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December 2014 – Boston Hill
A Town of Trails
Hiking Boston Hill in Silver City with Adrienne Booth.
by Linda Ferrara
To wind up the 2014 hiking articles, I was lucky enough to hike with Adrienne Booth, a vivacious woman who is involved with many organizations in Silver City including: Grant County Trails Group, Tamal Fiesta y Mas, SWNM Green Chamber of Commerce, and the Grant County branch of AAUW-Expanding Your Horizons. I felt an immediate connection with her since we both grew up in urban areas (she in Illinois and me just outside Newark, NJ) and at early ages found connections to the outdoors.
Her first outdoor experiences were exploring the urban neighborhoods and public parks around her childhood home on the South Side of Chicago. As she spent more and more time outside, she came to love nature, and when she visited a new place her first inquiry was about hiking in the vicinity. "Being outside was fun, inexpensive entertainment," she recalled. "In college, I didn't own a car, and I explored much of urban and rural New England on foot."
One of the many things that drew her to the Silver City area was the potential for hiking. She told me, "This is the best urban trail system I've seen, including places with highly praised greenways such as Austin, Texas, and Portland, Oregon. As a community, we need to appreciate and use this special opportunity."
Adrienne earned a degree in Visual and Environmental Studies from Harvard in 1980, and later did graduate work in geography and interpretive media. She has worked for educational publishers, coordinated manager training programs for Texas State Parks, and recently served as manager for the Gila Conservation Education Center here in Silver City. One of her current interests is with the Grant County Trails Group in our area. This group, along with many other organizations, helps create and promote a system of greenways in and near Silver City to provide local residents with places to enjoy nature and get exercise.
On many local trails you will get a flavor for the past and how Silver City developed into the unique place it is today. Maybe we should call this hike the "Health, History and Heritage Tour." When she hikes regularly, Adrienne finds that she feels better. By walking just half an hour daily, she has seen her bad cholesterol numbers go down and her lipid numbers get in check. Her glucose numbers have gotten under control, she sleeps better and doesn't crave junk food, her clothes fit better and the 56-year-old feels mentally sharper.
Both Adrienne and I want to encourage readers to get out and explore these trails. Instead of sitting and having coffee with a friend, why not get a to-go cup and walk one of the trails? Rather than playing video games, why not bring the kids to the trails and show them one of the many paths in the area? Are you thinking of a New Year's resolution for 2015? Consider making this yours: "I'm going to get out and hike all of these trails in 2015."
Here is a partial list of some the trails currently available right in the Silver City area: Boston Hill, Big Ditch Park, La Capilla Vista, San Vicente Creek, Big Tree Trail, Dragonfly Trail, Gomez Peak Trail System. You can get a more extensive list at here.
Name: Boston Hill
Distance: various
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Directions: There are several trailheads in the Boston Hill trail system. One entrance is at the top of Market Street, near Hwy. 180. The others are on Cheyenne Street (off Market), Spring Street (off Cooper) and Cooper Street (north of the cemetery).
Hike description: This is a pleasant, meandering trail system over the 550 acres of Boston Hill. You will enjoy long-range, panoramic views of the area, various mine evidence to explore, and wildlife and plants of the area. Since it is a series of three hills, there is some climbing. But it's still easy and doable for most people.
Notes: In 1879 a mining claim was made on the smallest of the hills by the "Boston Company." Within four years they had sold the mine, but the name remained. In 1999 the Town of Silver City purchased the property with intentions of preserving it as open space.
It is popular with locals because it allows dogs on leashes, is open to bicyclists and pedestrian traffic, and is close to town yet still provides the feel of nature. There are benches for resting and numbered trail junction signs. If you're going in hot weather, bring water and wear a hat. If you would like to have a map to take with you, you can get one at the Visitor's Center on Hudson Street, or online here.
Tell us about a particularly memorable hiking experience:
"In both 2013 and 2014, I worked with the Hispanic Access Foundation to bring about 30 urban kids from Catholic youth groups to experience the Gila River for the first time. We hiked near the Cliff Dwellings and in the Mogollon Box area.
