Work has begun!

This week has been an exciting flurry of activity as work has begun to restore the historic Fieldale Iron Bridge, which is presently housed at Northpoint Trading in Fieldale.

On day one of work, Hall's Mechanical of Fieldale used a crane to lift the 30,000 pounds of metal off of the flatbed trailer where they had been stored. Use of the trailer has been supplied thanks to a generous donation from Craddock Logging Supply & Repair of Ridgeway.

Rain delayed us for just a few days, then the action started happening. Workers from Dishman Environmental of Danville began removing lead paint from the stucture. They are using an eco-friendly process that produces no dust.

As sections of the metal were cleaned, Reliable Welding of Bassett moved in to cut and weld the structure in order to achieve the symetrical shape that is desired.

When one side of the truss is fully prepared, Hall's Mechanical will come back to flip the truss so that work may proceed on the other side. This process of cleaning and welding will be continued throughout the rest of the structure until the project is completed. If the weather cooperates, we estimate to complete this portion of the job in 15-20 days.

Meanwhile at the future home of the trail, plans have been made to develop Phase III of the Fieldale Trail which will connect South River Road to Fieldale Park. A path going around the ballfield will take walkers and cyclists through the Fieldale Iron Bridge. A building permit has been obtained thanks to assistance from Henry County, Boxley Materials, and Rayford Smith. Plans for landscaping are being made with assistance from Prillaman Landscape Dimensions of Ridgeway. Below is the before and proposed after shots of this area.

Before

Proposed After (Note: Bridge is not drawn to scale)

As of today we have raised 84% of funds needed to complete this project! To help support the project you can purchase a plaque in honor of or memory of a loved one. Coorporate sponsorships are also available. The deadline to purchase a plaque is November 30th. Contact 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org for more information.

Work has begun!

This week has been an exciting flurry of activity as work has begun to restore the historic Fieldale Iron Bridge, which is presently housed at Northpoint Trading in Fieldale.

On day one of work, Hall's Mechanical of Fieldale used a crane to lift the 30,000 pounds of metal off of the flatbed trailer where they had been stored. Use of the trailer has been supplied thanks to a generous donation from Craddock Logging Supply & Repair of Ridgeway.

Rain delayed us for just a few days, then the action started happening. Workers from Dishman Environmental of Danville began removing lead paint from the stucture. They are using an eco-friendly process that produces no dust.

As sections of the metal were cleaned, Reliable Welding of Bassett moved in to cut and weld the structure in order to achieve the symetrical shape that is desired.

When one side of the truss is fully prepared, Hall's Mechanical will come back to flip the truss so that work may proceed on the other side. This process of cleaning and welding will be continued throughout the rest of the structure until the project is completed. If the weather cooperates, we estimate to complete this portion of the job in 15-20 days.

Meanwhile at the future home of the trail, plans have been made to develop Phase III of the Fieldale Trail which will connect South River Road to Fieldale Park. A path going around the ballfield will take walkers and cyclists through the Fieldale Iron Bridge. A building permit has been obtained thanks to assistance from Henry County, Boxley Materials, and Rayford Smith. Plans for landscaping are being made with assistance from Prillaman Landscape Dimensions of Ridgeway. Below is the before and proposed after shots of this area.

Before

Proposed After (Note: Bridge is not drawn to scale)

As of today we have raised 84% of funds needed to complete this project! To help support the project you can purchase a plaque in honor of or memory of a loved one. Coorporate sponsorships are also available. The deadline to purchase a plaque is November 30th. Contact 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org for more information.

MOUNTAIN & ROAD BIKE RIDE

When: Sunday, November 1, 2009

Where: "Dark Hollow" on Stonewall Jackson Road

Cost: Free

There will be a mountain and road bike ride this Sunday, November 1 at the head of " Dark Hollow" on Stonewall Jackson Road, Chatmoss.

Food and drinks will be provided by Scott O'Neil.

Everyone will meet at 2:00pm. For directions please contact Tommy Smith: (276) 618-0343 or Jim Frith: (276) 732-7241.

Contributed by: Tommy Smith

MOUNTAIN & ROAD BIKE RIDE

When: Sunday, November 1, 2009

Where: "Dark Hollow" on Stonewall Jackson Road

Cost: Free

There will be a mountain and road bike ride this Sunday, November 1 at the head of " Dark Hollow" on Stonewall Jackson Road, Chatmoss.

Food and drinks will be provided by Scott O'Neil.

Everyone will meet at 2:00pm. For directions please contact Tommy Smith: (276) 618-0343 or Jim Frith: (276) 732-7241.

Contributed by: Tommy Smith

December First Saturday Outing

Dan River Basin Association's First Saturday Outing, Saturday, December 5, a 5-mile walk on Fieldale Trail in Fieldale, VA.

Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Fieldale Park, corner of Patrick Avenue and River Road(GPS coordinates: North 36.42, 076 West 56.021, 079).

Wear comfortable shoes or boots, dress in layers of synthetic fabric, and bring lunch and water.

Free and open to the public

Trip coordinator: Paula Wyatt, 276-647-3274 or pwyatt1@embarqmail.com.
More information: http://www.danriver.org/

December First Saturday Outing

Dan River Basin Association's First Saturday Outing, Saturday, December 5, a 5-mile walk on Fieldale Trail in Fieldale, VA.

Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Fieldale Park, corner of Patrick Avenue and River Road(GPS coordinates: North 36.42, 076 West 56.021, 079).

