Susquehannock Trail Club

PO Box 643 Coudersport, PA 16915

NN“On Foot in Potter County…God’s Country”

The purposes of the STC are to build and maintain trails, aid in the conservation of wetlands and wildlife, and promote good fellowship through the medium of hiking and nature

1,000th CIRCUIT HIKERBy Tom Fitzgerald

The highlight of the 2010 Susquehannock Trail Club’s annual Winter Frolic dinner at St. Paul’s Lutheran Parish Hall in Coudersport was an event that can never be repeated—the recognition of Susquehannock Trail System Circuit Hiker #1,000. The special honor belongs to Dakota Buckingham of York, Pennsylvania, a Star Scout who is a member of Troop 20 in the YorkScout Council. Dakota

five other Scouts and three adult leaders in Troop 20 backpacked the 85-mile loop between July 11 and 17, 2009. (See page 8 for the complete list of names.)

In recognition of his achievement, Dakota was presented with a special walking stick made by Bob Webber, waffectionately known as “The Old Ranger.” Bob is a retired forest maintenance supervisor from Pennsylvania’s Tiadaghton Forest District, and has been active for years in helping maintain the Hammersley section of the STS

The dinner was the always delicious fare prepared by local caterer Bernie LeFever. A drawing of door prizes, and the regular monthly club business meeting followed. The featured program was a PowerPoint presentation by STC member, photographer Curt Weinhold of several trips to Alaska, California, Nevada, and Utah. (Curt is the Ansel Adams of Potter County.)

A different kind of winter hike was held this year. Approximately 16 members of the club met local tracking expert Glenn Batson at the parking lot behind the Susquehannock State Forest District office for training in how to recognize animal tracks. The session began at the picnic table in the small conifer plantation behind the parking lot.

Photo by Tom Fitzgerald

NNeewwsslleetttteerr “On Foot in Potter County…God’s Country”

Spring 2010 The purposes of the STC are to build and maintain trails, aid in the conservation of wetlands and wildlife, and promote good fellowship through the medium of hiking and nature

CIRCUIT HIKER

The highlight of the 2010 Susquehannock Trail Club’s annual Winter Frolic dinner at St. Paul’s Lutheran Parish Hall in Coudersport was an event

never be the recognition

of Susquehannock Trail System Circuit Hiker #1,000. The special honor belongs to Dakota

of York, Pennsylvania, a Star Scout who is a member of Troop 20 in the York-Adams Boy Scout Council. Dakota and

in Troop 20 July 11 and 17,

In recognition of his achievement, Dakota was presented with a special walking stick made by Bob Webber, who is affectionately known as “The Old Ranger.” Bob is a retired forest maintenance supervisor from Pennsylvania’s Tiadaghton Forest District, and has been active for years in helping maintain the Hammersley section of the STS.

fare prepared by local caterer Bernie LeFever. A drawing of door prizes, and the regular monthly club business meeting followed. The featured program was a PowerPoint presentation by STC

Curt Weinhold of several trips to (Curt is the Ansel

A different kind of winter hike was held this year. Approximately 16 members of the club met local tracking expert Glenn Batson at the parking lot behind the Susque-

tate Forest District office for training in how to recognize animal tracks. The session began at the picnic

plantation behind the parking lot.

Glenn reviewed the basics of identification such as stride, straddle, the type of gait, the number and shape of toe or hoof prints visible, whether the animal places his rear foot in, behind, or ahead of the front foot’s print, and other clues important to identification.

Sometimes, he said, it is even possible to infer the sex of the animal that made the tracks. The front legs of males are usually slightly farther apart than the hind legs; the reverse is generally true of females. However, Glenn cautioned the participants that not all identifications are absolutely certain. Old tracks and those in deep fluffy snow are harder to identify than fresh tracks or those in shallow wet snow or mud.

The Liljas brought their dog along, whose fresh prints were very helpful in comparison with those of an unknown mammal who had walked past the pduring the night. After reviewing all the clues, Glenn decided that the unknown mammal was most likely a gray fox.

After that, the group warmed up by hiking out through the forest district’s wildlife food plot area in search of other animal tracks.

Another group of nineteen STC members Nachtway headed off on a crossthem out through the abandoned Potato City AirportJoe Allis’ “red ribbon” trail. From there, they picked up the STS White Line Trail and headed north to the Ridge Trail and then east on the Ridge Trail the Wil & Betty Ahn Trail where they broke for lunch.

At that point, the group split. A dozen, discretion is the better part of valordown the Billy Brown Trail back to Susquehannock Lodge.

The other seven had their adveturesome spirit up and elected to push on to the head of Drumater HolloFrom there they bushwhacked across the ridge the dreaded “Kamikazee” run down

Space does not permit the rest of the story in this issue. Watch a future newsletter for the Nachtway’s own words.

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iinnffoo@@ssttcc--hhiikkee..oorrgg

The purposes of the STC are to build and maintain trails, aid in the conservation of wetlands and wildlife, and promote good fellowship through the medium of hiking and nature study.

Glenn reviewed the basics of identification such as stride, it, the number and shape of toe or

hoof prints visible, whether the animal places his rear foot in, behind, or ahead of the front foot’s print, and other clues important to identification.

Sometimes, he said, it is even possible to infer the sex of animal that made the tracks. The front legs of males

are usually slightly farther apart than the hind legs; the reverse is generally true of females. However, Glenn cautioned the participants that not all identifications are

ks and those in deep fluffy snow are harder to identify than fresh tracks or those in

The Liljas brought their dog along, whose fresh prints were very helpful in comparison with those of an un-known mammal who had walked past the picnic table during the night. After reviewing all the clues, Glenn decided that the unknown mammal was most likely a gray

After that, the group warmed up by hiking out through the forest district’s wildlife food plot area in search of other

STC members led by Joe on a cross-country ski trek that took

them out through the abandoned Potato City Airport to Joe Allis’ “red ribbon” trail. From there, they picked up the STS White Line Trail and headed north to the Ridge

on the Ridge Trail to the junction of il where they broke for lunch.

plit. A dozen, in the belief that discretion is the better part of valor, discretely chose to ski down the Billy Brown Trail back to Susquehannock Lodge.

