Undeterred by a forecast of rain (which never materialized!) nine dedicated volunteers pitched in for the November 11th Veterans Day Work Day at the Audubon Newhall Preserve.
See our group photo below.
Jim Reynolds and John Grobe tackled a “log realignment project” in the parking lot, and then joined the balance of the crew working at the Audubon Pond.
Most of our time was spent removing downed logs, limbs and branches from the adjacent forest. We hauled at least three full truckloads of debris back to the parking lot where it will ultimately be removed and ground into mulch by Sea Pines CSA.
David and Julia Buzzard, and Fearless Leader Clemens created a new “meditation space” on the north side of the pond as shown in the photo. We have an absolutely beautiful large magnolia tree just off the path, but it was screened by wax myrtle and other shrubs. By removing the competing vegetation and transplanting a memorial bench, we created a nice little “alcove” with a great view of the Audubon Pond.
Finally, we hauled a log from the South Woods Trail to invite turtles to enjoy the sun off the Pond deck. We had added a smaller “turtle log” last work day, and it had become so popular with the turtles, we wanted to add another. Thank you, Rita Kernan, for the suggestion. (Questions and suggestions are always welcome to rclemens318@gmail.com.)
Thank you to our many volunteers who contribute to work days, trail monitoring, data collection, plant care and labeling, and so many of the tasks necessary to maintain this lovely space.
Our next work day will be on Saturday, December 9 from 8:30 to 10 AM. As always, Donuts will be provided. Bring gloves, water, and eye protection. RSVPs are helpful, but not necessary to Rclemens318@gmail.com.