tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5319290378033729452024-03-14T03:38:40.308-05:00Under the Oak TreeA snapshot of sustainable land management in Cambridge, WisconsinUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-81900906872497217252015-12-28T18:49:00.000-06:002015-12-28T19:03:04.133-06:00A walnut harvestIn the fall of 2014, Joe and I started a conversation about the possibility of a small scale walnut harvest. We had some great walnut trees that had hit maturity and some up-and-coming trees that could use the extra sunlight. Time for action! Our first step was to walk the woodlot with our <a href="http://nielsenforestry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">forester</a>, John. We walked the woodlot deciding the fate of the walnut trees. Three measurements were conducted at each perspective tree; diameter at breast height (dbh), the number of saw logs in each tree, and finally board feet per tree. John sent off this inventory to interested loggers who than had a chance to win the job via a sealed bid process. Both the tree farm and the winning bidder were hoping for a spring harvest, but the weather didn't cooperate. So on November 9th the logging began!<br />
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The logging operation was a three man crew. Two cutters, who were responsible for dropping and limbing the trees. A third person drove the logs to the landing with a log skidder.</div>
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Once all the logs were skidded to the landing, the loggers were able to closely inspect each and cut it to an appropriate length. They then contacted a buyer who came and inspected the cut-to-length logs. The buyers in turn, arranged for the logs to be hauled away from the landing. After that the work is all mine!</div>
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We are doing timber stand improvement (TSI) along with cleaning up the walnut tree tops. The tree tops will be cut into firewood for the shop boiler, and smaller diameter saw logs that we can use for our own lumber needs. The TSI work includes using the tree shear on the bobcat to remove elm, box elder, and buckthorn. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Rachel and I will be chipping the trees removed during TSI and the slash (left over debris) from the timber harvest. We hope to add trails and hand plant both black walnut and oak in the newly created openings of canopy. Stay tuned for updates.</span></div>
Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-5907137207815144382014-12-08T14:35:00.001-06:002014-12-08T16:55:24.660-06:00Putting Walbridge to WorkWe had another successful visit with Walbridge, our partnership school, on Friday. We lucked out with the warmest day of the week. A whopping 34 degrees! No one had to worry about getting cold. We had plenty for them to do to keep warm.<br />
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We started the day cleaning up their woods. The kids hauled brush to a bonfire, and cut-up trees to the tool cat so it could be used for wood. All the kids chipped in to help and were able to accomplish a lot. They displayed great teamwork and everyone worked hard. Way to go kids!<br />
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We spent the second half of the day building Aldo Leopold benches. The kids broke up into 3 groups and made three benches to take back to their school with them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Each of the students signed the back of the bench they helped build.</td></tr>
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We finished the day with a reading by one of the teachers from the Sand County Almanac written by Aldo Leopold, and some play time outside. It was a great day of fun, friendship and hard work.<br />
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We are so thankful for our partnership with the Walbridge students and teachers. We look forward to another visit with you all this spring. Thanks for visiting!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10448787132411561931noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-12440839587842723922014-04-29T10:58:00.001-05:002014-04-29T11:03:33.010-05:00Earth Day/Arbor Day at Arington Tree Farm<div style="text-align: center;">
It was another successful Earth Day/Arbor Day celebration here at Arington Tree Farm. </div>
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Each year we invite the Fourth grade class from Cambridge Elementary School, as well as the students of Walbridge, our partnership school, to join us in celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day. </div>
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We break them up into five groups, to rotate through stations and learn about different aspects of the environment.</div>
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This years stations included Tree Planting, Birds of the Farm, Aquatic Plants and Wildlife, Tree Cookies and The Good Oak.</div>
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For Tree planting, the students took turns digging holes and planting trees that will live here on the farm. They were taught the importance of planting trees and how to properly plant them. They were assisted by the interns of the Aldo Leopold Foundation, as well as our staff here on the farm.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students of Cambridge gather around a planted tree.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students of Walbridge digging away.</td></tr>
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From there, they moved on to Bird watching. They were guided by Dan Schneider from WDNR. Dan taught the students different bird sounds to help them identify the birds that live here on the farm. They also used binoculars to get a closer look and to identify where the sounds were coming from.</div>
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The next station they visited was Aquatic Plants and Wildlife lead by Clare Carlson from Friends of Glacial Heritage Area. Clare used games and a tour of the pond to teach the kids how water plays a crucial role in supporting wildlife, plants and a healthy ecosystem.<br />
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The Fourth Station, Tree Cookies, was a chance for the students to learn about the rings of the trees and what these rings can tell us. They were lead by Loren Hanson of the WWOA Blackhawk Chapter. Loren had the children examine an old stump to see what they could learn from it. They also used this time to decorate individual tree cookies.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students checking out a tree stump and it's rings.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making tree cookies of their own.</td></tr>
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The final station, The Good Oak, was lead by Carson Main from the Aldo Leopold Foundation. Carson used our signature Oak tree to discuss with the kids the Oak trees age, what the tree has seen and experienced through the years, and how this applies to the students and their own lives. He had the students use journals to draw their own tree rings and to describe, as best as they could recall, something significant that happened to them during each of these years of their lives.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students gathered under our signature Oak Tree to learn about the Good Oak.</td></tr>
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We finished the day with the Walbridge students, the Cambridge students had to head back at lunch time, painting the picnic tables they had constructed during their visit in March. They also had some free time to fly kites and adventure around the farm.</div>
