Allan Thomson of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation shows how sample fish seining can give an indication of the current health of the river in a given location. Today’s efforts yield surprisingly good news.
SU’s John Stevens recounts the days’s activities, beginning at Hightop Hut and a steep hike to Smith Roach Gap and meeting up with Steve Bair of the National Park Service for a talk on the history of Shenandoah National Park and the creation of Skyline Drive as the “main vein” along the Blue Ridge. Then on through hail and rain to Pinefield Hut for the night.
SU’s Kelley Mitchell leads the way up to Hightop Summit, amazing views, and a pinnacle picnic. Back at Hightop Hut, Carl looks forward to a sumptuous repast….
SEV Tech Coordinator Bill Howard summarizes day 10 as “A Walk in the Woods”, in recognition of acoustic guitarist Steve DeVries, who entertained our crew with his tune of the same name, in the cozy confines of Lydia Mountain Cabin. A hike to Bald Face Mountain was highlighted by a procession through a cathedral of old growth poplars.
Professor John Copenhaver expresses gratitude to God, nature, friends, and family for their accompaniment on the trip thusfar…and for blackberry cobbler.
Travis Patterson reflects on fantastic meals (and real beds) at Skyland Lodge. Why suffer when surrounded by such beauty? The team tags Monarch butterflies before their southward migration.
The team sets out from Fell Cabin at Skyland (hot showers!). SEV videographer George Patterson, ignoring all “Don’t Feed the Hikers” signs, does intimate interviews on the subject of “snacking”. John Copenhaver on religion’s “providentially abundant” relationship with ecology.
We reached the highest point of the trail in the Shenandoah National Park just below Stoney Man summit. We were amazed at the number of people day hiking and witnessed first hand what our presenters referred to as damage to outcrop vegetation and potential nesting areas that could be closed off from the park. Ellated to arrive at Skylands Fell Cabin for a hot shower and a hearty meal with Downstream founder, George Ohrstrom II
“Collectively, we’re in a phenomenal place. When everyone’s out there with their goofy selves, that’s really when you become a family.”
Shenandoah U’s Kelley Mitchell recounts the climb to Mary’s Rock, the highlight of the day, lifting spirits and providing some magical moments. The rush of gusting winds only intensified the power and wonder of this place.
Environmental studies major and eagle scout, John Stevens, recaps Day 4 of the Ecoventure, what he describes as the most strenuous physically so far, but one where the group’s bonding became most evident. Doc Copenhaver, true to his calling, tends to the feet of the Ecoventure flock, including a duck…