"For many participants, it was a spiritual and life-changing experience. They turned off cell phones except to take photographs of the river to share with their friends, and they talked about wanting to come back on their own to explore the outdoors again. It was very rewarding for me to share my love of nature with them and to have them enjoy it and want to share it with others."
This is a reprint of an article that first appeared in the December 2014 issue of Desert Exposure.
November 2014 – Trail 96 near Lake Roberts
Hunting for Hiking Real Estate
Exploring Trail 96 near Lake Roberts with Robin Thomas.
Robin Thomas and her family have lived in the Mimbres Valley for over 17 years. Drawn here from Madison, Wisc., by her grandparents, she fits right in to the outdoor lifestyle — enjoying fishing, four-wheeling, camping, hiking, hunting, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. When I asked her why she loves the outdoors, she explained, "It's the best thing I've found for stress relief after a challenging day in real estate."
During this year, I've observed one thing about hiking with new people: We focus on different things when on a trail. Personally, I enjoy the awesome views; others are looking for birds, plants, photo opportunities, adventure or a challenge. When I hiked with Robin, I learned a lot about what a hunter is looking at and for.
When we got together, she apologized for being a few minutes late because she had to stop and wait for a flock of turkeys to move off the road. As I got in the car, she added, "Looks like it's going to be a good Thanksgiving!" As we hiked, she pointed out elk markings: scat, tree rubbings, tracks in the mud, and crushed grass under a tree. As we looked down into the canyon below, she pointed out a lush meadow: "That's an ideal place to see a herd of elk."
She was likewise knowledgeable about plants, showing me chamisa, tasting some wild oregano, and commenting that the wild pink cosmos were just past their bloom.
Name: Trail #96
Distance: various
Difficulty: moderate
Directions: The trailhead is located on Hwy. 35 approximately 1.5 miles south of Lake Roberts, between mile markers 21 and 22. On the north side of the highway, you will see a pull-off and a brown road marker that says, "4206S." On Hwy. 35, there is a brown "hiker" sign that indicates that this is Trail 96.
Hike description: The wooden entrance gate is where you'll begin this hike. It is a well-cairned hike that starts by walking through a chamisa field, enters the Gila Wilderness, then meanders along the canyon floor with stunning rim rock looming high above. The trail gradually heads up to the top of the ridge where you can look down at the red rock cliffs.
Notes: You may take this trail 10-plus miles to Hwy. 15 (near Clinton Anderson Lookout), so consider putting it into "two-heel drive," bring some nourishment and hike on! There are many photographic opportunities. You may want to bring binoculars to search the caves across the canyon. This is part of the Military Road, which I understand is an old Army double-track built in the late 19th century to supply military outposts on the Gila River.
Tell us about a particularly memorable hiking experience: "When I was 19-20 years old, we were backpacking in Rain Canyon, near Glenwood, off of Sacaton Road. The first incident was finding a bear trap in the river, which, luckily, no one tripped. The next morning, a lightning/rain storm came through. It was a pretty miserable, intense return hike out of the steep canyon, gear getting heavier and wetter by the minute. We finally made our way back to the car with much relief, until our dog started chasing cattle and couldn't be found for over an hour. It was just one of those memorable hikes that did not work out, so we re-grouped and headed to the White Mountains of Arizona for some trout fishing."
During our hike, Robin also shared some memories of her childhood: "I didn't officially hunt until around age 21. Dad gave me a 16-gauge shotgun to go on my first spring turkey hunt. When I was a young girl I would tag along with my father on his pheasant-hunting trips in Wisconsin. I suspect I was along to flush birds in the corn fields. Sometimes I would go with my grandmother rabbit hunting in the early 1970s when she lived in the desert near Alamogordo. Ranchers would kill too many coyotes, and then the rabbits would overrun the ranch and my grandfather's garden. We would go out at sunset in her VW Karmann Ghia with the top down, Grandpa driving and her sitting up on the back of the convertible. She was quite a shot with her 4-10 shotgun, especially when it came to rattlesnakes."