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We couldn't have asked for a better day or better company. We look forward to doing it all over again next year.</div>
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I'd like to extend a special thank you to all of our volunteers who made this event possible, Loren Hanson, Carson Main, Dan Schneider, Clare Carlson, Holly Schnitzler, Marie Burgette Bach, Kristin and Russ Stockwell and Dain, Dan, Carl and Emily, interns at the Aldo Leopold Foundation. It couldn't have gone on without you.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10448787132411561931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-78345881744669386202014-04-18T08:33:00.001-05:002014-04-18T08:33:58.826-05:00frosted cup plant...<div style="text-align: center;">
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frosted Silphium perfoliatum...</div>
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For those of you, who unlike the author, are not in a constant state of learning and then as quickly forgetting the scientific names of plants, may God bless you. This is the same plant that I was watering last year at the whopping rate of one-tenth of a mile per hour. When a guy spends fifteen hours in a Bobcat his mind has only so many directions to go. I used that time to actually put to memory Silphium perfoliatum.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from the Bobcat watering cup plants last summer.</td></tr>
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<br />I had hoped that the harsh winter of 2013-14 and <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/planting-cup-plant.html" target="_blank">the late start</a> that we gave these plants wouldn't be their doom. A few days ago, I saw the first Silphium peak through the cold, wet soil. It would appear that we all have truly made it out of winter. I will try and keep you posted as to how my study of scientific names go and to the progress of the cup plant.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-18564993976697797592014-03-13T16:47:00.000-05:002014-03-13T16:55:19.178-05:00A visit from the Walbridge School<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yesterday, we hosted Walbridge, our partnership school, here on Arington Tree Farm. There is a section of the farm that we have designated to them, called fittingly, The Walbridge Woods. They come 4 times a year to maintain and improve it. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t1UR11JBxbI/UyIjiFrNOcI/AAAAAAAAASQ/bS1-zT1a7PQ/s1600/IMG_3581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-size: small;">The day started out cold and snowy, but we kept warm by putting the kids to work, hauling wood and brush.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The students made an assembly line to move wood and brush out of the woods and onto the trail.<br />
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They then loaded the wood up onto the Bobcat, for Arik to take to the wood pile.<br />
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Dennis picked up the brush pile with the Grapple, and took it to the trail head.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> The students then added the brush to a bonfire. This kept them busy and warm, and they had big fun doing it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />After lunch we put them to work building picnic tables, that will be placed in their woods, so they have a place to sit, eat lunch and enjoy all of their hard work. </span></td></tr>
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It was a great day!! </div>
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Thank you students and staff of Walbridge. We look forward to many more adventures with you in the future.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10448787132411561931noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-38419183609242727082014-03-03T17:05:00.003-06:002014-03-03T17:05:36.229-06:00Making room to grow.<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">It still feels like the dead of winter here in Wisconsin, and with no end in sight, the winter pruning continues here on Arington Tree Farm. </span>Today's winner, The River Birch, located along the beautiful 4 Winds Pond. </div>
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The River Birch were planted in 2004 and have continued to thrive with the great soil and sunny location they are provided. However, they were planted with the anticipation of being thinned, and with these beauties thriving like they are, spacing is getting mighty crowded. </div>
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Over the past 2 or 3 years, Arik has done a great job vista pruning the River Birch to open up the view of the pond. But, the time has come to say goodbye to 12 of the trees, so that the survivors can spread out and continue to grow and thrive. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arik used a tree sheer to remove the chosen ones.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dennis then piled up the wood and hauled it away to be used in our boiler.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">The finished product is stunning. It has opened up the view immensely, and it's pleasing to know that the remaining trees will have the opportunity to spread out and grow.<br /></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished product.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">In just 40 short years, they will be mature enough to harvest. <br />Stay tuned!!</span></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10448787132411561931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-41171610970884579752014-01-30T16:58:00.000-06:002014-01-31T07:23:15.216-06:00Orderly Oaks and Winter Reflections<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">The other day, I spent four hours pruning oak trees. The trees were a combination of Bur oak, Swamp white oak, and White oak. The White oak varietals do get a little worked up about not having a fun descriptor like "swamp" at the beginning of their name. As a result, I try not to mention the soggy bottom boy's name in earshot of that which keeps his/her feet in drier climes.</span><span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">My purpose in pruning these trees is to produce a clear log. And no, clear does not mean a David Blaine illusion of see-through wood. Clear, means a straight tree with no branches coming off the main trunk until the upper half. A log lacking branch unions creates wood that has no knots and therefor keeps the grain desirable, straight, and strong. Straight grain wood is characterized by all of the wood fibers laying in the same alignment. If you go to Steinhafels and look at any wood entertainment center, you will be looking at straight grain wood. </span><br />
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<span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The attached photo shows how nicely the row of trees look after pruning. With these trees properly pruned, I have better access to manage this woodlot for invasive species. The financial return, albeit a long time from now, on clear logs is vastly greater than trees that have never been touched by the pruner's saw. The aesthetic of the line of trees is also undeniable. These trees were planted in a straight row more than ten years ago with the use of a mechanical planter pulled by a tractor. Straight to slightly curved rows are the only spatial </span>arrangement<span style="font-family: inherit;"> options when using a </span></span>mechanical planter.<br />
