tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51096424361645246942024-03-05T04:44:01.373-08:00Triumphant, Transcendent, Trailbuilding!The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's Konnarock Volunteer Trail CrewKonnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.comBlogger297125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-114697168319947212019-09-11T13:05:00.003-07:002019-09-11T13:09:45.032-07:00Week 12: August 3-7, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: Battery Cliffs Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="http://olddominiontrailclub.onefireplace.org/" target="_blank">Old Dominion Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710801945911" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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The final adventure of the 2019 season is complete! Week 12 took our crew all the way to the northernmost reaches of Konnarock’s range, up by Rockfish Gap, near Waynesboro, VA. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Battery Cliff proved to be a scenic and majestic location for the end of the season.<br />
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The crew began by setting up camp at the Humpback Rocks picnic area and reviewing the safe use of tools before meeting Dave Grimes, president of the Old Dominion Appalachian Trail Club (ODATC). Dave took the crew on a walk-through of the project site - which happens to be on a stretch of original, never-relocated AT - to identify priorities and goals for the week. Among the tasks to be completed was the installation of several more steps on the massive stone staircase that was installed earlier in the summer, plus additional water bars, check steps, and other water management along the length of the trail.<br />
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Eventually, the trail reaches the project’s namesake, Battery Cliff - an impressive rocky outcropping with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains (and the Wintergreen Ski Resort). Where the trail wraps around the beginning of the cliff, Dave pointed out “the trophy project,” a narrow section of trail which could improved by building a crib wall to create a wider platform.<br />
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With priorities in mind, the crew began work early the next morning, initially tackling the improvements to the recently constructed rock staircase. When Crew 1 worked this area back in June, they utilized a Griphoist highline system to efficiently move multitudes of rock from far off spots to the staircase sites. With only one week on the project and only a handful of new steps to install, a highline was not on the table this time around, so instead the crew fell back on the classic rock net to carry each rock by people-power alone.<br />
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The quarrying was difficult here, as many of the good rocks were already harvested and many of the remainder required carrying over long distances. In some cases, sledgehammers and carbide-tipped “stonebuster” hammers helped to make rocks just right for the situation.<br />
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Joining Crew 2’s forces on the first work day were several members of ODATC, including Amanda Noe, the club’s Trail Supervisor. The club members formed a small team and tackled a water bar project further up the trail, building an impressive reinforced drain to take water off of this largely fall-line trail section. Meanwhile, Konnarock crew members completed other tasks like making loads of crush, and piling “scree” rocks on the sides of the staircase to keep hikers on the intended path.<br />
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Building steps here was challenging due to the rocky soil and the presence of underground bedrock in many spots. Nevertheless, the crew worked efficiently and by the end of the first day, most work on the original staircase was completed. Afterwards, a trip to nearby Sherando Lake provided a much appreciated opportunity for the crew to swim and clean off.<br />
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The second work day was spent installing a number of rock check steps further up the trail on steeper sections where flowing water was causing the trail to begin gullying. Crew 2 members continued to test their rock-hounding abilities, searching far and wide for suitable step rocks, and often needing to get creative to make a less-than-ideal rock work as a step.<br />
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Several crew members also worked on building a second rock water bar - a challenging job due to bedrock just below the soil surface. Flat rocks of just the right size were needed to create the reinforcing bar here, and digging the drain involved slogging through extremely rocky soil.<br />
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By the end of the second work day, the crew was ready to take on the trophy project. The amount of work required to construct a sturdy crib wall is considerable, and some were apprehensive that there wasn’t enough time to complete the project in just one day. However, once the work was initiated, there was no turning back! The third and final work day involved a herculean coordinated effort by the entire crew to build a large, approximately 3’ high crib wall.<br />
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The crew members were divided amongst a variety of tasks: some hunted for suitable cribbing rocks (flat, ideally rectangular, not too big and not too small), others were tasked with gathering as many small, oddly shaped rocks as possible (for filling small crevices), still others were employed with making enormous amounts of crush to fill the void behind the crib wall. The result was a constant supply of material being carried and dumped at the site of the crib wall, where I worked to carefully fit the rocks like puzzle pieces into solid layers.<br />
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To make the work even tougher, the sun blazed down upon the cribbing site, and the exposure of organic soil during the digging summoned hordes of flies which pestered the crew at every turn. The small flies, however, were just an annoyance in comparison with the gigantic horse flies that joined in the fray, seeking blood from unsuspecting crew members.<br />
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By 3PM, the wall was nearly completed, and only finishing touches remained. The ambitious “trophy project” had become a reality. The crew finished up by working on brushing in the sides of the trail where the ground had been torn up, and laying scree rocks to direct hikers on the proper path. Several crew members worked on cutting back vegetation and widening the trail up around the cliff rock, which in conjunction with the newly cribbed platform made the ascent and descent around the rock much easier.<br />
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Victorious, the crew gathered tools together and hiked down to Humpback Rock campground one last time. To celebrate, everyone piled into the Konnarock van and took a field trip to the Crozet Creamery for delicious ice cream! It goes without saying that Week 12 would not be complete without an ice cream run.<br />
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A big thanks is due to ODATC - not only did they work with the crew this week, but they also provided the crew with a club-sponsored feast of fried chicken, collared greens, mac-n-cheese, and more on the evening of the second work day. A club-sponsored beverage cooler was also much appreciated by the crew.<br />
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That same evening, everyone enjoyed a campfire, complete with<br />
s’mores, and got to celebrate a crew member birthday! Rich was able to enjoy a one-of-a-kind birthday candle marshmallow, in lieu of a cake.<br />
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But wait… there’s more! Crew 2 didn’t stop the fun after the work was complete. On the way back to base camp on the last day, the team made a stop at what has increasingly become a Konnarock tradition: Dinosaur Kingdom II in Natural Bridge, VA. If you aren’t currently aware of the decisive role dinosaurs played in the Civil War, I suggest you find time to make a trip to this undeniably unique attraction. To top things off, the crew made one more stop at the Foot of the Mountain Cafe for some of the world’s best sweet potato fries and all kinds of other delicious food.<br />
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And thus ended Crew 2’s last excursion for the year. It has been a challenging season full of twists and turns, but it’s heartening to see the fantastic work completed and the great experiences shared by volunteers all along the way. The Konnarock Trail Crew continues to show that incredible things can be accomplished by people who come together for a common cause - in this case, the cause being maintenance of the Appalachian Trail, a national treasure that provides an accessible wilderness respite for people up and down the east coast. The soul of the Trail is composed of the many people who work together to preserve this experience for posterity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqi9O296r2ae6IUrNlNGyn4bFAmHIFvUKyJOlUzJ_39zjKvPeV1nJcXi1XYXctLeZUb7AjjFeV7vYVDixC8kleQWE5cWgspu0VGawcqft_UJleUyjXEQoVTF_3ZSJqGMTktwZcSVLJWHB/s1600/IMG_1629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqi9O296r2ae6IUrNlNGyn4bFAmHIFvUKyJOlUzJ_39zjKvPeV1nJcXi1XYXctLeZUb7AjjFeV7vYVDixC8kleQWE5cWgspu0VGawcqft_UJleUyjXEQoVTF_3ZSJqGMTktwZcSVLJWHB/s400/IMG_1629.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
A special thanks at the end of the season to Janet Gibbons, our camp coordinator, for providing delicious meals and logistical support throughout the entire spring and summer; to Josh Kloehn, Resource Manager, for organizing the Konnarock Crew once again; to our US Forest Service Partners for supporting us with vehicles, letting us use the Sugar Grove base camp, and in so many other ways; and of course the many maintaining clubs we partner with who make every effort to welcome Konnarock on their trail sections and facilitate successful and enjoyable project weeks for all.<br />
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Until next year!<br />
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--Josh Reynolds, Crew Leader<br />
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-9586688303014357842019-09-11T12:22:00.002-07:002019-09-11T12:22:41.860-07:00Week 12: August 3-7, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: Spy Rock</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2sxfM340CYJsFAN6FonXnxVKoaI0pf4yry6hVU1g6H7H9L4SFDBv9JXPsweWgdPCl5V8XspknZRqTFKV9Xvwll7wvGK23kZS4AdkCSraIMwf8zJtrj2WYdZNERDCfGxareDSrVDMOkvY/s1600/IMG_1059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2sxfM340CYJsFAN6FonXnxVKoaI0pf4yry6hVU1g6H7H9L4SFDBv9JXPsweWgdPCl5V8XspknZRqTFKV9Xvwll7wvGK23kZS4AdkCSraIMwf8zJtrj2WYdZNERDCfGxareDSrVDMOkvY/s400/IMG_1059.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<i>working with <u><a href="https://www.nbatc.org/" target="_blank">Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i></div>
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710800534358" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the full ph</i><i>oto album</i></div>
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<br />Week 12 is finished and with that the 2019 Konnarock season has ended. It’s hard to believe that it’s over! On the final week, our crew returned to Spy Rock to finish up the blue-blazed side trail. We completed the project despite some unexpected setbacks...particularly when 12 of our log steps and all of our stakes got burned up as firewood. It just makes it all the more impressive that the crew was able to adapt and create an amazing finished product. <div>
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This week we got to do a variety of work: log steps, rock steps, cribbing and LOTS of pinning. The rock drill saved the day in some of the trickier sections yet again, as we had to build on bedrock pretty much the whole time. It really did turn out amazing! <br /></div>
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I have to credit some of the great work to how well fed we were throughout the week. We were fueled by one of our volunteers' impressive culinary skills as well as the weekly BBQ down at the Koether’s house which is always a treat. We all got to enjoy the feast that the Natural Bridge A.T. Club provided for us while we sat on their beautiful front porch and practiced doing accents (as it turns out I’m very bad at them). </div>
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We also had the chance to enjoy the incredible view from the rock a few times throughout the week. Some folks even went up after work to watch the sunset and look at the stars from up there. We could even see the Milky Way! <br /><br /></div>
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On the last day, we got to stop by the amazing private swimming hole that one of the club members was kind enough to host us at again. Shout out to Sue for being an incredible host! She provided the crew with snacks, coffee, and towels along with a beautiful spot to hang out for a while. <br /><br />What a great way to finsih up the season!<div>
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-Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-25353922185021681832019-09-11T11:45:00.005-07:002019-09-17T10:25:26.514-07:00Week 11: July 26-30, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: Spy Rock</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDIIg5JxjMU5iydhBnYjNY7CWuHOdSD-UkIIs3rI4ofdS6kqdahU21hpn_Z19lHI1KqatNoLeNL-6KWdBhq5LMyU6d7BUqdY7cUVOI418QCfK0yg1IuKSVOdw6vVVMlNnIHnj99ZDHi0Z/s1600/IMG_2115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDIIg5JxjMU5iydhBnYjNY7CWuHOdSD-UkIIs3rI4ofdS6kqdahU21hpn_Z19lHI1KqatNoLeNL-6KWdBhq5LMyU6d7BUqdY7cUVOI418QCfK0yg1IuKSVOdw6vVVMlNnIHnj99ZDHi0Z/s400/IMG_2115.jpg" width="400" /></a><i>working with <u><a href="https://nbatc.org/" target="_blank">Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710885413431/with/48749782008/" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the full photo album</i><br />
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Week 11 is done and the end of the 2019 Konnarock season is soon coming to an end. This
season has flown by! This week the crew returned to Spy Rock to continue the construction of a
new side trail up to the top of the rock.<br />
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Before this trail, there was no defined path up to the top
so people would take tons of different routes to scramble up to see the incredible panoramic
view. Unfortunately, this has led to the near extinction of two rare plant species that call Spy
Rock home. The main purpose of this new trail is to save these plants by keeping people in a
more confined area so that the plants won’t be trampled.<br />
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I have to say, this has been one of the coolest projects I have ever worked on. The work is
incredibly technical and lots of power tools had to be utilized this week so that we could pin
rocks into the sloping bedrock all around. We have totally transformed this mess of mud
and rock and turned it into an easily walkable pathway. And to make things even better, we got
to do it in an incredibly beautiful place!<br />
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We had a lot of support from the Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club this week as well, which
helped the week fly by smoothly. They treated us to a delightful meal down at a club member’s
beautiful, totally off-grid cabin. We got to hang out and enjoy some delicious barbeque all
evening.<br />
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A few of us did some adventuring in the evenings this week. We walked down to the old
Campbell property and poked around some of the old buildings. The land, which is now part of the National Forest, was once owned by the Campbell family for generations and dates back to
the 1700’s. This family lived without electricity and were pretty much self-sufficient until about
10 years ago when they finally sold the place. It was pretty cool to feel like you were walking
back in time.<br />
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We also took a few evenings and early morning trips up the rock to see the
sunsets and sunrises.
On the last day, after we packed up camp we were invited to a club member’s secluded swimming spot on her property. It was great to rinse off all the grime from the week
and float around in the river for the morning. We also stopped at another spot along the same
river that a Konnarock Crew once helped work on. It is a suspension bridge over the Tye River
that is super cool (and kind of scary) to walk across.
