Below is submitted maintenance activities for the last 6 weeks. Please note that trail conditions can change quickly. Or view maintenance by section.
Reporting: Greg KramerDate: 2024-04-18
Purpose: Trail Improvement
Section: 12d: Campbell Hollow Road to US19E
People: Greg Kramer
Steve Perri
Carl Fritz
Tony Messina
J Scott Huskey
Bob Peoples
Scott Ourth
Tim Stewart
Van Hovey
Rio Berry
Joe Morris
Summary: We were improving the trail from the road down. The open field is also used as a trail for ATV's. We decided to move the trail near the first water seep to the left side of the trail, to allow the ATVs to go between the trail and the tree. We directed the water to cross the trail and go into the Multi Flora Rose (MFR) patch which would drain down by the second seep. We created 30 feet trail and a 20 foot water diversion that we hardened so the ATVs could go over. At the second seep we moved the trail to the right side so we could keep the trail above the water. We built 105 feet of trail by the second seep, 30 feet of stepping rocks through the muddy area, 75 of new trail in the MFR below and will continue to repair next week. Reporting: Dick Martindale
Date: 2024-04-17
Purpose: Small blowdown removal, brush cutting, and unauthorized trail assessment
Section: 11a: Dennis Cove Road to Canute Place
People: Dick Martindale
Summary: My original plan was to perform basic maintenance tasks all the way to Canute Place, but several new blowdowns and unauthorized trails were encountered. All but one blowdown (a 14 inch step-over) was able to be removed with a hand saw, and more vegetation was cut back. From mile 418.3 to 418.0 there are now three new trails leading off to the right while heading southward. We brushed two of those in last Fall, but the brush has been removed and a third trail is so prominent that two NOBOs told me they were confused as to which trail to take. I brushed those in as best I could, though there is clearly an individual or group who is purposefully keeping them open and functional by clearing vegetation, extensive flagging (which I removed) and sawing blowdowns. I hiked the unauthorized trail at mile 418.0 which re-entered the AT at mile 418.2. I did not hike the one at at 418.3. At a minimum, I need to add at least one more blaze and repaint some of the existing ones. I saw at least 30 NOBOs, and spoke to several of them regarding the condition of the trail. They were all complimentary and enjoying the experience. None of them identified any issues from mile 418.0 to Canute Place and several said the water source/pipe at Canute Place was in good condition. I will find a local volunteer to assist with the remaining blowdown, and have already asked other people in this area to inform me if they know anything about the unauthorized trails. Reporting: Jim Foster
Date: 2024-04-17
Purpose: Routine maintenance
Section: 16a: Hughes Gap to Greasy Creek Gap
People: Jim Foster
Summary: Everything looks good after removing a couple of small blowdowns. There is one large one about 3.2 mi. Trail south from Hughes Gap that will require a chainsaw. I've contacted my sawyer and we hope to get it Sunday. Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-04-17
Purpose: Rebuild trail due to root ball damage
Section: 20b: Temple Hill Gap to No Business Knob Shelter
People: Joe Morris
Van Hovey
Summary: Van, Alex Auton from FS, and I rebuilt the trail 100 yards south of Temple Hill Gap with two 11 ft. locust logs and a significant amount of backfill.
Reporting: Lotta Murray
Date: 2024-04-17
Purpose: Checking for blowdowns and painting blazes
Section: 20c: No Business Knob Shelter to Spivey Gap
People: Ken Murray
Lotta murray
Summary: Checking for blowdowns and painting blazes was the goal for the day. Cut back lots of rhododendrons and found no blowdowns on this part of our section. Reporting: Richard L Ramsey
Date: 2024-04-14
Purpose: clear trail of the larger trees
Section: 14a: Doll Flats to Bradley Gap
People: Nancy Mick
Richard Ramsey
Summary: Had to hike in from 19E. Cleared 5 larger trees from the trail that we left a few weeks ago. No obstacles currently in the trail.
The trail 1.75 mile above Doll Flats is very mudding and in need of a larger project. Of course access will make a group project much more difficult. It would be almost a 10 mile round trip just for a group to get to the place in need of work. Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-04-15
Purpose: Konnarock section evaluation and rootball fill in
Section: 20b: Temple Hill Gap to No Business Knob Shelter
People: Joe Morris
Summary: Jerry, Matt, Ruth, Miriam and Virginia evaluated the section, from THG to No Business Knob, for the two-week Konnarock stint in July.
A large tree toppled over the weekend and the rootball completely blew out the trail about 100 yards south of Temple Hill Gap.
I stayed after the ATC/Konnarock crew left and tried to make the four-foot-deep hole passible. I had no digging tools, so, I did
the best I could under the circumstances. We're returning Wednesday to fix this properly. Hikers are plentiful with more on the way. Reporting: Dean Baird
Date: 2024-04-14
Purpose: Remove blow downs
Section: 9b: Pond Flats to Hampton trailhead
People: Dean Baird
Summary: I hiked South Pond to remove an approximately 8" reported blow down located near the top. I removed 2 other small blow downs in addition to this one. At this point, the AT on South Pond is clear and in good condition. Reporting: Dean Baird
Date: 2024-04-15
Purpose: Place Norvirus posters
Section: 10: Hampton trailhead to Dennis Cove Road
People: Dean Baird
Summary: Norovirus posters were placed:
1) on the back wall of the Laurel Fork shelter, 2) on the USFS kiosk at the Dennis Cove trailhead, and at the USFS kiosk at the Hampton Blue Blaze trailhead.