The other seven had their adveturesome spirit up and elected to push on to the head of Drumater Hollow.

across the ridge and tackled down to the lodge.

Space does not permit the rest of the story in this issue. Watch a future newsletter for the harrowing details in Joe

A SPRING DAY AT LOGGING CAMPBy Matthew Miller, Roulette, PA*

Friday, June 5 was a beautiful late-spring-green day at logging camp after the work crew had a solid and peaceful night’s rest. The teamster awoke at 7:00, later than usual, and rose at 8:00 after listening to the birds sing and watching the sun stream through the window as he heard the morning news and weather forecast being broadcast over the airwaves. On rising, he gave thanks to God, raised the flag, and gave the team, Daisy and Dyna, half a bale of hay for breakfast and two buckets of water. Then while safety and security officer Radar checked the campsite for evidence of bears and varmints, the teamster tidied up the campsite from last night’s gathering. After these morning chores were done, he sat down to his own breakfast of cereal and coffee with milk and juice that his wife, Kate, had brought to camp the previous evening. An apple topped off his tank and he saved the core pieces fhorse rewards. While the horses were working on breakfast he and Radar went to cut kindling from an old crudeoil-soaked tub tank. The equipment they took was saw and gear and four loops of baler twine. Radar pulled in three boards, and the woodcutter carried a bundle in one hand and his saw over the other shoulder. The other light work job of the morning was to gather points, wedtops from the locust posts that formed the fence around the one-acre area containing the team.

It was still early and the weather was light and breezywhen he heard his neighbor, Triesky stirring, Radar and he paid him a visit. He learned that the camp gobbler had sounded off yesterday while he was away doing some work at his sister’s house. Triesky needed some repair work on his gazebo so they planned to do that job together sometime next week. It was then time to give the ponies some work of their own.

The order of work preparation was that Radar, dog dish, and radio went to the stable in the shade of the hby the old pond. Then the ponies came in for inspection, brushing, and hoof cleaning. Finally the harnesses, bridles, and lines were installed. After turning out, the teamster hitched the team to the doubletree with chains as they had been positioned from yesterday’s job.

Up the hill they went as Radar worked a bone and stood watch at the stable. They drove past three small poles that Kate and he had chained together during last evening’s walk with the safety officer and then they hooked onto a 20-foot, 10-inch sweet birch log. On the way downhill, he stopped the team and snagged the three poles before babystepping down the steep section of the trail. Although he had debated the quality of the hook-up, one of the three poles came out as Kate had predicted. He thinks perhaps the advice of the safety officer needs more consideration, or that Kate should assume the role of apprentice logger. For the time being, the only choice was to leave the pole

* Mr. Miller has supplied some of the lumber for the STS trail signs.Newsletter printed by the We

2

A SPRING DAY AT LOGGING CAMP

green day at logging camp after the work crew had a solid and peaceful

awoke at 7:00, later than usual, and rose at 8:00 after listening to the birds sing and watching the sun stream through the window as he heard the morning news and weather forecast being broadcast over the airwaves. On rising, he gave thanks to God, d the flag, and gave the team, Daisy and Dyna, half a

bale of hay for breakfast and two buckets of water. Then while safety and security officer Radar checked the camp-site for evidence of bears and varmints, the teamster tidied

night’s gathering. After these morning chores were done, he sat down to his own break-fast of cereal and coffee with milk and juice that his wife, Kate, had brought to camp the previous evening. An apple topped off his tank and he saved the core pieces for horse rewards. While the horses were working on break-fast he and Radar went to cut kindling from an old crude-soaked tub tank. The equipment they took was saw

and gear and four loops of baler twine. Radar pulled in er carried a bundle in one

hand and his saw over the other shoulder. The other light work job of the morning was to gather points, wedges, and

fence around

y and the weather was light and breezy, so when he heard his neighbor, Triesky stirring, Radar and he paid him a visit. He learned that the camp gobbler had sounded off yesterday while he was away doing some work

e repair work on his gazebo so they planned to do that job together some-time next week. It was then time to give the ponies some

The order of work preparation was that Radar, dog dish, and radio went to the stable in the shade of the hemlocks by the old pond. Then the ponies came in for inspection, brushing, and hoof cleaning. Finally the harnesses, bridles, and lines were installed. After turning out, the teamster hitched the team to the doubletree with chains as they had

Up the hill they went as Radar worked a bone and stood watch at the stable. They drove past three small poles that Kate and he had chained together during last evening’s walk with the safety officer and then they hooked onto a

inch sweet birch log. On the way downhill, he stopped the team and snagged the three poles before baby-stepping down the steep section of the trail. Although he

up, one of the three ad predicted. He thinks perhaps

the advice of the safety officer needs more consideration, or that Kate should assume the role of apprentice logger. For the time being, the only choice was to leave the pole

orphaned along the trail to be brought in laterskid of the day went to the landing by the swinglater processing. Turning about and going back up the hill, he had to stop the team to chain up the orphan to be snagged on the second skid down. At the top, he hooked into another 10-inch birch that was five feet longer than the first and then succeeded in snagging the orphan on the steep pitch. At the switchback, the little one again came out so they continued to the landing with just one log. After turning out the third time, he heofficer announcing an event at the stable. Not an alarm event, so the team leader decided it must be a friendly visitor who could wait until the third skid came in. Again he had to chain up the orphan on the way uphill. At the top, he hooked up two 20-foot sections of 8and headed in for the last skid of the morning. The orphan was snagged and all 3 poles made it to the landing by the apple tree and the team returned to the stable. No visitors were present so the boss suspecfrom the security guard was his reaction to sniffing out tempting scents on the rising thermals carried up the hollow from an attractive porn site. The guard was counseled on proper behavior while on duty.

After work, the horses were brugiven a drink of water and a bale of hay in the pasture. The teamster got washed and cooled in the spring, a change of clothes, and an apple with a hunk of sharp cheese washed down with a cool drink. After lunch he changed hats and took on the roles of dish washer and laundry boy. Radar, being off-duty, napped in the sun. Breakfast dishes having been done and laundry having been hung up to dry, the man went to his sister’s house for visits. He visited with his wife, and a couple fCharlie and Dave, and made arrangements for the ponies’ ride home tomorrow at 10:30. Back at camp he packed up for travel day, worked on his list of oddup camp for the evening activities. He then took his rest in the shade by the spring with the feeling of having been in harmony with the natural forces on the greatest part of the day.