Wear comfortable shoes or boots, dress in layers of synthetic fabric, and bring lunch and water.

Free and open to the public

Trip coordinator: Paula Wyatt, 276-647-3274 or pwyatt1@embarqmail.com.
More information: http://www.danriver.org/

Get a Sneak Peek of the Dick & Willie Passage- Coming Spring 2010!

Want to learn more about the Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail that will soon pass through Martinsville & Henry County? Come experience it for yourself! A free guided walk of the future Dick & Willie Passage will be held on Monday, October 26th at 5 p.m.

Meet at the Prilliman Chemical Company Parking Lot on Fisher Street (across from the Brookdale Street Dominos Pizza). The guided tour and bike ride will be three miles long. Shuttle vans will be provided at the El Parral parking lot to return walkers and cyclsists to their vehicles.

Event hosted by the County of Henry, Henry County Parks & Recreation and the Dan River Basin Association. For more information contact 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org.

Get a Sneak Peek of the Dick & Willie Passage- Coming Spring 2010!

Want to learn more about the Dick & Willie Passage Rail Trail that will soon pass through Martinsville & Henry County? Come experience it for yourself! A free guided walk of the future Dick & Willie Passage will be held on Monday, October 26th at 5 p.m.

Meet at the Prilliman Chemical Company Parking Lot on Fisher Street (across from the Brookdale Street Dominos Pizza). The guided tour and bike ride will be three miles long. Shuttle vans will be provided at the El Parral parking lot to return walkers and cyclsists to their vehicles.

Event hosted by the County of Henry, Henry County Parks & Recreation and the Dan River Basin Association. For more information contact 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org.

Happy Trails Seniors Day Postponed until Spring

On behalf of the Dan River Basin Association, Henry County Parks & Recreation, and the Friends of the Fieldale Trail Volunteer Team, I am sadly announcing that the 2009 Happy Trails To You Senior's event at the Fieldale Trail has been canceled due to weather. There is a 90% chance of rain this weekend and temperatures are excepted to drop again.

Since cold and flu season is upon us we do not want to encourage our seniors to come out in the cold/damp air out of concern for their health. The event will be rescheduled for next spring. Thank you for understanding. Thank you also to everyone who has agreed to participate in this event. The new date will be announced soon.

Happy Trails Seniors Day Postponed until Spring

On behalf of the Dan River Basin Association, Henry County Parks & Recreation, and the Friends of the Fieldale Trail Volunteer Team, I am sadly announcing that the 2009 Happy Trails To You Senior's event at the Fieldale Trail has been canceled due to weather. There is a 90% chance of rain this weekend and temperatures are excepted to drop again.

Since cold and flu season is upon us we do not want to encourage our seniors to come out in the cold/damp air out of concern for their health. The event will be rescheduled for next spring. Thank you for understanding. Thank you also to everyone who has agreed to participate in this event. The new date will be announced soon.

Small Changes Make a Difference

Martinsville & Henry County Virginia is fortunate to have plenty of natural beauty in the form of our rivers, lakes, and mountains. As beautiful and well kept as our community is, we are like most communities across America in the fact that we have litter. I am often saddended when I see plastic shopping bags stuck in trees and flapping in the breeze. To do my part I have adpoted the practice of using reusable shopping bags when I go to the store for groceries and other items.

Kroger was the first store in our area to begin offering bags, followed by Wal-Mart, CVS and a number of other stores. The other day I noticed that even the JC Penney Outlet has begun offering reusable bags and you can get a discount on certain days of the week just for using them.

The first thing that I noticed when using these sturdy bags several years ago was the sheer amount that they could hold. One bag from Kroger will hold the contents of 3 to 4 plastic bags. In addition to freeing up your hands, this takes up less room in the trunk of your car and doesn't slide around spilling food everywhere like plastic bags do.

Occasionally I still encounter a cashier that looks at me like I have two heads when I hand him or her a canvas bag to fill, but by the time this person has finished bagging they have a look of shock after seeing that ALL the items did in fact fit in the bag like I said they would!

I was very pleased to read in the Martinsville Bulletin today that Target "will announce Monday plans to give customers a 5-cent discount for every reusable bag they use to pack their purchases". This also affects us locally as CVS is participating in a similar iniative. CVS "plan[s] to give participating CVS customers $1 cash bonuses on their CVS cards every four times they buy something but don't request plastic bags".

According to the Bulletin article, local CVS stores are participating.

Choosing to carry resusable bags is a small change that can make a huge difference. I am happy knowing that I am not contributing waste to the landfill and that my bag isn't going to end up swinging from a tree branch over the scenic Smith River. Make a difference in your community by opting to use a reusable bag rather than paper/plastic on your next shopping trip.

Small Changes Make a Difference

Martinsville & Henry County Virginia is fortunate to have plenty of natural beauty in the form of our rivers, lakes, and mountains. As beautiful and well kept as our community is, we are like most communities across America in the fact that we have litter. I am often saddended when I see plastic shopping bags stuck in trees and flapping in the breeze. To do my part I have adpoted the practice of using reusable shopping bags when I go to the store for groceries and other items.

Kroger was the first store in our area to begin offering bags, followed by Wal-Mart, CVS and a number of other stores. The other day I noticed that even the JC Penney Outlet has begun offering reusable bags and you can get a discount on certain days of the week just for using them.

