March 9 conditions

[bgredjeep]

I rode the Canal today and came across a few non-riding trees down. The first was right near the start (Odd day) in the low section by the river (the part marked w/ a red arrow). Its not actually on the ground but its laying across above the trail and too low to get under (at least on my 21" frame bike). The next was about a 1/2 mile or so further into the Odd side. Lots of brush around this one. Possibly down from the wind this weekend. Another tree close to this area has been ramped on each side to make it a rider and was no trouble. The last was the one mentioned from the Feb 28th report on the Even day side. All 3 were pretty large so no chance moving them off by hand.. At least not by myself.

Other than those the trail was in great shape. No mud worth mentioning and the loop was riding smooth and fast.

[shortlineskier]

I would be willing to help clear the trail. We ( the AAMCO guys ) want to start riding after work now that we have our daylight back. Just let us know.

[kommando]

I think a crew was on thier way out there according to an older gentleman we met on the trail the other day. I was out there yesterday and the downed tree's were still down. If someone does clear it out I would request leaving the one rideable tree for fun

[bgredjeep]

Yeah, I rode again after work on Friday (yay longer days), and we tried to move the tree on the CW side as it was broken into almost manageable pieces. Due to all the vines tangled around them we still couldn't get it cleared.

[tryin]

You know how old folks ramble on sometimes. You probably need to clear it yourself.If you leave it to them they won't do it right and then wonder why everyone is mad. I bet they would widen it enough to get a three wheel recumbent thru there. Then what the hell?

[azdrawdy]

bgredjeep said:

Due to all the vines tangled around them we still couldn't get it cleared.

Two things I keep in my Camelbak: Silky Sugoi handsaw in a sheath and a nice pair of pruners/clippers. Anything six inches or under can be handled in minutes.

If that doesn't work, I'll return with the Echo 20" chainsaw.

[bgredjeep]

Sounds like a nice pair of tools to carry. Unfortunately, my Camelbak Rogue has just enough room for my keys, pump, multitool, and a spare tube. I might be able to fit one of these saws in there. I think I saw them at Target a while back. I'll have to see if they still have them. www.asseenontv.com/prod-pages/mxz_saw.html

BTW, a HUGE thanks to whoever went out and cleared the trail. We rode Friday evening and all 3 of the problem trees were completely cleared. They also chopped some low hanging limbs that were potential clothes line hazards. The trail is 100% ridable now.

THANK YOU.

[azdrawdy]

Not everyone wants to spend the bucks for a Silky, and it is not a requirement. Go to harbor Freight in Augusta or any Lowes/Home Depot and spend around ten bucks to get a foldable pruning saw. It will only weigh a few ounces and you will forget it is in your pack.

A nice "big" Camelbak is the Hawg. I alternate between that and the M.U.L.E. Although, if it is D#&N HOT out, then it may just be a couple of water bottles...