Robin is a Realtor with Prudential Real Estate and has an office in the Mimbres Valley between mile markers 3 and 4. I bet if you contacted her, she'd share some of her deep knowledge of the area and point you to some good trails.
I found her to be an excellent hiking partner. She described many different hikes along the Mimbres Valley that got my feet twitching with anticipation of good hikes to come. I hope that if I promise to put my best boot forward, she'll invite me to go with her again.
This is a reprint of the November 2014 article that was published in Desert Exposure.
October 2014 – Bill Evans Lake — Forest Road 4233E
Recipe for a Good Hike
Walking near Bill Evans Lake with chef Rob Connoley
I love to cook, I love to eat and I love to hike, so when I recently had the opportunity to forage with local chef and owner of The Curious Kumquat, Rob Connoley, I jumped at the chance. He says that hiking keeps him thin, but for him it's really all about his dog, Lexi (short for Miss Lexington Elizabeth Connoley). I got a good workout keeping up with his pace, and since he's 6'3″, it's quicker than most hikers.
As we walked along, he regularly stopped mid-sentence to point out a variety of plants: "Oh, good, the hackberries are out" and "I don't know if I'll get any oyster mushrooms this year" and "I got the mother lode of green walnuts over that way last week." At one point he pulled off a few mesquite pods and handed one to me: "Chew it, but don't swallow it." All I tasted was the woody outer pod. But then, as it softened, I tasted a pleasant, citrus flavor. He said, "I make syrups, breads and cakes with it," and moved on.
Connoley walks daily and forages, which he calls "grocery shopping," for home and restaurant. The plants, berries and seeds he gathers include mushrooms (he carries a mushroom field guide with him on all walks), mesquite, amaranth, poppy seeds, watercress, cattails and much more. When he opened the restaurant, he was interested in using local products as much as possible, which led him to learn about what was grown here in the past and what is currently available in the wild. He's been experimenting and pleasing palates ever since.
I spoke with the Gila National Forest office and they informed me that the only items you need a permit to forage are prickly pears and piñon nuts.
I also did some research and found out how Bill Evans Lake, where we went hiking, got its name. Evans was an attorney at Phelps Dodge in the 1960s who was instrumental in acquiring land/water rights for the company, which built the reservoir, diverted water from the Gila, and pumped the water more than 12 miles uphill to the Tyrone Mine operations site.
Name: Bill Evans Lake — Forest Road 4233E
Distance: Three-plus miles
Difficulty: Easy
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Hwy. 180 and Little Walnut Road in Silver City, drive west on Hwy. 180 for 26 miles. You will see a brown sign for Bill Evans Lake, just past mile marker 88. Turn left onto Bill Evans Lake Road. Drive 3.6 miles and bear right onto Newby Road. Drive 2.2 miles and after a turn around a bend/cliff, on the right you will see a small dirt road drop-off. A brown maker for Forest Road 4081Y is partly hidden in the brush on the right. Drive 0.4 miles to 4233E, staying left. Park at the end of the road, where you will see a green gate. There is a brown "walk-through" gate for easy access. Walk along this road/trail. You can't get lost if you keep the cliff on your left and the drop-off and river on your right on the way in.
Hike description: This is an easy, shaded walk along the Gila River with many photo opportunities. Expect to climb over a few downed trees. I suggest that you have the tall skinny guy lead so he can clear out any cobwebs. We saw a beautiful crane, a black hawk, bear scat and elk tracks along the way. At the 0.9-mile mark, go right (not up the hill to the left). It may appear to be blocked by a huge, downed tree, but look carefully and go through the hidden passage. After going through a few gates, you will come up out of the trees and walk along a dirt road. Stay right and you will soon come to a National Forest sign that says: "Gila River Bird Habitat Management Unit." Walk down the short path and enjoy a cove of trees and access to the river. You may turn back or continue on at this point.