The first thing that I noticed when using these sturdy bags several years ago was the sheer amount that they could hold. One bag from Kroger will hold the contents of 3 to 4 plastic bags. In addition to freeing up your hands, this takes up less room in the trunk of your car and doesn't slide around spilling food everywhere like plastic bags do.

Occasionally I still encounter a cashier that looks at me like I have two heads when I hand him or her a canvas bag to fill, but by the time this person has finished bagging they have a look of shock after seeing that ALL the items did in fact fit in the bag like I said they would!

I was very pleased to read in the Martinsville Bulletin today that Target "will announce Monday plans to give customers a 5-cent discount for every reusable bag they use to pack their purchases". This also affects us locally as CVS is participating in a similar iniative. CVS "plan[s] to give participating CVS customers $1 cash bonuses on their CVS cards every four times they buy something but don't request plastic bags".

According to the Bulletin article, local CVS stores are participating.

Choosing to carry resusable bags is a small change that can make a huge difference. I am happy knowing that I am not contributing waste to the landfill and that my bag isn't going to end up swinging from a tree branch over the scenic Smith River. Make a difference in your community by opting to use a reusable bag rather than paper/plastic on your next shopping trip.

Plan Your Adventure Today

Even if you have lived in Henry County or Southern Virginia your entire life, we bet you will find something new about the Smith River Valley in the recently published “Insiders Guide to the Smith River.” Filled with maps and information, this full color, water-proof guide showcases Martinsville and Henry County as a true    

 recreation destination.

 

The new guide highlights the Smith River and Henry County with information and photos from local paddlers, fisherman, hikers, and historians. For more than 80 miles, the Smith winds through four rural counties in two states, creating Philpott Reservoir and bisecting Henry County before reaching the confluence with the Dan River in North Carolina. Travel along with the author from the Blue Ridge to the piedmont and learn history, river tips and recreational opportunities in the Smith River Valley. Made possible with funding from the Harvest Foundation and published by the Dan River Basin Association, the “Insider’s Guide to the Smith River” will help visitors and locals experience the timeless beauty of the river from wildflowers to wildlife or be transported to century-old mill towns, railroads, prehistoric stone fish weirs and historic river navigation structures.

Focusing on the 45-mile section from Philpott Dam to the confluence with the Dan River in North Carolina, the 18 maps detail river features and key points through photos, symbols and text.  The upper Smith River, above Philpott Dam, is represented for 30 miles by an additional map. But this comprehensive guide isn’t just maps. Narrative pages contain a wealth of information about Martinsville, Henry County, fishing, trails, parks, camping, wildlife, and links to additional information about the Smith River Valley and the piedmont region of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Are you a history buff? Then the Guide is for you too. Did you know the Smith River was originally named the “Irvine River” by William Byrd II in honor of Alexander Irvine, one of the surveyors of the Virginia-North Carolina dividing line in 1728.  Did you know that Philpott Dam was originally built for flood control and the resulting “tail-race” river provided the incredible trout fishery and paddling opportunities that can be enjoyed on the river today?  Evidence of Native Americans river use can even be observed in the fish weirs like the Martinsville Fish Dam, one of the oldest man-made structures in Henry County.

Whether you are interested in the best places to paddle, exciting fishing, historical and cultural sites—or  just plain relaxing in a beautiful place, the “Insider’s Guide to the Smith River” is for you. 

So grab a guide and plan your Adventure in the Smith River Valley today. Just go to http://www.danriver.org/ and click on the link to order your copy and begin your adventure.  River guides are $25.00 for online sales, or you can save on shipping and handling and visit a local outfitter or the Dan River Basin Association offices in Virginia and North Carolina to purchase a copy.  Proceeds from the sale of river guides support work to preserve and promote the natural and cultural resources of the Dan River basin.



The "Insider’s Guide to the Dan River in North Carolina and Virginia" is now available as follows the Dan for 125 miles from Southern Virginia though north central North Carolina, ending in Caswell County, NC.

Iron Bridge Funds Continue to Grow

As of today we have reached 78% of our fundraising goal for the Fieldale Iron Bridge Preservation Project!
Help us by purchasing a memorial plaque in honor of or memory of a loved one or sponsor a plaque with your business. We can help you honor the story of your family, like H. Earl Bullard...

May 16,1925- May 14, 1996

Earl Bullard was born in Fieldale where he worked for Appalachian Power for 40 years and was an active member of Fieldale Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife Beatrice Bullard, also of Fieldale.

Learn more about the project and download a donation form at: http://www.danriver.org/Recreation/Fieldale-Iron-Bridge-Project.htm.

Iron Bridge Funds Continue to Grow

As of today we have reached 78% of our fundraising goal for the Fieldale Iron Bridge Preservation Project!
Help us by purchasing a memorial plaque in honor of or memory of a loved one or sponsor a plaque with your business. We can help you honor the story of your family, like H. Earl Bullard...

May 16,1925- May 14, 1996

Earl Bullard was born in Fieldale where he worked for Appalachian Power for 40 years and was an active member of Fieldale Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife Beatrice Bullard, also of Fieldale.

Learn more about the project and download a donation form at: http://www.danriver.org/Recreation/Fieldale-Iron-Bridge-Project.htm.

Learn about Carbon Offsets

Tune in tomorrow morning for a radio interview on Community Accents that will explore the emerging carbon offset market for forests. The program is a must for anyone who has been curious about how carbon-offsetting works, and its potential to become an economic resource for landowners in Virginia.