It was an awesome, adventurous, and productive week!<br />
<br />
--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
<br />
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-19289840577430985292019-08-06T12:59:00.002-07:002019-08-06T12:59:40.551-07:00Week 11: July 26-30, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: PATH Staircase Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC28QRPw4XU-z-wsrUNMEJcpYaG0zqaFeEXP6_ruMlRWxBiuKn8EeZMI_33-koW2Y3-cbs990ECJh3UNYhQBIuw_xcsN0M_dhJPe76th2TZpn3P2OMRcWf3JmFmilxLlxsjDqykIXLgfX4/s1600/IMG_1321.heic" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC28QRPw4XU-z-wsrUNMEJcpYaG0zqaFeEXP6_ruMlRWxBiuKn8EeZMI_33-koW2Y3-cbs990ECJh3UNYhQBIuw_xcsN0M_dhJPe76th2TZpn3P2OMRcWf3JmFmilxLlxsjDqykIXLgfX4/s1600/IMG_1321.heic" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC28QRPw4XU-z-wsrUNMEJcpYaG0zqaFeEXP6_ruMlRWxBiuKn8EeZMI_33-koW2Y3-cbs990ECJh3UNYhQBIuw_xcsN0M_dhJPe76th2TZpn3P2OMRcWf3JmFmilxLlxsjDqykIXLgfX4/s1600/IMG_1321.heic" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC28QRPw4XU-z-wsrUNMEJcpYaG0zqaFeEXP6_ruMlRWxBiuKn8EeZMI_33-koW2Y3-cbs990ECJh3UNYhQBIuw_xcsN0M_dhJPe76th2TZpn3P2OMRcWf3JmFmilxLlxsjDqykIXLgfX4/s400/IMG_1321.heic" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="https://path-at.org/" target="_blank">Piedmont Appalachian </a></u></i><i><u><a href="https://path-at.org/" target="_blank">Trail Hikers (PATH)</a></u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>
<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710120314931" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
<br />
<br />
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<span lang="EN">July comes to a close with the successful
completion of Konnarock Week 11, the penultimate trail building expedition for
the 2019 season!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This week proved to be
a unique experience for Crew 2, as some funding and scheduling issues resulted
in a project swap relatively late in the game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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The crew ended up staying and working locally
in the area surrounding Sugar Grove, VA, home of the illustrious Konnarock Base
Camp and the US Forest Service Work Center for the Mount Rogers National
Recreation Area. Thanks to the local
work and lodging arrangements, Crew 2 was able to devote a full five days to
trail work, without sacrificing time to travel. </div>
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<span lang="EN">These five days were spent well, as Week 11
was a 2-for-1 special with two separate projects, both within easy driving
distance of base camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first project
was a complete rebuild of a set of log steps where the Appalachian Trail
crosses Teas Road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The existing steps,
which climb directly up a steep bank out of the road, had suffered from a
combination of rot and washout over the years, resulting in an
uncomfortable climb up some very high steps. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">The crew sprang into action on day one,
ripping out the old log steps and preparing fresh material by debarking and
splitting black locust logs that were harvested locally from the Sugar Hollow
Pond site near base camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Both the tape
measure and the infamous line level - considered tools of sorcery by some -
made multiple appearances to determine the optimal step heights and spacing in
order to install a new staircase with steps that wouldn’t undermine like the
old ones did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gradually, step by step, a
new stairway ascended the grade.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">The project wasn’t without its unique
challenges.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Due to the close proximity
to traffic on the road, Crew 2 had to employ traffic safety measures courtesy
of the local Forest Service staff, who provided road signs and safety
vests.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least one crew member was
constantly on duty as traffic spotter - calling out the approach of vehicles
and serving as an additional signal to drivers to slow down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Another challenge was the steepness of the
grade, which at times seemed insurmountable and at one point required the crew
to disassemble and rebuild several steps - a task that can be demoralizing, but
which the crew took in stride, eager to build the highest quality staircase
possible in the long run.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN">While part of the crew worked on the main
staircase, other members tackled some side projects, such as installing a
second, more gradual staircase up above on a steep section of trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other tasks included fixing a very high step
across the bridge on the other side of Teas Road by adding several steps below
it, and brushing the corridor where vegetation was overgrown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">By the end of the second work day, the Teas
Road steps had been completely overhauled and were a beauty to behold!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No undermining will plague these carefully
spaced stairs, and the rot-resistant black locust logs should hold up for at
least a couple of decades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Best of all,
these steps are a joy to climb up and down, being doubled in number from their
predecessors (from 7 steps to 13) and limited to a maximum of 8” rise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basking in the satisfaction that comes with
completing high quality work, Crew 2 prepared to embark on a second project.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIVk7Aei0qUSjfsiEbbt4FinRGf1SzsJN-6f9McKBkxk2av1RR29QqGozXjIXjtfmRF6ez0nUY1cN5oaz0-b1FzjDp0aiOkK__rdPVSWtFFYGtMz_GSJDi4Ska7-y40HiMZ9gzVKYPvu7/s1600/IMG_1438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIVk7Aei0qUSjfsiEbbt4FinRGf1SzsJN-6f9McKBkxk2av1RR29QqGozXjIXjtfmRF6ez0nUY1cN5oaz0-b1FzjDp0aiOkK__rdPVSWtFFYGtMz_GSJDi4Ska7-y40HiMZ9gzVKYPvu7/s400/IMG_1438.jpg" width="300" /></a><span lang="EN">The second site for Week 11 was just south of
Chatfield Shelter near Atkins, VA, where an isolated section of extremely steep
trail required a rock staircase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The top
section of this steep grade still features some high quality rock steps that
were constructed in the distant past, but the lower two-thirds of the slope
needed extensive rehab, as many former steps had blown out over time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To make the most sustainable improvement to
the site, Crew 2 set about tearing out what remained of the old, off-kilter
steps so as to completely rebuild from the bottom up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a good sized crew and some experienced
volunteers, the team was able to divide and conquer the integral tasks of rock
work: making copious amounts of crush, hunting and carrying suitable step
rocks, and of course the actual digging and installation of one step after
another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Fortunately, plenty of sizable rock exists at
this site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, finding rock of just
the right shape and size is always a tricky job that requires a mix of analysis
and judgement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the rock hunters soon
exhausted the easy pickings next to the staircase, the team eventually had to
search further away and carry the heavy stones - weighing hundreds of pounds
apiece - longer distances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks to the
indispensable rock net and a great deal of teamwork, the crew was able to
provide a continuous supply of usable step rocks to the installation site,
where they were carefully positioned and then cemented into place by packing
crushed rock into the cracks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">The work was slow and at times painstaking,
especially as the work ascended higher to a point where the trail pinched
between a dead birch tree and sheer bedrock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The narrow pass required the construction rock cribbing to shore up the
trail and prevent the ground from washing away beneath hikers’ feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">In spite of the challenges, though, Crew 2
built some beautiful steps and burned a lot of calories carrying material for
what ended up being 20 brand new rock steps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Though work remains on the section to tie in with the existing steps up
above, the crew made a fantastic first pass on this project and laid a mighty
foundation for future work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Speaking of calories, although many were
burned, this was not the crew week to lose weight on. Staying at base camp,
Crew 2 took full advantage of the kitchen facilities to prepare some 5-star
meals, including three hot breakfasts featuring everything from scrambled eggs
to cinnamon apple pancakes to my own “yankee grits.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The kitchen bustled with activity as this
self-motivated crew of foodies embraced each meal with gusto.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even the no-bake chocolate cheesecake made an
appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To top the week off, the
crew enjoyed a relaxing base camp bonfire with s’mores - a perfect finish to a
week which featured luxury accommodations but no lack of hard work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Both projects this week were sited within the
maintaining range of the Piedmont Appalachian Trail Hikers, also known as
PATH.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crew 2 was privileged to have the
assistance of two PATH members - David Atkinson who volunteered a full week
with Konnarock, and Jim Baum who personally maintains the Chatfield shelter
section and spent several days working hard with the crew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The partnerships between the AT maintaining
clubs and the ATC’s volunteer trail crews allow for the exchange of ideas,
learning of new skills and techniques, and perhaps most importantly the sharing
of great experiences on the AT between people who might never have met outside
of these circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As always, it’s
inspiring to see all these enthusiastic people coming together for the shared
purpose of improving the trail for all to enjoy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">A quick word of thanks is also due to the US
Forest Service Sugar Grove Work Center staff for providing a truckload of
gravel, as well as traffic safety guidance and equipment for the Teas Road
project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ending each day safely is a top
priority, and this week added to Konnarock’s excellent record.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN">Unconventional though it was in some ways,
Week 11 proved to be an extremely satisfying week, as the crew knocked out an
entire project at Teas Road and made fantastic progress on the second near
Chatfield shelter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, only one week
remains for the 2019 season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tune in
next time for this year’s final voyage of Crew 2, north to Battery Cliffs to
build some more safe and sustainable trail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">--Josh Reynolds, Crew Leader</span></span></div>
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-57393859419870014752019-08-06T12:59:00.001-07:002019-08-06T13:01:41.521-07:00Week 10: July 18-22, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: Spy Rock </h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbls3FvFyWpk5Y5RWAApLBTY01bpJe4wJVxh_PMijGXDwA5OQbbXpngM48vuLRg1a7hlmFS_CgNfmDUL7kXh4zsnvg87yFKY0ha4ks_ceXVKJEwrkTwQ3ByA2CxFl2QWpdu1zpJwlu6JY/s1600/DSCF0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVbls3FvFyWpk5Y5RWAApLBTY01bpJe4wJVxh_PMijGXDwA5OQbbXpngM48vuLRg1a7hlmFS_CgNfmDUL7kXh4zsnvg87yFKY0ha4ks_ceXVKJEwrkTwQ3ByA2CxFl2QWpdu1zpJwlu6JY/s400/DSCF0076.JPG" width="400" /></a><i>working with <u><a href="https://nbatc.org/" target="_blank">Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><i><u style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710121097152" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i></i><br />
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Crew 1 journeyed north once again, this time to start a three-week project with the Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club (NBATC). This year’s NBATC-Konnarock project is unique in that the crew is building brand new trail – no rehab and no relocation of existing trail.<br />
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The crew and Club volunteers were tasked with building safe access up to Spy Rock – one of the best blue-blazed viewpoints in Central Virginia.<br />
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Before the crew hit the ground, hikers had a choose-your-own-adventure challenge to get up to the summit of Spy Rock. There was no existing trail or established way to get to the 360 degree views. Numerous routes had been climbed/hiked-in over the years and none of them could be hardened or improved to offer the safe access the NBATC-USFS-ATC partnership was looking for.<br />
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A brand new trail route was flagged, cleared by NBATC Club volunteers, and ready and waiting for our Konnarock-stars to dig in, get dirty, and dust off the hammer drill & generator.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGNhrOXG5qmabqP6GJHKcWac2brUcnOV1eYG8OhT_ayA93o2yGsxgH0ossROFnip-GXnVIhHYKWE1Wd-QbNYm7u7BFYTvyHw2ycuKwpmkDo-3nNvg3nhp-ti39N7UI2iZ8xMfdvv8USxU/s1600/DSCF0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMGNhrOXG5qmabqP6GJHKcWac2brUcnOV1eYG8OhT_ayA93o2yGsxgH0ossROFnip-GXnVIhHYKWE1Wd-QbNYm7u7BFYTvyHw2ycuKwpmkDo-3nNvg3nhp-ti39N7UI2iZ8xMfdvv8USxU/s400/DSCF0010.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
In addition to the side trail construction, another high priority task was on the docket. A globally rare plant population finds its home on top of the granitic dome of Spy Rock, within the rock crevices and low spots. With time, increased visitor usage, and trampling the rare plant community has taken a hit and the number of thriving plants has dramatically decreased.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVivjPTPgPr6LPrH14jHkZTBI2W5dTGVUN2jy0666HIRTEvXnVM5kERI2jENhNpl-p3PVhVSGOe2yhyoC92eonzzyCR9eI9AkQLw4xzWg23HdmRpGJDqGAytX15HWTycbU36gdPMyG2e2L/s1600/DSCF0087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVivjPTPgPr6LPrH14jHkZTBI2W5dTGVUN2jy0666HIRTEvXnVM5kERI2jENhNpl-p3PVhVSGOe2yhyoC92eonzzyCR9eI9AkQLw4xzWg23HdmRpGJDqGAytX15HWTycbU36gdPMyG2e2L/s400/DSCF0087.JPG" width="300" /></a>With the help of ATC, NBATC, and the USFS a plan was designed and approved to set metal rods into the rock to create a low rope barrier that will (hopefully) limit visitor trampling and access, essentially cordoning off the majority of the rare plant habitat while still offering hikers enough area to enjoy the amazing views. This work was completed within the first two days of the Konnarock week by Conner McBane, ATC Natural Resource Specialist, and a handful of dedicated and sunscreen-lathered NBATC volunteers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RldHmBAwZKXq2sMIHcNTX0dllodlvdkTzLNxjuY18MwcwKVj3zPAauDHOM-rnBCOcTT9x3qLYrJmfYltMwy_SE_ccbWQ9METzNGvump9pHYhr4ThufpwcfPvVTDZzgfszhQJtPfCYYCI/s1600/DSCF0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RldHmBAwZKXq2sMIHcNTX0dllodlvdkTzLNxjuY18MwcwKVj3zPAauDHOM-rnBCOcTT9x3qLYrJmfYltMwy_SE_ccbWQ9METzNGvump9pHYhr4ThufpwcfPvVTDZzgfszhQJtPfCYYCI/s400/DSCF0042.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Due to the rock dome nature of Spy Rock the crew came prepared with a generator, hammer drill, sections upon sections of 1” and ½” rebar, and enough masonry adhesive to fill up your bathtub. NBATC volunteers were gracious enough to fell a couple larger black locust trees before the crew arrived to help with quick log step construction. Most of the heavy gear used by the crew was driven most of the way in on a UTV by the USFS, saving the backs, minds, and hydration levels of volunteers and staff.<br />
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As the crew days ticked by the days were filled with the sounds of the rock drill and generator as rebar was set into the rock to support log steps, rock steps, and rock cribbing. The work was slow, but the terrain and materials involved required it. By the end of the week two major step construction projects were well on their way to completion.<br />
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One can’t forget to mention a certain Mr. Sandy Bell. Some might know him as a retired Navy Command Master Chief Diver, others may know him as one of the committed Hardcore-Konnarock volunteer crew leaders, or as the guy who knows every. single. knot. Due to Josh Reynolds taking a week off for a wedding, the Konnarock crew staff was down one leader.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIK8G1_kaeMXLdHq1veYI_ihzhNOtppX-kzDd0sXHkgfLttcPsrfMVD_Y8UyGexauPJwyBhPO130Q2QgnoPA-pEHEBgJWUDEibm5ISf8cdPtnDNnpc0hp9W9gOSZofR8SGJ66itgob8y5/s1600/DSCF0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIK8G1_kaeMXLdHq1veYI_ihzhNOtppX-kzDd0sXHkgfLttcPsrfMVD_Y8UyGexauPJwyBhPO130Q2QgnoPA-pEHEBgJWUDEibm5ISf8cdPtnDNnpc0hp9W9gOSZofR8SGJ66itgob8y5/s400/DSCF0062.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Sandy stepped up and took the reins of KNRK1, the well-marked Konnarock crew van, and acted as an Assistant Crew Leader to Jerry Kyle for the week. Some volunteers, after working with the volunteer Assistant Crew Leader, remarked how Sandy should come out of retirement and become ATC staff as a trail crew leader in 2020.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmILW6PE0uypqYx6lbLeZaUyyAyNOzzI3dWb08ahG8dHwkXrMUIp-MLeNMdAbFF94XzcE5S-3PARBj02gS39GVnm9rqPoV4sNwK_pwTmyk1EccpbBS9Oj7zMgAFljj4uGEQ9jJ4SXVDkvr/s1600/DSCF0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmILW6PE0uypqYx6lbLeZaUyyAyNOzzI3dWb08ahG8dHwkXrMUIp-MLeNMdAbFF94XzcE5S-3PARBj02gS39GVnm9rqPoV4sNwK_pwTmyk1EccpbBS9Oj7zMgAFljj4uGEQ9jJ4SXVDkvr/s400/DSCF0089.JPG" width="400" /></a>A huge thank you to one of the best A.T. Maintaining Clubs around, NBATC, for all of their support and generosity during this crew week. They helped with materials, lining up USFS UTV support, brought out Club volunteers every day to work with Krock, and of course for the crew dinner and drinks at the camping area. Just as big of a thank you goes out to Sandy Bell, and all of the other Konnarock volunteers who came out and suffered through some hotter-than-hot days to complete some serious work. Thank you!<br />
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--Josh Kloehn, Resource Manager</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHdUQdQYGbMWpb-yEraP9j-luC0pfq6VMwZWvT1TWUy-zM7pPcyoJ6snxXMxtltIQwcEJrmE-yh2YDHx3mdr1TlB2ucUV5rd8-WMCAewsZEY2fnIELG8Q_YQ1RddJ4_DmNaAMQeGKm99cV/s1600/DSCF0082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHdUQdQYGbMWpb-yEraP9j-luC0pfq6VMwZWvT1TWUy-zM7pPcyoJ6snxXMxtltIQwcEJrmE-yh2YDHx3mdr1TlB2ucUV5rd8-WMCAewsZEY2fnIELG8Q_YQ1RddJ4_DmNaAMQeGKm99cV/s640/DSCF0082.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-16581550565320696782019-08-05T13:22:00.001-07:002019-08-05T14:02:12.629-07:00Week 10: July 18-22, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: War Spur Relocation</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_RntAoHty0jX5J_4RRZLcS5JBMgXZXtzI1d5eIf2_tvmg_AcKFJMf6WyK-brv_1VizrYKlN75Y-29ymmn7FRYaxS1ktJSx2v1nnanyZzhE0o4Vt4VygxxNovtTFtViTqB1PhTIi8Ju4e/s1600/IMG_2824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_RntAoHty0jX5J_4RRZLcS5JBMgXZXtzI1d5eIf2_tvmg_AcKFJMf6WyK-brv_1VizrYKlN75Y-29ymmn7FRYaxS1ktJSx2v1nnanyZzhE0o4Vt4VygxxNovtTFtViTqB1PhTIi8Ju4e/s400/IMG_2824.JPG" width="300" /></a><i>working with <u><a href="https://www.ratc.org/" target="_blank">Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710120999102" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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On week 10 the Konnarock crew returned to War Spur for the third and final time this season.
