a and debris off the trails.” Storm, busy Sierra Club and West five-foot crosscut saw exhausting, Virginia Highlands Conservancy but perked up noticeably when it hike leader Mike Juskelis, a.k.a., came time to hike up and out. Some Please send any interesting tale, “M.R. Hyker” offered to hold an strong hiking was needed to hoof it technical advice, individual or emergency service trip and have back to the parking lot and then group accomplishments, and some of his long-time hikers pitch drive out of the park by the 5:00 in. Originally intended for a group of p.m. closing of Skyline Drive, still trail maintenance questions to eight, the trip proved sufficiently under the hunting season early clo- Catherine Kelleher at cckelle- J popular that it was opened up to sure precaution. [email protected]. twice that number of people.

The efficient trail-clearing effort mounted in December by SOT John Publications Help Needed Hedrick and the SNP DMs had the AT open by the time of the January We have lots of “Indians” but are in need of a “chief.” trip date. So instead, Supervisor of We've had an overwhelming response to our ad for hik- Membership and Great North Mountain (GNM) co-DM Jim Tomlin ers, editors, proofreaders, writers but we still need facilitated an effort to help on side someone to coordinate it all. If you're a good organizer trails in the SNP North District (ND). Assembling at the parking area near and would like to help with PATC publications, call Mathews Arm, the group split into for more information Most of the work can be done via four crews, with ND DM Dick Dugan phone and e-mail. For more information contact Jean and Overseer Wayne Limberg, each with chainsaws, leading a couple of Golightly ([email protected] or [email protected]) crews in opening up the Piney 703/591-9363. Branch Trail. Jim and another GNM Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 21

Third Year Begins for Stream Monitoring April Excursion y the end of this month, PATC Freshwater invertebrates are used n April 2007, six lucky, intrepid Bvolunteers will be knee-deep in more often than any other group of Ibackpackers will traverse the water once again, capturing and freshwater organisms to assess the length of Paria Canyon in the Grand identifying bizarre insect larva that health of freshwater environments. Staircase – Escalante National live on the bottom of our Blue Ridge This process, known as biomonitor- Monument, Utah. This 38-mile streams. ing, has become a significant activi- backpack is only one of four areas ty for professional aquatic biolo- that our group will experience while Beginning in 2005, PATC began gists, universities, and government in the Grand Staircase – Escalante agencies. conducting water quality monitor- area. We will also be doing a two- ing on nine streams located on our day, 20-mile backpack through Our volunteer macroinvertebrate PATC properties. What we actually Buckskin Gulch and a small por- monitoring is easy to do. It doesn’t tion of the Paria Canyon as well. do is place flat-bottomed “D” nets require extensive monitoring equip- on the bottom of the streambed and ment, the larva are easy to identify, To top it off, we wilºl be doing two rub the animals off of rocks directly and the results are extremely effec- day-hikes: one is to the ever- upstream, so that they drift into the tive in evaluating stream quality. increasingly famous Paria Wave for- net. After doing this in nine differ- It’s also an excuse to wade in the mation, the second is to Starlight ent locations among the pools and creeks and learn so much about the Arch beginning at the Paria Movie riffles and rootbanks, we gather all aquatic environment. Set where multiple Westerns were of our little creatures and begin to filmed, most notable of which was see what we’ve caught. We are looking for more volunteers to join us this spring. No previous “Gunsmoke.” The total mileage hiked will be 75 miles. This trip is What we’ve caught is the larva of knowledge is required as we have listed as moderate/strenuous and mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, free training available to us through the Audubon Naturalist Society. We is for experienced backpackers dragonflies and numerous other have three groups monitoring three only. The cost per person is approx- aquatic creatures. And, with many streams each, twice a year; once in imately $700. This includes an esti- of these invertebrates exhibiting a the March/April period, and once in mate of airfare, lodging, food, trans- limited level of pollution tolerance, October/November. portation, and permits. Trip dates we can make confident conclusions are April 25-May 6, 2007. on the quality of the water based on If you want to join us, or learn more the presence, or absence, of certain about what we’re doing, please call If you are interested contact Susan J small macro-invertebrates. Bob Pickett at 301/681-1511. Bly at 304/258-3319 between 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. or [email protected]. Co-leader Judy Smoot may be reached at 540/667-2036 or jas- For the Conservation-Minded Buyer [email protected]. This is an author- A unique mountain luxury cabin in the woods in Harris Hollow, for sale ized PATC excursion, and you must by a PATC member, is only a couple of hundred feet off a paved road be a PATC member to sign up. J and near SNP. The property is suited to quiet privacy in the forest with —Susan Bly all the technological amenities one could want. Truly a rare opportunity to get away from it all while still being connected. Hiking access to the AT is just outside the door. POTOMAC APPALACHIAN In addition, this completely and comfortably furnished property has (UPS-440-280) ©2007, Potomac many extras including: Two-story cedar home with partial basement on Appalachian Trail Club, Inc. 36 acres, 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, outdoor shower, great room with kitchen, breakfast nook and sitting area, formal dining room, owner’s Published monthly by the Potomac suite with full bath, walk-in-closet and screened sitting porch, two Appalachian Trail Club, 118 Park guest rooms with walk-in-closets and full baths, media room and com- Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180. puter lab, multiple level decks, propane furnace, and much more. Periodical class postage paid at All furniture, appliances, kitchen equipment and linens convey, as Vienna, VA. Postmaster: send well as power tools, power lawn equipment and a 3/4 ton FWD pick- address changes to: Potomac up truck. Also includes stereo, 3 TVs and surround sound system, as Appalachian Trail Club, 118 Park well as a computer with fax machine. Phone system also conveys. Street, S.E., Vienna, VA 22180 House is wired for phone, internet, fax and satellite TV. E-mail for a Subscription: (Free with PATC complete photo file. Price: $950,000, negotiable. Contact: J membership) [email protected]. $6.00 annually; $.70 single copies.