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<span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">Here is where I get romantic. This woodlot is clean and orderly, or at least it will be once I get Dennis to pick up the brush, but it isn't natural. In my observations of nature, I have never seen such linear order. Nature is the <a href="http://vimeo.com/31158841" target="_blank">murmurations of sparrows</a>. Nature is acorns planted scattershot by the hopping grey squirrel. Nature is a <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ukjnd79Du9g/TcCnpCnViuI/AAAAAAAAHOQ/z5vGW9jpLsE/s1600/old%2Bwood%2Broad.jpg" target="_blank">glacial erratic found in a leafless wood</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="orphans: 2; text-align: -webkit-auto; widows: 2;">I find it incredibly ironic how hard I have worked at this woodlot to create a valuable product. I am developing high grade lumber, which is t</span>he intended purpose for the trees in this woodlot. A pruned row is notable, but it isn't beautiful. So as I continue with my work, I will appreciate the beauty of nature which is more valuable than my straight rows, straight trunks, freshly pruned oak trees. </div>
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I don't like to use qualifiers. In editing my blog entries, I am consistently reminded of my verbosity. Every blowhard has someone to keep terra firma underfoot. Becky is my Muse and that who keeps me grounded. In other words she qualifies me as being relevant. Here we are on a nice winter walk, chasing away cabin fever.</div>
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<br />Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-13177162335969918692014-01-16T13:02:00.000-06:002014-01-18T09:59:53.957-06:00Someone, get me some cheese.It's Christmas, yet again, here on the farm. Our cheese boards have arrived. If you can't tell by the look on Arik's face, we are thrilled.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arik eyeing up the goods.</td></tr>
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The cheese boards were made using the wood of one of our beloved trees that was taken down in December of 2012 due to safety concerns. It was a big oak and it stood here on the farm for approximately 200 years.<br />
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Each cheese board is unique and beautiful in it's own way. The big challenge is going to be picking a favorite.<br />
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The finishing touches of adding our logo will be underway soon. Once complete, these lovely cheeseboards will be looking for new homes and some delicious Wisconsin cheese to accompany it. We'll be sure to keep any of you folks who may be interested in one posted. <br />
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While I'm here, I'd also like to introduce you to our newest employee, Dennis (aka "D"). He recently moved here from Wyoming and started here on the farm last week. He's a great addition to our team and has been a huge asset to us already, mostly assisting Arik. We are happy to have him and look forward to our journey ahead.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome "D."</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10448787132411561931noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-90122377991732948742014-01-08T10:06:00.000-06:002014-01-08T21:01:34.069-06:00A sawmill for ChristmasTo say the Farm closed out the last quarter of the year with a bang, would be a monstrous understatement. As autumn was coming to a close and Old Man Winter was settling in with all of his white, fluffy goodness, we were anticipating a very special delivery. During the first week of November we ordered a <a href="https://timberking.com/" target="_blank">TimberKing</a> portable sawmill. The lead time on the order was four to six weeks. Needless to say, we were waiting anxiously and on Tuesday, December 31, the mill arrived.<br />
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This photo isn't particularly in focus. Overnight lows were -10 and this picture was taken with temperatures having inched up only a handful of degrees. I suppose my phone camera didn't want to work in such extreme temps, and I can't blame it…..I didn't want to work in them either.</div>
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One of the reasons the tree farm has had such success in forestry management, and I'd like to think a reason we won the Tree Farm of the year award, is because we have always had a plan. The addition of a sawmill is the Farms first major step of a new plan.</div>
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The sawmill will give us the ability to efficiently cut logs into lumber. The farm has access to wood that will make beautiful slabs for coffee tables, dinning tables, desk, and benches. Here is a photo of book matched hickory. The next few steps of this new plan include building a kiln out of a storage container and creating a space in the Husker Barn to do woodworking. </div>
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Stay tuned, if we get some warmer weather, I'll do a post on using the sawmill. Additionally, I'll share with you my furniture design ideas, think live-edged slabs with metal bases. And also, how to create a kiln out of a shipping container.</div>
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Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-8828445976398700402013-12-09T18:37:00.000-06:002013-12-10T09:25:57.209-06:00The new perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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A careful eye might notice the wall of Stihl chainsaws or the handle of a snowblower in the background. The subject matter of the photo that I wanted to highlight are the tires on the <a href="http://www.bobcat.com/historical_specs/all_wheel_steer/a220_2001" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">A220</span></a>. The A220 skid-steer has somewhat of a middle child mentality out here, on Arington Tree Farm. Its doesn't have the speed of the Bobcat 5600 <a href="http://www.bobcat.com/utility_machines/toolcat/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Toolcat</span></a> utility vehicle. It also lacks the lifting capacity or the go anywhere attitude of the<span style="color: red;"> <a href="http://www.bobcat.com/loaders/models/track/t300" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">T300</span></a></span> tracked Bobcat. Simply put, this skid-steer is somewhere in the middle. </div>
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However, the life of this middle child does have at least one perk. The A220 is lucky enough to be reshod biannually. Let me preface that the shoe change isn't a new pair of shoes twice a year. It's simply switching back and forth between a nice weather pair of loafers (turf tires) and bad weather pair of steel toe boots (utility tires). The spring time, turf tire swap is waited for with bated breathe as it signifies the start of the more temperate weather. The winter, utility tire swap is something more of an ominous event. Irregardless of the date on the calendar, our winter starts once the A220 has the aggressive tire pictured in the foreground. </div>
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So the significance of this photo is; I have resigned to the the fate that Old Man Winter has in store for us out here on the farm. The proper foot ware is currently being worn (on all four tires even) by our lovely middle child. And in parting I'll make a confession. It might not be a confession, as much as an act of rebellion on my part. I won't put the chains on those dang winter tires until the night before they are needed or before the first major winter storm. Which ever comes first. </div>
Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-61595399594926516122013-11-04T08:23:00.002-06:002013-11-04T19:43:47.536-06:00A farewell to Holly<br />
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The last 1065 days at the Arington Tree Farm have been quite interesting. That is the number of days that Holly has worked with us. Of course we did allow her some time off for holidays, weekends, vacations and the occasional sick day. Over this time she has brought so much energy and professionalism to our team. It has not quite settled in that today is her last day before going on to greener pastures. My sense is, we are all in a state of denial.<br />
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What we will miss most is how Holly has kept us on track. Great ideas are not hard to find or even to come up with on one’s own accord. However, taking ideas, concepts, and dreams to the finish line is a serious task. After all we're human and we tend to procrastinate. Holly has not only prevented this from happening, but she has also been determined that we would have fun while achieving our goals. <br />
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I believe that Arington Tree Farm has been on a path of good woodland stewardship for many years. What we are achieving is a diverse and strong Land-Ethic. Holly has brought her own ethic from growing up on a working Iowa farm, to share with us here on our Farm. It is amazing how the “law of the farm” when practiced in other endeavors will make such a difference. It has made a difference here, and we appreciate that Holly has helped us realize the value of getting things down in a timely manner.<br />
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Our accomplishment here on the farm during Holly’s stay has been nothing short of amazing. We are the number 1 tree farm in the nation (says the American Tree Farm System). We have developed several relationships for advancing children’s woodland educational programs. And thanks to Holly, Arington Tree Farm now has strong ties with the Aldo Leopold Foundation and is part of the Driftless Forestry Network. I feel as though we have stepped into the cutting edge of advancing the Land-Ethic in America. I know we would not be in this very exciting place if not for Holly.<br />
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Although we will miss Holly, we will also take great pride in knowing that we have been part of her development into who she has become.<br />
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Joe Arington<br />
Arington Tree Farm<br />
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<br />Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-54161138328172076112013-10-17T09:53:00.000-05:002013-10-17T09:53:42.439-05:0031 new land stewardsWalbridge students have been visiting the farm over the past six years, but yesterday's visit was a bit different, more special than any of their visits in the past. <div>
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We've <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/10/introducing-walbridge-woods.html" target="_blank">dedicated part of our woods to the Walbridge students</a>. As we made the announcement yesterday, it was awesome to see the pride and honor on their faces. They've been to the Farm a number of times, but their whole demeanor shifted when they realized they now had a special place here. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joe making the Walbridge Woods announcement.</td></tr>
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We started the day off by dodging rain drops as we toured around Walbridge Woods. Arik pointed out different tree species, invasive plants and pests, and introduced various management concepts to the students. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arik leading a tour through Walbridge Woods.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">They also worked on a tree identification activity, a fun activity that matches leaves to a species. </span></div>
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After lunch it was time to work! Students helped out stacking firewood, making brush piles and spreading mulch on trails throughout Walbridge Woods. It was demanding tasks, yet the students worked tirelessly. The pride they had for improving <i>their</i> woods was evident! </div>
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The day wrapped up by asking the Walbridge crew to make their first management decision in Walbridge Woods. Arik identified three trees that should be cut down for various reasons. He let the students vote on which tree to be cut down, and it was really neat to see them mulling the options and making their own decision. </div>
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We're looking forward to watching the Walbridge Woods grow and improve under the care of its new stewards! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-60549547126701384052013-10-15T09:48:00.001-05:002013-10-15T09:55:51.871-05:00The best tree ever!<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Quercus macrocarpa, the mighty Bur oak. This particular </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; text-align: left;">specimen holds a near and dear place in my heart. It is my favorite tree on Arington Tree Farm. But if we can keep that a secret between you the reader and myself, I would appreciate it. I would hate to be waylaid by a branch from one of the jealous Boxelders that bookend my special oak.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">I feel this tree has some real character. Bear with me as I wax poetically. And do keep in mind as I am writing this post it is a rainy autumn morning, I might be a touch morose.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">First, lets appreciate where it is growing. The McClain barn is directly to the south, and fairly close to the tree. If this tree was going to receive its much needed sunlight, it had one direction to go, and that is up up. The tree dweeb in me feels compelled to share with you the term for such a phenomena: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phototropism" target="_blank">phototropism</a>. The practical implications of this spacial arrangement is a more upright than usual Bur oak. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Next, I would like to highlight the vigor of this tree. Growing up next to a barn we can only imagine all of the stresses it underwent. Soil compaction from grazing cattle. Nails driven into the main trunk to create a fence. Farm kid climbing the tree and breaking off new growth. Hopefully, I am painting the picture of the true survivor this tree is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">And now ladies and gentlemen, here is where I get all sentimental on you. Yes, its possible for a chainsaw wielding, skid-steer driving guy like myself to embrace his softer side in a public forum such as this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">This tree has the finger print of us humans all over it. The barn inadvertently shaped it, as it grew to maturity. I would bet this barn held the majority of the farms vitality, except maybe what was to be found in the root cellar of the farmhouse. And yet the barn now stands in a state of disrepair and bankrupt of life. While the tree that probably grew as an afterthought towers above. The proverbial baton has been passed, and is in good hands. Quercus <i>macro</i> "large" and <i>carpa</i> "fingers" couldn't be more appropriate. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">....as for my second favorite tree....</span></div>
Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-42618491345034278872013-10-08T16:07:00.002-05:002013-10-08T16:08:41.036-05:00Introducing... Walbridge Woods!It's hard to believe but we've been working with Walbridge School over the past <u><b>six</b></u> years! Walbridge students and staff come to the Farm a few times during the year to learn...<br />
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work...<br />
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and play.<br />
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We value the partnership with Walbridge very much. It's fun to share the Farm with the kids and help inspire the next generation of caretakers.<br />
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Last week we sat down with the Walbridge School and pitched an idea: Walbridge Woods. We would name a section of our woods after the school if the students agreed to come help take care of it, learn about the outdoors, and try to enjoy it as much as we do!<br />
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The school board liked our idea and we are on our way! Walbridge students will be visiting the Farm four times this school year. Their trips will be both a blend of education and work, with a healthy dose of fun and relaxation too!<br />
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And, no time like the present - their first visit is scheduled for next week! We'll let you know how it goes!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-28409590402697695322013-10-03T09:20:00.001-05:002013-10-03T09:20:29.127-05:00Making the video!Earlier this summer, before the <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/national-tree-farmer-of-year.html" target="_blank">National Tree Farm Convention</a>, a videographer visited the Farm. He spent the day interviewing Joe, chatting with the grandkids, and watching Arik work in the field. The footage was edited and turned into this little ditty, which was used to announce <a href="http://www.treefarmsystem.org/joe-arington-2013-national-outstanding-tree-farmer" target="_blank">Joe as the National Tree Farmer of the Year</a>:<br />
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Here's the lowdown on what that day was like "behind the scenes!"<br />
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The videographer traveled to Wisconsin from southern Missouri and we had high hopes of a beautiful, sunny summer day on which to shoot the video. But sure enough, Mother Nature <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/09/fish-fry-on-farm.html" target="_blank">didn't cooperate very well this time either</a> and the day started off dark and very wet:<br />
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So we were forced to hang out and eat donuts until the rain let up (hate it when that happens!) . When the raindrops had become a steady drip instead of a downpour, we headed across the pond to set up.</div>
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Gary, the videographer, started off by asking Joe a few softball questions, including "tell me your name and where you're from." But, that one proved to be too much -- Joe got a little nervous and absolutely blanked. It's still an ongoing joke on the Tree Farm :)</div>
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After a few takes to work out the nerves, Joe did a great job of telling the Farm's story. Then Arik got his turn in front of the camera. He talked about the ways we use technology in the field and how it's helped us do our jobs better.</div>
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Next the grandkids showed up and had a great time telling Gary their favorite things about the Farm. Unfortunately none of their stories made the final cut but we're hoping to get a copy of the outtakes - their comments are classic!</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">By early afternoon, the sun was shining and created a perfect opportunity for a family and crew picnic. All in all a fun day. Gary was great to work with and we love his <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N4kdGh3U3A" target="_blank">final cut</a>! </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-68016217328837942902013-09-27T07:19:00.001-05:002013-09-27T07:19:37.379-05:00Fish fry on the FarmLast week we invited our Tree Farm friends and family over for a night of food and music. Similar to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.550593611653292.1073741825.431491586896829&type=1&l=fcb129de51" target="_blank">wine night back in June</a>, we wanted this to be a fun, social outing - bringing people together and to the Farm not necessarily for an educational purpose but to relax and enjoy the outdoors. (And give a hip-hip-hooray to <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/national-tree-farmer-of-year.html" target="_blank">Joe on his award</a>!)<br />
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However, the weather forecast was predicting Mother Nature was finally going to give us some rain, so we moved the event indoors. On the flip side, our barn cleans up awfully nice!<br />
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Joel helped us with a delicious cheese course and we had our new, beautiful mugs on hand to hold everyone's drink of choice.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you <a href="http://deneenpottery.com/" target="_blank">Deneen Pottery</a> - we couldn't love the mugs more!</td></tr>
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About the time the caterers had the fish fry ready, some ominous clouds started rolling in. </div>
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In a matter of moments, the wind picked up and the rain poured down. It only lasted a few minutes and thankfully we had some pretty excellent guests who didn't mind getting drenched while they helped keep the fish fry tent from blowing away!<br />
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Thanks to everyone who came out - it was great to share the night with so many friends and family!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using a drill to make the "butterfly potatoes" - genius!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great bluegrass tunes courtesy of Old Cool.</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-84117043287187604982013-09-25T10:13:00.002-05:002013-09-25T10:15:04.799-05:00It's a bird.. no a plane!.. No, definitely a hot air balloonThis morning Arik ran into the office yelling "Holly, you don't want to miss this! And grab a camera!"<br />
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Arik never yells... or runs... so I knew this was serious! I grabbed the camera and followed him outside. This is what we saw:<br />
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Despite the thick fog, there was no mistake about it: a giant hot air balloon was dipping down onto the Farm. </div>
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Our curiosity got the best of us so we ventured closer...</div>
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And closer. We learned they had to do an emergency landing due to the fog and our Farm happened to be the lucky landing ground. A support team on the ground was working on pulling the balloon from a just-harvested-yesterday corn field to a flat, grassy area to make the landing.<br />
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While we waited and watched, we took the opportunity to have a photo shoot in the <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/search/label/Prairie" target="_blank">black-eyed susans</a>: </div>
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In a few minutes, they had the balloon landed safely on the ground, deflated, and packed up on the trailer. </div>