You can listen to the live program from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on the stream from WLOE/WMYN’s website: http://www.wloewmyn.com/ (click “live broadcasts” in the menu bar at the top of the page).

Buck Kline, Director of Forestland Conservation for the Virginia Department of Forestry, is our guest. Mr. Kline has been involved with several climate change initiatives. He served as a member of the Secretary of Natural Resources “Kitchen Kabinet”. This group facilitated locating speakers for Climate Change Commission meetings and summarized the presentations for incorporation into Virginia’s Climate Action Plan. He was also instrumental in helping develop recommendations for forestry carbon offset protocols for the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF).

We appreciate Mr. Kline taking the time to bring some clarity and insight to this complex and relatively new idea. This program is made possible with support from the Virginia Environmental Endowment, members of the Dan River Basin Association, and WLOE/WMYN Rockingham County Radio. It is the first in a series of interviews with experts in management of Virginia forests.

You are welcome to request a free CD of the program by sending your mailing address to jedwards@danriver.org. If you have questions about carbon offsets that you’d like Mr. Kline to address, feel free to send them via email this afternoon.

Submitted by: Jenny Edwards, Virginia Program Manager, Dan River Basin Association

Learn about Carbon Offsets

Tune in tomorrow morning for a radio interview on Community Accents that will explore the emerging carbon offset market for forests. The program is a must for anyone who has been curious about how carbon-offsetting works, and its potential to become an economic resource for landowners in Virginia.

You can listen to the live program from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on the stream from WLOE/WMYN’s website: http://www.wloewmyn.com/ (click “live broadcasts” in the menu bar at the top of the page).

Buck Kline, Director of Forestland Conservation for the Virginia Department of Forestry, is our guest. Mr. Kline has been involved with several climate change initiatives. He served as a member of the Secretary of Natural Resources “Kitchen Kabinet”. This group facilitated locating speakers for Climate Change Commission meetings and summarized the presentations for incorporation into Virginia’s Climate Action Plan. He was also instrumental in helping develop recommendations for forestry carbon offset protocols for the Southern Group of State Foresters (SGSF).

We appreciate Mr. Kline taking the time to bring some clarity and insight to this complex and relatively new idea. This program is made possible with support from the Virginia Environmental Endowment, members of the Dan River Basin Association, and WLOE/WMYN Rockingham County Radio. It is the first in a series of interviews with experts in management of Virginia forests.

You are welcome to request a free CD of the program by sending your mailing address to jedwards@danriver.org. If you have questions about carbon offsets that you’d like Mr. Kline to address, feel free to send them via email this afternoon.

Submitted by: Jenny Edwards, Virginia Program Manager, Dan River Basin Association

Fieldale Iron Bridge Webpage

The Fieldale Iron Bridge Preservation Project now has a permanent home on the web. Visit: http://www.danriver.org/Recreation/Fieldale-Iron-Bridge-Project.htm to check out our progress,
download a donation form, and read the plaques of those that have donated already... like Lois Slaughter.

In Memory of

Jerry Lee Slaughter

by Lois Slaughter & Family

June 13, 1936 to June 26, 2008

A lifelong resident of Henry County, Jerry had a strong sense of community. For decades, he served as a teacher, a coach and administrator. However, he is remembered as a positive influence, role model and friend.

Honor or remember someone you love by purchasing a plaque to go on the Fieldale Iron Bridge today! Download the order form at: http://www.danriver.org/Recreation/Fieldale-Iron-Bridge-Project.htm.

Fieldale Iron Bridge Webpage

The Fieldale Iron Bridge Preservation Project now has a permanent home on the web. Visit: http://www.danriver.org/Recreation/Fieldale-Iron-Bridge-Project.htm to check out our progress,
download a donation form, and read the plaques of those that have donated already... like Lois Slaughter.

In Memory of

Jerry Lee Slaughter

by Lois Slaughter & Family

June 13, 1936 to June 26, 2008

A lifelong resident of Henry County, Jerry had a strong sense of community. For decades, he served as a teacher, a coach and administrator. However, he is remembered as a positive influence, role model and friend.

Honor or remember someone you love by purchasing a plaque to go on the Fieldale Iron Bridge today! Download the order form at: http://www.danriver.org/Recreation/Fieldale-Iron-Bridge-Project.htm.

Dan River Fall Float - November 7, 2009

Hanging Rock to Moratock Park
DRBA's last paddle trip of the year will be on a popular section of the Dan River from Hanging Rock State Park to Moratock Park in Danbury, NC. Charlie Williams, Outings Committee Chair, will coordinate the scenic five-mile float.

According to Williams, "At normal levels this section offers mostly calm waters with one easy class II rapid at Moratock Park," just before the take-out. "There is often wildlife to view if you approach quietly," he adds. "The easy put-in and take-out make this an excellent family trip."
Nearly half of the river corridor passes through State Natural Heritage Areas where autumn colors and late wildflowers may be seen.

See Maps 68 -- 70 of DRBA's "An Insider's Guide to the Dan River in North Carolina and Virginia," available at http://www.danriver.org/ .

Please meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Hanging Rock State Park canoe access off Flinchum Road (GPS coordinates: 36.4299, -80.2482) to unload boats and gear and set the shuttle. Boat rentals and shuttle will be provided by the nearby Dan River Company, 336-593-2628

Participants in the outing are asked to provide boat and paddles, life jacket, lunch and water, to dress in layers of artificial (quick-drying) fabric or wool, and to sign a waiver.