One large rhododendron branch that was encroaching the trail close to Koonford Bridge was removed.
The Potato Top Trail was walked to check its condition. We will do some minor vegetation cut-back later.
I saw 10 thru-hikers. Reporting: Tom Sahlin
Date: 2024-04-14
Purpose: Inspect trail for blowdowns and clear water bars.
Section: 16b: Greasy Creek Gap to Iron Mountain Gap
People: Tom Sahlin
Summary: I went to check for blowdowns since we had big winds and found only one so far but only made it around 1.5 miles. I trimmed back the limbs of a live tree that fell about a month ago which is slowly coming down gradually. I also removed a dead red oak about 6 to 7 inches in diameter that was across the trail. The wind picked up so I turned around and on the return to the trail head I cleared 8 to 10 water bars.. I also inspected the spring which was flowing at about a gallon a minute. Met 5 thru hikers while on the trail with one camping in the Apple Orchard and 2 more said they would join her. Nice day to hike with the air conditioning on medium to high by the end of the day. Reporting: Tim Stewart
Date: 2024-04-13
Purpose: Hiking with Tools!
Section: 4a: US421 to Double Springs Shelter
People: Tim Stewart
Steve Perri
Tracy Harris
Rebecka Powell
Summary: A very windy Hiking with Tools! adventure this month.
We met at Low Gap (US421) and hiked south on the AT. Cleaning water diversions was the main task. There wasn't much lopping involved but the aggressive green briars were snipped back. We also removed a few minor blowdowns.
Lunch was had at the Berry Fields where we observed some white stuff on Whitetop. After lunch we continued hiking South for about another 30 minutes. We made it almost to the top of Locust Knob where we encountered a blowdown obstructing the trail. It is easy to get around but the path to get around is under the dangling portion of the tree. It will need some attention soon. There were also 2 step-overs that we left.
Although the wind was relentless, the sun was shining. We saw a bunch of NOBOs heading to Damascus. Back at the trailhead, Steve installed a 'Footpath Only' sign. It was a good day! Reporting: Michael Watts
Date: 2024-04-13
Purpose: Spring maintenance
Section: Choose Section
People: Rick Lott, Mike Watts
Summary: Clear but windy day. Through hikers said while ascending and crossing Hump the wind blew them sideways. Trail rehab on this section looks great. Lopped encroaching vegetation and cleaned water diversions. Cleared a few smaller blowdowns. To Do List: 1) Blowdown across trail to spring will require chainsaw. Upper portion crossing trail about a foot in diameter. Curves upward to provide around 4 feet of clearance underneath. 2) Upper pipe from spring could use a 1.5' extension for easier access. 3) Need to tighten bolts for handrail on bridge past Apple House. Reporting: joe morris
Date: 2024-04-10
Purpose: Clear blowdowns and evaluate section
Section: 19a: Indian Grave Gap - Curley Maple Gap Shelter
People: Joe Morris
Summary: Lotta Murray reported a couple of blowdowns last week and I took advantage of a break in the rain to walk in from Indian Grave Gap to Martins Creek at 349.6. I didn't have enough saw to remove the tree (Katana) but I removed the branches and built a small crib and filled it with rock. That worked well, as I needed to gain height there anyway. There are several rehab opportunities in this area. Most notably: 350.1, 350.4 and 350.6 accessible from the guardrail intersection at 351.1. This will be a good fall or cooler weather work area. Reporting: Dick Martindale
Date: 2024-04-10
Purpose: Small blowdown removal, brush cutting, and trail assessment
Section: 11a: Dennis Cove Road to Canute Place
People: Dick Martindale
Summary: Removed several small blowdowns with a hand saw and used loppers to cut back encroaching vegetation on approximately a two-mile stretch. This section of trail is in good condition with no major maintenance needs observed. One step-over blowdown will need a chainsaw for removal though it is not an impediment to hikers. Plan to do the same tasks on the stretch from the Coon Den Falls junction to Canute Place next week. Had brief conversations with four NOBOs. Reporting: Scott Huskey
Date: 2024-04-10
Purpose: Remove reported blowdown
Section: 4b: Double Springs Shelter to TN91
People: Scott Huskey
Summary: I removed a blowdown, which was reported to me on 4/2/2024. Reporting: Steve Perri
Date: 2024-04-07
Purpose: Clean Water Bars
Section: 3: McQueen's Gap to US421
People: Steve Perri
Summary: I used the buddy system to check in and out with Steve Wilson as I connected with him before going out solo to clean water bars and cut briars. With the rains coming this week I thought this would be a good time to use the pulaski to clean the water bars near 421. I went in about 1.5 miles to the last incline past the rock wall next to the trail. No blow downs in the trail at all were found. I added about 5 trenched diversions to allow water to drain off the trail on that last incline. Cut back briars to the degree that I could before they encroach the trail. I decided to bushwhack over to the cabin on Locust Pole Knob since it was easily visible with no leaves on the trees. Someone had added a black tarp over the roof line some time ago as the roof has decayed quite a bit. There was a trace of snow in the shadow of the building. I saw only two north bounders on the trail. On the way back there was a motorcycle that crashed in one of the curves on 421 which I observed several emergency response vehicles and an ambulance coming from the local volunteer fire department. Reporting: Vic Hasler