File photo by Dan Lamont/Corbis, The Guardian, UK, April 22, 2009 issue.

lumber for the STS trail signs. elfare Hollow Publishing Group, New Florence, PA 15944

orphaned along the trail to be brought in later. The first skid of the day went to the landing by the swing-set for later processing. Turning about and going back up the hill, he had to stop the team to chain up the orphan to be snagged on the second skid down. At the top, he hooked

inch birch that was five feet longer than the first and then succeeded in snagging the orphan on the steep pitch. At the switchback, the little one again came out so they continued to the landing with just one log. After turning out the third time, he heard the security officer announcing an event at the stable. Not an alarm event, so the team leader decided it must be a friendly visitor who could wait until the third skid came in. Again he had to chain up the orphan on the way uphill. At the

foot sections of 8-inch beech and headed in for the last skid of the morning. The orphan was snagged and all 3 poles made it to the landing by the apple tree and the team returned to the stable. No visitors were present so the boss suspects the excitement from the security guard was his reaction to sniffing out tempting scents on the rising thermals carried up the hollow from an attractive porn site. The guard was counseled on proper behavior while on duty.

brushed and sprayed, and a drink of water and a bale of hay in the pasture.

The teamster got washed and cooled in the spring, a change of clothes, and an apple with a hunk of sharp cheese washed down with a cool drink. After lunch he

took on the roles of dish washer and duty, napped in the sun.

Breakfast dishes having been done and laundry having been hung up to dry, the man went to his sister’s house for visits. He visited with his wife, and a couple friends, Charlie and Dave, and made arrangements for the ponies’ ride home tomorrow at 10:30. Back at camp he packed up for travel day, worked on his list of odd-jobs, and set up camp for the evening activities. He then took his rest

spring with the feeling of having been in harmony with the natural forces on the greatest part of

File photo by Dan Lamont/Corbis, The Guardian, UK, April 22, 2009 issue.

STS TRAIL CONDITION AND MAINTENANCEBy Bill Boyd

As spring 2010 is upon us, we look forward to another year of trail maintenance. In 2009 with the dedication 45 individuals, 769 hours of trail work was loggedadditional 368 hours of travel time. The travel time is important to record since some of our workers travel more than 200 miles to maintain their section.

The club is fortunate to have all 14 maintenance sections of the trail covered at this time. Still, if at any time the regular maintainer needs some additional help with his section, he shouldn’t hesitate to let the club know about it. Usually a few members who live near the trail can be called upon to help out on short notice. This is especially important when we get a bad windstorm which invariably blows a few trees down across the trail.

Vigilance and reporting from trail users are extremely important. Hikers are almost always the first to encounter new problems along the STS. The trail registers are one place where we see notes from time to time on conditions, but this is not very helpful to the maintainers, because they don’t see the notes until they get out on the trail themselves. If you see a problem along the trail, at billboyd@pennswoods.net, call me at (814) 2747529, or drop the club a note at STC, Box 643, Coudersport, PA 16915. That way we will know about the problem much more quickly, and can take care of it sooner.

Next Newsletter DeadlineThe Spring edition of the STC Newsletter will go to press March 22, 2010. If emailing your articles, please send them to editorstcnews@yahoo.com no later than Sunday June 20, 2010. If mailing them, please mail them no later than June 12, 2010 to: PO Box B � Robinson, PA 15949

June June June June 14, 197714, 197714, 197714, 1977

Photo by Tom Fitzgerald

Newsletter printed by the We3

STS TRAIL CONDITION AND MAINTENANCE

we look forward to another dedication of logged with an

The travel time is important to record since some of our workers travel more

The club is fortunate to have all 14 maintenance sections of the trail covered at this time. Still, if at any time the regular maintainer needs some additional help with his section, he shouldn’t hesitate to let the club know about it.

ers who live near the trail can be called upon to help out on short notice. This is especially important when we get a bad windstorm which invariably

Vigilance and reporting from trail users are extremely first to encounter

along the STS. The trail registers are one place where we see notes from time to time on conditions, but this is not very helpful to the maintainers, because they

hey get out on the trail them-problem along the trail, e-mail me

call me at (814) 274-or drop the club a note at STC, Box 643,

way we will know about the problem much more quickly, and can take care of

Also, anyone using the STS is encouraged to report any missing or damaged signs, or even those which could use some refurbishing. Some of our trail signs have been in place for more than 30 years, and are getting a little shabby. It would be nice to sprucases, if someone has a problem locating a turn, or finds a place where a sign would be helpful, please let us know. As with blow-downs and other problems, it helps a great deal to pinpoint the area as nearthe trail maps, you can tell pretty closely by the map mileages, road crossings, stream crossings, etc., where the problem is. And the Guidebook is a wealth of information when it comes to locating features along the trail. The book and waterproof map set are available from the above club address, for $12.60, including tax and shipping. They are invaluable if one is going to do any hiking on the STS.

We realize that there are several trail sections that need improving, and we try to do some upgrading ehope to improve some of the footpath again this seasonif we have enough volunteers. It would be would like to spend a few hours helping with trailJust let the club know. We don't have any specific dates just yet, but we're hoping to have a few work parties throughout the season. So feel free to join in.

The Susquehannock Trail System is becoming quite wellknown as a great trail, and our thanks goes out to all those who have maintained it over the years.

Next Newsletter Deadline The Spring edition of the STC Newsletter will go to press March 22, 2010. If emailing your articles, please send

no later than Sunday June 20, 2010. If mailing them, please mail them no later

Robinson, PA 15949

Wildlife Puzzle If a wild turkey hen and a half can lay an egg and a half in a day and a half, how many eggs can a wild turkey hen lay in a day?