Tell us about a particularly memorable hiking experience: "I'm the kind of person that likes to push my limits and one day I decided to take a long hike up past Moon Ranch. I was accustomed to mountain climbing at high altitudes, so my confidence was high that I could handle this sort of hike. We had walked off trail quite far, and I turned around to go back. After looking for the trail in a zigzag pattern for hours, the sun set and Lexi and I were forced to bed down for the night. I had a Bivy Sack with me just for this purpose. Lexi and I had a rough night of it listening to nearby wildlife and thinking about our predicament.
"In the morning, we continued our search for the trail. After seven hours of looking, I saw a water tower, which is located near the trail, in the distance. We bushwhacked towards it and in order to get to it, had to maneuver down a cliff and through some nasty growth. Relieved, we got back to the car and then back home. When I walked into the house, my partner looked at me stunned: 'What happened?!'
"I was confused at his response until he pulled me in front of a mirror and I saw that I was covered head to toe in blood. I had thousands of tiny cuts all over me which took weeks to heal."
Do you hike any differently because of that experience?
"Yes, two things changed after that. I use a GPS on long hikes and provide clearer communication as to where I am and when I'll be back."
Good advice, chef.
What's new at the restaurant?
Rob told me about his first cookbook, due out in late 2015. He's busy with design, photography, recipes and publishing houses. The cookbook will feature the restaurant's top recipes using modern preparations of foraged ingredients. Oh, Rob, please tell me that the recipe for the Oaxacan sandwich will be in there!
See a collection of Linda Ferrara's previous 100 Hikes columns
at www.desertexposure.com/100hikes.
September 2014 – Tadpole Ridge
Winging It – Hiking Tadpole Ridge with birder Brian Dolton.
This hike is for the birds!
Earlier this year I contacted the local Audubon Society about a hike related to birding. I was soon in touch with Brian Dolton, a 53-year-old Englishman who is the Field Trip Coordinator. He has been interested in birding since he was a wee lad growing up in an English village where he walked the moorlands. For the past five years he has lived just north of Silver City, where he and his wife, Robin, enjoy hiking and birding.
We first did a hike on Signal Peak just days before the Signal Peak fire and the trail that Brian had chosen turned out to be right in the fire's path. Our second outing was in early June when we drove up Hwy. 15. During these two hikes I learned a lot about birding. The first thing I learned was that I was calling it by a common misnomer: bird watching. The hobby is as much about listening and knowing locations as it is about watching, ergo: birding.
I was curious about why we were heading into the mountains, since I thought that the best place to find birds was near water. Brian explained (using that delightful accent), "Of course water is a good place to find birds, but the beauty of the mountains is it gives one the opportunity to gain altitude. You see, this is an excellent chance to view birds that spend much of their time atop trees."
Brian showed me a new addition to his birding gear: an iPad with an app that is an encyclopedia of birds that actually has bird songs and calls so you can instantly verify what you are hearing, and verify sightings using photographs and much more.
Name: Tadpole Ridge
Distance: Variable
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Hwy. 15 and 32nd Street in Silver City, drive north on Hwy. 15 for 13.7 miles to the turn-off for Meadow Creek. Park here and walk across Hwy. 15 and walk up the dirt road you see there.Hike Description: This is an upward trek towards Scott Peak and beyond. You will travel through pine forests and open areas with loose rocks. At the 0.27-mile mark, you will see a cairn on the left. This is the trail that goes down to the Signal Peak parking area on Hwy. 15 (right near the cattle guard). Continue ahead uphill through the trees. At about the 0.57-mile mark, you will start seeing views of Scott's Peak. Look back at Signal Peak behind you and view parts of the May 2014 fire area.
If you go far enough, you will observe maple trees and even farther up is a stock pond. This hike is a good one for observing succession vegetation from old fires (the aspens, ferns and oaks are all examples), as they are visible on many of the mountains around you, both nearby and far in the distance. When ready, return the way you came.
Notes: Along the way, we identified several bird species including: five turkey vultures, a broad-tailed hummingbird, a northern flicker, a western wood-pewee and an American robin. I was first to see an olive-sided flycatcher, to which Brian exclaimed, "Well spotted, well done!" It was a great introductory hike for a person new to birding. Now when I go on a hike, I am much more aware of the sounds of the birds and I thank Brian for that.
