Project Summary

In creating the logging trail, what I set out to do was to both address the existing erosion problems in the White Pine stand, and create an improved access, multiple-purpose logging road. In order to approach the project with longevity and healthy waterways in mind, I used techniques that adhere to the standards defined under Acceptable Management Practices. To repair the existing road, foot path techniques and erosion control measures from the Appalachian Mountain Club were used in design templates. Implementing a well designed, cost efficient and low impact road will have positive benefits for both the steward and the forest for many years to come.

 

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Goals

1) Construct an acceptable multiple purpose logging road with erosion control measures in the White Pine Plantation.

2) The existing trail will be modified to comply with approved trail maintenance techniques for erosion control.

3) Create a demonstration site to show others how to address soil erosion issues.

 

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Strategies

1) The guidelines defined in Acceptable Management Practices for maintaining Water Quality on Logging Jobs in Vermont, will act as the method for design.

2) The trail will be less than a 10% grade and have broad-based dips to act as water draining instruments.

3) I will use stake and flagging techniques to determine the best possible placement for dips, revising the layout as needed before excavation.

4) A bulldozer will excavate the site when appropriate.

5) I will use surveying methods to accurately determine all of the elevation, slope and distance variables of the trail. I will also use GPS mapping to ascertain the same information to be used in plotting the trail on a map and graphically representing it upon completion.

 

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Measurements of Success

1) A comparative analysis will be conducted between the existing trail and the new one upon completion of the excavation. Compliance to the acceptable management practices will act as guidelines.

2) A Comparison of the existing trail before and after approved erosion control techniques are implemented will illustrate methods of erosion reparation.

3) Post construction site visits will be made throughout the summer season to catalogue the movement of water on the trail.

4) Each dip will be digitally photographed and measured every month to annotate the effects of water movement.

5) A spreadsheet of measurements will be produced at the end of August and added to the project database.

 

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Student Profile

I am an undergraduate Forestry student and come to the Green Mountains from the Midwest town by the name of Iowa City, Iowa. This is my first semester at UVM after transferring from the Community College of Vermont in Burlington. I have lived in Vermont for two years and moved here from Lawton/Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Beyond the great outdoors, my interests include papermaking, fiber arts and bookbinding at the Green Door Studio in the South End of Burlington.