Date: 2024-04-06
Purpose: Spring chores
Section: 20b: Temple Hill Gap to No Business Knob Shelter
People: Vic Hasler
Summary: The access forest road still could benefit from a boom mower. I removed several leaners and some growth encroaching into the path. Primary concern is where the downhill shoulder is narrow, thus maybe a summer crew could cut back the rhododendron on the other side. A hedge trimmer was used on the short bend of azaleas. I spoke with two of seven NOBOs seen to learn no problem blowdowns, but the previously report wetness at mile 339.1 was really slippery. I lopped uphill growth as time allowed. The wetness is water seeping across a shady trail section through a mass of decaying leaves. The one built channel which was cleared. This short section could benefit from rehab to allow more drainage, a turnpike, or even a bog bridge with steps to get above where the water begins to seep. I carried some rocks, not on the trail, from storm drainage in the next hollow over but their effectiveness will be limited. One the way out for the day I discovered a large pile of cans and glass bottles in the forest along Temple Hill Gap trail, thus hauled out the cans and moved the glass bottles to the trail since more than I could carry. While Konnarock Crew is here in July, I recommend including improvements for mile 339.1 during their hitch. Reporting: Tom Sahlin
Date: 2024-03-30
Purpose: Painting blazes, and clearing some water bars.
Section: 16b: Greasy Creek Gap to Iron Mountain Gap
People: Tom Sahlin
Summary: For the last half of a mile before the pinnacle of rocks on Iron Mountain I located and painted blazes from the gap below to the top of the knob. Most were very hard to tell if there had been one there so they were hard to find. Some were only a flat rectangle on a tree and the old paint was totally gone. Ran into some other thru and section hikers. Also used my trekking poles to rake leaves out of a few water bars in critical places. Will go back soon with my mattock to do more since the rainy season will be coming soon if not already here. Reporting: Dave Allen
Date: 2024-03-22
Purpose: Clear water bars; trim growth
Section: 1: TN/VA state line to Backbone Rock Trail
People: Dave Allen
Steve Perri
Summary: Parked at Backbone Rock and hiked up Backbone Rock trail, clearing a couple of small blowdowns and trimming back vegetation. Had lunch at the AT / blueblaze junction, and met a couple of hikers, one NOBO and the other SOBO, both reporting a clear trail over their last several miles. Heading north on Section 1 we cleared a number of water bars and dug several new water control trenches (coweetas) on steep sections of the trail. A small blowdown was cleared, and vegetation was trimmed back to the state line. The section needs a couple of new waterbars and a bit of side hill trail rehab at some point. Reporting: Karen Berry /Annette Vinding
Date: 2024-03-28
Purpose: Maintenance
Section: 14c: Yellow Mountain Gap to Stan Murray Shelter
People: Karen Berry and Annette Vinding
Summary: The shelter had tarps and old tent flies and plastic tied over the entrance and an inflatable mattress bed inside, trash blown through the woods and human feces on the ground. Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-04-01
Purpose: Blowdown removal
Section: 17: Iron Mountain Gap to FS230 switchback
People: Joe Morris
Summary: Marlene "Emoji" Simpson sent a report of a tree down south of IMG, relatively close to the road. After removing the tree on 12b, I headed over to IMG and removed this moderately inconvenient stepover. Appreciate the accurate reports with photos that "Emoji" sends. Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-04-01
Purpose: Clear Blowdowns
Section: 12b: Walnut Mountain Road to Sugar Hollow Creek
People: Joe Morris
Summary: Removed blowdown reported by Gerald Scott about a mile south of Mountaineer Falls Shelter and another stepover adjacent to Elk River. Busy day in the woods 10 thru-hikers, 3-day hikers and one hiker enjoying a spring break hike. Reporting: Bettye Boone
Date: 2024-04-01
Purpose: Remove leaners, cut tree limbs, cut dangerous exposed T-posts, & installed new boot brushes at Carvers Gap
Section: 15a: Carvers Gap - Cloudland Hotel
People: Bettye Boone
Saylor Fox
Carl Fritz
Summary: Cut leaners with chainsaw (Carl Fritz/Sawyer) Cut exposed T-posts on AT at Carvers Gap south. Installed new boot brushes at Carvers Gap north; Carl previously constructed boot brushes prior to today's arrival at Carvers Gap. Reporting: Bettye Boone
Date: 2024-04-01
Purpose: Remove leaners, cut T-posts near trail, & install new boot brushes at Carvers
Section: 15a: Carvers Gap - Cloudland Hotel
People: Bettye Boone
Saylor Fox
Carl Fritz
Summary: Removed by chainsaw (Carl Fritz, Sawyer) 8 leaners and one blow down. Cut back encroaching tree limbs. Cut T-posts off at ground level at beginning of AT South for safety reasons. Installed new boot brushes at Carvers Gap headed north on AT. Carl Fritz had prepared boot brushes prior to his arrival. Saylor and I helped with install. Reporting: Van Hovey
Date: 2024-04-01
Purpose: Clear blowdowns
Section: 20a: Nolichucky River to Temple Hill Gap
People: Van Hovey
Ken Murray
Summary: Received report , from Peggy Cantrell , of two (2) blowdowns. One , approximately 1.5 miles SoBo from Temple Hill Gap and one , approximately 1 mile SoBo from Devils Creek Gap.