Photo by Tom Fitzgerald

elfare Hollow Publishing Group, New Florence, PA 15944

Also, anyone using the STS is encouraged to report any missing or damaged signs, or even those which could use some refurbishing. Some of our trail signs have been in

30 years, and are getting a little shabby. It would be nice to spruce them up. And in some cases, if someone has a problem locating a turn, or finds a place where a sign would be helpful, please let us know.

downs and other problems, it helps a great deal to pinpoint the area as nearly as possible. If you have the trail maps, you can tell pretty closely by the map mileages, road crossings, stream crossings, etc., where the problem is. And the Guidebook is a wealth of information when it comes to locating features along the trail. The

set are available from the above club address, for $12.60, including tax and shipping. They are invaluable if one is going to do any hiking on the STS.

We realize that there are several trail sections that need improving, and we try to do some upgrading each year. We hope to improve some of the footpath again this season—if we have enough volunteers. It would be great if you would like to spend a few hours helping with trail-work.

We don't have any specific dates re hoping to have a few work parties

throughout the season. So feel free to join in.

The Susquehannock Trail System is becoming quite well-known as a great trail, and our thanks goes out to all those who have maintained it over the years.

Photo by Curt Weinhold

STC EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT GAS WELL DRILLING A Letter to the PA Environmental Quality Board

We would like to introduce ourselves. We are members of the Susquehannock Trail Club, founders and maintainers of the 85 mike hiking trail known as the STS (Susquehannock Trail System). The STS is located in the Susquehannock State Forest and northern section of the Sproul State Forest. Our club was organized in 1967 and now numbers more than 350 members. We have faithfully maintained and protected this Trail System since its beginning. It is one of DCNR-BOF hiking trails designated for hikers only and known as a Keystone Trail.

The STS is popular with hikers, backpackers and wildlife watchers who come here from many states. Our STC membership is faithful to its cause, to protect the trail and aid in the protection and conservation of our streams, wild lands and wildlife. Over the years we have worked closely with known persons as Dr. Maurice Goddard, Secretary ofand Waters now known as DCNR, Arthur Davis, Secretary of PA DER, John Oliver, Secretary of PA DCNR, and others dedicated to the wise use of our State Forest lands. Our club is a member of the KTA, dedicated to protecting and preserving trails to the hiking public.

The recent disclosure of DCNR-BOF leasing thousands of acres of state owned forest land to drilling companies for large sums of money to explore and drill deep in the ground searching for gas in what is known as the Marcellus Shale is of great concernto us. We are aware that drilling and fracturing, the necessary process to obtain the gas takes immense amounts of water. After the water obtained from wells, streams, rivers, reservoirs, for fracturing, it must be removed with its poisonous contaminants. We are aware that this brackish water to be disposed of goes back in the streams and becomes part of the flow again. Is it safe? Does the new DEP 95 water regulations provide clean water for our native brook trout and other fish and wildlife who

ADIRONDACK HIKING TRIPBy Pat Childs

The Susquehannock Trail Club has again organized a trip to the Adirondack Mountains. The dates are September 12Cost for food and lodging will be $300per person.

We have reserved a “1900 Adirondack Camp” on the mountain near Elizabethtown in Essex County, NY. From its grand porch it has a lovely view of mountains across the valley. purchased the facility six years ago and has updated modern conveniences one would want, including five and a halfbathrooms. Using a library and den with sofa beds it can sleep up to 16 people. It is a 30-minute drive to the village of Lake Placidand 20 minutes to Keene Valley according to the owner.

We are modeling the trip after past ones led by Wil Ahn. We have researched hikes in the area, and everyone will be givenpossible hikes before the trip so they may do some reading on their own. The ability groups will then select which hikes they want to do. Several people signed up at the Winter Frolic Dinneron the interest, we will be having 2 to 3 hiking ability groups. One group will be tackling some challenging peaks, includMarcy.

Newsletter printed by the We4

STC EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT GAS WELL DRILLING Environmental Quality Board

ld like to introduce ourselves. We are members of the ounders and maintainers of the 85

mike hiking trail known as the STS (Susquehannock Trail System). The STS is located in the Susquehannock State Forest

of the Sproul State Forest. Our club was organized in 1967 and now numbers more than 350 members. We have faithfully maintained and protected this Trail System

BOF hiking trails as a Keystone Trail.

The STS is popular with hikers, backpackers and wildlife watchers who come here from many states. Our STC member-ship is faithful to its cause, to protect the trail and aid in the protection and conservation of our streams, wild lands and wildlife. Over the years we have worked closely with such well

r. Maurice Goddard, Secretary of PA Forest aters now known as DCNR, Arthur Davis, Secretary of

PA DER, John Oliver, Secretary of PA DCNR, and others dedicated to the wise use of our State Forest lands. Our club is a member of the KTA, dedicated to protecting and preserving

BOF leasing thousands of acres of state owned forest land to drilling companies for large sums of money to explore and drill deep in the ground searching for gas in what is known as the Marcellus Shale is of great concern to us. We are aware that drilling and fracturing, the necessary process to obtain the gas takes immense amounts of water. After the water obtained from wells, streams, rivers, reservoirs, for fracturing, it must be removed with its poisonous contami-ts. We are aware that this brackish water to be disposed of

goes back in the streams and becomes part of the flow again. Is Does the new DEP 95 water regulations provide clean

water for our native brook trout and other fish and wildlife who

make their homes in the streams? They must have pure water to survive. Mankind faces the same problem, our wells and water reservoirs cannot be contaminated with improper disposal of brackish water.

This is a problem that has to be addressed immediately befcareless drillers take advantage of the situation and make “quick bucks” at the risk of the public losing the purity of our pristine streams and Potter County’s drinking water. The people in the lower counties also suffer the effects of loose restrictmost important that DEP know exactly how much water is being removed from our streams and the condition of the water being used by the drillers is safe to be returned to the streams.

We see the drilling rigs and the tanker trucks traveling ovemain highways every day and into the night, traffic that is hard on our highways, you can imagine what that heavy equipment is doing to our back roads. We, the public, need and use these roads and they are costly to maintain with limited budgets by state and local agencies. Road building by drilling companies to drill sites has to be strictly controlled and limited for drilling purposes only. The loss of the “PA Wilds” is at stake.