The project is a mile long relocation which will likely take a few seasons to complete, and we’ve
made some really great progress over the past few weeks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbmf2BOX6kqqDdO8dgI87BtSKjLfPlF3oBRHAtBwUsn3_ckz4NGgSjwRSRpF6e0WAxCum_4IFvZ8YTu8MMIR-_c3ZD8nYo3nKmWXMyEPLP7AiWaHEVHUvC9I41Q3pa0JbohUVgadXdVBU/s1600/IMG_2831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbmf2BOX6kqqDdO8dgI87BtSKjLfPlF3oBRHAtBwUsn3_ckz4NGgSjwRSRpF6e0WAxCum_4IFvZ8YTu8MMIR-_c3ZD8nYo3nKmWXMyEPLP7AiWaHEVHUvC9I41Q3pa0JbohUVgadXdVBU/s400/IMG_2831.JPG" width="300" /></a>This week we had a small crew of four volunteers, but that didn’t stop us from getting some
awesome work done and having a great time.
Most of the work this week involved lots of sidehill digging, crushing rocks, and cutting through
the super-thick mountain laurel jungle that our new trail will be going through.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcJ9KqSyLBz0Nh3Jf3ybtakNraSJwUrfjpUSHmc98xRPG-qoLKd9EJ30LzParIUwdXONTcabN-mz0Z0L16QYMp1KUPWMJu2XRsibc6PWj91TkeiBKIYdW9vhdEMtM9nRswCn5qSY18OVh/s1600/IMG_2828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcJ9KqSyLBz0Nh3Jf3ybtakNraSJwUrfjpUSHmc98xRPG-qoLKd9EJ30LzParIUwdXONTcabN-mz0Z0L16QYMp1KUPWMJu2XRsibc6PWj91TkeiBKIYdW9vhdEMtM9nRswCn5qSY18OVh/s400/IMG_2828.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club (RATC) came out and worked with us some this week as well
and they helped us pull out tons of huge stumps.
Not only did RATC come out and help us work, they also invited us to the infamous yearly Corn Boil.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWv3JDSKf4n5EsuoEFi2t9yhVDr2nDWtvyHbZdO97smfUB30Zi3ACnRvcvztssn-r0OiUWX2G4vls8orCTbFsUBnXRykv-r9Doq2CqgL0b_eoMkEJc6HskezzbKJbdoOEOxyjrQzy3sERn/s1600/IMG_2800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWv3JDSKf4n5EsuoEFi2t9yhVDr2nDWtvyHbZdO97smfUB30Zi3ACnRvcvztssn-r0OiUWX2G4vls8orCTbFsUBnXRykv-r9Doq2CqgL0b_eoMkEJc6HskezzbKJbdoOEOxyjrQzy3sERn/s400/IMG_2800.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
There was probably enough food there to feed the entirety of Sugar Grove and everything was
so delicious. I tried to get a little bit of everything on my plate and at one point had to keep
shoveling food into my mouth as I worked my way down the line to make room. We all fell into a
food coma by about 7 pm.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDF1Lm6R4p2Qy2_Z_BwMLnaSGoaWkfSIIz9mwgukMrrM20tn6_XK6iXob_GqHGpSnn7sheSvs-E-Ure7olAbkEn68nsSFivOPUDm8mUjqNAILOOtEU3x0aPhIb8jPpsvl2YRVO3uJiACI/s1600/IMG_2807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDF1Lm6R4p2Qy2_Z_BwMLnaSGoaWkfSIIz9mwgukMrrM20tn6_XK6iXob_GqHGpSnn7sheSvs-E-Ure7olAbkEn68nsSFivOPUDm8mUjqNAILOOtEU3x0aPhIb8jPpsvl2YRVO3uJiACI/s400/IMG_2807.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another fun thing we had the chance to do was walk back up to Wind Rock and catch a gorgeous
sunset up there. The overlook is only a 10 minute walk from our campsite so some of us went a
few nights in a row.
What a great week!<br />
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--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-70510586589268424422019-08-05T13:22:00.000-07:002019-08-05T13:54:05.477-07:00Week 9: July 10-14, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: Gooch Gap Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOBG9bkXzQZFjzp4Bl6re7lRsEAKf1PbckkEBxvK4hU3o1M8pgpTkWufVyhkWWmLRy4Uilf6Lb_Mkwr4Zq-pbU1EHjQaZ2kUAikrwC5pnwv7socacfsNJBHNJZgyADGUYuio51eJrWa8D/s1600/IMG_0767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOBG9bkXzQZFjzp4Bl6re7lRsEAKf1PbckkEBxvK4hU3o1M8pgpTkWufVyhkWWmLRy4Uilf6Lb_Mkwr4Zq-pbU1EHjQaZ2kUAikrwC5pnwv7socacfsNJBHNJZgyADGUYuio51eJrWa8D/s400/IMG_0767.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<i>working with <a href="https://georgia-atclub.org/" target="_blank">Georgia Appalachian Trail Club</a></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710119452761" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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This week Jerry and I ventured down to Georgia for our trial run on a new program we're currently calling "Konnarock Lite". The idea is to offer a shorter, beginner-friendly taste of the Konnarock program to engage new volunteers.<br />
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For the first half of this week, we met our Next Generation volunteers in the field. The Next Gen dates were an opportunity for youth (under the age of 18) to try trail work on the Appalachian Trail. </div>
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Because it was our trial year, we only had two volunteers come out for those days. Even though the numbers were low, we still had a great time and accomplished a lot in the three days they were out! We got to go swimming every day after work at a lake that was close to our campsite.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9aUIP0hVYy4PQuH2OGaODWyuDsmhT1_icmMTvbZqYqBLqV0YeZbN0HrADMnp1NGNHOpMNkxWj0PgDlWBWxPZDC9xIbK_T1kCiAYc81-lNAElW19uCACHes4dyx-FC87dHG3PN_D9XlclC/s1600/IMG_0895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9aUIP0hVYy4PQuH2OGaODWyuDsmhT1_icmMTvbZqYqBLqV0YeZbN0HrADMnp1NGNHOpMNkxWj0PgDlWBWxPZDC9xIbK_T1kCiAYc81-lNAElW19uCACHes4dyx-FC87dHG3PN_D9XlclC/s400/IMG_0895.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Our second group that week was more like a typical Konnarock week, just shorter. It was not a youth group and the crew size was larger. It was a good way to expose locals who don’t have quite enough free time to commit to a full week of Konnarock, and recruitment was aimed at the Latinx community.<br />
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We also had a great time and were treated to a few meals from local club members and trail enthisiasts. The first night we were all treated to a nice dinner down the road from our campsite at a beautiful home which was a great setting to go over all of our orientation. Then, on the last night, we were invited to a club member's house for the night where we had the chance to go tubing and eat a nice dinner and breakfast.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-bADbgca_1uyw5hgGbaKoRBQCsjJi8m4NfyvBLUNTxFku9ndmWHCoj_zyqtZGnXxTBHpDQcZMyCI9kxp3jWZ_uTlOPg0rtPCiT9dUz6zjMDgoat9reMjxPoCnOW36z-G6zwGsFw_zD4iB/s1600/IMG_0744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-bADbgca_1uyw5hgGbaKoRBQCsjJi8m4NfyvBLUNTxFku9ndmWHCoj_zyqtZGnXxTBHpDQcZMyCI9kxp3jWZ_uTlOPg0rtPCiT9dUz6zjMDgoat9reMjxPoCnOW36z-G6zwGsFw_zD4iB/s400/IMG_0744.JPG" width="300" /></a>The project was a relocation of the trail at Gooch Gap where we moved the trail away from a super washed-out section to a more sustainable grade. With the help of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, who came out in huge numbers, we managed to complete the relocation in one week and the new section of trail is now open.<br />
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It was a great idea that will hopefully continue in the future, and a very fun week.<br />
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--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGz_pLQByctkjXndh5GZBPK-HKfQaBRVEjE5bRGKUii8rb0YTVD2utTIRpUdgot6nE7E2t6We2n1PNXJdoRZsqO8c8puU3kdmjIBm7Wv6Wy7wz82R7l8KQ5Cz_4CFWrn_0OqBPug_wiEwf/s1600/IMG_0883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGz_pLQByctkjXndh5GZBPK-HKfQaBRVEjE5bRGKUii8rb0YTVD2utTIRpUdgot6nE7E2t6We2n1PNXJdoRZsqO8c8puU3kdmjIBm7Wv6Wy7wz82R7l8KQ5Cz_4CFWrn_0OqBPug_wiEwf/s640/IMG_0883.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-73298269878310989652019-08-05T13:15:00.000-07:002019-08-05T13:15:59.537-07:00Week 9: July 10-14, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: South of Sams Gap Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/" target="_blank">Carolina Mountain Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710051548046" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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There is nothing like the final week on a project. Seeing
all of the work that our crew achieved over the past few months is astonishing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOE3gXSm-SZL58mQSOp6IUpmSbPWxSHhNt6IzW0OhnBKHHtn3YzeZ8AMR10la3QITb8GUfaILOCZ0Ee__8qr7DFkvhfbVkYH5OSns5Uv8R02yWvgfakoaJMu4T_2122SUusJA9DAwQQ9P_/s1600/IMG_1213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOE3gXSm-SZL58mQSOp6IUpmSbPWxSHhNt6IzW0OhnBKHHtn3YzeZ8AMR10la3QITb8GUfaILOCZ0Ee__8qr7DFkvhfbVkYH5OSns5Uv8R02yWvgfakoaJMu4T_2122SUusJA9DAwQQ9P_/s320/IMG_1213.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Countless hours and thousands of sore muscles have gone into rehabbing this
section of trail. It instills a great sense of pride walking off the mountain
on our final work day and seeing the transformation, knowing that we are
responsible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY954JUKvT90deHgeF_rNZTVYWhNLjfnRXWiDjgEEicYXq19gfDN4XJtuYPrhjPS1y3GZxbKz9Ei9tdoZJ0Slwo5BzhZjRA46pv3uTtzX7LOA9hzso9FA4FfswlgIkkxODf9FfEn2wMCcV/s1600/IMG_1605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY954JUKvT90deHgeF_rNZTVYWhNLjfnRXWiDjgEEicYXq19gfDN4XJtuYPrhjPS1y3GZxbKz9Ei9tdoZJ0Slwo5BzhZjRA46pv3uTtzX7LOA9hzso9FA4FfswlgIkkxODf9FfEn2wMCcV/s400/IMG_1605.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
We build trail with the
goal in mind that it will last 30+ years, How many people have we impacted? How
many people will be able to complete this section knowing with confidence that
it is well maintained? Will the work still be there when I hike with my future
grandchildren? The thought tickles me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9fGdAArKmcuhkwRy9s2Rnwe0xNqrJtK5v3S9LkdHfC_1V06yAr34sp6jsKF0_pzlSrcbctN_hGGGh9XQBgkJH3OXO89noluCcTutjADDOs-wmcKSqcbLdqhl9c7AeECwQl8nvBmH1sN2/s1600/20190711_100337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9fGdAArKmcuhkwRy9s2Rnwe0xNqrJtK5v3S9LkdHfC_1V06yAr34sp6jsKF0_pzlSrcbctN_hGGGh9XQBgkJH3OXO89noluCcTutjADDOs-wmcKSqcbLdqhl9c7AeECwQl8nvBmH1sN2/s400/20190711_100337.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I love the Appalachian Trail, It changed
my life in 2016 when I attempted my thru-hike and has continued to remain a
huge positive influence in my life. I know for a fact that it has change the
lives of many others. I am absolutely honored to have the opportunity to play
my part.<br />
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We had an incredible time on the mountain this week, despite the rain.