Directions: To reach the Hanging Rock Access from Stuart, VA, travel south on Route 8. Turn left on Route 89. Travel about ¼ mile, and turn right onto Flinchum Road, which is marked by a brown DAN RIVER ACCESS sign. Drive past the Dan River Company on the way to the concrete launch ramp.

From the town of Danbury, travel west on Route 89. Pass the hospital and the road to Hanging Rock State Park. About one mile west of the hospital, turn left onto Flinchum Road, which is marked by a brown DAN RIVER ACCESS sign. Drive past the Dan River Company on the way to the concrete launch ramp.

More Information: Charlie Williams, 336-337-8843

Dan River Fall Float - November 7, 2009

Hanging Rock to Moratock Park
DRBA's last paddle trip of the year will be on a popular section of the Dan River from Hanging Rock State Park to Moratock Park in Danbury, NC. Charlie Williams, Outings Committee Chair, will coordinate the scenic five-mile float.

According to Williams, "At normal levels this section offers mostly calm waters with one easy class II rapid at Moratock Park," just before the take-out. "There is often wildlife to view if you approach quietly," he adds. "The easy put-in and take-out make this an excellent family trip."
Nearly half of the river corridor passes through State Natural Heritage Areas where autumn colors and late wildflowers may be seen.

See Maps 68 -- 70 of DRBA's "An Insider's Guide to the Dan River in North Carolina and Virginia," available at http://www.danriver.org/ .

Please meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Hanging Rock State Park canoe access off Flinchum Road (GPS coordinates: 36.4299, -80.2482) to unload boats and gear and set the shuttle. Boat rentals and shuttle will be provided by the nearby Dan River Company, 336-593-2628

Participants in the outing are asked to provide boat and paddles, life jacket, lunch and water, to dress in layers of artificial (quick-drying) fabric or wool, and to sign a waiver.

Directions: To reach the Hanging Rock Access from Stuart, VA, travel south on Route 8. Turn left on Route 89. Travel about ¼ mile, and turn right onto Flinchum Road, which is marked by a brown DAN RIVER ACCESS sign. Drive past the Dan River Company on the way to the concrete launch ramp.

From the town of Danbury, travel west on Route 89. Pass the hospital and the road to Hanging Rock State Park. About one mile west of the hospital, turn left onto Flinchum Road, which is marked by a brown DAN RIVER ACCESS sign. Drive past the Dan River Company on the way to the concrete launch ramp.

More Information: Charlie Williams, 336-337-8843

Smith River TU Features VDGIF Biologist Scott Smith

Smith River Trout Unlimited will meet at Rania's Restaurant in uptown Martinsville, on Thursday, December 3, 2009, at 6:30pm. The program for the evening will feature Virginia DGIF Fisheries Biologist Scott Smith who will present findings and recommendations based on recent samplings and studies of the Smith River trout fishery. We will also hold elections and install officers to lead the SRTU chapter in 2010 - proposed slate TBA prior to meeting along with nominations from floor.

You do not have to be a member of TU to attend our meetings.(You must be a member in order to vote on chapter business). Anyone who has an interest in the Smith River Fishery is encouraged to attend.

For information contact Chapter Pres B.J. Walker, (434) 728-1419 http://www.blogger.com/

Secy Al Kittredge, (910) 868-6235 aakitt@earthlink.net

or check our website for more details and directions. http://www.blogger.com/

"Happy Trails to You" Senior's Day

Fieldale, VA—“Friends of the Fieldale Trail”, a team of Adopt-a-Trail volunteers, in coordination with the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) and the Henry County Parks & Recreation (HCPR) would like to invite the community to attend a special event celebrating senior citizens at the Fieldale Trail on Saturday, October 24th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to team captain Paula Wyatt, “the group would like to give the senior citizens a chance to find out what all the talk is about on the Fieldale Trail.” The free event will include guided tours, live music, and informational booths on senior’s health and fitness. “This will be a time to show the community what these trails have to offer people,” said Wyatt.

Throughout the day a variety of informational booths will be set up to inform and educate seniors about fitness, health, and programs available to assist them in the Martinsville and Henry County area. Guests will also have a chance to enjoy live music and guided tours of the trail. Two sections of trail are offered: one is just under a mile long and the other is 1.5 miles long. Both sections are flat and easy to walk. For seniors that are unable to walk the trail, special tours on a golf cart will be provided so that they may too experience this great resource. It is important for the general public to know that motorized vehicles are not permitted on the Fieldale Trail; special permission was obtained from Henry County to use golf carts for this one-day event.

The “Friends of the Fieldale Trail” volunteer team began in May 2009 when DRBA and HCPR first partnered together to develop an Adopt-a-Trail Program. Since its inception there are now six teams with more than 40 members working to monitor trails along the Smith River Trail System in Martinsville and Henry County. Hosting events like the senior’s day, allows the volunteers to showcase the wonders found on their trails. Volunteers Charles and Pat Dameron feel that walking the Fieldale Trail is “a golden opportunity to see Mother Nature up close and personal right in our own backyard.”

The Fieldale Trail is located in Fieldale, Virginia on South River Road past the Lower Smith River Water Treatment Facility. It is open daily from dusk to dawn and admission is free. Ample parking, restroom, river access, and picnic tables are available for your convenience. The Fieldale Trail is funded in part by the Dominion Foundation and operated by Henry County Parks & Recreation. For more information on the event or to sign up for a tour, contact “Friends of the Fieldale Trail” by calling 276-647-3274 or 276-340-2234.