Our club offers its services to your personnel to help as “watcdogs” for violation of laws and regulations to keep our streams pure and our beloved forest land safe. We would be pleased to hear from you.

Sincerely,

STS Committee Curt Weinhold Bob Bernhardy Wayne Baumann Wil Ahn, Sr., President STC

ADIRONDACK HIKING TRIP

The Susquehannock Trail Club has again organized a trip to the September 12-19, 2010. per person.

We have reserved a “1900 Adirondack Camp” on the mountain From its grand porch

it has a lovely view of mountains across the valley. A new owner years ago and has updated it with all the

five and a half bathrooms. Using a library and den with sofa beds it can sleep up

ge of Lake Placid, Valley according to the owner.

We are modeling the trip after past ones led by Wil Ahn. We have be given a copy of e reading on their

hikes they want to do. Several people signed up at the Winter Frolic Dinner. Based

we will be having 2 to 3 hiking ability groups. One including Mt.

Another group will do the more moderate climbs in search of scenery and views. There will also be a hike along John’s Brookwhich is a nice stroll climbing gently as you follow the trail upstream. Anyone for fishing? The area has the famous Ausable River, Boquet River, and Lake Champlain There will be some days when we do not hikechoose what they wish to do.

As in the past we will be cooking our own meals to save money. Everyone attending will be expected to be part of the cooking or cleaning up from meals. Our first meal will be Sunday night supper on September 12th, and the last the 19th. One evening meal will be “on your own” and not eatentogether as a group at the Camp.

There is no Internet service available at the Campphone service. The owner wasn’t sure if TV would be connected or not. Internet is available in Elizabethtown. Currently we have a mix of couples and singles attending. If you are interested in attending and wish more informationat (585) 593-4077 or at childs4@roadrunner.com

elfare Hollow Publishing Group, New Florence, PA 15944

STC EXPRESSES CONCERN ABOUT GAS WELL DRILLING

e their homes in the streams? They must have pure water to survive. Mankind faces the same problem, our wells and water reservoirs cannot be contaminated with improper disposal of

This is a problem that has to be addressed immediately before careless drillers take advantage of the situation and make “quick bucks” at the risk of the public losing the purity of our pristine streams and Potter County’s drinking water. The people in the lower counties also suffer the effects of loose restrictions. It is most important that DEP know exactly how much water is being removed from our streams and the condition of the water being used by the drillers is safe to be returned to the streams.

We see the drilling rigs and the tanker trucks traveling over our main highways every day and into the night, traffic that is hard on our highways, you can imagine what that heavy equipment is doing to our back roads. We, the public, need and use these roads and they are costly to maintain with limited budgets by our state and local agencies. Road building by drilling companies to drill sites has to be strictly controlled and limited for drilling purposes only. The loss of the “PA Wilds” is at stake.

Our club offers its services to your personnel to help as “watch dogs” for violation of laws and regulations to keep our streams pure and our beloved forest land safe. We would be pleased to

group will do the more moderate climbs in search of scenery and views. There will also be a hike along John’s Brook, which is a nice stroll climbing gently as you follow the trail

The area has the famous Ausable River, Boquet River, and Lake Champlain is only 15 minutes away. There will be some days when we do not hike, when everyone may

As in the past we will be cooking our own meals to save money. veryone attending will be expected to be part of the cooking or cleaning up from meals. Our first meal will be Sunday night

and the last will be Sunday breakfast on . One evening meal will be “on your own” and not eaten

available at the Camp, but there is cell phone service. The owner wasn’t sure if TV would be connected or not. Internet is available in Elizabethtown. Currently we have a

and singles attending. If you are interested in attending and wish more information, you can contact Pat Childs

childs4@roadrunner.com

Photo ©

ALONG THE TRAIL By Wil Ahn

GOING WEST? HEAD NORTH!! I recently received word from STC member, Bob Ross, well known for his birding expertise and a member of the Audubon Society. Bob makes his summer home in rural Wellsboro, Pa. Shortly after he and his friend, Dianne Franco .attended our club’s Wild Game Harvest Dinner in mid October, they packed Bob’s Subaru Outback and headed for Dianne's home in the CoValley of California to spend the winter and enjoy the sunshine. Bob and I have two passions alike—the love of wilderness places, and chocolate chip cookies with black walnuts (memories of our Adirondack trips).

Bob had read about the Boundary Waters Canoe Area on the Minnesota-Canadian border since he was a teen ager, and just had to go north to visit that area before heading west. I have made three trips to that Wilderness area in my lifetime and have fond memories. Getting back to Bob & Dianne's trip, they were on the road thirteen days in Bobs Subaru Outback which he says is getting smaller every 6 months when they do this.

Bob’s letter states they stayed overnight once with friends and only camped out once—Minnesota with overnight temperatures in the upper 20’s Fahrenheit. The other nights were spent in and cabins. The Boundary

Waters Canoe Area is riddled with lakes which are the principal trails in the large region. Most of the lakes are connected to other lakes by short portages. They rented a canoe and paddled into three lakes. But Dianne was too intimidated by the mist and limited visibility to go any farther. The 30 degree daytime temperatures were an additional disincentive to continue exploring.

Bob states they hunted, but failed to see the target bird species he was watching for in this area. It was the Black-backed Woodpecker, Picoides arcticus. It is, according to the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology,”An uncommon woodpecker of the northern coniferous forests [which] prefers burned-over sites. It moves from place to place, following outbreaks of wood-recently burned habitats.”

However they enjoyed their visit and captured some of the beauty and wildlife of this special place. Here is a breakdown of cost of their trip:

• Total cost enroute: $1,730.00

• Cost per day (2 of us): $133.00

• Total miles: 4,620.

• Gas Cost total: $475.00

• Gas cost per mile: $0.10

• Gas cost per gallon: (163 gallons) $2.91

• Average miles per gallon: 28.3 (fully loaded)

• Average miles per day: 355

• Number of major travel segments: 6 (average length: 564 miles; rest of mileage exploring at stops)

Thanks Bob and Dianne for sharing this with us. We look forward to hearing more from you.