Our crew blended well together, enjoying card games and FROZEN ice cream (AT
CAMP, IN THE WOODS), riddles, jokes and smores over the camp fire. The Carolina
mountain club came out to join us in the fun on Friday and took us out for
pizza Saturday night at the original Papa Nicks pizza in Mars Hill North
Carolina.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc1K8pv7l13R_caYUntVingTMGiSAv_X-MUM79oVA-QcAxr9xU19EojrVRBD5G0rN7YpQeql23li9t3Cepn01OhEdFNZek4X8OyybclzR7YyOn3ZdZTT6mL4BmEWX9CPc5MY_4V0L2GsYM/s1600/20190714_105723.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc1K8pv7l13R_caYUntVingTMGiSAv_X-MUM79oVA-QcAxr9xU19EojrVRBD5G0rN7YpQeql23li9t3Cepn01OhEdFNZek4X8OyybclzR7YyOn3ZdZTT6mL4BmEWX9CPc5MY_4V0L2GsYM/s400/20190714_105723.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Although we were fatigued and stinky we decided to stop at Backbone
rock and have a nice swim in the river before grabbing lunch at the Damascus
Diner, right off the AT. The countdown has begun folks, only 3 crew weeks
remain in Konnarocks season! Visit the Appalachian conservancy website for
information on how you can become part of the team!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-92066050004694913782019-08-05T13:11:00.000-07:002019-08-05T13:11:42.238-07:00Week 8: June 29-July 3, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h3>
Crew 1: War Spur Relocation</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91uE50GsXGWQfgUwbdIrRffPwfs9kBPXj5edCAyB7QWNI5L2qRsi7hD4RUFY5DkxvcViiM79-WwGzeaUIUR9QtI-HfGW4fYJfYTUS5YLR3Gpau25d1ANg-6yy7X7ZqlDqF0CpjrPWFQcT/s1600/P1000122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91uE50GsXGWQfgUwbdIrRffPwfs9kBPXj5edCAyB7QWNI5L2qRsi7hD4RUFY5DkxvcViiM79-WwGzeaUIUR9QtI-HfGW4fYJfYTUS5YLR3Gpau25d1ANg-6yy7X7ZqlDqF0CpjrPWFQcT/s400/P1000122.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="https://www.ratc.org/" target="_blank">Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
<u><i><br /></i></u>
<u><i><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710119649692" target="_blank">click here</a></i></u><i> for the complete photo album**</i><br />
<br />
Week 8 has flown by and the season races on…<br />
<br />
Over week 8, Crew 1 returned to the Mountain Lake Wilderness to continue our relocation at War Spur. This relocation is necessary and well overdue, as the existing section of trail is very steep, eroded, and just generally no fun to walk on.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jZJpHlEejB4skoOvKO0yLw8rHAMODVsFWWmPWPMfhBLfJgcjREIVNugSGqq51lJN7v47Y7OZbJ5kVaxmS_SfuPymSCDLFaXenc-Js8EE9QQfHJO6qqpXuvfqIbSZGpXCCW6Lkgv6SIil/s1600/P1000129+%25281%2529.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jZJpHlEejB4skoOvKO0yLw8rHAMODVsFWWmPWPMfhBLfJgcjREIVNugSGqq51lJN7v47Y7OZbJ5kVaxmS_SfuPymSCDLFaXenc-Js8EE9QQfHJO6qqpXuvfqIbSZGpXCCW6Lkgv6SIil/s400/P1000129+%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmtnTSUVt2SAUd2gc-pxr6cUyocfgObpu17d0bhTjmSPfp9maoq7Yz9h6SyRCKZQf_11aRB9PaIOUaUub58WTd9xhZfGaqprONNSKCs4IUagQS9II6EMK42mA7WvqAnS_n8aZ4q3aqCyT/s1600/P1000125+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmtnTSUVt2SAUd2gc-pxr6cUyocfgObpu17d0bhTjmSPfp9maoq7Yz9h6SyRCKZQf_11aRB9PaIOUaUub58WTd9xhZfGaqprONNSKCs4IUagQS9II6EMK42mA7WvqAnS_n8aZ4q3aqCyT/s400/P1000125+%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a>This was an exciting week! Though there was plenty of sidehill digging, we also had a bit of variety in the work. Since we were working in a wilderness area, we got to bring out the crosscut saw and pretend to be lumberjacks for a few hours which was a lot of fun to do because none of the volunteers had ever used one before.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vX_9JwimTgwCYW_t8D4YzNG3aIeruhxIHDx4ePojSFspsS-Y8Tl0R_RQ-9j_Ct8n5iLqgZ8e4s8KQpSW39oRVcVP_hWDsSYi5SyECS_tVXYqdHkRNxMIvLgSYv9Fr3fp_YFhrxtAnrOs/s1600/IMG_2840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vX_9JwimTgwCYW_t8D4YzNG3aIeruhxIHDx4ePojSFspsS-Y8Tl0R_RQ-9j_Ct8n5iLqgZ8e4s8KQpSW39oRVcVP_hWDsSYi5SyECS_tVXYqdHkRNxMIvLgSYv9Fr3fp_YFhrxtAnrOs/s400/IMG_2840.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
We also got to throw in a few steps and a bit of cribbing befor we got to a giant rock scramble where we got to put in some native paver, which is essentially just taking a chaotic, messy rock scramble and moving the rocks around to make a less chaotic, defined path across the scramble without having to do too much structural building.</div>
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<div>
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Outside of work, we also had the chance to explore the lodge at Mountain Lake a bit where we were horribly misled abput the window of ice cream availability for the following day. We hiked out of work at the end of the day super excited for a refreshing treat and were upset to discover that the cafe had already closed for the day. However, we were unwilling to let our ice cream mission fail, so we drove all the way to Christiansburg to go to a Cold Stone Creamery. We also had the chance to check out a nice swimming spot along the New River which was surprising warm and pleasant to swim in after a week of hard work.<br />
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All in all, another excellent week!<br />
<br />
--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
<br />
**Unfortunately, most of this week's photos were lost to a camera breakdown. If anyone has photos from the week they can add to the album, please send them to Kathryn at kherndon@appalachiantrail.org. Thank you!</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-43286403710278977502019-08-02T10:55:00.001-07:002019-08-02T10:55:17.511-07:00Week 8: June 29-July 3, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: South of Sams Gap Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjU9wvaa6i9WuuB9sHGMN1SVEykmXC78AB-RH68RjI-f0xejBnkJtsFLnIXKBlEonP7AlS1JLeU-KkmJk9ogO5oWDMzcXfFJT6IkgFBSESPeXUx_OS4ubC59oSnk9SCgrBZlowXbcPV5Qj/s1600/20190701_085442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjU9wvaa6i9WuuB9sHGMN1SVEykmXC78AB-RH68RjI-f0xejBnkJtsFLnIXKBlEonP7AlS1JLeU-KkmJk9ogO5oWDMzcXfFJT6IkgFBSESPeXUx_OS4ubC59oSnk9SCgrBZlowXbcPV5Qj/s400/20190701_085442.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/" target="_blank">Carolina Mountain Club</a></u></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><u>click here</u> for the full photo album</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
As another lovely week at Sam’s Gap comes to an end the Konnarock trucks enter base camp in condition similar to their occupants: dirty, smelly and in need of fluids and a good rinse. Having braved the mighty mountain yet again it was wonderful to decompress, clean tools and enjoy another of Janet’s fine meals.<br />
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Our project this week was to install log steps on a steep section of trail with emphasis on waterbars and runoff management. Blessed with perfect weather and abundant materials, our crew was able to make serious improvements that will not only make this hike safer for everyone involved but it will hopefully prevent the trail from needing relocation in the near future.<br />
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Pick mattocks cut away large swaths of earth, sledge hammers cause small earthquakes and chainsaws whine in the distance as draw knives cut curly ribbons from split black locust logs. Konnarock crew bustles in unison, all working together to complete our mission. None of this work could be done alone, it takes a group of dedicated individuals to pull it off and boy do we have dedication!<br />
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It was absolutely incredible working with these fine individuals, including not only the Carolina Mountain club who show constant support but the Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine sent two reporters out with us to see how its done! After a club-sponsored lunch at Little Creek Café we hit the highway. As Sams Gap disappeared in the rearview I wished to myself that the season would never end. It's not too late to join, folks! Come on out for some one of a kind fun on the Appalachian Trail!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
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<i></i>Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-91054736300586540332019-08-02T10:33:00.001-07:002019-08-02T10:33:29.199-07:00Week 7: June 21-25, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: War Spur Relocation</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28El0pfd_HDswzkadutk5YKsfRIDlGOvY7IVKQpzGW_KUpy7eCe9Qt4GzG_p8YN7oEGX8ZM6LYgywI8mmc-4EiwyQ8bGhqboUCrSum1viwgiOsNipeWj9EIOJZ7dp1JB3jmUMdLcDcmvl/s1600/P1000023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi28El0pfd_HDswzkadutk5YKsfRIDlGOvY7IVKQpzGW_KUpy7eCe9Qt4GzG_p8YN7oEGX8ZM6LYgywI8mmc-4EiwyQ8bGhqboUCrSum1viwgiOsNipeWj9EIOJZ7dp1JB3jmUMdLcDcmvl/s400/P1000023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="https://www.ratc.org/" target="_blank">Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709279336942" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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What a week! Crew 1 headed out for a week at War Spur to start a much needed relocation of the trail. Most of the volunteers this week were new to Konnarock, so it was their first time doing any trail work.<br />
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Everyone picked up sidehill digging quickly, which was extra impressive because the soil we were working with was unideal to say the least. We ended up having to put a layer of crush over most of the trail we built. So many rocks were harmed in the making of this trail. We also put in a french drain and two rock steps over the course of the week.<br />
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The club also came out this week to help us dig. Our campsite for the week ended up being a pleasant surprise, and the weather was great most of the time. There was an amazing overlook just a short walk away, with views all the way back to basecamp! We caught a few gorgeous sunsets up there.<br />
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The food this week was all gourmet quality, as we had some skilled chefs on our crew. We had some grits stuffed peppers and even an oreo pie (which was shaken, not stirred, by our human blender). Over dinner we had some heated debates over who would win in a fight-- a six foot ant vs. a six foot squirrel.</div>
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After dinner on the last night we played a game of Kemps which Jerry and I were absolutely destroyed in.</div>
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On the way home on day 5, we stopped by Dismal Falls. Only two brave souls actually swam in that insanely cold water. We also made our mandatory ice cream stop at a Dairy Queen this week before we got home.</div>
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It was another super fun and productive trip!</div>
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--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-42986195114489434422019-08-02T10:33:00.000-07:002019-08-02T10:33:01.075-07:00Week 6: June 13-17, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: Battery Cliff Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="http://olddominiontrailclub.onefireplace.org/" target="_blank">Old Dominion Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709278484241/with/48138950701/" target="_blank"><span id="goog_844872539"></span>click here</a><span id="goog_844872540"></span></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
<br />This week Crew 1 returned to Battery Cliffs for the third time this season. We transformed a super unsustainable, ugly section of trail into a rock staircase with the help of three crews. This week we finally finished up the steep area we had been working on. <br /><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The highline made an appearance this week once again and we moved the last of the rock we had quarried over the previous weeks uphill to finally be built into structures. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The feathers and wedges also made an appearance so we could split some of the larger rocks. Unfortunately, the rocks at Battery Cliffs have a mind of their own and didn’t always split quite how we had planned, but fortunately the pieces were still useable and turned into beautiful steps. <br /><br /></div>
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This week we also took a little trip into Crozet for our mandatory ice cream trip (that we unfortunately skipped last week due to weather). It made us all grateful that our camp was up in the mountains because it was at least 10 degrees hotter down in Crozet. It was so hot. Definitely ideal ice cream eating weather. A few of us also stopped into a little local coffee shop while we were there. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecYc8bQa2Jzy_gy0s8T5D77nQgMiMRD9o3O-U5TYICstPAZLZHLyVGCtcV29saoLok5LMQr9ZCV6tsdaqREylqB-wAnqhZPysQKgXCe7rE0QvkRieVyYjyb2XAhIv_RhlqN_UdTrjcUFx/s1600/IMG_0437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiecYc8bQa2Jzy_gy0s8T5D77nQgMiMRD9o3O-U5TYICstPAZLZHLyVGCtcV29saoLok5LMQr9ZCV6tsdaqREylqB-wAnqhZPysQKgXCe7rE0QvkRieVyYjyb2XAhIv_RhlqN_UdTrjcUFx/s400/IMG_0437.JPG" width="300" /></a>The day after we got to binge on ice cream, the Old Dominion club came out to work with us and put in a few water bars and drainages. After work they let us enjoy a nice potluck with them. </div>
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<br />On our last night some of us headed to Sherando lake for a swim and/or “hot” (lukewarm) shower. <br /><br />It was another awesome week!<br /><br />--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-90254400851227692772019-07-31T13:55:00.001-07:002019-07-31T13:55:40.351-07:00Week 6 & 7: June 13-25, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: South of Bee Cove Lead Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="http://www.smhclub.org/" target="_blank">Smoky Mountains Hiking Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709367837632" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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Good gracious, what a blast! By far the most fun I’ve had in
ages. This week the Konnarock Crew was put to the test with two consecutive weeks
in the field, bringing about challenging logistics and endless opportunities to
have a great time. </div>
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Our objective this week was to build trail to bypass two
very dangerous spots in the Bee Cove area near Fontana. These heavily eroded
sections were plagued by slick mud, gnarly roots and steep bedrock making it
not only challenging to cross but quite dangerous as well. So what do you do
when faced with such a dilemma? You wipe the sweat from your brow, strap on
your personal protective equipment and start digging! </div>
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And dig we did, at the
end of two weeks we had constructed 40 stone steps, several of which were
chiseled out of solid bed rock with a jackhammer. The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club accompanied us this week, showering us with gratitude for what we had
accomplished and bolstering our workforce. The club was even gracious
enough to treat the crew to two wonderful dinners!</div>
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How to pass the time between the two work weeks? On one of our off days, we all packed up and drove to Wild Water Rafting Company near the Nantahala Outdoor Center for some white water rafting! After a few days of
