With Forest Preserves of Cook County temporarily suspending volunteer activities, this shaped up to be our last restoration day for at least a month. Might as well make it a productive one.
We had two chainsaws and one brushcutter, and an eager group of volunteers wielding hand tools and dragging brush. We had just one brush pile, a big one reminiscent of our winter fires. Thanks to Ginger for participating in the "Bring a Friend" program, and for first-time Palos volunteer Mike who came with her. I should note that Mike has some skill with small gas engine devices, which helped with a balky brushcutter.
Sunday at Black Partridge canceled due to high winds.
Though the 20 ft. wind speed was barely within limits, Sunday was no day to be in a woodland. I walked for an hour later in the afternoon and saw numerous examples of the force of that wind (below). Steward John Marlin made a good call by canceling - live to play another day.
Suspension of volunteer group activities
Due to the sharp rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, Forest Preserves of Cook County is temporarily suspending all group volunteer activities, from November 16 - December 15. We will see, at that time, if the suspension will be lifted or extended.
We'll be back, rested and ready to roll, when we get the green light again.