"Happy Trails to You" Senior's Day

Fieldale, VA—“Friends of the Fieldale Trail”, a team of Adopt-a-Trail volunteers, in coordination with the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) and the Henry County Parks & Recreation (HCPR) would like to invite the community to attend a special event celebrating senior citizens at the Fieldale Trail on Saturday, October 24th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to team captain Paula Wyatt, “the group would like to give the senior citizens a chance to find out what all the talk is about on the Fieldale Trail.” The free event will include guided tours, live music, and informational booths on senior’s health and fitness. “This will be a time to show the community what these trails have to offer people,” said Wyatt.

Throughout the day a variety of informational booths will be set up to inform and educate seniors about fitness, health, and programs available to assist them in the Martinsville and Henry County area. Guests will also have a chance to enjoy live music and guided tours of the trail. Two sections of trail are offered: one is just under a mile long and the other is 1.5 miles long. Both sections are flat and easy to walk. For seniors that are unable to walk the trail, special tours on a golf cart will be provided so that they may too experience this great resource. It is important for the general public to know that motorized vehicles are not permitted on the Fieldale Trail; special permission was obtained from Henry County to use golf carts for this one-day event.

The “Friends of the Fieldale Trail” volunteer team began in May 2009 when DRBA and HCPR first partnered together to develop an Adopt-a-Trail Program. Since its inception there are now six teams with more than 40 members working to monitor trails along the Smith River Trail System in Martinsville and Henry County. Hosting events like the senior’s day, allows the volunteers to showcase the wonders found on their trails. Volunteers Charles and Pat Dameron feel that walking the Fieldale Trail is “a golden opportunity to see Mother Nature up close and personal right in our own backyard.”

The Fieldale Trail is located in Fieldale, Virginia on South River Road past the Lower Smith River Water Treatment Facility. It is open daily from dusk to dawn and admission is free. Ample parking, restroom, river access, and picnic tables are available for your convenience. The Fieldale Trail is funded in part by the Dominion Foundation and operated by Henry County Parks & Recreation. For more information on the event or to sign up for a tour, contact “Friends of the Fieldale Trail” by calling 276-647-3274 or 276-340-2234.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Held at Jamson Mill Park

Volunteers from the Henry County Bike Club, Southern Virginia Mountain Bike Association (SVMA) Danville, Franklin County Free Wheelers, and Friends of Philpott donated over 988 volunteer hours on the building of the trail. Pictured above: Linda Drage, Mary Lawson, Dave Wiseman, Harold Ellis, Jim Firth, Hazel Hale and Bobby Thompson.

The army of volunteers created a beautiful trail for mountain bikes and hiking. The work took a year and a half to complete. Linda Drage, President of Friends of Philpott stated “that sometimes the weather was at odds with the volunteers; as well as the contour of the land; where they had to deal with large rocks and steep terrain”. Back in 2007 Jamison Mill was slated to be closed. In time the trail will join other parks on the eastside of Philpott Lake creating approx. 10 miles of trail. Pictured above: Robb Herbst on the trail.

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held in honor of National Public Land Day which is the largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. In 2008, 120,000 volunteers built trails, removed trash and invasive plants and planted over 1.6 million trees. Pictured above: Dave Wiseman, Mary Lawson, Harold Ellis, Jim Firth, Linda Drage, Hazel Hale, Roy Hale and Bobby Thompson.

Food Lions from Bassett Forks and Stanley Town sponsored the event.

Contributed by: Linda Drage

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Held at Jamson Mill Park

Volunteers from the Henry County Bike Club, Southern Virginia Mountain Bike Association (SVMA) Danville, Franklin County Free Wheelers, and Friends of Philpott donated over 988 volunteer hours on the building of the trail. Pictured above: Linda Drage, Mary Lawson, Dave Wiseman, Harold Ellis, Jim Firth, Hazel Hale and Bobby Thompson.

The army of volunteers created a beautiful trail for mountain bikes and hiking. The work took a year and a half to complete. Linda Drage, President of Friends of Philpott stated “that sometimes the weather was at odds with the volunteers; as well as the contour of the land; where they had to deal with large rocks and steep terrain”. Back in 2007 Jamison Mill was slated to be closed. In time the trail will join other parks on the eastside of Philpott Lake creating approx. 10 miles of trail. Pictured above: Robb Herbst on the trail.

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held in honor of National Public Land Day which is the largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve and enhance the public lands Americans enjoy. In 2008, 120,000 volunteers built trails, removed trash and invasive plants and planted over 1.6 million trees. Pictured above: Dave Wiseman, Mary Lawson, Harold Ellis, Jim Firth, Linda Drage, Hazel Hale, Roy Hale and Bobby Thompson.

Food Lions from Bassett Forks and Stanley Town sponsored the event.

Contributed by: Linda Drage

Go Green with Martinsville Leisure Services

Making simple changes to your everyday life can have a positive effect on the environment.  Martinsville Leisure Services is offering two informative classes this fall to help you do just that!

