Thanks for the GREAT show up to clear the trails 4-9-11

[Brad C]

Here is an update... I received this from Larry Smith...

I have it half done, the saw I have is plenty big for the job. I am
willing to meet someone or two out there to finish if they have
chainsaw too, in case mine gets pinched. I started to finish the job
but just didn't feel like getting crushed and mangled all alone. Let me
know and I can meet out there. Larry

If anyone wants to meet Larry to finish cutting the tree, let me know.

[dantheman]

Not me

[SteveK]

Thank Mr. Smith for his efforts but speaking for myself and I guess a few more I would rather leave the tree, use the two bypasses and let the "beavers" have the tree as a "play thing".

Just my 2 cents.

[dantheman]

Thank Mr. Smith for his efforts but speaking for myself and I guess a few more I would rather leave the tree, use the two bypasses and let the "beavers" have the tree as a "play thing".

Just my 2 cents.

Right?! Key word was 2bypassses.Makes no sense to have 3 lines of the exact same skill level in one spot. Mine as well have a play area since there is already a way to get around the fall. Mr. Smith's work ethics or greatly appreciated here, but I see no need to cut the tree. Even if nothing ever comes of it,its still an obstacle for someone like Busta or Kermit and maybe someday some of us upcoming riders!

Just my 2 cents too,though

[Brad C]

I have sent the following reply to Larry.
-------------------
Larry,

I posted your message on our forum. There are two comments at this writing. These comments go to the direction of leave it alone.

There are off road cyclists who desire having technically challenging obstacles on the trails. Many times these are made from fallen trees. This was one of the reasons we opened the bypass north of the fallen tree. The people desiring to add a technical feature to the trail could use the tree to create a skill challenge.

Creating a clear path around the obstacle area meets with IMBA guidelines for such situations. The trail users not desiring to attempt the technical challenge can use the route around the obstacle while those seeking a challenge can choose the more difficult route. It makes the trail more interesting to many people while keeping it open for all users.

While we were there Sunday a group of probably high school cross country runners came through twice. They seemed to enjoy leaping over the tree as they passed.

Brad

[dantheman]

=

[Mark T]

Or let's cut a knotch in the tree so we can make a legal, legit, safe roll over/bridge...

[Brad C]

I have not heard any more about "the tree" other than what is posted on this thread.

If it just left as is to be a naturally occurring technical obstacle, then no more needs to be done. It is a storm damage fallen tree. Nature put it there.

However, if some sort of construction is wanted we will need to run it past the park. I do not see an objection since we have already built an at grade bypass that allows free passage of any trail user who does not want to attempt the challenge obstacle. That falls well inside the IMBA guidelines on technical obstacles.

We just need to follow the recommended protocol on trail construction and technical obstacles.

[dantheman]

I'll build it,with the proper approval and notifications and all,just give me a bit to look at it and figure out what would be the best. Is there a section cut out of it already or does it just have a cutline in it?

[Brad C]

I don't know how much was cut. I have not seen the tree since Sunday about 11 ish. Survey it and report.

[rich_k]

I say leave the tree be. Dan, I want video when you jump it! It's gotta stay.

[OutCast]

we have already built an at grade bypass that allows free passage of any trail user who does not want to attempt the challenge obstacle.

That bypass is perfect. Kudos to those who made it.

[dantheman]

I say leave the tree be. Dan, I want video when you jump it! It's gotta stay.

Oh for sure!Thinking something like the one off the goat where you can roll it or try and jump it.Just hope its not cut all the way though yet. Then,if your headed towards G-town a little dirt berm would have to be made cause the trail kinda curves right past the tree to avoid the canopy.I'll make something cool for sure..maybe this weekend? Anyone wanna help? Brad,does this thing have to be built like the herbs bridges or just real sturdy like the other tree ramp? I hope only like the other tree ramp. If so, I'll get some 4x4's and some 2x4's and knock it out this weekend. I will make it right since there will be no denying that I built it.
Anyone that wants to help post up. Butch,your needed with that Bad A$$ tool collection!Maybe a few more. No need for more than around 5 people, more than that will just slow it down and end up fittle-fartin around! I can get some carts from the Agricenter to wheel it back there but some help could be needed to push it.Probably will be a good weekend for it if it rains Friday. Some other areas could use some attention on the goat. I looked at all those mud holes on the goat today and they look like a minor fix. Maybe just a trench line so the water can go down the side of the hill,then a few shovels of dirt would fix it right up. Now theres ugly wide spots around the mud when its a easy fix.

[miket55]

Many thanks for all of your hard work..Sorry I couldn't be around to lend a hand.

[Butch]

"Butch,your needed with that Bad A$$ tool collection!"

Name a time. I'd suggest we meet at the tree, take some measurements, sketch a quick plan, a materials list... Then head to the lumber yard then to the ag center for some quick prefab. Electricity is my friend Call me.