Sturbridge Trails Committee

Meeting Minutes

Date: August 13, 2008

Location: East Brimfield Lake USACE Office

Attendees:  Tom Chamberland

Pat McGarrah

Randy Redetzke

·         Call to order 6:30 PM

·         Reviewed draft GTT Westville section project DCR grant request accounting as presented by TC.  TC indicated the USACE is solid on matching the indicated commitment. The dead line for the request is Oct 1, 2008. This needs to be presented to Jim Malloy and Greg Morse for their review and consideration.  PM to place numbers into a spread sheet to better provide for analysis and accounting.

·         Reviewed draft TEA grant release request of $44,000 for design funds as written by TC. Discussed the specifics of the Morse easement section. Concern with how Mass Hwy will look at the need for a raised walkway to traverse the wet land section. Tom indicated that some sections will require a sidewalk in lieu of a trail to make it easier to meet Mass Hwy requirements. TC suggested that we may want to consider re-routing the current Morse easement area request to make it more acceptable to Mr. Morse. This however may have opposition from Mass Heritage.

·         The Morse easement needs to be secured prior to any release of TEA funds.  PM is trying to setup a meeting with the Morse family.

·         TC suggested that a meeting be scheduled with Jim Malloy to review the status of the DCR grant request and the release of TEA grant funds.

·         Next Regional trail meeting is scheduled for Aug 25, 2008 at Westville USACE office.

·         Discussed possible projects for National Public Lands Day. Suggested items:

Heins property:

bench installation

root and rock removal on cabin loop trail

gravel to be spread

Camp Robinson Crusoe Area:

tree and brush removal along road from white gate

removal of invasive plants

·         TC & PM are meeting with TRHS instructors to review design requirements for Camp Robinson Crusoe bridges.

·         A $5000 grant has been applied for from the National Hiking Society for improvements at Camp Robinson Crusoe property.

·         Discussed applying for a grant from the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) and the prospective of teaming with them for mountain bike trail development on the Camp Robinson Crusoe property.

·         TC indicated that in walking the Camp Robinson Crusoe property, a rock face was identified that would be desirable for rock climber use. Discussed the desire to have a bridge for access to this area. Local Boy Scouts have interest in development of a merit badge associated with rock climbing and could lend assistance in development of the area.

·         Adjournment 8:40 PM