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Before leaving they gave us a Certificate of Appreciation "in grateful acknowledgement for assistance and participation in the art of ballooning" -- basically saying thanks for letting us crash (figuratively) on your land. The thanks really goes out to them, though -- what an exciting, random morning! </div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-71097678427162714932013-09-23T11:19:00.001-05:002013-09-23T11:20:27.721-05:00Computer-holder-upper-thinger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The last few weeks have been full of activity here on Arington Tree Farm. September 20 was the move in date for the new office space. I had a few responsibilities leading into that date, one of which was to build a desk for Holly. My hope was to use some of the live edged Bur oak. However, it is still being kiln dried and therefore unavailable. My only other option was using the lumber from my <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/makin-some-lumber.html" target="_blank">sawmill test drive</a>.<br />
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For the desk frame I used 1"x3" rectangular steel tubing. My hope was that the desk design would allow for access from either side. The rectangular steel tubing added a dimensional depth to the legs over the square tubing that I have used in previous projects.<br />
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The photo below shows the for legs cut to length. Also shown in the photo are levelers on the bottom of the legs. These allow the desk to be adjusted for an uneven floor.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OhdIGU94DqM/UkA0jF7j31I/AAAAAAAAATY/pQH6R7OI858/s1600/IMG_20130917_171204_685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OhdIGU94DqM/UkA0jF7j31I/AAAAAAAAATY/pQH6R7OI858/s400/IMG_20130917_171204_685.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I wanted to weld the desk legs on a cross pattern. My next photo shows the four legs mocked up to give me a feel for the angles. I did draw up some plans to try and nail down the approximate angle of the cuts I would need to make. In the future I feel as if taking time to build jigs would be worth the extra work. Jigs would help maintain consistency in creating an identical set of legs.<br />
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And here is the finished product!</div>
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I should qualify a few things about the use of the word "finished." First, the lumber that I used for the desk was white oak that was salvaged from storm damage. It was only milled a few months ago. This wood is not dried to the approximate 6-8% moisture content which is important for indoor wood products. As a result I only temporarily affixed the desk top to the legs. I also left the surface natural. Once the appropriate moisture content is reached a permanent attachment to the legs will be done and a protective finish will be applied. </div>
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More furniture posts to come as we continue to outfit the new office space! </div>
Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-15263340493410452882013-09-12T15:13:00.000-05:002013-09-13T07:47:55.695-05:00Perfect day for a swim<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The temperatures in the second half of the summer have sure changed from the cool and rainy June. The work project that this blog entry focuses on is a project perfect for a warm day. </div>
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Remember our <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2012/06/busy-beaver-indeed.html" target="_blank">pesky resident beaver</a>? Our last battle with him was in December and all signs indicate I was victorious as we haven't seen it since. </div>
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However, the damage that was incurred from the beaver was still noticeable as the Kitchi-Manitou pond level was precariously high due to a plugged pipe. The only solution was to go for a swim and get things flowing again by unclogging the pipe.</div>
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My plunger was nothing more than a spade shovel. Swimming attire was Arington Tree Farm apparel. The water temperature was perfect for the task. As far as water clarity, well that left a little to desire as the photo above can attest to.</div>
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This next photo shows the manhole cover off the 36" access pipe that allows for pond water level adjustments. I cut green-treated 2x10's to drop into the channels of the u-beams. Theoretically, the water level outside the access pipe should be at the same level as the green treated boards. The photo below clearly shows that isn't the case. </div>
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The under water pipe flowing into the 36" pipe was under about four feet of water and heading towards the middle of the pond. I used the shovel to "feel" my way along the length of the underwater pipe and after five minutes I was able to locate its terminus. Unfortunately, the shovel didn't provide enough sensory feedback to effectively clean out the obstruction. My only option left was the simplest; get underwater and use my hands. This proved to be very effective and after only a few minutes the beavers handiwork was undone. </div>
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This last close up photo shows the flow rate we were hoping for. After only two days the ponds water level dropped to the desired depth. Stay tuned for Kitchi-Manitou pond updates as we continue to implement our <a href="http://aringtontreefarm.com/ATF_Pond_Management_Plan_May_2013.pdf" target="_blank">pond management plan</a>.</div>
<span id="goog_1589946525"></span><span id="goog_1589946526"></span><br />Arikhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02158275014152240027noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-82837862767040769802013-09-08T20:53:00.002-05:002013-09-09T09:37:04.589-05:00The future is in our hands<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
During the last few weeks of my internship at the farm we spent the majority of our time in the Walbridge Woods. While working on the approximately 15 acre forest, we constantly heard birds calling, saw chipmunks playing and were fully aware that the mosquitoes were alive and well. We even saw a painted turtle scoot across the trail the other day. </div>
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The Walbridge Woods has been the heart of our timber stand improvement over the course of the latter part of the summer. We have been removing Buckthorn, Honeysuckle, Wild Grape, and other invasive species. </div>
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The other day while I was removing some Buckthorn, I noticed this tiny Spruce trying to survive under the pressures of the all the other plants around it. It was then I realized how much the future of the stand really is in our hands.</div>
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There are many different types of management plans and many ways to go about implementing them. We could choose to do nothing with the stand and let it progress naturally, we could bring in goats to graze the understory, or clear cut it just to name a few. I'm not positive what the final plan is for the Walbridge Woods, but for now we are removing the invasives in the understory and allowing the sun to penetrate more of the forest floor to allow seedlings and saplings to persists. <br />