Photo from Microsoft ClipArt

Newsletter printed by the We5

Photo © Tom Munson

I recently received word from STC member, Bob Ross, well known for his birding expertise and a member of the Audubon Society. Bob makes his summer home in rural Wellsboro, Pa.

Franco .attended our club’s Wild Game Harvest Dinner in mid October, they packed Bob’s Subaru Outback and headed for Dianne's home in the Coachella Valley of California to spend the winter and enjoy the sunshine.

of wilderness places, and chocolate chip cookies with black walnuts (memories of our

Bob had read about the Boundary Waters Canoe Area on the Canadian border since he was a teen ager, and just had

est. I have made three trips to that Wilderness area in my lifetime and have fond memories. Getting back to Bob & Dianne's trip, they were on the road thirteen days in Bobs Subaru Outback which he says is getting

Bob’s letter states they stayed overnight once with friends and only camped

—in northern Minnesota with overnight temperatures in the upper 20’s Fahrenheit. The other nights were spent in motels and cabins. The Boundary

Waters Canoe Area is riddled with lakes which are the principal trails in the large region. Most of the lakes are connected to other lakes by short portages. They rented a canoe and paddled into

as too intimidated by the mist and limited visibility to go any farther. The 30 degree daytime tem-peratures were an additional disincentive to continue exploring.

Bob states they hunted, but failed to see the target bird species he backed Wood-

. It is, according to the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology,”An uncommon woodpecker of the northern

over sites. It moves -boring beetles in

However they enjoyed their visit and captured some of the beauty and wildlife of this special place. Here is a breakdown of cost of

Thanks Bob and Dianne for sharing this with us. We look forward

KTA KORNER By Becky Schreiber, KTA

The Keystone Trails Association will host the second annual Susquehanna Super Hike & Ultra Trail Run on Saturday, September 11, 2010. Join KTA for the 28.4adventurous hikers and trail runners on the wild river hills of the lower Susquehanna Gorge. The course follows the Mason Dixon and Conestoga Trails and features spectacular river views including Urey Overlook, House Rock Vista and Pinnacle Overlook, and scenic hollows like Oakland Run, Tucquan Glen and Kelly’s Run.There are over 10 significant climbs and descents along the route with total elevation change exceeding 8,000 feet. hike.org for more information or to register online.

Volunteers are needed for the second Susquehanna Super Hike &Ultra Trail Run scheduled for Saturday, September 11, 2010. volunteer opportunities are available including registration (Friday evening and Saturday morning), parking, checkpoints, trail sweeps, and more. Approximately 100 volunteers are needed.contact me at 717.238.7017 or ktaadmin@verizon.net for more information.

STS CIRCUIT HIKERSBy Lois Morey

Congratulations to the following for completing the circuit, and in turn earning the Circuit Hiker Award!

999 Andrew D. Blouse York, PA

1004

1000 Dakota J. Buckingham York, PA

1005

1001 Kyle M. Harrison York, PA

1006

1002 Michael R. Johnescu York, PA

1007

1003 Nicholas A. Martin York, PA

If you would like more information on the required qualifications for earning the Circuit Hiker Award, or would like some “insider tips,” you may contact Lois Morey by email at lmorey@pennswoods.netmail at 996 US Highway 6 West, Galeton, PA 16922

STS TRAIL GUIDE TIDBITS©By Chuck Dillon Mile 32.25 (Hartman Trail). [There are] manymaple and black birch. It takes forty gal. sap to yield one gal. of maple syrup. While maple syrup is usually associated with Vermont, some local growers sell Vermont producers their maple sap in bulk.

elfare Hollow Publishing Group, New Florence, PA 15944

The Keystone Trails Association will host the second annual Susquehanna Super Hike & Ultra Trail Run on Saturday,

Join KTA for the 28.4-mile trail challenge for adventurous hikers and trail runners on the wild river hills of the

The course follows the Mason Dixon and Conestoga Trails and features spectacular river views including Urey Overlook, House Rock Vista and Pinnacle Overlook, and scenic hollows like Oakland Run, Tucquan Glen and Kelly’s Run.

over 10 significant climbs and descents along the route with total elevation change exceeding 8,000 feet. Visit www.kta-hike.org for more information or to register online.

Volunteers are needed for the second Susquehanna Super Hike & Ultra Trail Run scheduled for Saturday, September 11, 2010. Many volunteer opportunities are available including registration (Friday evening and Saturday morning), parking, checkpoints, trail sweeps, and more. Approximately 100 volunteers are needed. Please

at 717.238.7017 or ktaadmin@verizon.net for more

STS CIRCUIT HIKERS Congratulations to the following for completing the circuit, and in turn earning the Circuit Hiker Award!

1004 Anthony M. Pavoncello York, PA

1005 Jay B. Buckingham York, PA

1006 Douglas M. Johnescu York, PA

1007 John A. Pavoncello York, PA

If you would like more information on the required qualifications for earning the Circuit Hiker Award, or would like some “insider tips,” you may contact Lois

lmorey@pennswoods.net or by regular mail at 996 US Highway 6 West, Galeton, PA 16922.

TRAIL GUIDE TIDBITS

. [There are] many sugar maple and black birch. It takes forty gal. sap to yield one gal. of maple syrup. While maple syrup is usually associated with Vermont,

producers their maple sap in bulk.

2010 SPRING & SUMMER Remember your lunch, water, and raingear.

Contact leader beforehand to confirm.