Decided to get the Temple Hill Gap one first , accessed trail via Granny Lewis Road found a multi-stemmed oak , 10" and 16" across the trail with collateral rhodie damage. Dispatched the blowdown and cleaned up the debris.
After returning to our vehicle we drove back to the Kan lot and walked in to Devils Creek Gap and tracked down the second blowdown. 8" lying across the trail . One cut later a good push and done.
Met about 18 through hikers , likely more than that out today.
Cheers
Reporting: Jeff Hatling
Date: 2024-03-30
Purpose: Spring check on trail along with cleaning out water diversions and creating new diversions.
Section: 14b: Bradley Gap to Yellow Mountain Gap
People: Jeff Hatling
Summary: I found the spring pipe for the spring just south of Bradley Gap (mile 388.5) at the tent site (mile 388.3) while picking up trash. I re-installed it at the pipe spring site mile 388.5.
Removed on walk over log.
Cleaned out 20+/- water diversions.
Brushed in 4 sections of trail were hikers where getting off to the side of trail, thus potentially moving the trail and causing adverse impact to bald area. Reshaped the existing trail to encourage the use of the existing trail, and deposited cut material in the new path that hikers were creating. Will continue to monitor to see if hikers have moved back to the existing established trail. (see attached photos)
The water diversions and new bog bridge at Bradley Gap are working well. Only one small section remains wet. In that section reshaped the trail to allow hiking around the water and mud. Plan on going back to place stepping stones in the wet area and moving the trial back. (see photo) Reporting: Scotty Bowman
Date: 2024-03-31
Purpose: Blowdown Removal
Section: 7: Vandeventer Shelter to Wilbur Dam Rd
People: Scotty Bowman
Tyler Cairnes
Summary: It was a great weekend to be out. We spent the weekend in Big Laurel Branch Wilderness clearing blowdowns 25 in total on this section. We hiked in Saturday morning and hiked out Sunday clearing blowdowns as we went. Counted 30 NOBOS, 16 section and day hikers. The weather was perfect for spending Easter weekend in the woods.
Saturday: 18 blowdowns removed, and 2 water bars were cleaned out in the first 3.75 miles.
Sunday: 6 more blowdowns removed, cleaned gutters at Vandeventer Shelter, and replaced shelter journal. On the hike out cut back new rhododendron growth in several sections and removed a treetop (widow maker) from over the trail.
Springs are flowing and the shelter was clean with no trash.
Reporting: Phyllis Cairnes
Date: 2024-03-31
Purpose: shelter maintenance
Section: 4b: Double Springs Shelter to TN91
People: Phyllis Cairnes
Summary: Purpose was to post laminated norovirus signs and check shelter. I posted one sign at the shelter and another at the stile which crosses from the pasture into the woods northbound. I was a traveling health educator today! Talked with Bear Taco, Slinky, Radar, and Simmer. They had heard of norovirus but knew nothing about its symptoms, how it was transmitted, or how to prevent it. Later talked with Lady Madonna. She had had norovirus and felt it was from conditions at a hostel. She asked me to report 2 hostels for her since she had no phone coverage. I will contact ATC. I took a photo of a blowdown at mile 452.1 and will send it to Renee. At the shelter I picked up trash, re-painted the graffiti board, talked with more hikers about noro, left a new broom, and carried out two old ones. Trail magic people with a camper were set up at Cross Mtn. parking area. They were cooking pizzas for hikers, handing out soft drinks, and snacks. Reporting: Greg Kramer
Date: 2024-03-30
Purpose: Spring Checkout
Section: 5: TN91 to Iron Mountain Shelter
People: Greg Kramer
Betty Kramer
Summary: Weed eater final section left last year because of medical issue. Found 15 stepovers and had a blowdown that I created a path around. Will go back in a week or so to remove them and complete Spring cleanup of waterbars and cutback vegetation out by the shelter. Leaving work near Cross Mtn Rd for Third Saturday. The shovel handle has been burned and the broom has no handle. Replaced logbook, and the Graffiti Board needs cleaning and paint job. Graffiti board is de-laminating some but good for another year at least. Reporting: Steve Wilson
Date: 2024-03-30
Purpose: General Trail Maintenance
Section: 2b: Low Point roughly 2 miles N of Abingdon Gap Shelter to McQueen's Gap
People: Carl Belcher & Steve Wilson
Summary: Starting from McQueens gap, we hiked north cleaning water diversion and cut briars. The “Gastrointestinal Illness Alert” sign was posted at the Abingdon Gap shelter as requested by the NPS. It was a sunny warm day for a hike and we saw two NOBO thru hiker and five section hikers. Reporting: Van Hovey
Date: 2024-03-28
Purpose: Clear blowdown
Section: 19b: Curley Maple Gap Shelter - Nolichucky River
People: Van Hovey
Carrie Hovey
Summary: Wednesday evening received a report of a blowdown located about a mile and a quarter in from USA Raft .