Can you give us a "Beginner's Guide to Birding"?
- Your best chance of viewing the most birds is early morning.
- A set of decent binoculars is a must.
- Get a pocket-sized bird identification book. (Brian recommends The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America by David Sibley.)
- Get a bird checklist (available for purchase through the SWNM Audubon Society).
- Attend Audubon field trips.
- Join the Audubon Society (either national or local chapter)
Tell us more about the Southwestern New Mexico Audubon Society:
Check out their website at www.swnmaudubon.org, or contact president Nancy Kaminski at firstname.lastname@example.com, or membership coordinator Terry Timme at firstname.lastname@example.com, (575) 534-0457. The group has field trips, usually on the first Saturday of the month, a presentation meeting on the first Friday of the month at WNMU's Harlan Hall (12th and Alabama Streets) at 7 p.m., and a "Birds and Brews" event on the fourth Thursday of the month at Little Toad Creek, Bullard and Broadway in Silver City, at 5:15 p.m. Details on the field trips and meetings are in The Ravens newsletter published five times a year. It is available on the website or various locations around town. Annual membership is $15. You do not need to be a member to attend any of these events.
In closing, I found Brian to be a first-rate hiking partner because he was knowledgeable not only about birds but about all things fauna and flora. It occurred to me that he would be equally comfortable in a science lab as he would be in a computer lab.
Please tell me I didn't say "Bloody good show, mate!" to him when we parted ways!
To read more about Linda Ferrara's 100-hike challenge, check out her blog at 100hikesinayear.wordpress.com.
See a collection of Linda Ferrara's previous 100 Hikes columns
at www.desertexposure.com/100hikes.
August 2014 – Sacaton Creek
Up a Creek
Hiking with Nancy and Ralph Gordon along Sacaton Creek.
I've known Nancy Gordon since I moved here 14 years ago, but neither of us can remember when we met. It's one of those small-town relationships where you know common acquaintances, have attended common events, and have just drifted into knowing each other. I recall passing her and husband Ralph during my 100 hikes. It was hike number 98 and we were climbing the back side of Tadpole Ridge, and Nancy and Ralph were coming down the trail. We stopped briefly and talked and then continued on. So when I saw Nancy at the post office recently, I asked if she would be one of my victims — er, subjects.
The Gordons have lived in Silver City for 22 years. Ralph has a master's degree in teaching and most recently taught in Lordsburg before retiring. Nancy, who calls herself a professional job hopper, has a master's degree in civil engineering/hydrology. They've been trekking together since their second date 40 years ago (don't you just love it?). Their list of hikes is long and includes climbing Wheeler Peak (highest peak in New Mexico, coming in at 13,159), ascending Mount Whitney in California (at 14,505, it's the tallest mountain in the contiguous 48), and hiking in the Grand Canyon and in Big Bend National Park in Texas. They've even backpacked in Australia and through Abel Tasman National Park in New Zealand (after researching this one, I've concluded that the Gordons have hiked in paradise!).
They are intimately knowledgeable about trails in this area, and so when they agreed to share one of their favorites, I was one happy hiker.
Name: Sacaton Creek
Distance: 4.0 miles, round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Hwy. 180 and Little Walnut Road in Silver City, drive west on Hwy. 180 for 43.6 miles. On the right, you will see the Moon Ranch sign. Turn into Moon Ranch (it's a county maintained road). You will see a sign that says, "Sacaton 10–729." Stay right at the fork (the left is "729a"). At the 5.8-mile mark, there is a four-way intersection. Stay straight. Drive 2.3 miles to the trailhead.
Hike Description: This is a shaded walk along Sacaton Creek. Enjoy walking through the trees, stop to listen to the birds and look at the wildflowers and check out the old cabin. There are some short uphill climbs, a few downed trees and boulder fields to negotiate, and places to test your trail-finding skills — but other than that, it's easy going. At mile two you will find large boulders and a good place to lunch next to the creek. Explore the caves in the area. On the way back, see if you can locate the mine.