22 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Geospatial Analyst Needed Wanted – IT Committee Chair By early 2007, PATC will need a new volunteer to head the revision of PATC hiking maps and replace 14-year veteran Want to lead PATC into the 21st Century? PATC Dave Pierce. currently is working projects to redesign its data- bases and web site. These projects need a leader Dave will have the entire 2007 production program mostly done before his Federal career retirement and departure with IT expertise to make a serious commitment from the area. Meanwhile, he’ll introduce you to all of the toward completion. If interested, please contact business aspects of managing map revisions including plan- Bruce Glendening, IT Chair at bglendening@ ning annual budgets, managing correspondence and files, yahoo.com, 703/532-9093. developing revision ideas, and managing both cartographic and printing contracts. The Maps Chair is a member of PATC Public Affairs Chair Needed – Council and is expected to attend 2nd-Tuesday-of-month Council meetings in Vienna. Help Spread the Good Word All map negative and positive compilation films are stored at PATC is looking for a new chairman of the Public Vienna for ease of access. Typically three to four maps are Affairs Committee. Duties would include general revised each year. Currently only one map is a digital product promotion and advertising of PATC activities and and its revision is scheduled for 2010. Conversion of film prod- events, work closely with other committees to aid ucts to digital files is guided by a GIS Committee and implement- ed by the Maps Chair. in promotion and advertising of their activities and work with PATC executive committee to pro- The committee is also responsible for elevation surveys (for AT elevation profiles on maps) and official distance measuring of the mote the club goals and objectives. Public Affairs AT for various publications. The PATC president will select the experience a plus but not necessary. If interested new map committee chair from the list of applicants. Apply by in this position or helping with club public affairs calling Dave at 703/281-6273. please send information to [email protected]

FOR SALE LOST AND FOUND CAR FOR SALE: 1998 Subaru PATC Legacy Outback Wagon, All-wheel- FOUND at Highacre this fall: (1) drive, 5-speed manual, 127K miles, small photo album, cover of one owner, meticulously maintained Swap Meet Vermont balloons + family pho- and in great condition. Only driven by a little old overseer on Sundays to and tos; (2) Book of poetry in from his section of trail. Proceeds Marketing Committee Forming Magyar language (3) pair of from sale will be donated to PATC. How many logo-inscribed T-shirts eyeglasses, half rims. Please This is a great overseer vehicle and and Nalgene bottles do you own? contact Carol Niedzialek extremely good in snow. Jim Tomlin, Interested in helping the Club find ([email protected]), [email protected], 301/919-6694. ways to promote PATC through 301/949-9729. Sierra Designs 3D Polarguard 25 smarter merchandizing? Join the degree bag, long, $75; Eureka Zeus Marketing Committee and help us Exo single wall tent w/ poles and pegs, put PATC in the stores as well as FOUND at Catoctin Cottage $50; Sierra Designs Lightning 1 person the woods. Contact Karen Brown recently: sterling silver ring with double wall tent w/ pegs and poles, ([email protected]) large stone. Please contact $125; Camptrails Wilderness “kitchen 703/521-9050. Carol Niedzialek (cactus41@ sink” backpack, $60. Jerry Gross (jer- [email protected]). earthlink.net), 301/949-9729. Graphic Designers Needed! 2 pairs of Bass wood cross country Are you a hiker with artistic flair? FOUND - Winter coat left at skis, 2 pairs of L.L.Bean Alpine Cross The Marketing Committee is look- Country ski boots - sizes 40 and 43, 2 Highacre prior to early ing for help in designing logos etc. pairs of ice skates - 2 pair figure skates November. Please contact - sizes 10 and 9 - old but never used for PATC. Please contact Karen much $25 per pair. Please call Eileen Brown ([email protected]) Steve Lessels 804/323-5163 Lambert at 540/743-7246. 703/521-9050. ([email protected]). Potomac Appalachian • March 2007 23

