Join Cape Ann Trail Stewards for a Trail Work Event at Woodland Acres in Rockport. Woodland Acres (similar to the situation with the Poles Hill area in Gloucester) was devastated by wildfires this summer-- almost 18 acres, inside the main trail loop that encircles the reservation, were completely burned.
Volunteers for this work day will be divided into 3 Task groups:
Invasive Species clearing -- Volunteers will be instructed on which plants to target (bittersweet, multiflora rose, etc.). As the area begins to regenerate and regrow after the fire, this is a crucial time to eliminate existing stands of invasive plants so that they do not have a chance to dominate the recovering landscape.
Trail and Bridge work -- Volunteers in this group will work on bridge repair/ construction and other trail work, led by CATS President (and Greenbelt Land Manager/ Trails Coordinator) Dave McKinnon (all necessary materials will be provided on-site).
Trash pickup -- As in the case with Poles Hill, the recently burned area in Woodland Acres has exposed trash that was previously inaccessible and not visible when it was covered by dense vegetation, so we are provided with a unique opportunity to clear out old trash in the area.
Bring work gloves, and make sure to protect yourself from ticks with repellent and/ or permethrin-treated clothing. CATS will provide tools, but feel free to bring your own hand tools if desired (no power tools, please).
The work event will last approximately 2 hours. Please register online if you plan to come!
Meeting Spot: We will meet at the entrance at the end of Woodland Rd. in Rockport. Park along the side of Woodland Rd.-- please be courteous of the neighbors, and take care not to block any driveways.
As we have a lot to accomplish in a 2-hour time-span, please arrive early, as work will begin promptly at 9am.