Found a dead hemlock about 18” in diameter across 2 sections of the trail .
Cut and cleared blowdown and collaterally damaged rhodies .
Nice afternoon to be out ….. Cheers Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-03-28
Purpose: Scout trail and harvesting locust
Section: 12d: Campbell Hollow Road to US19E
People: Van Hovey, Tim Stewart, Bob Peoples, Rio Berry, Carl Fritz, Jim McGuire, Elzear Lemieux, Tony Messina, Joe Morris, Greg Kramer
Summary: The Thursday crew visited Bishop Hollow to evaluate options for trail rehabilitation and run-off mitigation. Forest Service personnel cut several locusts in the area for steps, water bars, and side logs. Locusts were debarked and stacked, also several outlets were dug to eliminate water pooling on the trail. This was the first of several trips to the area. Reporting: Steve Perri
Date: 2024-03-28
Purpose: Spring Maintenance
Section: 3: McQueen's Gap to US421
People: Steve Falling, Steve Perri
Summary: Steve Falling and I hiked in and out from McQueen's Gap to conduct annual spring maintenance. We cleared the water bars near McQueen's Gap and north of the spring with a Pulaski, lopped briars, and overgrown branches. The spring was flowing reasonably well this time of year. We cut out one broken tree leaning about head high. At the shelter we picked up trash and removed debris from the rear rain gutter. Blazes are in really good shape in both directions. We picked up some minor trash and broken glass at McQueen's Gap and installed Foot Travel Only signs heading north and south from the gap. We saw 3 thru hikers and a father and son section hiking. One hiker mentioned the trail was clear to US 421 but there might be one blow down south of US421. Steve Falling found a quarter with the symbol of Perry's Victory. Too bad we're not related but it was certainly a coincidental and unexpected find! Reporting: Jeff Hatling
Date: 2024-03-28
Purpose: Spring check on trail along with cleaning out water diversions and creating new diversions.
Section: 14b: Bradley Gap to Yellow Mountain Gap
People: Jeff Hatling
Summary: Clean out 17 +/- water diversions.
Dug in 10 +/- new water diversions.
Reshaped approximately 40' +/- trail to encourage people to stay on trail. Reporting: Jeff Hatling
Date: 2024-03-27
Purpose: First time inspecting new section. Spring clean out of water diversions, check spring, check for trash, and remove any blow down.
Section: 14b: Bradley Gap to Yellow Mountain Gap
People: Jeff Hatling
Summary: The old Red Barn camping area was very clean. However, it was interesting to see the use of wood from the old Red Barn site. It is being used to build a shelter (see picture). Good design, had the shelter laid out to block the northwest wind from the fire pit.
Cleaned out spring to increase the flow.
Cut one blowdown with a hand saw (see picture).
Cleaned out 37+/- water diversions. Many just required a small amount of cleaning (see picture). The upper section, above Yellow Mountain Gap, water diversions required a large amount of digging, and fill below water diversion steps, and brush to cut of short cuts and move hikers back on the trail.
Reporting: Bettye Boone
Date: 2024-03-25
Purpose: Prepared for & attended Zoom Meeting regarding Trail Counters on Roan
Section: 14d: Stan Murray Shelter to Carvers Gap
People: Bettye Boone
Summary: Prepared for meeting & attended Zoom meeting regarding Trail Counters Reporting: Bettye Boone
Date: 2024-03-24
Purpose: Check & download Trail Counter Data
Section: 14d: Stan Murray Shelter to Carvers Gap
People: Bettye Boone
Saylor Fox
Summary: Downloaded data from 3 trail counters
Uploaded data to DataNet Reporting: Jennifer Baird
Date: 2024-03-25
Purpose: Paint blazes
Section: 10: Hampton trailhead to Dennis Cove Road
People: Jennifer Baird
Summary: The main purpose for today's outing was to paint blazes (also did the blue blaze ones on the high water trail). The trail was in good condition; also checked the shelter. Several thru hikers and day hikers were on trail (interacted with most of them). Minimal trash was packed out. Reporting: Tom Sahlin
Date: 2024-03-24
Purpose: Check section for blowdowns and paint blazes
Section: 16b: Greasy Creek Gap to Iron Mountain Gap
People: Tom Sahlin
Marlene Simpson
Summary: Met Marlene at noon at trail head with the intention of her just hiking but I managed to suck her into helping me. Glad she agreed or it would have taken me much longer since she not only painted a few blazes but helped find and clean blazes. We even had a thru hiker paint a blaze who expressed the desire and wanted to feel involved. Met 8 or more really nice thru hikers and a couple more that didn't stop. We made it to the pinnacle of rocks about the time the wind picked up and the temperature dropped. We planned to rest there but it was too cold so we headed back to Greasy Creek Friendly painting more blazes on the way that we missed on the way up. Chilly day but productive. Reporting: Elzear Lemieux
Date: 2024-03-24
Purpose:
Section: 8: Wilbur Dam Road to US321
People: Elzear Lemieux
Emily Lemieux
Summary: Hiked entire section
Removed encroaching Vegetation
Removed 10 " blowdown
Checked trail for future maintenance requirements:
Mile 431 : 50 ft of cribbing (flagged)
Mile 433: 15 ft of cribbing (flagged)
Mile 433.1 Hole next to trail, 30 ft of cribbing (flagged) Reporting: Gerald N Scott
Date: 2024-03-22
Purpose: Routine Spring Maintenance
Section: 12b: Walnut Mountain Road to Sugar Hollow Creek
People: Gerald Scott
Harold Wexler
Summary: Cleared several blowdowns with the largest being around 10 inches in diameter. Left one blowdown too larger for Silky saws. It was 15-20 inches in diameter and located around one mile trail south of Mountaineer Falls. High winds had blown treetops on top of rhododendrons in several places pushing them down. We removed treetops and lopped the rhodos back. Water drainage looked good on the whole sections. No ATV damage seen. Encounter several through hiker and a few section hikers. Reporting: Tom Sahlin
Date: 2024-03-21
Purpose: Check trail for blowdowns, and paint blazes.