rest, relaxation, tacos, and cut-throat games of monopoly we headed back to the Cable Cove Campground to begin plugging away at week 2. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePVrwpt333jQ2bzd51jIB97mkZlupgTdxzbElC5GdHZdHSQ7hORUdy2jbYRDCJT-VXKe7R5nRpSCZVIdBus26yah2_u98P7FFX5z9MetLH9qS0wpTbey5TTT7MdZLUmZuFRDyUPiSsK2i/s1600/20190614_145339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiePVrwpt333jQ2bzd51jIB97mkZlupgTdxzbElC5GdHZdHSQ7hORUdy2jbYRDCJT-VXKe7R5nRpSCZVIdBus26yah2_u98P7FFX5z9MetLH9qS0wpTbey5TTT7MdZLUmZuFRDyUPiSsK2i/s400/20190614_145339.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
We spent the first day
back finalizing a few projects then headed down the hill to begin working with
log steps. At the base of the hill we stumbled upon a huge downed black locust
and took the opportunity to set in some steps and stage materials for the club
to use in the future. Two more successful weeks on the AT.. accomplished, friendships developed, ice cream demolished, and a trail built that we can all be proud of. <o:p></o:p></div>
<i><br /></i>
--Paul Sealy, Assitant Crew Leader<br />
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-76540756173859759072019-07-31T13:48:00.000-07:002019-07-31T13:48:02.742-07:00Week 5: May 5-9, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: Yellow Mountain Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieA_ksiucp-3nYlbVbmsXS1XtFUYPniPXV9rzd9CdSTQOuyuZCjXEjmCc2wY7ATH8dTs1mMwk-nf_jgpM3fzXeMWiyCAaSueZc_MMP4qb7wDwJGZZ1-3507eg1sRBvIW_ypzMY87H7Tb5_/s1600/20190527_111626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieA_ksiucp-3nYlbVbmsXS1XtFUYPniPXV9rzd9CdSTQOuyuZCjXEjmCc2wY7ATH8dTs1mMwk-nf_jgpM3fzXeMWiyCAaSueZc_MMP4qb7wDwJGZZ1-3507eg1sRBvIW_ypzMY87H7Tb5_/s400/20190527_111626.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="http://www.nantahalahikingclub.org/" target="_blank">Nantahala Hiking Club</a></u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>
<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157710014273601/with/48425534952/" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the full photo album</i><br />
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Rumbling thunder cries out in the distance as a thunderstorm
gnashes its teeth, threatening us with torrential downpours. Konnarock Crew 2 yells back, “NOT TODAY” to no avail as the rain rinses the dust from our brows
and the sweat from our skin. </div>
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If there is anything that I learned while hiking
the A.T. it's that rain will always win, there is no such thing as a “dry” A.T. experience. Regardless of the persistent rain, morale remained high as we did our
best to make improvements to the trail, laughing and joking with one another as
if it was a sunny picnic. </div>
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The rain persisted the entire trip, limiting our
ability to build sturdy structures. We were able to rehab a particularly
dangerous area of trail where sloping bedrock caused the soil to slide downhill, making for a treacherous decent. Junk cribbing and stone steps followed by
mounds and mounds of freshly made crush made certain that it would no longer be
an issue. </div>
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The Nantahala Hiking Club joined us again to fortify our efforts as
we slogged through the mud attempting to restore order, keeping our spirits
high. After stabilizing as much as we could, and setting water diversions, we
packed up and headed to a club member's residence where we were treated to hot
showers, warm beds and a delicious potluck-style home cooked meal! </div>
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All things
considered, this was a great week. Its difficult for me to have any negative
feelings towards this week - it will take more than rain to tarnish my love for
the A.T.! Yet again the Konnarock Crew coupled with the Nantahala Hiking Club have
completed a successful week of maintenance. Come out and join us!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew LeaderKonnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-38793932453645273162019-07-01T12:45:00.000-07:002019-07-01T12:45:22.821-07:00Week 5: June 5-9, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: Battery Cliff Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOG_whvKhyLrqctjIlBwWlFxhZAKUTPrQXw1ETEn_ErdpCyqFsPDQbzYW5Tsx1e3LHKppQuMiXPi0q8yRNDxbOxV35GqfhAzE0g3w21kAM4wfMrAvKIV8DK1bac6I4kSvpUXoCrqB4klgT/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOG_whvKhyLrqctjIlBwWlFxhZAKUTPrQXw1ETEn_ErdpCyqFsPDQbzYW5Tsx1e3LHKppQuMiXPi0q8yRNDxbOxV35GqfhAzE0g3w21kAM4wfMrAvKIV8DK1bac6I4kSvpUXoCrqB4klgT/s400/IMG_0402.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>working with <u><a href="http://olddominiontrailclub.onefireplace.org/" target="_blank">Old Dominion Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>
<i><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709278071707" target="_blank"><u>click her</u>e</a> for the full photo album</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<br />
For week five, Crew 1 returned to Battery Cliffs to continue our rehab work on a heavily eroded section of trail. This week the highline made a reappearance, and all 70 of the rocks we flew downhill to a staging area last week, got flown uphill, to the work site this week.<br />
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Fighting gravity turned out to be quite a challenge, but we managed to do it all in a relatively short amount of time. We also got to do some building this week and put in some cribbing and a staircase despite the less than ideal weather. It ended up raining on us a good bit, so we had some leisurely mornings under the kitchen tarp, and then would head to work between 11:30 and noon most days when the rain eased up.<br />
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Even though most mornings were pretty rainy, some of the evenings after work were nice enough that we could enjoy a nice campfire and Jerry got the chance to grill hamburgers over the fire for the first time on project. On the last night, the club had an amazing chef come cook for us at our campsite which was a big hit. It was by far the best food I’ve ever had in the field and definitely put most of us into a food coma by the end of the meal.<br />
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It was yet another awesome week!<br />
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--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-83973901433593365852019-07-01T12:44:00.000-07:002019-07-01T12:44:05.356-07:00Week 4: May 25-29, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h3>
Crew 1: Battery Cliff Rehab</h3>
<br />
<i>working with <u><a href="http://olddominiontrailclub.onefireplace.org/" target="_blank">Old Dominion Appalachian Trail Club</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709141585953" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the full photo album</i><br />
<br />
<br />
On week four, Crew 1 set off for Battery Cliffs doing a rehab project in a section that has been really degraded by water. A lot of rockwork and drainage will be necessary to solve this problem.<br />
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This week we set up a highline which was incredible to see in action. We were like a machine moving rock and managed to fly over 70 huge rocks in just a day and a half. The teamwork with this crew was awesome which was definitely what allowed us to fly so much rock so fast.<br />
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We had an expert tree climber with us who helped us rig up the whole system on day 2 and once it was set up everybody was assigned a job to do. We all ended up liking what we were doing so much that we never really switched up positions so everybody ended up being a pro by the next day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm925EiaKb2-ARFq5oGx30kMqtTZe-BQR0F_ZtUKoKBnmqTjBmQBx5WIrnZdvB-tk3-sL45t_FvY3ZnNTdJqUGc-zYZoheNvw69eNs1YChppSrIB5oDsNTuGRhkMjzBznvGrbpyXqpqPGb/s1600/IMG_0323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm925EiaKb2-ARFq5oGx30kMqtTZe-BQR0F_ZtUKoKBnmqTjBmQBx5WIrnZdvB-tk3-sL45t_FvY3ZnNTdJqUGc-zYZoheNvw69eNs1YChppSrIB5oDsNTuGRhkMjzBznvGrbpyXqpqPGb/s400/IMG_0323.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
On day 4 to wrap up the week, the crew put in two rock water bars and a few steps to help control the water issue before we come back for week 5. The last day of the week was our drive day so we got to sleep in a bit before we hit the road.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQy4VvC4SPdTvo27xS-ZcYFnPyI8RNH4XGhnAQGOCGqydbZ1VgVixyemUem7kjotGNcZtmsnf050HKtLB_lRlC2zMGZJf93gRsV6h853S0750IfPdeQYqgycHzwsIi2vaBpfdMlh-FW6n/s1600/IMG_0329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQy4VvC4SPdTvo27xS-ZcYFnPyI8RNH4XGhnAQGOCGqydbZ1VgVixyemUem7kjotGNcZtmsnf050HKtLB_lRlC2zMGZJf93gRsV6h853S0750IfPdeQYqgycHzwsIi2vaBpfdMlh-FW6n/s400/IMG_0329.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
In our off time this week we got to adventure some. On day 3 we went into Waynesboro for our mandatory weekly ice cream stop. Then on day 4 after work we went off to Sherando lake and swam around to clean off, some people even brought out some soap. It’s a beautiful lake that we will most definitely be returning to next week ( they even have hot showers there ). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPik66Ma9Y8OJ_baWlKRaiP77VnbZGUthyphenhyphenYCtdwuYSwCjliHM2MEZwisceAu0yv3lqsusxO8_b95D1NckpGBxO1EfD7cn6IRnFO2pxPpy_htN4LzpeC70aVjdEPxZQi28kdwplwY0IQtPE/s1600/IMG_0340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPik66Ma9Y8OJ_baWlKRaiP77VnbZGUthyphenhyphenYCtdwuYSwCjliHM2MEZwisceAu0yv3lqsusxO8_b95D1NckpGBxO1EfD7cn6IRnFO2pxPpy_htN4LzpeC70aVjdEPxZQi28kdwplwY0IQtPE/s400/IMG_0340.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
On the last day of the week on the drive back to basecamp we stopped at Dinosaur Kingdom 2 which was an incredibly enlightening experience. We learned the secret history of the civil war, saw plenty of prehistoric creatures, and entered a room that defied the laws of physics. We even got to chat with the creator of this surreal world for a bit. It was probably the strangest place any of us had ever been in our lives. You can’t leave Dinosaur Kingdom 2 the same person as when you go in.<br />
<br />
Ultimately we couldn’t have asked for a better crew and it ended up being a great week full of<br />
weird adventures and really good work.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf67CsdX8S2qhEOiADCBWNXvRFxWMQ_iFtHrZHB6vzjIOb_U1UntF7FOdmkriEBwaCpI2nonG8del2zP6TAo_wLYVZcMvea4TQmSzUd_C2xMWalXRNjelVJBhXk9zDZxImVUU7dygQzoqd/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf67CsdX8S2qhEOiADCBWNXvRFxWMQ_iFtHrZHB6vzjIOb_U1UntF7FOdmkriEBwaCpI2nonG8del2zP6TAo_wLYVZcMvea4TQmSzUd_C2xMWalXRNjelVJBhXk9zDZxImVUU7dygQzoqd/s640/IMG_0343.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-11846913421300663002019-07-01T12:43:00.002-07:002019-07-01T12:43:30.494-07:00Week 4: May 25-29, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: Yellow Mountain Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii98pNWntc7inqjgdnOXiBxUPr7j0c4s9SxzSlA0uT5nxwd7zJrzws0nKrJLlITPz6SHhNlMIeNMt0lzx4hYrRxdO8TBD_3UztK-eVpJRW1N-XKdi1kSfzSRvZjBGBt5iO-A4JuQ-uJVti/s1600/20190528_110356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii98pNWntc7inqjgdnOXiBxUPr7j0c4s9SxzSlA0uT5nxwd7zJrzws0nKrJLlITPz6SHhNlMIeNMt0lzx4hYrRxdO8TBD_3UztK-eVpJRW1N-XKdi1kSfzSRvZjBGBt5iO-A4JuQ-uJVti/s400/20190528_110356.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="http://www.nantahalahikingclub.org/" target="_blank">Nantahala Hiking Club</a></u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i><i><u>c<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709365331007" target="_blank">lick here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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As the weeks press on and the trail begins its
transformation I am constantly reminded of all the work leading up to the
construction of the Appalachian Trail and how many wonderful people have
impacted its winding path. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjboEigQ7XHIE3w9hzAQYxlGa4pSGfSjB07QZ0fNQTZHjEkjw-QwPgXCP9L_1k0T7EQ8jvCfPwEHyM7mhiIE8WptGLePLCFuC51gyZmDqNzj-VRqJOEuH2W-OununWcJvnILaLEXVcl6_Uv/s1600/20190527_111624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjboEigQ7XHIE3w9hzAQYxlGa4pSGfSjB07QZ0fNQTZHjEkjw-QwPgXCP9L_1k0T7EQ8jvCfPwEHyM7mhiIE8WptGLePLCFuC51gyZmDqNzj-VRqJOEuH2W-OununWcJvnILaLEXVcl6_Uv/s400/20190527_111624.jpg" width="225" /></a>On October 7<sup>th</sup>, 1923, the first section
of trail from Bear Mountain to Arden, New York was opened and ever since a very
special family has been building. Each week we get a new group of volunteers
and the family grows larger, others return to visit and some you just can’t
seem to get rid of! Our Camp Coordinator Janet always makes camp feel like home
with her questionable humor and delicious food, here at Konnarock everyone is
family. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWO95WV51WqsgSa2muV2vErbGkphZkjacM4ibnePKQzv-ZEKqLD0TFl4Wzb5wqt9qpkA-Oszj_Fh-2SGoOi5El-dH60-KqZvmlJ2C9JjhdOlcYMkqKqx9W1BqqTOuNGxNtnktovJLqDaN7/s1600/DSCN0914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWO95WV51WqsgSa2muV2vErbGkphZkjacM4ibnePKQzv-ZEKqLD0TFl4Wzb5wqt9qpkA-Oszj_Fh-2SGoOi5El-dH60-KqZvmlJ2C9JjhdOlcYMkqKqx9W1BqqTOuNGxNtnktovJLqDaN7/s400/DSCN0914.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our second week on the Yellow Mountain Rehab project was an absolute dream. Perfect weather
all week, followed by an incredible Thai dinner with friends, set the bar high
for the rest of the season. Regardless of a small our crew this week we
were able to make great progress, it’s incredible how much can be accomplished
with unity, tenacity and sweat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLQqz4qdaEIydVr_osjvPjoA9iDPJgkJ-0rOVzSzpKw2GzFbTguFQ6Ef5BubMDy7CBLah29QzgxDztmRjYqphV-XfYWy_TpFZ5amlEB4U9Eadx7I5qF4Q-A4-TvcmhHlYmzuImW-Q-qed/s1600/DSCN0950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLQqz4qdaEIydVr_osjvPjoA9iDPJgkJ-0rOVzSzpKw2GzFbTguFQ6Ef5BubMDy7CBLah29QzgxDztmRjYqphV-XfYWy_TpFZ5amlEB4U9Eadx7I5qF4Q-A4-TvcmhHlYmzuImW-Q-qed/s400/DSCN0950.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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We first focused on finalizing a project from
the previous week before moving down the hill to address a section of trail
suffering from direct water flow and steep sections which could soon become too difficult to
traverse. At the end of the week we walked away having completed several stone
staircases, a large water bar, a crib wall, and a log staircase. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFrgPvYNPTvS0_n_HVCWnNYqQM8NndF_JXiCg4UWNuk9sdoRYy2ksJGfcNhGmCDboW9PrTUW6lf0JLLIxAl7mbRwbsMRwCysZGhXYWzANwVg1NaAbWKNwjmMWf1jEY5GgXFck2VsPscuZ/s1600/DSCN0972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFrgPvYNPTvS0_n_HVCWnNYqQM8NndF_JXiCg4UWNuk9sdoRYy2ksJGfcNhGmCDboW9PrTUW6lf0JLLIxAl7mbRwbsMRwCysZGhXYWzANwVg1NaAbWKNwjmMWf1jEY5GgXFck2VsPscuZ/s400/DSCN0972.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Shout out to
The Nantahala Hiking Club who accompanied us for a second consecutive week,
none of this would be possible without the support from our hiking clubs! Next
week will be our last week on the Yellow mountain rehab before moving on to
Fontana Dam, come on out and join the family!</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<br />
--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew Leader<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJOuf2RCnn1w1wQfQZFS2Htw8itBa_h44LWczXI2AwHjDwkb1jJbgMZaEf_qEOlzy_G0qu_kKiDeeg2vjZnsHC3UKUx7OMxtQL_2HR_kUu9iYXhLbYPLL0YfTVxsYv7hY6BOBqnoqR06A/s1600/DSCN0971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJOuf2RCnn1w1wQfQZFS2Htw8itBa_h44LWczXI2AwHjDwkb1jJbgMZaEf_qEOlzy_G0qu_kKiDeeg2vjZnsHC3UKUx7OMxtQL_2HR_kUu9iYXhLbYPLL0YfTVxsYv7hY6BOBqnoqR06A/s640/DSCN0971.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-34487880462972801782019-07-01T12:11:00.002-07:002019-07-01T12:13:16.196-07:00Week 3: May 17-21, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: Yellow Mountain Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZP-NICtd6aGaDTHyos9BcciY1WTEGsRagrgxJyI5h0Fxb9-svf7244DShO1KnUABhJAn5Ln3BYOYITqkVGUckOmgeP4_gJ6U1kMX70U33RY9vI4_1Qq8fhRq7tsZ0vx5PH4eGPoLnIOc2/s1600/DSCN0904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZP-NICtd6aGaDTHyos9BcciY1WTEGsRagrgxJyI5h0Fxb9-svf7244DShO1KnUABhJAn5Ln3BYOYITqkVGUckOmgeP4_gJ6U1kMX70U33RY9vI4_1Qq8fhRq7tsZ0vx5PH4eGPoLnIOc2/s400/DSCN0904.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