Reduce the amount of waste that your household produces by learning to compost:
Composting 101
Learn about the process of composting and its benefits to your gardening. You’ll make a mini-compost to take home! All ages. Call 634-4185 to register. Deadline to register is Oct.5.
DATE/TIME: Oct. 17, Noon
LOCATION; J. Frank Wilson Park
FEE: $5

Help protect native plants and animals by learning to deal with invasive species:
Foreign Invaders
Invasive species are everywhere in Martinsville. Learn what invasive species are and how to control them in your back yard. This program is for any homeowner who has these invaders in their yards. Meet at the VMNH then we will walk to be Piedmont Art Natural History Garden.
DATE/TIME: Oct. 17, 10am-12
LOCATION: Distance Learning Classroom at VMNH
FEE: $5


Class information contributed by Gary Cody, Director- Martinsville Leisure Services

Go Green with Martinsville Leisure Services

Making simple changes to your everyday life can have a positive effect on the environment.  Martinsville Leisure Services is offering two informative classes this fall to help you do just that!

Reduce the amount of waste that your household produces by learning to compost:
Composting 101
Learn about the process of composting and its benefits to your gardening. You’ll make a mini-compost to take home! All ages. Call 634-4185 to register. Deadline to register is Oct.5.
DATE/TIME: Oct. 17, Noon
LOCATION; J. Frank Wilson Park
FEE: $5

Help protect native plants and animals by learning to deal with invasive species:
Foreign Invaders
Invasive species are everywhere in Martinsville. Learn what invasive species are and how to control them in your back yard. This program is for any homeowner who has these invaders in their yards. Meet at the VMNH then we will walk to be Piedmont Art Natural History Garden.
DATE/TIME: Oct. 17, 10am-12
LOCATION: Distance Learning Classroom at VMNH
FEE: $5


Class information contributed by Gary Cody, Director- Martinsville Leisure Services

Help Raise Awareness about Climate Change

Sure we all know that Halloween is just around the corner. But do you know what October 24th is?

It is the International Day for Climate Action. On that day, paddlers around the world will be gathering on local waterways and using their canoes, kayaks and rafts to spell out the number "350" on the water. This event is an effort to increase public awareness about the need to control climate-changing greenhouse gases, and to show support for effective climate change legislation.

Why the number "350?"  In 2008, NASA released studies that showed that if we let the amount of carbon in our atmosphere climb above 350ppm (parts per million), we will do serious damage to the planet. In its reports, NASA said that a planet with carbon in excess of 350ppm will not remain "similar to the one on which civilization developed and to which life on earth is adapted."

Unfortunately, we are currently at 386ppm, so we have already exceeded this limit. Strong citizen action is needed now to reverse this dangerous situation. Environmental activist and author Bill McKibben launched a website called www.350.org in response to the NASA reports, and his organization is organizing the International Day of Climate Action. The goal of this campaign is to push global leaders to reach an agreement at the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference this December that will reduce the level of carbon in the atmosphere to 350ppm.

Climate Action Day will feature events on land, on the water, and even in the air. As of today, there are 1784 actions scheduled in 141 countries.  Let's add to the count!

On October 24th, go outside and enjoy nature. Schedule a paddling day on your favorite lake or river, form your 350 and capture it with pictures or video. Your 350 can be any size,and your event will be a fun way to get friends and family out on the water. Whether your 350 is large or small, it will send a strong message that paddlers are concerned about climate change. This is not just limited to paddlers though, cyclists, hikers, geocachers, and walkers are also invited to participate. Every action will make a difference.

If you plan to participate, let us know and also go to the event registration page at http://www.350.org/ and register your Climate Action Day event. Please send your photos/videos to drba.va@danriver.org to show off your 350 and we'll post them here for all to see.

Info and photos contributed by the American Canoe Association.

Help Raise Awareness about Climate Change

Sure we all know that Halloween is just around the corner. But do you know what October 24th is?

It is the International Day for Climate Action. On that day, paddlers around the world will be gathering on local waterways and using their canoes, kayaks and rafts to spell out the number "350" on the water. This event is an effort to increase public awareness about the need to control climate-changing greenhouse gases, and to show support for effective climate change legislation.

Why the number "350?"  In 2008, NASA released studies that showed that if we let the amount of carbon in our atmosphere climb above 350ppm (parts per million), we will do serious damage to the planet. In its reports, NASA said that a planet with carbon in excess of 350ppm will not remain "similar to the one on which civilization developed and to which life on earth is adapted."

Unfortunately, we are currently at 386ppm, so we have already exceeded this limit. Strong citizen action is needed now to reverse this dangerous situation. Environmental activist and author Bill McKibben launched a website called www.350.org in response to the NASA reports, and his organization is organizing the International Day of Climate Action. The goal of this campaign is to push global leaders to reach an agreement at the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference this December that will reduce the level of carbon in the atmosphere to 350ppm.

Climate Action Day will feature events on land, on the water, and even in the air. As of today, there are 1784 actions scheduled in 141 countries.  Let's add to the count!

On October 24th, go outside and enjoy nature. Schedule a paddling day on your favorite lake or river, form your 350 and capture it with pictures or video. Your 350 can be any size,and your event will be a fun way to get friends and family out on the water. Whether your 350 is large or small, it will send a strong message that paddlers are concerned about climate change. This is not just limited to paddlers though, cyclists, hikers, geocachers, and walkers are also invited to participate. Every action will make a difference.

If you plan to participate, let us know and also go to the event registration page at http://www.350.org/ and register your Climate Action Day event. Please send your photos/videos to drba.va@danriver.org to show off your 350 and we'll post them here for all to see.

Info and photos contributed by the American Canoe Association.