Section: 16b: Greasy Creek Gap to Iron Mountain Gap
People: Tom Sahlin
Summary: Starting from Iron Mountain Gap I searched for and repainted blazes. Some were so faint I wasn't sure they were ever a blaze but I painted them if it seemed needed. I didn't paint dead trees was dead and looked like it would come down soon so I picked another one close to it. I only added a couple where a forest service road intersection was confusing and someone might take the wrong way. I saw about 8 to 10 thru hikers and a couple of section hikers. The spring was running good. I cleared out some leaves in the pool below the pipe. I made it to the gap below the first tall knob where the pinnacle of rocks are located. Caught the end of a nice sunset and returned to the trailhead. I discovered painting blazes on thick rough bark is difficult and hard to get them to show up from a distance. Reporting: Vic Hasler
Date: 2024-03-19
Purpose: A.T. Partnership Discussion
Section: Other (Meetings/preparation/etc.)
People: Carl Fritz, Vic Hasler, Greg Kramer, Joe Morris, Steve Perri, Tim Stewart
Summary: 32 representatives of various organizations gathered at the Appalachian RD office, including first time for Franklin Tate (ATC/SORO Assistant Director), Terence Rose (CNF/Watauga District Ranger), Blake Garrison (SAWS/Field Crew Coordinator), Jessee Laramie (USFS/Cherokee/ Field Crew), Kaitlin de Varona (SAWS/Executive Director), and Halley Burleson (Wild South/Volunteer Coordinator).
A few notes will be highlighted in this trip report. 2024 TEHCC Work Plans on the A.T. were shared including log replacement on Roan High Knob Shelter, side slope correction south of Temple Hill Gap with Konnarock Crew, steps improvement north of Yellow Mtn Gap, and addressing high steps and wet areas south of Stan Murray shelter. Our first year update of the Volunteer Service Agreement was submitted to USFS districts. Open Area Management for Buchanan Tract between Beauty Spot and Beauty Spot Gap could be mowed and treated to mitigate locust and blackberries. One prescribed burn planned in 2024 is for 404 Acres Cedar Gap right up to the west side of the A.T. at the Coon Den Falls Trail. GATC is developing more detailed training modules for trail maintenance which the USFS staff is considering using for certification on specific roles and skills. Next A.T. Partnership on Tuesday, October 15th in Unicoi, TN at either renovated Watauga District offices or across the street at the town hall. Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-03-21
Purpose: Rehab and step construction
Section: 20c: No Business Knob Shelter to Spivey Gap
People: Joe Morris, Van Hovey, Lotta Murray, Jim McGuire, Ken Murray, Greg Kramer, Jeff Hatling, Elzear Lemieux, Bill Murdoch, Tim Stewart, Scott Huskey, Carl Fritz
Summary: The Thursday crew split into two teams both north and south from Devils Creek Gap accessing the AT from the Can Lot. The southbound group rehabbed 55 feet and installed 6 new locust steps while the southbound crew rehabbed 240 feet (96 cut bench - 144 crib and fill w/locust or rock) and, installed two steps. The rehab in this area is complete for the foreseeable future - 980 feet of trail rehab completed in 3 trips. Reporting: Steve Wilson
Date: 2024-03-19
Purpose: Blowdown Removal with a Chainsaw
Section: 2b: Low Point roughly 2 miles N of Abingdon Gap Shelter to McQueen's Gap
People: Carl Belcher & Steve Wilson
Summary: The focus of this trip was to remove a 22” diameter step-over blowdown that was a quarter mile north of the Abingdon Gap shelter. We saw three thru hikers on this cool, but sunny cool spring day. This trail section is in good shape and ready for the spring-time thru hikes. Reporting: Russell Fleming
Date: 2024-03-17
Purpose: First maintenance 2024
Section: 15c: Ash Gap to Hughes Gap
People: Russell Fleming
Summary: Removed blow downs, trimmed, cleared water source Reporting: Richard L Ramsey
Date: 2024-03-17
Purpose: Check trail condition after storm
Section: 14a: Doll Flats to Bradley Gap
People: Richard Ramsey, Nancy Mick and dogs
Summary: Attempting to clear all the blowdowns and fix go arounds. Only trees that are still left one can easily step over. With having to hike in from 19E I tried to limit equipment to the Silky, loopers and a short rope. 10 mile day
There is need for larger scale work on a wet section about 1.50 miles above Doll Flats. It is very muddy when it is wet. Reporting: Bettye Boone
Date: 2024-03-18
Purpose: Preparing for meeting regarding trail counters in Roan Highlands
Section: 14d: Stan Murray Shelter to Carvers Gap
People: Bettye Boone
Summary: Preparation for meeting regarding VUM Committee Counter Data. Meeting never took place due to problem w/Microsoft Team meeting and Doodle Poll on best time for the meeting. Review of last VUM meeting notes and minutes. Communication w/Greg Kramer and Monica Mogilewsky. Also communication with Greg Kramer and Joe Morris regarding 2 leaners on our section (15a Carvers to Cloudland). Reporting: Bettye Boone
Date: 2024-03-16
Purpose: Check our section for any needed maintenance