<i>working with <u><a href="http://www.nantahalahikingclub.org/" target="_blank">Nantahala Hiking Club</a></u></i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>
<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709365446786" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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I’ve heard it said that time flies when you’re having fun,
well it goes even faster on the Appalachian Trail. It seems just yesterday we
set out from Sugar Grove Base camp and headed south to Deep Gap in the
Nantahala National Forest with our lively group of volunteers hailing all the
way from South Dakota.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvotvKkcSnB1_hmKsi0GvBcxZtalzJSHT2Kr8LSmHYiV5K8K41fEkLIKshaloDwTr4uaVyl9jsSYDMAdjIvJwR_KeG5g4VTWiQz2i4nsflUYfBcPdKljyOC_yIs6r95K07Q6y8Yj9FzQA/s1600/DSCN0860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvotvKkcSnB1_hmKsi0GvBcxZtalzJSHT2Kr8LSmHYiV5K8K41fEkLIKshaloDwTr4uaVyl9jsSYDMAdjIvJwR_KeG5g4VTWiQz2i4nsflUYfBcPdKljyOC_yIs6r95K07Q6y8Yj9FzQA/s400/DSCN0860.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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After a delicious welcome dinner, orientation and a
nights rest we set out for Deep Gap campground, assembled our shelters and
hiked to the summit of Standing Indian Mountain to stretch our legs and take in
the landscape. Bright and early the next morning, with muscles stretched and
tools cached we dug into our first project of the week: a steep, slick hill
riddled with gnarly birch roots.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERlNg_JTwl6gcAbGr9puZYYR08XkTQGgG-QeUZ9yMRORqD9DjBNtNxxtiN7eXq8P12BRekR1wpCyd5xsbtwO8EFfX0RhTD_kLNxPVR6bhI4EcIZ3ZC8eOm6wEjX8Rdug08juCiRDwDz4M/s1600/DSCN0865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERlNg_JTwl6gcAbGr9puZYYR08XkTQGgG-QeUZ9yMRORqD9DjBNtNxxtiN7eXq8P12BRekR1wpCyd5xsbtwO8EFfX0RhTD_kLNxPVR6bhI4EcIZ3ZC8eOm6wEjX8Rdug08juCiRDwDz4M/s400/DSCN0865.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Using the Griphoist and rock nets we moved
400 pound rocks uphill to set in place as stairs and cribbing, gently nudging
them into pre-dug holes with rock bars and pick mattocks. The Nantahala Hiking Club joined us in force as we manicured difficult sections of trail in the beautiful sunny spring weather.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tLTfPmBpC-UM5yKCbxd_ZqAfVnYdXlZzalgF4bDeOzRydNSmhtUoZfkhQgOk6zowpCSxp2C82p55nSx7B8akvkFGxJRdxJT8xOvJ8HNGgUaMHC27XNE_X4v9sjqS7tF9wBEnXXyqqyX5/s1600/20190521_123107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5tLTfPmBpC-UM5yKCbxd_ZqAfVnYdXlZzalgF4bDeOzRydNSmhtUoZfkhQgOk6zowpCSxp2C82p55nSx7B8akvkFGxJRdxJT8xOvJ8HNGgUaMHC27XNE_X4v9sjqS7tF9wBEnXXyqqyX5/s400/20190521_123107.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkiDpPjQlQjXl_TY5JIWL7JEPJrJRIEt6IKA1CrUbw-P-j80Q5FzweBV5eAeXfaoKVPIVDNb2EnWJC4kDTeu5Ss0lH9OthRforJCjEPbZaX3ek_U0F0M5GMg8VciAf8UEw6QPcA7nj3Gm/s1600/20190520_162546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkiDpPjQlQjXl_TY5JIWL7JEPJrJRIEt6IKA1CrUbw-P-j80Q5FzweBV5eAeXfaoKVPIVDNb2EnWJC4kDTeu5Ss0lH9OthRforJCjEPbZaX3ek_U0F0M5GMg8VciAf8UEw6QPcA7nj3Gm/s400/20190520_162546.jpg" width="225" /></a>Time slipped by around the campfire as we
laughed and joked, telling each other riddles and making up silly nicknames
trying not to let our marsh mellows burn. As the long week wound down we
were treated to an awesome dinner by the Nantahala Hiking Club at a local Mexican
restaurant before packing up to head back to base camp.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It was such an honor
being able to spend a week working with these tough ladies, most of whom had
never camped overnight before. Seeing the trail transform alongside them was
an incredible and uplifting experience. Come on out and have some fun in the
woods with Konnarock Trail Crew!<o:p></o:p></div>
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--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-26049437388105548842019-06-13T14:07:00.000-07:002019-06-13T14:13:23.271-07:00Week 3: May 17-21, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: Wilburn Ridge Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="http://mratc.pbworks.com/w/page/8862374/FrontPage" target="_blank">Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Clu</a>b</u> and Hard Core volunteers</i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709069723622" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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Week 3 of the Konnarock season has wrapped up with our group of super hardcore alumni volunteers accomplishing a crazy amount of work.<br />
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It was the week of Damascus Hard Core, when a group of hand-selected alumni volunteers had the opportunity to lead groups of current or previous thru-hikers in a number of rehab projects on Wilburn Ridge for two days. Hikers signed up for this opportunity during the Trail Days festival, and were provided with meals and transportation back to wherever they got off the Trail after their two days wrapped up. </div>
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Over the first two days, before the thru-hikers came out, the crew got to work on one long, super degraded section where we had to build around and replace some existing structures. Within a day and a half, we managed to put in an impressive 40 rock steps. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XsHuQ_RZQZwxuYHXeB2XZI9KPKwoHj5cYFlANGfbaFbOimqihFJW0fbeD5IFKPD8S5tV0pOyag46a7AH7QVttnvv94EwGBZtW-qpDP_Ul68Ms5BKNr8a4AhnItNYiNSNPm_gsWQtQdOn/s1600/DSCN3632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_XsHuQ_RZQZwxuYHXeB2XZI9KPKwoHj5cYFlANGfbaFbOimqihFJW0fbeD5IFKPD8S5tV0pOyag46a7AH7QVttnvv94EwGBZtW-qpDP_Ul68Ms5BKNr8a4AhnItNYiNSNPm_gsWQtQdOn/s400/DSCN3632.JPG" width="400" /></a>Aside from amazing trail building, this crew was also equally skilled in the kitchen. Since we were returning to Base Camp every night, we were able to make big breakfasts every morning. I probably gained 10 lbs over the course of that week but it was well worth it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1Wgb3_6Dlw27zb_sfPnhahlNWrRwX0B_fm__72k899cey-Ec2t0rYPMjuIST4w8zDJ4blLR7_P1MVvDOqwCAnaj3Oh76WsIvM4zXe5OiTCBERRosMJPWYGWsPGG_VTOZJljpb1GgbYj8/s1600/DSCN3647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1Wgb3_6Dlw27zb_sfPnhahlNWrRwX0B_fm__72k899cey-Ec2t0rYPMjuIST4w8zDJ4blLR7_P1MVvDOqwCAnaj3Oh76WsIvM4zXe5OiTCBERRosMJPWYGWsPGG_VTOZJljpb1GgbYj8/s400/DSCN3647.JPG" width="300" /></a>On the third and fourth days of the week, the thru-hikers volunteered with us. We split up into groups of about two or three thru-hikers per Konnarock volunteer. It was awesome to meet so many different people from all walks of life and come together to form a giant crew. </div>
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On the third night everybody got together and had a huge dinner together. Janet made about 6 tons of pulled pork which we all devoured at a beautiful campground in Grayson Highlands and just got to hang out and get to know each other. </div>
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It was altogether a great week in a beautiful place with awesome people.<br />
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--Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-52822095184912036322019-06-13T13:20:00.002-07:002019-06-13T14:13:32.707-07:00Week 2: May 9-13, 2019<h3>
Crew 2: South of Sams Gap Rehab</h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2z8CMseigYN8tZFifuMX1iksHA5Jv5b2Pe7CEMadgWg3MBbsXth8lq-pGDYn9bWVYH82gg6koZjeQJFoEyTX5R854lQ6Hinhmz-EaCL0AOuna3IpYBkP7vmSDJcnQ02lmQzrIesmy2X8/s1600/DSCN0779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2z8CMseigYN8tZFifuMX1iksHA5Jv5b2Pe7CEMadgWg3MBbsXth8lq-pGDYn9bWVYH82gg6koZjeQJFoEyTX5R854lQ6Hinhmz-EaCL0AOuna3IpYBkP7vmSDJcnQ02lmQzrIesmy2X8/s400/DSCN0779.JPG" width="400" /></a><i>working with <u><a href="https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/" target="_blank">Carolina Mountain Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709068043832" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the full photo album</i><br />
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“CREW 2!!”, “HELL YEA BROTHER!!”<br />
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Shouts ring out across the hall in unison as Josh Reynolds musters the crew chant, bringing an end to an incredible week on the Appalachian Trail. </div>
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This week we teamed up with Carolina Mountain Club and The University of Central Missouri to tackle a heavily worn section at Sams Gap along the Tennessee/North Carolina border. After travelling 20+ hours to arrive at base camp and several hours to the project, site our crew of university students and active duty military personnel was eager to get to work and completed log step installation on the very first day.</div>
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Resources for this site were abundant, with dead black locust looming above just waiting to be repurposed into tread for the A.T. Draw knives carved long swaths of bark, splitting wedges manicured large logs into perfect steps, and hammers pinged constantly making crush to stabilize our work. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydW4V5O_MLP2ttpJ7UyGKV0uKwzx29lM-ZNz_703-SFnDQ47cznHEXe80mw3HDW4bsEY_oOa0VPyliAcXEdDvUMz0jNtSf_-sCL1wGVV0mDEqmsY04EwXSdyYBYmt0Dxmf9SnR7qt9FFQ/s1600/DSCN0714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhydW4V5O_MLP2ttpJ7UyGKV0uKwzx29lM-ZNz_703-SFnDQ47cznHEXe80mw3HDW4bsEY_oOa0VPyliAcXEdDvUMz0jNtSf_-sCL1wGVV0mDEqmsY04EwXSdyYBYmt0Dxmf9SnR7qt9FFQ/s400/DSCN0714.JPG" width="400" /></a>Even after 2 grueling days of rain with no chance of sunshine, morale stayed high, filling the woods with laughter and cheers of victory as trail transformed before our eyes. Saturday May 11th we stopped work early due to heavy rains and risk of hypothermia and decided to travel to Asheville NC to celebrate my birthday with fried chicken and ice-cream! Truly one of the best birthdays I have experienced so far, which is easy to say when the A.T. and fried chicken are combined after a long work week. </div>
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The next day the crew hiked out to Hogback Ridge Shelter, digging drainage ditches along the way and getting the full A.T. experience (plus an actual toilet seat, in the privy!). Regardless of rain, fatigue, and sore muscles, laughter was constantly present. We were able to stay positive and productive and have a blast at the campsite, playing games like Werewolf and sharing stories.</div>
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Does the Appalachian trail beckon to you? Will you be the next to answer the call? Come join the Konnarock Trail Crew, preserving the AT one step at a time.<br />
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--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-50100677539312985432019-06-13T11:29:00.003-07:002019-06-13T11:32:08.777-07:00Week 2: May 9-13, 2019<h3>
Crew 1: Poor Mountain Relocation</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz7m6wUcDKK2QO48sT4dLcwf9DMoFsF2iDPoMWPFb6LVTx5gjPrYnGPT9Oru8hXEJyfrAZSEbjt3qrgzaOX_Mks1g4eXoBlNp0P6mif5Rfm_cwUq-mDXoJwQiYPRMUn2XB39pb4LB0ZuW/s1600/DSCN3438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTz7m6wUcDKK2QO48sT4dLcwf9DMoFsF2iDPoMWPFb6LVTx5gjPrYnGPT9Oru8hXEJyfrAZSEbjt3qrgzaOX_Mks1g4eXoBlNp0P6mif5Rfm_cwUq-mDXoJwQiYPRMUn2XB39pb4LB0ZuW/s400/DSCN3438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>working with <u><a href="https://georgia-atclub.org/" target="_blank">Georgia Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i><br />
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157709035042493" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i><br />
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The second week of the season is done, and it was an amazing experience. Students from the University of Central Missouri (UCM) made the long trek to Virginia to help improve the Appalachian Trail. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiMyMAQcM5UEiSw6vLanCrdlPzvUPONraYwSlc1W3QjfgBzITv2cZn8LvAIvywXa67XqDJiz2TawVw537GcogehhSrVpsGeEqozuzLZkI340TUen4xZ_1x_JCuJ7TEiHXkLU0z6lksgy1/s1600/DSCN3437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiMyMAQcM5UEiSw6vLanCrdlPzvUPONraYwSlc1W3QjfgBzITv2cZn8LvAIvywXa67XqDJiz2TawVw537GcogehhSrVpsGeEqozuzLZkI340TUen4xZ_1x_JCuJ7TEiHXkLU0z6lksgy1/s400/DSCN3437.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
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The crew was half veterans, and half civilian students who came together to bond and work. Crew 1 headed down to Georgia to begin work on relocation of the trail at Poor Mountain near Hog Pen Gap. The purpose of the relocation is to move the trail to a more sustainable location.</div>
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On the first day we made the six hour drive to Georgia and hiked in tools to the worksite. On the way down we were able to stop at a rest area and pick up a copy of a newspaper with a horoscope section so we could learn what the week had in store for us. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNusfQ__JwEkyO0aSgnTc9YYZTQJw2iAs5MGPo9rnBy0nsj8q-_IWWj54Sd7i72jLbl4NYd83iQMzoaCJ8V_j14fbgohA0kYoOMgH0wTbHh25UaqJH2UU6OyEqzIS1AhmfwlbOp-1tUOGB/s1600/DSCN3469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNusfQ__JwEkyO0aSgnTc9YYZTQJw2iAs5MGPo9rnBy0nsj8q-_IWWj54Sd7i72jLbl4NYd83iQMzoaCJ8V_j14fbgohA0kYoOMgH0wTbHh25UaqJH2UU6OyEqzIS1AhmfwlbOp-1tUOGB/s400/DSCN3469.JPG" width="400" /></a>The next day we were expecting bad weather, but were pleasantly surprised by the nice sunny day we got to enjoy. An impressive amount of quality sidehill was dug in one afternoon, but unfortunately the weather was less kind to us for the rest of the week. The next day was rainy with scattered thunderstorms, so we thought it would be unsafe to head up to the worksite. Instead of heading up there, we went on a short, lovely hike down to a huge waterfall. </div>
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Later that afternoon, the weather cleared up some and we were able to get some work done at a different site that was closer than the relocation. This section was steep and degraded, so we all had the opportunity to do some non-sidehill projects. Rock steps, rock waterbars, drainage dips, and log steps were all put in in the following two afternoons. Both of the next two mornings we were rained out, but we still managed accomplish so much.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTRumL8BCitizAqN8D0pMn9SaotfIgtprH-b9BtZma9z6K7EGhXYzTuUDd18nN2kzJJqX_QvdWe72za-RY6SM0mYnUGIloMc4PjjxCKUwjYoUPoszmcWDoygRmGXSX-p4_opjOXsBGqN-/s1600/DSCN3487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTRumL8BCitizAqN8D0pMn9SaotfIgtprH-b9BtZma9z6K7EGhXYzTuUDd18nN2kzJJqX_QvdWe72za-RY6SM0mYnUGIloMc4PjjxCKUwjYoUPoszmcWDoygRmGXSX-p4_opjOXsBGqN-/s400/DSCN3487.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