Notes: As you traverse the creek, you will see evidence of the 2012 Whitewater-Baldy fire. When we went in late June, there was little water and the creek was easy to cross. If the water is flowing when you go, be careful with the crossings. I recommend you bring and use bug repellent. I also suggest you be careful where you step as there is lots of poison ivy (see photo).
I did some research on the name Sacaton. It turns out it comes from the New Mexican Spanish word zacaton, which means fodder grass. Guess who found a book called The Place Names of New Mexico by Robert Julyan at the library? Stay tuned to this column for more fascinating bits about our area.
Describe something unusual that happened on a hike: Ralph and Nancy have had close encounters with black bears on the trail, and both have accidentally stepped on rattlesnakes. Fortunately, all went their separate ways without tribulation.
Tell us what you are doing in retirement: Ralph has been playing golf and battling the bugs, birds, rabbits and deer to supply the neighborhood with vegetables. Both he and Nancy have been restoring the historic Silver City Waterworks on Little Walnut Road for the past four years. Rehabilitating it has turned into a community-wide project, bringing together non-profits, local businesses, more than 100 volunteers, youth conservation groups, town staff, and state and federal agencies. As you can imagine, it has kept Nancy busy applying for grants, organizing volunteers, and learning about historic preservation. Since starting to work on it in 2010, much has been accomplished including: the one-story roof was replaced, the historic front porch reconstructed, and the exterior stone masonry was repointed using lime mortar. The Wellness Coalition's Youth Volunteer Corps and Aldo Leopold High School's Youth Conservation Corps have done several landscaping projects and painted the "faux" doors and windows.
For more information about the project, check out the the feature article that appeared in Desert Exposure in January 2011 and Google "Silver City Waterworks."
This article was originally published in Augist 2014 issue of Desert Exposure.
July 2014 – Cherry Creek
Kids' Stuff
A Cherry Creek hike even a 10-year-old can love.
by Linda Ferrara
Short and sweet — wait, is that describing the hiker or the hike?
Haylee Kelley is a 10-year-old Girl Scout I met about a year ago. She is of slight build and is sweet, inquisitive, smart and wonderful and will be in the fifth grade come August. She has lived in Silver City for most of her life and enjoys playing right and center field in softball, fishing, golfing, shooting, and playing on her tablet.
After I assured her that even if we saw a snake, the chances of us being hurt by one were slim, we went on a hike up Hwy. 15, north of town. It was a warm summer day and we talked about everything from wanting Barbie's RV to whether we wanted to live forever or not. After much discussion we decided that we wouldn't mind living forever as long as we could be healthy and active. We checked out a variety of flowers, leaves, bugs, and a horny toad that Haylee had no problem picking up. She even taught me a new word when she described fresh strawberries: "They're amazalicious!"
Here's a description on the hike we went on:
Name: Cherry Creek
Distance: 1.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Hwy. 15 (Pinos Altos Road) and 32nd Street, travel 10 miles up Hwy. 15. Park in the small pull-off on the right. Walk to the other side of the road and back up the road where you just came from. You will soon see a trail that goes into the woods. Follow this trail as it meanders along Cherry Creek.
Hike Description: This is an easy, shady hike for a warm summer day. It is mostly flat with a few small hills to climb, sheer rock surfaces that are easily traversed and several downed trees to negotiate. Be sure to look up through the trees and enjoy the interesting rock formations high above. Along the way, you will encounter small ponds and waterfalls. At the 0.7-mile marker you may even be tempted to climb and explore some of the boulders. At the 0.8-mile mark, the trail ends (or at least I can't find the way through). When you get towards the end, the trail forks and is occasionally hidden. After a little searching, you'll find your way. (Remember, you're walking along a creek with steep walls — just keep near the stream and you'll be fine.) If you go during monsoon season, please be careful as there are many creek crossings.
Would you recommend this hike to other kids? Haylee answered slowly, "Well… yeah, it's a lot more fun than playing video games!"
