Summer - and a New Privy - are Here!

We're building it ... are you coming? It struck me recently the number and variety of outings and events that our AMC Western MA Chapter committees have created, planned, and posted: bicycling, conservation, paddling, hiking, learning, creating ... so many opportunities and experiences to take advantage of! We're building it, and we hope you'll come! Just click here to see the array of activities you can participate in. And read on for some fascinating and fun Noble View history, as well as initiatives to enhance your beloved trails! See you outside! Diane Jones, Western MA Chapter Chair

Volunteers Build a New Privy on the New England National Scenic Trail

On a recent weekend, a group of volunteers built a moldering privy at the Richardson-Zlogar Cabin located on Section 17 of the NET in Northfield, replacing the old pit privy. This moldering privy is a more environmentally-friendly method for human waste than a typical pit privy since it is above ground and breaks down faster, resulting in less soil and water contamination. This privy is also handicapped accessible. The project was spearheaded by Mike Zlogar, a longtime NET adopter who is also a skilled carpenter, and who built the Richardson-Zlogar cabin. Helping Mike were his wife, Sue Zlogar, also a long-time NET trail adopter, and the Chapter's NET Chair, Kevin Peloski.The cabin sits atop a mountain with incredible views of Mt. Grace and Mt. Monadnock, so perhaps you'll want to come for a visit to check out the new privy and the views. If you're interested in getting involved in trail work, click here to learn more. We are always looking for volunteers!

The Army Moves In

The Chapter's website has a wonderful timeline of the history of the AMC, from its inception in 1876 to its most recent purchase in 2022, the 27,000 acre Pleasant River Headwaters Forest in Maine. Of special interest to us here in western Massachusetts is the purchase of the Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell in 1931. A recent addition to the timeline is a funny story about the Army arriving in 1943. Notes from a Chapter meeting in 1944 report that "a Signal Corps detachment camped at Noble View for the monumental rental fee of $1. Their framed canvas tents came in on a truck, and the boys were surprised when they permanently crippled the hilltop water system by driving their truck through the middle of it. All summer long the water system functioned at half capacity." Things went from bad to worse. Read the whole story from 1943 here.

Volunteer Vacancies in the Chapter

Our chapter runs on the enthusiasm and passion of its member volunteers. Volunteering for the AMC is a great way to meet people, learn more about recreating safely, give back to the community and have fun. We are actively seeking volunteers to serve on our Executive Committee, in roles such as Membership Coordinator, 20s/30s affinity group coordinator, Member at Large, and chapter Vice Chair. There are also many opportunities to do trail maintenance. Curious? Email us at info@amc-wma.org, or check out this link for more information. We'd love to have you join us!