Section: 15a: Carvers Gap - Cloudland Hotel
People: Bettye Boone
Saylor Fox
Summary: Basically checked the entire section from Cloudland to Carvers. Hikers at Cloudland headed north said the trail between Hughes Gap and Cloudland had no blow downs. Please report to that section maintainer. On our section we found 2 blowdowns which we were able to handle with our small Silke. One between Cloudland and Toll House and one headed up to the Roan High Knob Shelter. Successfully removed both. Shelter is fine . Took up new journal and brought back the old one; will mail to TEHCC. Very little trash. Tried to clean the graffiti board with alcohol; did not work. Will have to take another cleaner up for the new metal board; please advise on the best cleaner. Blazes looked good throughout the section. Will refurbish this summer. Cleaned all water diversions needing maintenance . There are 2 leaners between the 4th & 5th switchback from Carvers headed south. Too large to handle with our small Silke. Wish we could take our battery powered Ego; could handle in a few minutes. Will communicate the need for a Sawyer need to Joe and Greg. Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-03-14
Purpose: Clear blowdowns
Section: 11b: Canute Place to Bitter End
People: Tony Messina, Van Hovey, Jeff Hatling, Joe Morris
Summary: The crew broke into teams at Moreland Gap Shelter with this group heading north. Thru hiker Julie had reported a pine tangle north of the shelter which we found and removed 1.5 miles from the shelter. We walked to the Canute Place and cleared 13 trees (mostly step overs) and two hazard trees adjacent to camp sites. Reporting: Tim Stewart
Date: 2024-03-14
Purpose: Thursday maintenance
Section: 11b: Canute Place to Bitter End
People: Tim Stewart
Bill Murdoch
Greg Kramer
Elzear Lemieux
Jim McGuire
Summary: With a report of a large blowdown, it was decided to go in search of. One group went north of Moreland Gap Shelter and the other group went South. After painting the graffiti board and some other minor tasks at the shelter, my group hiked south. We removed 19 minor blowdowns and other trail obstructions. The bridges we built last year were in great condition.
The forest service road is in bad shape with numerous 'potholes'. The trench at about mile marker 4 continues to degrade and is a challenge to navigate.
It was a great weather day. We also saw several NOBO hikers on their way to Maine. Reporting: Tim Stewart
Date: 2024-03-09
Purpose: Hiking with Tools!
Section: 8: Wilbur Dam Road to US321
People: Tim Stewart
Tracy Harris
Skip Benton
Rebecka Powell
Jessica Powell
Summary: It rained ... fortunately it held off until we were finished!
We began the Hiking with Tools! season with a hike around Watauga Lake. Several others were signed up but the threat of rain must've changed their minds.. After introducing the various tools that we routinely use, we journeyed around the lake. Typical tasks were encountered: overgrown brush, rhododendrons, trash, and a couple of minor blowdowns. The step-over culvert we created last year was working nicely.
The former Watauga Lake Shelter site was our lunch destination. After which we hiked back to the trailhead. Overall the trail was in good condition. The rain possibility didn't dampen our spirits and it ended up a good outing! Reporting: Joe Morris
Date: 2024-03-12
Purpose: Rehab
Section: 13: US19E to Doll Flats
People: Carl Fritz, Joe Morris
Summary: Carl and I headed south from 19E to remove a hiker reported blowdown. We found the tree(s) 2 1/2 miles from 19E adjacent to the water source. Encountered 11 thru-hikers, 2 LASH's, and 2 day hikers Reporting: Jim McGuire
Date: 2024-03-12
Purpose: General Maintenance
Section: 12c: Sugar Hollow Creek to Campbell Hollow Road
People: Jim McGuire
Cindy McGuire
Summary: I returned to Elk River to paint blazes and clear a drainpipe. Blazes are in excellent shape from the river up to Campbell Hollow Rd, but they needed touching up along Elk River. I repainted about 12 blazes. Last week, Tony pointed out the need to clear a drainage pipe at mile 401.0. It was almost completely clogged with dirt and leaves. I used a hoe to clear the pipe. We collected 2 bags of trash along the river section. I did a trash run just last week. There is a lot of littering going on out there. It was a beautiful day. We saw 12 day-hikers and no thru hikers. Reporting: Jennifer Baird
Date: 2024-03-11
Purpose: Check trail condition
Section: 10: Hampton trailhead to Dennis Cove Road
People: Jennifer Baird
Summary: Hiked trail from Dennis Cove Road to Hampton trailhead via high water trail and came back by the falls. Trail is in good shape. Only small twigs and one small branch on the trail. Removed a small bag of trash from the shelter. First time being at the shelter since the rehab on water trail. It looks great! Thanks to those who did such a great job! Will return on a warmer day to refresh the blazes. Saw a total of six day hikers and one dog out enjoying the day. Reporting: Steve Perri
Date: 2024-03-10
Purpose: ATC Spring Regional Partnership Meeting
Section: Other (Meetings/preparation/etc.)
