Rocky
Top to Russell Field Shelter
Crew
Leader: Amy Allamong
Assistant
Crew Leader: Ben
Royer
Session
Overview: Session 5 we completed the
section from Rocky Top down to about a mile north of Russell. Most of this
section is in very good condition. From Rocky Top to Spence the trail and all
structures are holding up well. Everything from Spence to Russell looks pretty
good although there are a few hazards. There are two turnpikes holding up very
well but there are some steps that have multiple spikes protruding up from the
logs. There is a boggy section forming about ¼ mile
south from Spence that may need a turnpike in the future. But, all in all, this
section looks great with no major erosion.
Specifications: Again,
this week we cut back the blackberry bushes and other perennial growth. We
continued to focus on sapling removal from the corridor. This week we stuck
closer to the 4ft defined corridor rather than trying to cut extra for
sustainability in the coming years. We did however trim as high as we could for
the horses. As we hiked through, we worked on the drains and tunrpikes that
could be cleaned easily and efficiently. We did install one new log water bar. The
crew practiced solid safety principles while working and hiking to the
worksite.
Results and Measurable Accomplishments:
·
Total
Trail Mileage: about 3.6 miles
·
Water
Bars Installed: 1 log
Day 1: We hiked
in from Cades Cove via Anthony Creek Trail and Bote. The crew did great and we
made it to Spence in great time.
Day 2: We hiked
up to Rocky Top and began working our way down to Spence. We finished about 0.6
miles.
Above Left: Rattle snake on Rock Top. Above Right: Steps holding up well
just south of Little Rocky Top
Day 3: We kept
working south and made it another 0.7 miles. We found an old tool cash with two
shovels and a fire rake that were now rotten. We hiked those out.
Day 4: We worked
another 0.9 miles south of Spence Field.
Day 5: We
continued on towards Russell. We ran in to Franklin LaFond and he updated us
with what he has completed in his section. We should be able to move through
his quickly to hit the unfinished parts next week. We finished about 0.6 miles
today
Day 6: Hike out
and breakdown at Soak Ash.
Week
Summary: We had a great week of weather! It kept everyone in high spirits and we
were able to work hard. Looking forward to next week! We will continue working
south from where we left off.
GO
S.W.E.A.T!!!