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As for now this will be the last of my posts. I had a wonderful intership here on the farm; I worked hard, learned a lot and had a lot of fun while doing it. Thank you for following along with summer adventures! I hope to come back to this stand some day and see this tiny Spruce growing tall and strong. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-33493453330405734292013-09-03T09:18:00.001-05:002013-09-03T09:18:36.623-05:00Prairie in progress!Remember when our prairie field <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/02/making-way-for-prairie.html" target="_blank">looked like this</a>:<br />
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And then <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/planting-cup-plant.html" target="_blank">like this</a>:<br />
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Now it looks like this!<br />
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Our black-eyed susans have really taken off and are giving the field a great burst of color. Last week a round of Prowl herbicide was sprayed in the field but we have a feeling we'll be in it soon, hand-pulling some weeds! </div>
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The cup plants are looking strong after a <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/save-cup-plants.html" target="_blank">good drink</a> last week, but with no rain in the forecast Arik might have to fill up the water tank again soon: </div>
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We'll keep you posted as things continue to grow! </div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-57282291637488774812013-08-30T09:55:00.000-05:002013-08-30T09:55:33.434-05:00When things don't go as planned...<div>
Arik is taking advantage of the dry August days by using the Bobcat to mow some typically swampy areas. I wanted to capture this for the blog, so headed down Husker Road hoping to catch him action. And I did get a couple action shots:</div>
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And then, this:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(9 second video of Arik explaining the Bobcat malfunction.)</span></div>
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Whomp whomp. </div>
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Such is how the tables turn! While most of the time, equipment works and plans go smoothly, hiccups still happen. Remember the <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/07/tears-in-my-coffee.html" target="_blank">coffee tree incident</a>? And this , which never quite made it onto the blog (until now, sorry Arik!):</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The time Arik forgot to shut the sprayer full of Round Up off and "paved" a nice path through Joe's yard.</td></tr>
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On a more positive note, the area Arik had been brush mowing is slated to be turned into an ephemeral pond in the next year or two. The site is too wet to support any agriculture or trees, but a shallow pond will support wildlife, especially frogs. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-77432575104286374022013-08-22T09:03:00.000-05:002013-08-22T13:26:54.598-05:00What grows up, must come down<br />
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Through most of this summer I
have been working on timber stand improvements on the farm. I have been making
my way through the woods working from the ground up. I started by using the
brush mower to clear the knee high shrubs and trees. Then,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I transitioned into using the brush saw to remove
thumb size diameter trees and shrubs. <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/07/husker-road.html#more" target="_blank">The hand saw</a> (my favorite) came next to cut
down small trees (6” in diameter or less). I have been <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/work-day-at-farm.html" target="_blank">driving the tool cat andusing the bobcat with the grapple</a>. But, up until last week, something had been
missing from summer experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
guessed it—the chain saw!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">While working the Walbridge Woods,
I got my first hands on experience with the chain saw. Arik briefly went over
the functions and safety of the chainsaw while we were in the woods, and
demonstrated how to do a wedge and bore cut on an Elm before letting me tackle
my first tree. </span></span></div>
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Since a picture is worth a thousand words, I created this image to give a better understanding of what a wedge and bore cut looks like. </div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Arik started by using the
chain saw to score the bark where I would be making my cuts.
We discussed what would happen with each cut, about the tension and
compression of the cells and how the cuts would effect them.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3jEAWzNkxpc/UhYOuYF5jTI/AAAAAAAAAD4/EsA9U8cg7Ps/s1600/IMG_20130731_143040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3jEAWzNkxpc/UhYOuYF5jTI/AAAAAAAAAD4/EsA9U8cg7Ps/s400/IMG_20130731_143040.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Arik scoring the tree</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I started by making a wedge
cut on the side of the tree that was facing in the direction we wanted it to
fall. Then we sent the chain saw blade straight through the middle of the tree directly
behind the wedge cut. Then I put plastic wedges into either side of the hole I
created using the bore cut allowing some of weight of the tree to be on the
plastic wedges.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PPeri5J3GQ0/UhYPBvkaugI/AAAAAAAAAEI/vuc2dx49nf0/s1600/IMG_20130731_144235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PPeri5J3GQ0/UhYPBvkaugI/AAAAAAAAAEI/vuc2dx49nf0/s400/IMG_20130731_144235.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Pounding in the wedge</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Then</span>, I made a cut
behind the wedges to release all of the tension on the tree and allowing all of
the weight to be on the plastic wedges. Finally, using a rubber mallet I pounded the
wedges further in, and it fell to the ground. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HKlN-K9Ll0k/UhYO-upbM9I/AAAAAAAAAEA/A7wh5C5RxxA/s1600/IMG_20130731_144147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HKlN-K9Ll0k/UhYO-upbM9I/AAAAAAAAAEA/A7wh5C5RxxA/s400/IMG_20130731_144147.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> Releasing the tension</div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was quite nervous about using the chain saw to fell
a tree, but after watching Arik’s demonstration I found it be a bit
anti-climatic. I had envisioned the tree coming crashing down while I was slicing
through it with a chainsaw. Using the method that Arik taught me, the chain saw
was not running and placed in a safe location on the ground and we essentially<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>had complete control of where the tree
was going to fall. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wgyW-THsoDQ/UhYQG0K1iSI/AAAAAAAAAEg/23iXlbRr2_E/s1600/IMG_20130731_144429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wgyW-THsoDQ/UhYQG0K1iSI/AAAAAAAAAEg/23iXlbRr2_E/s400/IMG_20130731_144429.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks to Graham we have