People: Steve Perri
Summary: ATC Regional Partnership Committee Meeting 3-8-24 to 3-10-24
Steve Perri
The annual Regional Partnership Committee (RPC) Meeting was held at Hungry Mother State Park in Marion, VA. This is a collective meeting bringing together USFS, ATC, APPA (Appalachian National Scenic Trail NP) and AT Clubs to discuss recent policies, legislation, activities, events, and strategies that the partnership faces in the short and long-term basis. Below is a summary of some of the happenings across the partnership.
ATC - ATC is preparing a number of events in 2024 to help prepare for the 100 yr anniversary of the formation of the conservancy which was established March 9, 1925. A number of events will be identified and will likely involve some within the state level and others more regionally. ATC is refilling a number of staff positions with changes in personnel. A review of the 40 yr old comprehensive plan revealed a significant number of recommendations that NPS will likely be making to update the plan to better reflect the collaborative culture and assigned responsibilities within the cooperative agreement which was last updated about 40 yrs ago.
ATC has developed a checklist for clubs called a vitality index. It highlights a number of organizational, administrative, and functional characteristics that position clubs to be more effective and to help them develop a leader legacy circle. This list will be available on the website as a resource to ID gaps where ATC can help.
Training was a significant point of discussion during the breakout session for the southern region. Sawyers are expected to have 4 steps completed before they can operate in the field. This involves obtaining 1st aid and CPR training, followed by Sawyer safety training, followed by evaluation by a qualified trainer, and then a Sawyer certification step. 1st Aid must be complete before Sawyer certification. After certification, the final authorization step is required by a land manager before a Sawyer can operate a saw on public land. ATC still Ofers up to $65 reimbursement for 1st aid. Clubs are utilizing local universities, American Red Cross, retired physicians in their clubs, and local health care systems for training. The ATC website also is a resource for replacement equipment. The USFS now has resources available for Sawyer training and clubs are encouraged to utilize these as a first choice vs a contractor. ATC is also launching a new capital project and Konnarock form. It is replacing the earlier complex form and is expected to allow more electronic routing and improved tracking. Clubs are encouraged to ID capital project to submit using these new forms which will be posted on the ATC website. Konnarock notifications are expected to go out April 15-30th.
TEHCC is one of the few clubs up to date with the ATC MOU and volunteer service agreements with the USFS partners. The club has been able to benefit from the TN and NC license plate program. In TN, only $16,000 was requested and so there is about another $10,000 available for unexpected needs. NC requests also came in close to the $34,000 available this year for grants.
ATC is developing plans to address high impact areas from expanded visitation impacts to portions of heavily visited trail sections, overnight sites, and parking. There are 387 heavy use overnight sites identified from an assessment. There are more than 5,500 sites total for the whole trail. Increase visitation has exacerbated the impacts from heavy use. ATC is utilizing the Visitor Use Management (VUM)Process to develop longer term plans to help mitigate expanding impacts. Currently there are 15 areas utilizing the 14 step VUM process and the Roan Highlands section from Hughes Gap to 19E is the area we started a VUM process in 2022. Currently we are on step 7 of the 14 step VUM process. ATC is launching the use of a GIS system called RIMS to capture in the field data from visitor use. ATC is seeking feedback on development of energy structures policies being crafter for wind energy, pipelines, solar arrays and other development impacts by April 5th.
APPA is helping fund sanitation facilities for implementation on USFS lands in VA. A universal design based on a 2-bin moldering privy will be available along with funds to add more of these to AT sections in Region 8. Funds for $3.1M from NPS and ATC are assigned a task order for the Triple Crown VUM process. Specific funds for large projects can be made available as VUM’s define needs to address improvements for overuse areas.
USFS - USFS was well-represented at the meeting. At the regional level, the Great American Outdoor Act (GAOA) is being used to help fund deferred maintenance and is funded for 5 yrs in the current plan. Upgrading the Konnarock facility in VA is at risk of missing funding in this round, but they are confident it will be funded perhaps in the next round. USFS is also starting a campaign called the Reimagining Recreation program which is linked to the 100 yr ATC anniversary. It will be launched on May 6, in Tahoe.
The SORO volunteer of the year selected was TEHCC’s Vic Hasler! A frame plaque was presented to the club to present to Vic. Congratulations Vic!
Next RPC meeting in the fall will be at the ATC Socash facility and will be Nov. 2, 2024.