Saturday, April 3, 2010 What: Hike Where: East Fork Rd. to Rock Ridge Rd. Length: 6.6 miles Difficulty: Moderate Features:

• Wild Boy Area

• Old Stove - an STS landmark

• Area’s largest hemlock trees When: 10 AM at Patterson Park Leader: Wanda Shirk (814) 848-7944

Saturday, April 10, 2010 What: Hike Where: Northern Gateway to Patterson Park Length: 7 miles Difficulty: Moderate Features: Beaver dams When: 10 AM at Northern Gateway Trailhead

Leader: Bill Boyd (814) 274-7529

Saturday, April 17, 2010 What: Hike Where: Rock Ridge Road to Patterson Park Length: 6.3 miles Difficulty: Moderate Features:

• Beautiful Loeda Valley

• two vista When: 10 AM at Patterson Park Leader: Wayne Baumann (814) 274-7725

Saturday, April 24, 2010 What: Hike Where: Northern Gateway to Lyman Run Road Length: 7 miles Difficulty: Easy to moderate Features:

• Rolling Ridge Top

• Denton Hill Vista When: 9:30 AM at Northern Gateway Trailhead

Leader: Bill Boyd (814) 274-7529

Saturday, May 1, 2010 What: Wellsville Ridge Walk Where: Hilltops south of Wellsville, NY Length: 5-6 miles Difficulty: Moderate Features:

• Early 20th Century oil wells & pump houses

• Hillside Vista of Genesee Valley When: 11 AM at Genesee Fire Hall

Leader: Pat Childs (585) 593-4077

Saturday, What:

Where:

Length:

Difficulty:

Features:

When:

Leader:

Saturday,What:

Where:

Length:

Fee

Activities

When:

RSVP

Saturday,A twoWhat:

Where:

Length:

Difficulty

Features:

When:

Leader

What:

Where:

Length:

Difficulty

Features:

When:

Leader

Saturday,What:

Where:

Length:

Difficulty:

Features:

When:

Leader:

Saturday,What:

Where:

Length:

Difficulty:

Features:

When:

Leader:

Newsletter printed by the We6

& SUMMER ACTIVITY SCHEDULERemember your lunch, water, and raingear. Oh, and Don’t forget your STS guidebook and maps

leader beforehand to confirm. If no one confirms, the hike may be canceled!

Saturday, May 8, 2010 What: Hike Where: Big Springs Rd. to Twelve-Mile Rd. Length: 5 miles Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult Features:

• "Ted's Truss"

• Steep descent in Morgan Hollow When: 10 AM at Ole Bull SP - STC Bull. board Leader: Art & Robin Huber (814) 274-7045

Saturday, May 15, 2010 What: Forest Fun Day Where: Patterson Park Length: 3 hours Fee: $2.00

Activities:

• Map & Compass

• GPS

• Outdoor Photography

• Trail Care and Maintenance When: 2 PM Patterson Park’s Main Pavilion RSVP: Bonnie Wilhelm (814) 698-2351

Saturday, May 22, 2010 A two-part hike with vehicle shuttle What: Hike – Part 1 Where: Twelve Mile Rd. to Little Greenlick Rd. Length: 3.6 miles Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Features: Oswego Tea with red flowers When: 10 AM at Ole Bull SP - STC Bull. board Leader: Art & Robin Huber (814) 274-7045

What: Hike – Part 2 Where: Lieb Run Trail Length: 3.6 miles Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Features:

• “Ice Cream Run”

• Site of Bird Cage When: after part 1 Leader: Art & Robin Huber (814) 274-7045

Saturday, May 29, 2010 What: Hike Where: Cherry Springs Tower to Short Run Rd Length: 5.6 miles Difficulty: Easy - Moderate Features:

• Scheibner Trail Vista

• Wet Footpath in places When: 10 AM at Cherry Springs Fire Tower Leader: Bill Morey (814) 435-6380

Saturday, June 12, 2010 What: Hike Where: McConnell Rd to East Fork Rd Length: 4.4 miles Difficulty: Easy Features: B&S Railroad Grade When: 10 AM at Williams Farm Trailhead Leader: Janet Thierfelder (814) 647-5416

Sunday, June What: Hike Where: Cherry Springs Tower TrailLength: 2.4 miles Difficulty: Easy Features:

• Dog Bowl

• Mountain Laurel in bloom

• West Branch VistaWhen: 2 PM at Cherry Springs Fire TowerLeader: Wayne Baumann (814) 274

Saturday, What: Hike Where: West Pike Fire Tower to Bristol SwampLength: 4 miles Difficulty: Easy to moderateFeatures:

• Shallow water impoundment

• Mountain Laurel in Bloom

• Gameland Wildlife Food PlotWhen: 10 AM at Leader: Pat Childs (585) 593

July 23 – 25What: STC Summer CamporeeWhere: Ole Bull State ParkLength: All WeekendActivities: To be RSVP:info@stc

Sept. 12 –19, What: Adirondack Hiking TripWhere: Adirondack MtLength: 8 days Cost: $300.00 Activities:

• Climb Mt. • Stroll along John’s Brook

• Fish the Ausable

RSVP: Pat Childs (585) 593

Sept 30 – Oct 14What: British Canal TripWhere: Bedfordshire County,Length: Two weeksCost: $2,000.00Features:

• Old Grand Union Canal• Narrowboats• Warwick Castle

Info: Terry Simkins (814) 274

Note: This trip is fully booked unless there is a cancellation.

elfare Hollow Publishing Group, New Florence, PA 15944

ACTIVITY SCHEDULE guidebook and maps!

be canceled!

June 20, 2010

Cherry Springs Tower Trail miles

Dog Bowl – an STS landmark

Mountain Laurel in bloom

West Branch Vista 2 PM at Cherry Springs Fire Tower Wayne Baumann (814) 274-7725

June 26, 2010

West Pike Fire Tower to Bristol Swamp miles

to moderate

Shallow water impoundment

Mountain Laurel in Bloom

Gameland Wildlife Food Plot 10 AM at Dean’s Gravel Pit Pat Childs (585) 593-4077

25, 2010 STC Summer Camporee Ole Bull State Park All Weekend

o be Announced

-hike.org

19, 2010 Adirondack Hiking Trip

Adirondack Mtns. in NY

Mt. Marcy – NYS Highest Peak Stroll along John’s Brook

Fish the Ausable or Boquet Rivers

Pat Childs (585) 593-4077

Oct 14, 2010 British Canal Trip Bedfordshire County, England Two weeks

.00

Old Grand Union Canal Narrowboats

Warwick Castle

Terry Simkins (814) 274-8987

This trip is fully booked unless there is a cancellation.

NOTES FROM THE TRAIL By Chris Bell

I have to say that I have finally led a hike that involved no off trail hiking. Well not much anyways. . . .