pictures to prove it! </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RNK4XLwlxPg/UhYPVqB1FCI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/V8NuymGUvus/s1600/IMG_20130731_144508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RNK4XLwlxPg/UhYPVqB1FCI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/V8NuymGUvus/s400/IMG_20130731_144508.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-81694841383911786502013-08-19T15:55:00.001-05:002013-08-19T15:56:09.223-05:00Save the Cup Plants!The last week has been warm and dry, prompting us to dive head-first into a plant advocacy campaign:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FQM8fuQ50Tg/UhKB_1WiT_I/AAAAAAAABUg/DsxpalVPDXo/s1600/Save+the+Cup+Plants+Low+Res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FQM8fuQ50Tg/UhKB_1WiT_I/AAAAAAAABUg/DsxpalVPDXo/s640/Save+the+Cup+Plants+Low+Res.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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The plugs got a good drink on <a href="http://blog.aringtontreefarm.com/2013/08/planting-cup-plant.html" target="_blank">planting day</a> and a couple days after when 0.4" rain fell. However, the sun has been relentless lately. We have a thirsty field of cup plants crying for H2O. </div>
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Arik, the Tree Farm's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batman" target="_blank">Bruce Wayne</a>, heard their plea and effortlessly came to the rescue with this rigged up watering system: </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KngsncBTPI/UhKDWM1DjHI/AAAAAAAABUs/VIA5yusP444/s1600/WateringSys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KngsncBTPI/UhKDWM1DjHI/AAAAAAAABUs/VIA5yusP444/s400/WateringSys.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A 330-gallon water tank rides in the back of the Bobcat, dispensing water through a system of hoses and out two nozzles. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wiyerDHjX1c/UhKFxXsx_CI/AAAAAAAABU4/6s6-c37XIp0/s1600/WateringSys2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wiyerDHjX1c/UhKFxXsx_CI/AAAAAAAABU4/6s6-c37XIp0/s400/WateringSys2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj25NXny1q0/UhKFx24g-BI/AAAAAAAABVA/TaZMknBS_Qg/s1600/WateringSys3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj25NXny1q0/UhKFx24g-BI/AAAAAAAABVA/TaZMknBS_Qg/s400/WateringSys3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If slow and steady really does win the race, Arik will have no problem taking home the gold medal here. He's moving at the <i>feel-free-to-blink-you-won't-miss-it</i> pace of one-tenth of a mile per hour. He estimates it will take about 15 hours to adequately water the field... this time. How many more times will we need to water the field? That's a question only Mother Nature, or maybe Batman, can answer.</div>
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In the meantime, feel free to join our advocacy campaign by chanting:<br />
<b>Save the Cup Plants! Save the Cup Plants! Save the Cup Plants! </b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-531929037803372945.post-61388780820658275922013-08-16T09:31:00.000-05:002013-08-16T10:42:42.373-05:00ALF intern work day at the Farm<div class="MsoNormal">
On Wednesday the Tree
Farm hosted an intern work day for my fellow interns at the <a href="http://www.aldoleopold.org/" target="_blank">Aldo Leopold Foundation</a> (ALF). Arik lent us his time
and knowledge on some bigger equipment that we do not have at ALF. I have been
fortunate to be able to use most of the equipment on a regular basis while working
here this summer and I was thrilled to be able to share the experience with my
fellow interns: Leann, Cameron, and Emily.</div>
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The three of us girls started the morning by familiarizing ourselves
with the Stihl brush saw. We worked as a team to cut down Buckthorn and clear the area. One of us
used the saw while the others removed the small trees and the other treated the
stump with Garlon. We put the Buckthorn in piles in order to practice using the
grapple attachment on the 220 Bobcat.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EgcUx1ajcBc/Ug4v5LwRpsI/AAAAAAAAACk/VBABZJbLYNw/s1600/ALF_Emily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EgcUx1ajcBc/Ug4v5LwRpsI/AAAAAAAAACk/VBABZJbLYNw/s400/ALF_Emily.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emily handling the brush saw in the thicket of Buckthorn</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZPHVg3D0y0/Ug4wFsIHB4I/AAAAAAAAACs/7FA6qkdlmBw/s1600/ALF_Leann.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZPHVg3D0y0/Ug4wFsIHB4I/AAAAAAAAACs/7FA6qkdlmBw/s400/ALF_Leann.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leann cutting out Buckthorn using the brush saw<br />
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The 220 Bobcat with turf tires was equipped with the grapple
attachment. It can be used to pick up a variety of things including brush
piles. For the most part we all agreed that this was our favorite piece of
equipment to operate. It was the easiest to control and the application we used
it for had the smallest probability of disaster. We took the "small" (10' x 6') piles of brush
and added them to a huge brush pile (40 feet in diameter) that will be burned this winter (feel free to come warm up your toes!).</div>
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After using the grapple, we all watched Arik demonstrate how
to take down a tree using the tree shear. The tree shear was attached to the
300 Bobcat with tracks. It maneuvered much differently than the Bobcat 220 with
the turf tires -- luckily, Arik was there to guide us through our first experience with the tree
shear. Using the tree shear was a bit challenging; there were a lot of buttons
and movements with the joy sticks to remember. All of us were successful in removing
at least one tree with the shear. Arik was successful in not dying -- you can see him bravely standing on the tracks to mentor us amateurs in the pictures below!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1rhE54b9nQ/Ug4wdMMim8I/AAAAAAAAAC0/34WPYjXJCqM/s1600/ALF_Cameron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1rhE54b9nQ/Ug4wdMMim8I/AAAAAAAAAC0/34WPYjXJCqM/s400/ALF_Cameron.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arik talking to Cameron about his next move with the tree shear<br />
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Arik was nice enough to let me practice on a really challenging tree. It was leaning at 45 degree angle.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-17dTbuInhw0/Ug4wvqgEMZI/AAAAAAAAAC8/ziPfc2OWZ_A/s1600/ALF_Lyndsey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-17dTbuInhw0/Ug4wvqgEMZI/AAAAAAAAAC8/ziPfc2OWZ_A/s400/ALF_Lyndsey.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here Arik and I are discussing the plan of attack on the Box elder with tree shear.</td></tr>
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After removing the trees with the shear, we loaded them into
the chipper using the mini excavator. I did not personally get a chance to use the excavator this time, but am looking forward to practicing in the coming week. The other interns all said that it was the most
challenging to use, but it sure made loading the chipper a breeze!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSBY3cgP7Xg/Ug4x6gw5LTI/AAAAAAAAADM/S9kj-AphqD4/s1600/ALF_Chipper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XSBY3cgP7Xg/Ug4x6gw5LTI/AAAAAAAAADM/S9kj-AphqD4/s400/ALF_Chipper.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cameron operating the mini excavator to load the chipper as Arik stands by to offer advice.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obAOt0toESU/Ug5G2NGT4lI/AAAAAAAABUM/tozzSkukaLI/s1600/ALF_Leann2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-obAOt0toESU/Ug5G2NGT4lI/AAAAAAAABUM/tozzSkukaLI/s400/ALF_Leann2.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leann gives the mini excavator a go.</td></tr>
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Overall, we all had a great day of learning and new
experiences!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2