Trail, Shelter, and Corridor Overseers / Monitors Needed CORRIDOR MONITOR OPENINGS SNP NORTH DISTRICT BLUE-BLAZED – [email protected] Tom Lupp, 301/271-7340 MAP 9 Tuscarora Trail [email protected] Peter Harris, 540/349-2595 Fetzer Gap to Maurertown Duke Hollow -VA - PATC Map 8 [email protected] (5.7 miles) Ashby Gap South -VA - PATC Map 8 Fork Mountain Trail - Co-Overseer Tuscarora Trail Piney Ridge Trail to Hull School Trail Veach Gap to Morgan Rd./Massanutten split (1.0 miles) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR (1.1 miles) Tuscarora Trail THE SHELTER CREW IN MARYLAND SNP CENTRAL BLUE-BLAZED Morgan Rd./Massanutten split to US Henry Horn, 301/498-8254 [NORTH END] – MAP 10 340 (5.5 miles) [email protected] Dan Dueweke, 703/266-3248 Shockeys Knob Shelter - PATC Map F – [email protected] MASSANUTTEN SOUTH – MAP H Co-Overseer New overseer opportunities com- Tate Heuer, 202/255-6055 ing available soon. Choice trails [email protected] OPEN TRAILS rich in Shenandoah history. Don’t Massanutten Mt. South Trail Contact the District Manager for miss this rare opportunity to stake Pitt Spring to Morgan Run Trail the section that interests you. your claim. (1.4 miles FR 65) (3.3 miles) Pennsylvania Maps 2-3, 4, J, & K Catlett Mountain Trail Massanutten Mt. South Trail Opportunity to work long hours Hannah Run Trail to Hazel Morgan Run Trail (1.4 m FR 65) to Fridley Gap (2.3 miles) with no pay or benefits. Generous Mountain Trail (1.2 miles) allowance of blisters, stinging/ Robertson Mountain Trail – GREAT NORTH MOUNTAIN – MAP F Co-Overseer biting insects, and poisonous Hop Long, 301/942-6177 plants. Special provision for rain Old Rag Fire Road to Weakley [email protected] and mud. Little or no supervision. Hollow Fire Road (RM) (2.4 miles) Jim Tomlin, 301/713-3265 x 141 Work hours optional. [email protected] Location somewhere on the SNP CENTRAL BLUE-BLAZED New overseer opportunities avail- Tuscarora Trail in Pennsylvania. [SOUTH END] – MAP 10 able soon on the beautiful trails of No certification from your doctor [email protected] Great North Mountain. A little fur- or hospital required. Lower Hawksbill Trail ther from DC, but no poison ivy! Pete Brown, 410/343-1140 Hawksbill Mt. to Hawksbill Gap Contact Jim Tomlin for more infor- [email protected] (0.9 miles) mation. PA Tuscarora Trail [J] – [4WD required] Halfmoon Trail TUSCARORA CENTRAL – MAP L Trout Run Road to Tuscarora/Pond Hemlock Road to Mountain Rd Walt Smith 540/967-3058 Run Trail (3.2 miles) (4.9 miles) [email protected] Long Mountain Trail PA Tuscarora Trail [J] Howze Tract Access Trail Trout Run Road to FR1621 (2.0 miles) Mountain Rd to Jct. PA 641 Gore to T-trail on Howze Tract split Long Mountain Trail (6.2 miles) (1.1 miles) FR1621 to Trout Pond Trail PA Tuscarora Trail [J] – Co-Overseer (4.3 miles) Cowans Gap State Park to Lincoln TUSCARORA SOUTH – MAP F, G, 9 Long Mountain Trail Trail (4.3 miles) Rick Rhoades, 540/477-3247 Trout Pond Trail to SR691 (2.4 miles)

PERIODICAL US POSTAGE PAID AT VIENNA VA 118 Park Street & ADDITIONAL Vienna, VA 22180-4609 MAILING OFFICES

Telephone: 703/242-0315 Mon.-Thurs. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Thurs. & Fri. 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m.

24 March 2007 • Potomac Appalachian