On the final evening we were generously hosted by a member of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club at his beautiful house along the Etowah River. The UCM students had the opportunity to float the section of river in inner tubes and canoes (the canoes somewhat less successfully by the end). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXY7I5RTIAG8HvpRXJO6n_F0mhyphenhyphenl6RSZ-r8SuPvnYtDAHPUxGV62nYmbPlSGrqiM90SqZu0FlZwp1NwhuVWD10wU4bjyF_sZm8fJVGAl3b9x6TXCTyOOyz7fkUZBP8J58b-By29sd8Jkdg/s1600/DSCN3489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXY7I5RTIAG8HvpRXJO6n_F0mhyphenhyphenl6RSZ-r8SuPvnYtDAHPUxGV62nYmbPlSGrqiM90SqZu0FlZwp1NwhuVWD10wU4bjyF_sZm8fJVGAl3b9x6TXCTyOOyz7fkUZBP8J58b-By29sd8Jkdg/s400/DSCN3489.JPG" width="300" /></a>After the float trip, a big dinner was served to all of us around a bonfire and the next morning an equally impressive breakfast was served before we hit the road. All in all, it was an amazing, fun, and super productive trip. We already can’t wait for next season's UCM group.<br />
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---Sarah Ellsworth, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-15690137893924609062019-06-06T13:50:00.001-07:002019-06-06T13:50:27.435-07:00Week 1: May 1-5, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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South of Bee Cove Lead Rehab</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0Ee3P7epXir01jV0LO2Qdl3zl5-f0_OaKcoOuEZ4aVF_x63YWOmrZ4o_odadkIZiI7sqtEPLlAZHFkg4MTt5rbepaJWlCJAT-iR_IMHC1zBvWbqfWYHYdMfiyIsYpAJvnvBskOHzuZyq/s1600/DSCN0650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0Ee3P7epXir01jV0LO2Qdl3zl5-f0_OaKcoOuEZ4aVF_x63YWOmrZ4o_odadkIZiI7sqtEPLlAZHFkg4MTt5rbepaJWlCJAT-iR_IMHC1zBvWbqfWYHYdMfiyIsYpAJvnvBskOHzuZyq/s400/DSCN0650.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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working with <u><a href="http://www.smhclub.org/" target="_blank">Smoky Mountains Hiking Club</a></u></i><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsxKErs0Wkg-Zmu1kmmCjYf41eLxVUVsPw8vCeAfTsl_2gBIV_Jx7N_fzzRrZgjLnCegPv_ggrcHA92N63_Nzk4mHiquADQKcviAIZ-NOe2BFfT92SFJm80opj2h-bhvRlqfTXkfnXNhV/s1600/DSCN0668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsxKErs0Wkg-Zmu1kmmCjYf41eLxVUVsPw8vCeAfTsl_2gBIV_Jx7N_fzzRrZgjLnCegPv_ggrcHA92N63_Nzk4mHiquADQKcviAIZ-NOe2BFfT92SFJm80opj2h-bhvRlqfTXkfnXNhV/s400/DSCN0668.JPG" width="400" /></a><i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/48015179611/in/dateposted/" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the full photo album</i><br /><br />Driven by sore muscles, pride, and love for the AT, sledgehammers mixed stone with sweat as the Konnarock Crew set its teeth into this year’s first week of rehab, relocation and maintenance. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />For this project Konnarock crew leaders teamed up with six awesome volunteers to repair a section of trail in the Bee Cove area near Fontana Lake, North Carolina. Upon arrival, the crew hiked up the mountain laden with tools and gear, stashed it all, then headed to Cable Cove Campground to settle in. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSi-dwTsVt6ZPeq537uNVzPXGiGUDpyMc5uuWzj8gVY8iUbhys5ttu6B-CYisyqZiXm2oFjRuUXwMATscGCDOL9UzI_AcFaBah_hQWRcmIQPMFgeDfBgpj2_6QzeuMmg4NESxWPK84M3tG/s1600/DSCN0640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSi-dwTsVt6ZPeq537uNVzPXGiGUDpyMc5uuWzj8gVY8iUbhys5ttu6B-CYisyqZiXm2oFjRuUXwMATscGCDOL9UzI_AcFaBah_hQWRcmIQPMFgeDfBgpj2_6QzeuMmg4NESxWPK84M3tG/s400/DSCN0640.JPG" width="400" /></a>The 1.7 mile hike in was steep and muddy with slick rock and uneven terrain, but the weather held out until Saturday nd allowed for good working conditions. Rock bars, pick mattocks, belay lines, rock nets, rock drills and rifting hammers were all used to make stone cribbing, stone stairs, and endless piles of crush to eliminate water erosion and preserve the trail for decades to come. </div>
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After a long day's work and a quick dip in Fontana Lake, the crew headed back to camp for dinner, campfires, s’mores, jokes and relaxation. We want to send a special shout out to Smoky Mountains Hiking Club for all their continuous aid and an incredible dinner at Lynn’s place in Robbinsville, to the awesome Week 1 volunteers for their hard work and support, and to ATC management who have worked tirelessly to make sure this year goes as smoothly as possible! If you are interested in becoming part of our volunteer team check us out at <u><a href="http://www.appalachiantrail.org/konnarock">www.appalachiantrail.org/konnarock</a>!</u></div>
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--Paul Sealy, Assistant Crew Leader</div>
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-63584326670593544972019-04-23T11:39:00.000-07:002019-04-23T11:39:03.878-07:002018 Konnarock ReportJust in time to get excited for the 2019 season, here's the 2018 Konnarock Trail Crew Report! <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/15b0ToFvEmwDTXNDz04mDdt3g1EbZERvD/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Click here </a>to read it, and get ready to be impressed by all the excellent work done last season.<br />
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The Crew Leaders are currently visiting every project site, while Janet's busy stocking up at Base Camp. We still need more volunteers to fill up almost every week, so <a href="http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home/conservation/trail-management/trail-crews-group/konnarock-trail-crew" target="_blank">click here</a> to register today. and don't forget to tell all your friends!<br />
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<br />Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-65684742330581991462018-08-22T12:54:00.001-07:002018-08-22T12:54:27.273-07:00Week 12: August 4-8, 2018<div>
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<span lang="EN">Crew 2</span>: Thomas Knob to Rhododendron Gap Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="http://mratc.pbworks.com/w/page/8862374/FrontPage" target="_blank">Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club</a></u></i></div>
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157697233890452" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i></div>
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Week 12 is done, and with that the Konnarock Volunteer Trail Crew officially brings its 2018 season to a close. To finish off the season, Crew 2 embarked on one final journey into the unmatched beauty of the Mount Rogers High Country, a true jewel of southwest Virginia. Just a short drive from Konnarock’s Sugar Grove Base Camp, the high country is an unforgettable landscape which made the perfect frame for Crew 2’s last project. <br />
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The project work picked up where the crew had left off on Week 11 - rehabilitating a degraded section of trail between Thomas Knob Shelter and Rhododendron Gap. A combination of heavy hiker traffic, volatile weather patterns, soil type, and relative lack of tree cover make this stretch of trail highly prone to erosion.<br />
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Another problem is the presence of many user-created trails that branch out from the actual A.T., gradually widening the area that hikers walk on and increasing erosion over the long term. The presence of the famous free-ranging pony herds (managed to help to graze the landscape) provides an additional pressure on the trail. On Week 11, Crew 2 began by repairing some existing rock staircases and closing side trails. For Week 12, much more time would be devoted to installing new rock steps.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8nHGSF-wC5kRetm3eDGByIxdtY1VPqOKDgshPDFt-14m4JvbrRz7Yxolfct9uvzpoVOSpmTXoaS9BlkeLonlsD9mVRD3l7kalog3Q9N5zNsV-WCcfiYDHTw4HXZzW_iRZtfIm7FW4l2m/s1600/2018-08-04+11.22.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8nHGSF-wC5kRetm3eDGByIxdtY1VPqOKDgshPDFt-14m4JvbrRz7Yxolfct9uvzpoVOSpmTXoaS9BlkeLonlsD9mVRD3l7kalog3Q9N5zNsV-WCcfiYDHTw4HXZzW_iRZtfIm7FW4l2m/s400/2018-08-04+11.22.20.jpg" width="400" /></a>The week began by backpacking into the high country via Massey Gap at Grayson Highlands State Park. Following the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail for about 3.5 miles eventually led the crew to their campsite just north of Thomas Knob Shelter. Meanwhile, the staff from the U.S. Forest Service’s Sugar Grove Work Center shuttled the heavy group gear (coolers, tools, water jugs, etc) to the site using UTVs.<br />
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Thanks to an especially large crew, camp setup didn’t take long. To protect food and smellables from bears and ponies, the kitchen area was enclosed within a small electric fence, also courtesy of the Forest Service. Less than a quarter mile from the work site and featuring sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, this campsite could not have been a more idyllic spot to end the season.<br />
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Work began on the first day as soon as camp was assembled. Due to the large group size, the crew split into two smaller teams to work on separate sections of trail. The lower section group worked on several projects, including extending a rock staircase which was initiated in 2017, in order to create a more sustainable structure that would not wash out. Others in this group worked on installing several more rock steps at strategic locations where erosion had been taking its toll over the past year. <br />
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The upper group began addressing a particularly damaged section of trail that had not received any attention as of yet. In addition to being overly steep, this section had been widened far beyond its original boundaries. Exposed rocks jutted from the ground at random points, making the trail altogether unpleasant to walk on and contributing to the tendency for hikers to walk to the side. The plan for this section was to reinforce the tread surface with a series of stone check dams and steps, accompanied by massive “megalodon” gargoyles and plenty of junk rocks piled on the sides to narrow the corridor back to a sustainable width.<br />
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Between the two teams, an enormous amount of rock construction lay ahead. Most of the crew was made up of alumni volunteers, though, and everyone rose to the challenge with enthusiasm. As always with this type of work, much effort was devoted to quarrying rock with the help of the staple rock work tool, the 18-pound steel rock bar. Gracefully manipulating leverage with the help of fulcrum rocks and the occasional sling, crew members were able to unearth some truly gargantuan rocks this week.<br />
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Team-carrying the massive hunks of mineral with nets was a task that often occupied eight people at a time. It’s no stretch to estimate the weight of some of these rocks at over 500 pounds, and some surely came closer to 1000. One came to be nicknamed “the Volkswagen” since it seemed to be a large as a small car. On some of the larger rocks, additional “strategery” was employed by laying rock bars on the ground and allowing the heavy rocks to skid on top in order to reduce friction.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsjIlNglwGRUUfirL46Dnuo5kReXk0s8OMZrFw1GIrYS1RXidmlcJQc3_H79zdloYbIGbexGU2MTYZOWd2uMCLtCnJ5J7f3sA-bN3NmHs9Y0fAzAvzNtsa8CGcr8kkqxtBNUgXV3KYNT0/s1600/DSCN3371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsjIlNglwGRUUfirL46Dnuo5kReXk0s8OMZrFw1GIrYS1RXidmlcJQc3_H79zdloYbIGbexGU2MTYZOWd2uMCLtCnJ5J7f3sA-bN3NmHs9Y0fAzAvzNtsa8CGcr8kkqxtBNUgXV3KYNT0/s400/DSCN3371.JPG" width="400" /></a>Meanwhile, other crew members were constantly employed in digging holes for the aforementioned boulders. Gathering bag-fulls of smaller crush rocks from the gravelly surface of the trail kept several people busy at all times as well. When it came time to set each step, particular care had to be given in maneuvering such large rocks into the proper position. Rock bars again proved to be an especially helpful tool when laid like tracks into the hole, allowing a massive rock to slide into place without collapsing the banks of the hole. <br />
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One would think that suitable rocks would eventually run into short supply, but the crew continued to hunt down sizable rocks throughout the week with great success. In one case, crew members discovered a rock which appeared to be too large to move. Unwilling to give up, they employed the rifting hammers to split the gigantic rock in two! The rock split so cleanly that it ended up being used for two separate steps. <br />
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When it came to gargoyles and junk rocks, size was paramount but shape was no concern - in fact, the uglier the rock, the better for this purpose. Inspired by the famous prehistoric shark species, these fearsome-looking gargoyles were dubbed “megalodons” and laid across the edges of the rock steps, effectively closing off the possibility of hikers walking around the steps. Smaller rocks were piled around these behemoths, ultimately defining the proper trail. <br />
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Crew 2 was able to work three full days, in addition to two shorter days on either end of the week. The morning of the final day proved to be an epic final push, made significantly more challenging by the arrival of a serious rainstorm. At this critical moment at the end of the week, with several partially completed steps needed to be solidified, the rain posed a real challenge by making the ground soggy and filling up holes with water.<br />
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Most crew members ended up covered in mud as they struggled to make the finishing touches to this project in order to leave it in a stable state for hikers. Gravel on the trail surface had been exhausted by this point, so several people had to work hard to make crush the old-fashioned way - with sledgehammers. Luckily, the rain didn’t last more than an hour, and Crew 2 stabilized the trail at the last moment - in what has become classic fashion. <br />
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The crew week wasn’t all hard work though. After the work days, the team was able to enjoy the beauty of the area around the campsite. Nightly campfires provided opportunities for s’mores as well as many gripping games of Werewolf - which featured some of the most scintillating strategy seen all season. One evening, a herd of ponies paid a visit to the camping area, so the crew was able to observe these graceful creatures up close while the evening sun illuminated the horizon far enough to see the distant, towering peaks of North Carolina’s Roan Highlands.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMBNfNYT-Q1_gm3jPIVDCQIpuDhZlrP4UxyfNIu4Ql1zO4XANjXZh4bLFnHqKmoCvpTDZdetIcnFN6YiumpsPnWmLv-Qxhdm20UiaOlDQvjBXIzLwLWpMMVo6D_S0Fhyphenhypheni227TLlN4nNOm/s1600/MVIMG_20180804_180217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMBNfNYT-Q1_gm3jPIVDCQIpuDhZlrP4UxyfNIu4Ql1zO4XANjXZh4bLFnHqKmoCvpTDZdetIcnFN6YiumpsPnWmLv-Qxhdm20UiaOlDQvjBXIzLwLWpMMVo6D_S0Fhyphenhypheni227TLlN4nNOm/s400/MVIMG_20180804_180217.jpg" width="300" /></a>As always, the crew ate exceedingly well. The week’s menu featured fan-favorites like “Taco Dress-up,” BBQ bacon burgers, and pesto pasta with sausage. As an added bonus, the crew leaders each cooked breakfast one morning: Brian made a heaping stack of pancakes loaded with fresh picked high country blackberries, while Josh prepared a pot of creamy grits with fried Spam on the side.<br />
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Also, for the second time of the season, volunteers took the initiative to prepare no-bake cheesecake as a rich treat for the crew on the final evening. It’s safe to say that Week 12 has come the closest all season to exhausting the contents of the jam-packed coolers. Luckily there was just enough food to keep everyone full and satisfied until the end of the week.<br />
