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In the last two weeks we have been reconnoitering some of the trails around Crozet we want to work on this spring. We explored the trail from The Meadows to Old Trail Drive and cleared some fallen trees, we've looked at where the new Western Park will connect with the Rowcross Trail, and we've removed fallen trees and done some pruning on the Creekside Trail. March has two big projects: construction of a stage and benches at Mint Springs Park, and expansion of the graveled surface of the Connector Trail between Eastern Avenue and Crozet Park.

Saturday Work Day at Mint Springs

Construction of small stage and benches in Mint Springs Park, continuing the project started last month. We need people able to use or willing to learn to use a selection of tools (drills, saws, levels, etc.) and people willing to fetch and carry. We will be using our power augur to dig holes for the bench supports.

Dress for the weather; work gloves and sturdy shoes recommended. Also bug spray, as ticks may be active in any season. Bring water. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Come when you can, leave when you must. If work continues through lunch time we’ll provide pizza!

Directions: Meet at 9 a.m. In Mint Springs Valley Park, proceed to the far side of the large parking lot. We will be working just to the right of the nearby kiosk, at the entrance to the Hollow Trail.

Monthly Meeting

Join us to plan our activities and priorities, and to find out more about trails in Crozet. Everyone is welcome! (We really mean that — come on out and have a drink and talk to us about trails.)

Our March meeting will be at Love2Eat Thai Restaurant, in the Harris Teeter shopping center. Meeting starts at 6:30, but feel free to come any time after 6 if you want to order food and enjoy some social time.

Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m.
Discover Lickinghole Basin: Guided Trail Walk

Approximately four mile walk (round trip) to introduce you to Lickinghole Basin, a hidden gem, which is known as a “hot spot” for birding in Albemarle County. This shallow reservoir, which was developed to protect the Rivanna River system from silt runoff, has become home to numerous water birds such as geese, ducks, and an occasional swan. There is a nesting pair of bald eagles on the basin, and occasionally redtail hawks and osprey can be seen. The trail also passes signs of beavers at work.

Meet at the kiosk in Claudius Crozet Park at the east end of the parking lot (near the baseball fields). Wear sturdy shoes and carry water. Hat, long pants, and insect repellent is recommended. Be prepared to walk on uneven ground, and to climb short, uneven steps. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

If you already know the trail it would be great to have you come out and help guide the group!

Check our Facebook page in case of rain. Cancellations, if necessary, will be posted one hour before scheduled start of walk.

Monday, March 30, 9 a.m.
(Supervise or) Spread Gravel on the Connector Trail

A group of 30 volunteers from Western Albemarle High School will be out on Monday morning (3/30) to improve the Connector trail from Eastern Avenue towards Crozet Park with an upgraded rock surface. We can use some adults to help with the project, and to move equipment around before and after. If you are able to carry a wheelbarrow or a bunch of shovels and rakes in your car/truck, meet at 8:30 a.m. at the CTC shed behind the Crozet Park Community Building (formerly called the Radio Building). If you don’t want to carry equipment, meet shortly before 9 a.m. on Eastern Ave. at the location of the pedestrian tunnel.

More About the Crozet Trails Crew

More about Crozet Trails, such as maps, current projects, and info about our annual 5K race, is available on our web site at CrozetTrailsCrew.org

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