Some More Beary Good Photos...

About an hour after the first reported sighting of a mother bear and three cubs in Fieldale yesterday (see previous posts), the family was spotted again in Stanleytown. The mother bear is seen at right peeking out over the hill side to make sure that it is safe for her babies.

When the coast is clear the mother leads her cubs across the field to where ever they are going. Perhaps they were off to the Smith River for some yummy trout and riverside berries!

 

Thanks to everyone who has been contributing these cool shots!

Some More Beary Good Photos...

About an hour after the first reported sighting of a mother bear and three cubs in Fieldale yesterday (see previous posts), the family was spotted again in Stanleytown. The mother bear is seen at right peeking out over the hill side to make sure that it is safe for her babies.

When the coast is clear the mother leads her cubs across the field to where ever they are going. Perhaps they were off to the Smith River for some yummy trout and riverside berries!

 

Thanks to everyone who has been contributing these cool shots!

Patrick County Farm Tour this weekend!

Patrick County Farm tour is this Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. This self-guided tour is a MUST addition to your fall excursions. You'll see historic farms, Christmas trees, wineries, fresh local produce, dairy cows, landscaping plants ... the list goes on. Patrick County has breathtaking scenery and friendly people. The tour is free and more information is at http://www.patrickcountyfarmtour.com/. See you out there!

Patrick County Farm Tour this weekend!

Patrick County Farm tour is this Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. This self-guided tour is a MUST addition to your fall excursions. You'll see historic farms, Christmas trees, wineries, fresh local produce, dairy cows, landscaping plants ... the list goes on. Patrick County has breathtaking scenery and friendly people. The tour is free and more information is at http://www.patrickcountyfarmtour.com/. See you out there!

Three-quarters of the way there!

Thanks to generous donors, we have now reached 75% of our fundraising goals for the Fieldale Iron Bridge Preservation Project!  More fundraising still needs to be done, as we will need $3,000 more to complete the project. It's not too late to purchase a plaque for yourself or a loved one to be placed on the bridge. Plaques start at just $100 and also include a memorial space on DRBA's website.

To purchase a plaque or for more information, contact DRBA at 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org. Here is a sample of some of the plaques and memorial spaces that have been purchased so far.

Donated by

The Family of Ashby Pritchett
Martinsville, Virginia

In Memory of

Grace, Fred & Carlos Flick
by Carl Flick

In Memory of
Cornel John & Clara Pruitt Kasey

by Kitty, Rita, and Naomi

In Memory of Chipper, our beagle
who loved to fish at the bridge.
by David & Debbie Sharp

In Memory of

John W. & Gladys Martin, 1919

by Bea Bullard & family

John & Gladys Martin moved to Fieldale in 1919 where John was one of the first employees to work in the weave room of Fieldcrest Cannon mills. They were the parents of Beatrice Bullard. Shown in the photo is her older brother Robert Randolph as an infant.

Three-quarters of the way there!

Thanks to generous donors, we have now reached 75% of our fundraising goals for the Fieldale Iron Bridge Preservation Project!  More fundraising still needs to be done, as we will need $3,000 more to complete the project. It's not too late to purchase a plaque for yourself or a loved one to be placed on the bridge. Plaques start at just $100 and also include a memorial space on DRBA's website.

To purchase a plaque or for more information, contact DRBA at 276-634-2545 or jdoss@danriver.org. Here is a sample of some of the plaques and memorial spaces that have been purchased so far.

Donated by

The Family of Ashby Pritchett
Martinsville, Virginia

In Memory of

Grace, Fred & Carlos Flick
by Carl Flick

In Memory of
Cornel John & Clara Pruitt Kasey

by Kitty, Rita, and Naomi

In Memory of Chipper, our beagle
who loved to fish at the bridge.
by David & Debbie Sharp

In Memory of

John W. & Gladys Martin, 1919

by Bea Bullard & family

John & Gladys Martin moved to Fieldale in 1919 where John was one of the first employees to work in the weave room of Fieldcrest Cannon mills. They were the parents of Beatrice Bullard. Shown in the photo is her older brother Robert Randolph as an infant.

A Beary Interesting Sight

Several residents of Henry County got a rare chance to see some of mother nature's amazing creature's today. A mother bear and three cubs made an appearance as they crossed highway 57 at the 220 bypass in Fieldale this morning.

According to the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries, "black bears are becoming an increasingly common sight in Virginia — bears now live in almost every county! We are fortunate to have a healthy and sustainable population of these animals in the Commonwealth. But even as our black bear population grows and expands, at the same time, residential areas are encroaching into the forested lands and habitats used by bears and other wildlife, thus increasing the chances for bear/human interaction or conflicts."

To learn more about black bears in Virginia, watch this informative video:
http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/video/living-with-black-bears/

A Beary Interesting Sight

Several residents of Henry County got a rare chance to see some of mother nature's amazing creature's today. A mother bear and three cubs made an appearance as they crossed highway 57 at the 220 bypass in Fieldale this morning.

According to the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries, "black bears are becoming an increasingly common sight in Virginia — bears now live in almost every county! We are fortunate to have a healthy and sustainable population of these animals in the Commonwealth. But even as our black bear population grows and expands, at the same time, residential areas are encroaching into the forested lands and habitats used by bears and other wildlife, thus increasing the chances for bear/human interaction or conflicts."

To learn more about black bears in Virginia, watch this informative video:
http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/video/living-with-black-bears/