There were a total of 4 hikers. Wayne Baumann, Helen and Bob Bernhardy and myself. Never really knew what the weather was going to be like until we got there. Many of the vistas along PA Route 44 were fogged in. However the Water Tank Hollow vista held a great view. The outline of darkened hills in early light was separated by the white fog filling the numerous hollows.

At Cross Fork we met at 9 AM and then took a moonshiner's fast run (meaning a knuckle gripping ride in the safety of a Jeep with little or no tread on the tires) up to McConnell Rd via the Cross Fork, Windfall and Red Ridge roads.

Bob was filled with quiet despair. He offered to drive me back to my jeep after the hike in his Honda Accord. The Accord has the clearance of a wet night crawler on a paved parking lot. Bob's sweaty brow and squinted look at the road conditions dispelled the belief that he was OK with fulfilling his obligations. I somehow forgot to tell him he did not have to drive me all the way back up until after we got back to Cross Fork. Wayne wanted to put new dings in his new Chevy truck. I believe he got his wish. He drove me back. Bob is relieved for yet another day of promised 4 wheeling in his car.

The weather turned out great. We started in somewhat overcast skies, yet with a touch of blue here and there. The easterly walk down to the southern turn in the trail at Black Mark Hollow was uneventful. A bit brushy here and there along with a couple fallen trees but it was all downhill and that made for some happy hikers.

By the time we reached Black Mark the Sun was drying things out. It was a real treat finally having a dry breeze and warm sun. It was cool enough for more cover when stopping for a rest here and there. It made for a perfect hiking day.

Photo by

Elkhorn Hollow

FROM THE TRAIL – HIKING THE HAMMERSLEY

I have to say that I have finally led a hike that involved no

a total of 4 hikers. Wayne Baumann, Helen dy and myself. Never really knew what

the weather was going to be like until we got there. Many 44 were fogged in. However

the Water Tank Hollow vista held a great view. The separated by the

At Cross Fork we met at 9 AM and then took a moonshiner's fast run (meaning a knuckle gripping ride in the safety of a Jeep

d on the tires) up to the oss Fork, Windfall

e offered to drive me back to my jeep after the hike in his Honda Accord. The Accord has the clearance of a wet night crawler on a paved

nted look at the road conditions dispelled the belief that he was OK with fulfilling his obligations. I somehow forgot to tell him he did not have to drive me all the way back up until after we got back to Cross Fork. Wayne wanted to put new dings

new Chevy truck. I believe he got his wish. He drove me back. Bob is relieved for yet another day of

The weather turned out great. We started in somewhat yet with a touch of blue here and there.

terly walk down to the southern turn in the trail at Black Mark Hollow was uneventful. A bit brushy here and there along with a couple fallen trees but it was all down-

By the time we reached Black Mark the Sun was drying things out. It was a real treat finally having a dry breeze and warm sun. It was cool enough for more cover when stopping for a rest here and there. It made for a perfect

The recent rains had filled the Hammersley stream to provide for a lovely sight and the relaxing sound occasional waterfalls. It was clear waterWhere we crossed below Road Hollow to the east side of the valley it was a bit deep but not difficult to cross.

We arrived at The Pool around 12:30 PM making about 2 mph on the way down. The area here is getting ause, but in general no garbage was to be found andbeing kept picked up. From here on to Elkmy favorite walks. The view down to the Hammersley stream was great. Here the valley narrows and the water is coursing through and past walls of rock.

In the distance I could see the outlineCow Run. It was very tempting to just keep on going on such a nice day. I would have liked to make a climb once again up that pretty little valley filled with numerous waterfalls. But on we went up Elkhorn which had plenty of its own small falls and boulders to look at.

At the top we found the oak trees, red, white and all dropping acorns. The trail at times was like walking on ball bearings. The woods were filled with the noise of falling acorns. For a lone chipmunk

No wildlife seen except for a few birds here and there. There was coyote scat on the downward switchbacks going into Cross Fork. Maybe they are making night time runs into town for domestic cats. I asked Wayne to examine the scat for various kitty-cat hair. He declined. He was more interested in making nightHammersley to cut cherry trees for his wood furnace.

We did meet a circuit hiker who was doing the entire loop solo. It was the first day of sun she had seen sinceon the trail Tuesday at Denton Hill.

We walked once again on paved road about 4 PMinto civilization which of course is synotoilets, not far from where we parked.

Stay tuned for more happy-hiker tal

Remember there are two kinds hike with me, and those who will

Photo by Chris Bell

HIKING THE HAMMERSLEY

The recent rains had filled the Hammersley stream to and the relaxing sound of

falls. It was clear water—not muddy at all. below Road Hollow to the east side of

the valley it was a bit deep but not difficult to cross.

We arrived at The Pool around 12:30 PM making about 2 mph on the way down. The area here is getting a lot of but in general no garbage was to be found and it is

being kept picked up. From here on to Elkhorn is one of my favorite walks. The view down to the Hammersley stream was great. Here the valley narrows and the water is coursing through and past walls of rock.

In the distance I could see the outline of the hill prior to ing to just keep on going on

such a nice day. I would have liked to make a climb once again up that pretty little valley filled with numerous water-

orn which had plenty of its own small falls and boulders to look at.

At the top we found the oak trees, red, white and chestnut all dropping acorns. The trail at times was like walking on ball bearings. The woods were filled with the noise of falling acorns. For a lone chipmunk, life is good.

few birds here and there. oyote scat on the downward switchbacks going

into Cross Fork. Maybe they are making night time runs into town for domestic cats. I asked Wayne to examine

cat hair. He declined. He was more interested in making night-time runs into the Hammersley to cut cherry trees for his wood furnace.

We did meet a circuit hiker who was doing the entire loop solo. It was the first day of sun she had seen since starting on the trail Tuesday at Denton Hill.

We walked once again on paved road about 4 PM, and on into civilization which of course is synonymous with flush toilets, not far from where we parked.

More exciting than anything was to have Wayne follow me back to the East Fork Road. I wanted to see just how fast he would drive on the back roads with his new Chevy truck. Pretty fast. I am impressed both with the Chevy and with Wayne, AKA Mario.

hiker tales of Potter Co. trails.

of hikers—those who will those who will hike with me again.