Over the last few months of serving as an AmeriCorps member for the Lakes Region Conservation Trust (LRCT), I have accumulated a list of favorites from the experience that I wanted to share for my conservation journal.
My Favorite Part of the Experience: Learning New Things!
The list of things I’ve learned could go on and on, because every day we are learning something new. Whether it is a skill that relates to the job or just a fun fact to store away for later, there is always something to learn. In the early days of this program, we spent a day learning how to use an ax and chop downed trees. This is, without a doubt, my favorite skill I have ever learned in my life. There’s a powerful feeling in holding an ax and an even greater feeling of satisfaction as the ax sends large chips of wood flying.
Along with the ax, I’ve used a variety of tools that I’d never used before including loppers, a handsaw, and a McLeod. These tools and the skills associated with them gave me the knowledge and ability to complete trail maintenance projects across the LRCT properties. Now, whenever I hike for leisure, I can’t help but notice and appreciate all the details surrounding trail maintenance.
My Favorite Adventure: The Lilypad and Our First Weekend Island Hosting!
The anticipation for island hosting had been building for months. We had a plan for the day, our boating certificates, and a car load of camping supplies. But our perfect weekend began with a rocky start. Upon arrival at the Lilypad, the LRCT’s pontoon boat, we quickly realized that there was no map aboard. So with a quick trip to the nearby hardware store, we were equipped with a nautical chart and ready to set sail. That was until we realized the boat was out of gas! There was no way we’d make it to the island and back with such a low tank. After a trip to an on-land gas station, followed by a trip to the marina, we were finally on our way to the island.
The rest of the day was heavenly. The weather was beautiful and warm. Everyone who visited the island was kind and respectful of the rules. Then, once the day was over, we stayed up late playing domino games together. The next day also had a tricky beginning. A storm was rolling in, bringing with it clouded skies and chilly breezes. Luckily, we’d come prepared with extra layers of clothing and rain jackets. The day was easy with only few people visiting the island, mostly nearby neighbors. With the storm threatening to get worse in the afternoon, we headed home against the rushing winds.
While this trip sounds like a recipe for disaster, it is one of my fondest memories for the way our team worked together, kept a positive attitude, and made the best of our situation.
My Favorite Place: Trask Swamp!
Trask Swamp sounds like a place right out of a fairy tale, and you’d be right. When you first arrive at Trask Swamp, it’s like walking into another world. It felt a little like falling down the rabbit hole. The leaning trees created a tunnel over the path. At first glance, it’s a magical addition to the trail, but upon closer inspection you’ll see that the forest is cursed!
Something has gone wrong in the soil, causing the roots to die and release their hold on the tree trunks. Without an anchor to the ground, the trees are forced forward, tangling with each other and creating jumbled masses that prevent hikers from passing through. Thanks to some rough shaking and a bit of lopping, we were able to clear the worst of the tangles while still maintaining the picturesque tunnels. The trail opens up into a more familiar forest setting before leading to the main event: The Swamp. Trask Swamp has two stunning view points of the wetland. We left Trask Swamp feeling like we’d just returned from a fantastical adventure.
But the absolute best part of my position is serving with my amazing team day in and day out. I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to share this experience with. Every day is an adventure and I’m so grateful to have this opportunity.
Madeline is a half-term member at the Lakes Region Conservation Trust. In her free time, you’ll find her doing puzzles and adventuring outside. Learn more about Madeline here!