November Trailblazer Report By Katrinka Westendorf
The focus of the LLA trail maintaining group during the September Work Session was on sections of the Lake Anita Louise Trail and the Twin Lake Trail . Weather predictions earlier in the week suggested rain , so we were pleasantly surprised to have clear skies , cooler temperatures , and lower humidity . We tackled these two trails in June , but as is usually the case , the summer weather had encouraged the growth of newer vegetation that was threatening to overtake the trails . We decided to “ divide and conquer ” by splitting up into two groups-- “ pruners / limb and branch removers ” and “ the weed-whacker crew .” Both groups first worked their way down from the Hemlock Point trail head to the intersection with the Pinehurst Lake Trail . The “ pruners ” cut back limbs , branches , and vines from the sides and overhanging the trail . They also picked up trash along the way . The “ weed-whacking crew ” followed and cut back vegetation creeping into the trail bed and then swept off the cut vegetation from the trail .
The two groups met on the Pinehurst Lake Trail and went down to inspect the new Pinehurst boat racks . They are down a short gravel path to the east of the culvert near the intersection of the two trails . The first group had previously cleared out logs and retrieved a tire in the mud near the entrance to the lake . LLA staff plans to improve the area so it is easier to get from the racks down to the lake .
Both groups then worked their way back up the Lake Anita Louise Trail to the “ Bowl ,” followed the Lake Anita Louise Boardwalk , and continued up the Twin Lake Trail to the Tot Lot — pruning , removing limbs and branches , and weed-whacking along the way . The weed-whacking crew noticed that one of the rails on the east side of the boardwalk needed to be nailed back into the boards . This was reported to LLA staff . All in all , it was a very productive work session , with a lot accomplished by ten hard working folks .
November it still a good time to explore the many trails in our Lake Linganore community . Any time out in the woods is a good time ! The only change you need to make is adding another layer of clothing so you can enjoy your outing to the fullest . Whether you plan to walk a short distance or hike several miles in the woods , you will be glad you decided to venture out on the trails .
If you would like to know more about the Trailblazers Committee and volunteer opportunities doing light trail maintenance with us , check us out on the Lake Linganore website . You can also reach the Trailblazers via email at LLATrailblazers @ gmail . com . ____________________________
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