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  EXPLORE, ENJOY AND PROTECT THE PLANET
 
February/March 2006  

From the Outings Chair

Carol Vellutini
Redwood Chapter Outings Chair

Be safe out there!! With all the January rains and flooding, many trails were closed. Most will re-open but it is wise to call ahead if you are backpacking or hiking or leading an outing. With February and March being our typical rainy months, parks are going to be having some trails closed and in some instances bridges may be washed out. Silt is very slippery and some trails may not be cleared of it. There have already been accidents involving unsafe trail conditions. Always be on the watch for overhead limbs caught in trees. Any strong wind will bring them down. I noticed that Doug Firs are prone to this. Serpentine soils are particularly vulnerable. Slides are in many areas.

The Sonoma Group is offering a Beginning Backpack Workshop. For a small fee this is a way to learn some outdoor skills. The winter outings are still going strong. The Peter Grubb Hut trip was enjoyed by all who went. They fill up fast so sign up well in advance to avoid disappointment. Napa Group offers the Hutchinson Lodge trip.

Enjoy your winter. Please call your local parks and offer to help with trail repair.