August 21, 2016.

 

We’ve been fortunate to have plentiful rain most of the summer: New little plants have taken hold, and drainage has been tested. Our non-native invasives have profited, too—and now are starting to seed.

Saturday morning, a generous team that included Central Blue Ridge Master Naturalists Christine Lechner, and Ellen and daughter Kira Climo, as well as friend and neighbor Buck Whitehurst, cleared lespedeza and stilt grass from the area north of the overlook platform and into the woods. The work was harder than the lead photo indicates, but the morning was pleasant and we had a good time. We’re looking forward to tackling the trailsides this week.  High priority seeders will get our attention from now into September. After the leaves drop, we’ll go after Japanese honeysuckle, bittersweet, and such.

We had visits from Nelson County Master Gardeners in two groups earlier in the month. Spider season seems to be peaking—best to break the trail with stick in hand. Here’s a photo of one taken during the recent survey of biota by CUH.

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Progress proceeds in and on the admin building. French drains have been installed on both sides, and the long front has been opened up (see photo) for the main entrance. Arrangements are under way for internet connection, electrical wiring, solar panels, well-drilling, roof vents and skylight, and audio-visual equipment and screen installations; and Mark Chase has found a saddle-tank engine similar to that actually used by the Nelson and Albemarle Railroad that will be repainted to local colors for the dioramas he’s creating.

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