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At the end of this final crew week, the Forest Service UTVs once again rumbled into camp and loaded up with the bulk of the crew’s equipment. A few crew members were able to hitch a ride, while the others backpacked out along the horse trail one last time. It was truly a successful week. An incredible amount of work was accomplished, and the rocks moved were the biggest of the whole season. The improvements made to this small section of A.T. will benefit thousands of hikers by increasing the longevity and stability of the trail.<br />
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Many thanks must be given to the fantastic volunteer turnout this week. A big group of volunteers really makes a difference in the amount of work that can be accomplished in one week. Special thanks to Camp Coordinator Becky, Forest Service Volunteer Jan, and Mount Rogers Ridgerunner Kyle for coming out and working a day with the crew this past week. Everyone worked extremely hard, but furthermore had great attitudes and made the work as fun as it was demanding.<br />
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The A.T. could not be what it is without dedicated volunteers like these. Being the final week, the thank you is extended to all of the season’s volunteers. The season featured many challenging projects, but impressive work was done each and every week. <br />
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Another big thank you goes to the Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club, who once again provided a daily “camp sitter” for Week 12 - and also helped host the end of season potluck back at Base Camp! It is always a privilege to collaborate with the maintaining clubs, whose members provide the front line of year-round, routine maintenance to the trail.<br />
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An end-of-season thank you to Camp Coordinators Janet and Becky for providing stellar food and logistical support, as well as keeping Base Camp tidy all season long. The U.S. Forest Service (especially our local staff at the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area) also deserves much gratitude for all of the support they provide to Konnarock - on Week 12 with UTV support but also throughout the season in myriad ways.<br />
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2018 has been a fantastic season: fun, safe, and very productive. No doubt many more successful seasons lie ahead for Crew 2, and Konnarock more broadly. For those readers who may have enjoyed reading about the exploits of Crew 2, please consider sharing the blog, telling your friends, or maybe consider volunteering yourself if you have not done so. It’s always inspiring to see the variety of people from different walks of life who come together to work for the maintenance of this one special trail - and YOU, too, could be one of those people!</div>
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<i>--Josh Reynolds, Assistant Crew Leader</i><br />
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Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5109642436164524694.post-35566042013144402182018-08-22T08:28:00.001-07:002018-08-27T10:07:53.017-07:00Week 12: August 4-8, 2018<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #212121; font-size: 15px;">
Crew 1: Jerry Cabin to Big Butt Relocation & Rehab</h3>
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<i>working with <u><a href="https://carolinamountainclub.org/" target="_blank">Carolina Mountain Club</a></u></i></div>
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<i><u><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/atconservancy/albums/72157672529727088" target="_blank">click here</a></u> for the complete photo album</i></div>
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HOO-YAH! Week 12--We made it! Crew 1's final week of the season ends on a high note with great work, lots of laughs and good times to remember. Jerry and I had a wonderful group of volunteers to finish out the season with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQvc96xXhsbxttzJTZ9kDDohkQFCmrRTk6PO8H243RP1Anm5inpa1dZkdGuA5M3xLumfMCnzgiVTBzqWIWqQZ61xIHPJYwGPzmWdHaNnesxxumCTAysrFlH8l-fG3jST9lfebC0N5kaWu/s1600/DSCN0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFQvc96xXhsbxttzJTZ9kDDohkQFCmrRTk6PO8H243RP1Anm5inpa1dZkdGuA5M3xLumfMCnzgiVTBzqWIWqQZ61xIHPJYwGPzmWdHaNnesxxumCTAysrFlH8l-fG3jST9lfebC0N5kaWu/s400/DSCN0179.JPG" width="400" /></a>It was nice having volunteers who we had worked with during previous weeks and also one who had never experienced trail crew before. An awesome mix of people making the week full of hard work and fun. We had Leah (1000 volunteer hours completed), Alec (Adult Male BBQcubian), Billy (Liver Musher), Pat (livin' the good life), Ruth (most confused witch), Rebecca (privy lover), Rich (Konnarock crew leader for life) and Abigail (loudest apple chewer)--Thank you to each of you for making the last week so awesome!<br />
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One last crew meeting to let everyone in on the project ahead, which was our second week doing the Jerry Cabin to Big Butt Relo & Rehab near Erwin, TN. One last time loading up all the tools necessary to get the trail work busted out, and the camping gear to make our home at Buzzard Rock once more. Each moment of this week has felt bittersweet, so I tried to soak up every second and not wish anything away, even the difficult uphill hike back to camp everyday. <br />
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To start out our final week we took a little excursion to The Appalachian Caverns, to see some really cool caves 200 feet below the surface we walk every day. With an entertaining tour guide and some pretty amazing sites down below, it was a once in a lifetime experience. We hopped back in the vehicles and headed to downtown Erwin, TN, for a generous lunch at the Hawg-N-Dawg BBQ, on the Carolina Mountain Club. Thank you CMC for lunch and showing your support to Konnarock! To our delight we also got to get some ice cream next door at "What's the Scoop!" What a treat! What a fantastic way to start the week.<br />
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Feeling grateful, Crew 1 drove on down the road to Rocky Fork State Park where we started our long, slow and very careful ascent up the 10 mile forest service road. After days of rain here in Erwin, putting chains on the Konnarock van was needed and ensured a safer drive up the road. We made ourselves at home on Buzzard Rock, setting up camp, tents, and the kitchen where we then made our first killer meal of pesto sausage pasta.<br />
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Heading out on the trail for work our first day, we felt fresh, clean and excited to do some trail building. The volunteers enjoyed the 2.5 mile trek to work immensely! With PPE on and tools at the ready, we had the crew get to work in 2 separate groups. One with me, finishing up some log steps on the relocation we dug last week while the other group started digging the other relocation on this project. Some volunteers who had never set a log step, had plenty of opportunities to build and learn some new skills, which was super cool.<br />
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We had Leah on crush duty and made all we needed to be able to stabilize the steps we built. Holes were dug, logs placed, stakes hammered in, crush pounded in and new log steps now lay on the trail that would make the AT a little longer! We had volunteers do some finish work on the trail that was dug, clip roots and dig a drain before celebrating this new relo with some blaze painting! <br />
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Painting a blaze is a rare, extremely awesome opportunity that some may never get to experience. I was grateful to paint blazes twice this season. Ex-Konnarock crew leader, Rich, couldn't believe after all the years he's worked, he never got to paint a blaze, and his daughter, whom is setting foot on the AT for first time, gets to paint one! Both loved being able to paint a new blaze and open up this new section for people to walk for generations.<br />
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The crew walked together painting a few blazes and then we worked on closing the old section of trail, adding some check dams into it to slow the water down and slow erosion.<br />
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We enjoyed some BBQ burgers, beans and watermelon for dinner and enjoyed Smore's by the fire that evening. <br />
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On Day 2, Crew 1 (a little messier and a little sore) made the trek again through the marshes, briers, rhododendron thickets, and the bog of eternal stench, to put in another hard day's work out on the trail. Digging on the second relocation section continued after a little sidehill instruction. Heads down, tools in the dirt while Jerry and I worked on felling a tree to use for log steps in this trail.<br />
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Once the tree was cut up, volunteers hauled them down to the trail and started debarking with a draw knife and perseverance. The steps would go in two different spots along the trail, so we split the crew up and had everyone working on either setting logs, making crush, debarking, or cleaning up the back slope and the tread of the relo.<br />
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We paused work for a bit in the early afternoon to let a thunderstorm pass. The crew then chugged along, step after step, making a better hiking experience for all. We also put some log crib in on both sets of steps to hold in crush and support the outside of the steps. The steps were all crushed in after driving wooden stakes as far we they would go. With the steps complete the crew got to brushing in along the outsides of the trail, leafing the trail and putting some rocks, logs, and branches to keep hikers on the steps/trail. The old trail was now closed off and the work for the day was done. We were visited by Ben Barry from SORO who came out to check out the progress that was being made. <br />
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After a long hike in the woods, carrying some tools with us back to camp, dinner was underway with Spicy Thai, the crowd favorite, as our meal. We enjoyed some fried green tomatoes as an "ordervie." Yum! The evening ended around a campfire with a mighty fine game of Werewolf!<br />
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One more hike in and one more hike out. One more day of trail work and the season would be done. The crew now much smellier, more wild, and closer to nature, we made our way along the path to bring you a better AT experience!<br />
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It was the hottest day we had but this group of volunteers stopped at nothing to do as much rehab as we could in those final hours. We worked hard as trail maintainers, in groups of 3, on areas of the current AT that had a bad case of trail creep. With pin flags stretched out as far as the eye could see, we divided to conquer the trail creep.<br />
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We made our way down the trail heading back to camp as we finished sections. Water breaks happened often but the crew was pushing hard to rehab like champions. Volunteers worked on lopping rhododendron back to prevent pushing hikers down and cut back brush that was heading into the trail. An absurd amount of trail creep was fixed and the rehab was a wild success!<br />
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After the volunteers gave it their all, one final push, we counted our tools, shared the load for the hike back and made our final hike back to our camp for the last time. We decided on our crew chant for the week and were filled with excitement and anticipation to share it with the Konnarock family and the end of year party! <br />
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A beautiful evening shared among friends on Buzzard Rock, we ate, we laughed, we became werewolves, witches, seers, or villagers around the campfire. A taco dress up dinner to end of week on the Big Butt project.<br />
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The next morning we packed up our camp, looked out into the mountains and valleys on Buzzard rock and hopped in the vehicles to take a nice slow drive down the mountain. We reached the bottom, WOO--and challenged ourselves one last time to take a very chilly dip in Rocky Fork creek before heading back to Sugar Grove. Four of us completed the task while the others documented from a warmer drier setting.<br />
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We stopped for some amazing pizza at Scratch in Johnson City. Highly recommend that place! "Pizza tastes better after a walk in the woods"-sign at Scratch Pizza. How fitting!<br />
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Got back to base camp, cleaned, hosed, washed before a large dinner and end of season celebration. Janet and the Mount Rogers Trail club folks supplied our dinner and desserts and it was a merry time. Both crews had one final ceremony, Pete Irvine from the Forest Service got up and thanked Konnarock and all the volunteers for their work this season. Josh Kloehn made an award winning speech thanking the seasonal staff for their work and also the volunteers for coming out.<br />
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Crew 1 finally got to do our chant. Crew 1 yelled--Hooyah!.....Then "Big Butt", (repeated by each crew member as they did the wave) then all yelled "Bypass"! It was a hit. For our little celebration we had each volunteer stand up while we shared little one liners about each one all while the Rocky theme song played. We got to present Leah with an ATC vest for completing 1000 volunteers hours over the years! Congratulations and thank you, Leah! The night continued with celebrations, good-byes, music and cheer.<br />
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What a season it has been! What a joyful experience. It wasn't without it's challenges but we would never grow without them. Working on the Appalachian Trail this summer has been a real pleasure and I can't thank Jerry and all the volunteers who made this such a positive and meaningful experience. <br />
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Be on the look out for some videos I will be putting together from the trail crew season. Thank you also to everyone who did an "interview" with me! Hopefully it will help get the word out and get more people giving back to the trail, getting in the woods, and building skills, relationships and memories to cherish. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8b2Kt9JLXer7As_KWYIcBKZN_DEhg6HCp1OovUEm6keZA4UAVX1MG1hJtQ_lxAR00Xy0z4n6HmyNoy6hjd9P1pzgn_D68ZP94oQ94CWw2xTSKoHT7f8tNLrYeRUDqrT1sDU_svDJJDlSs/s1600/DSCN0272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8b2Kt9JLXer7As_KWYIcBKZN_DEhg6HCp1OovUEm6keZA4UAVX1MG1hJtQ_lxAR00Xy0z4n6HmyNoy6hjd9P1pzgn_D68ZP94oQ94CWw2xTSKoHT7f8tNLrYeRUDqrT1sDU_svDJJDlSs/s400/DSCN0272.JPG" width="400" /></a>Thanks also to the Konnarock staff, Jerry, Janet, Becky, Brian, Josh, and Ridgerunner Kyle, it was fun being family with ya'll!<br />
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Thank you to our week 12 volunteers and to all who came out to work on the Appalachian Trail with Konnarock this summer! Till next time--Happy Trails!!!!<br />
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<i>--Julia Smith, Assistant Crew Leader</i></div>
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<i><i>Representing Buffalo, NY :)</i></i><br />
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</i>Konnarock Crewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00127271993463576706noreply@blogger.com0