Columnist's Note: I originally had another hike planned for this month's column. On May 6, 2014, I hiked on the CD Trail off of Signal Peak with a member of the local Audubon Society who taught me a lot about birding in the area. I eagerly went home and wrote up a delightfully interesting article about my experience. Five days later, the very trail we were on was engulfed in the Signal Fire that burned 5,485 acres in the Gila. I felt sick thinking of the forest I love so much burning. I'd spotted a western tanager (a beautiful yellow and red bird) on our hike, and when the fire was raging I kept wondering where that bird ended up (sigh).
I will write a new article in the future about hikes for birders, but in the meantime I thought this might be a good time to share a few resources regarding fires. You can follow Gila National Forest fire incidents at: inciweb.nwcg.gov/unit/3178.
There was a Facebook page set up that shared information and photos of the Signal Peak fire: www.facebook.com/SignalFireNM. So if there's another fire, you might search on Facebook to see if they have a page for information.
If you're interested in learning more about fire management, I suggest you read "Fire Season: Field Notes from a Wilderness Lookout" by Philip Connors. It discusses his experiences as a fire lookout in the Gila National Forest. If you're a nature lover, this book will remind you of why you are. It explains a lot about the life of the forest and the cycles it goes through. The Silver City Museum has copies for sale, and the Public Library of Silver City has a few copies to borrow.
This was first published in Desert Exposure – July 2014
See a collection of Linda Ferrara's previous 100 Hikes columns
at www.desertexposure.com/100hikes.
June 2014 – Mogollon Box Loop Hike
In the Loop
Hiking a loop around the Mogollon Box with Kathy Whiteman,
director of WNMU's Outdoor Program.
Kathy Whiteman, director of WNMU's Outdoor Program, has lived in rural settings for most of her life. She was raised in northwest Pennsylvania, has spent time in Washington State, and made it to New Mexico in the mid-1990s. Her credentials include a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Edinboro University, a Bachelor of Science (botany) from Western New Mexico University, and a Master's and PhD in Biology (plant ecology) from New Mexico State University.
She is exceedingly knowledgeable about the plants, animals and terrain of our wilderness backyard, which made her an excellent hiking partner. She has traveled throughout the Gila on foot and mule for almost two decades. Clearly, she is especially competent to run the Outdoor Program for WNMU.
You can tell she has hiked with inexperienced hikers before. She reminded me to bring a snack, water, river shoes and a hat. She also sent me a link to a Google map that showed where we were going. This is my kind of hiker!
Name: Mogollon Box Loop Hike
Distance: 4.25 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Directions: Starting at the intersection of Hwy. 180 and Little Walnut Road in Silver City, drive 28 miles to mile marker 84. Make a right onto S211 and drive 1 mile to a fork in the road. Stay to the left and drive 6.9 miles to trailhead. Park in the Mogollon Box campground.
Hike description: Keep in mind that the flood we had last fall re-structured parts of the river so that some of the trails/markers are not immediately obvious. Go around the brown gate and walk on the road. Just before the green gate (a minute or two of walking), on the right, you will see a brown Gila National Forest trailhead marker. Take this trail through the trees and after one or two minutes, look for a trail on your left. Now trek through a dry river bed until you pick up the trail again (as of May 1, there were blue tape markers hanging in the trees showing the way). You will soon see the trail. Take it to your first river crossing. You will see the trail on the other side of the water.
This is a loop trail that crosses the Gila River five times and works its way over a mountain. You will pass the Gila USGS gauging station along the way. Walk past the gauge equipment and follow the two-track road back to the car.
We saw six desert bighorn sheep along the way, a gopher snake, and a hiking fool who fell in the water twice (it's not necessary to name names).
Notes: If the river is flowing when you cross, be careful. The rocks under the water are slippery and the water is flowing faster than you think!
If you prefer an easier, drier hike, at the green gate, keep heading northwest on the two-track road and follow it all the way to the gauging station. Return the way you came. No river crossings for this modified hike, but take plenty of water with you, as there is very little shade.
Tell me about a particularly memorable hiking experience: As I click my camera overlooking the Gila River, Kathy shares a story. "Not surprisingly, one of the stupidest things I've ever done involved alcohol. I was in my 20s and spending a lot of time backpacking in the Gila. One afternoon a friend of mine dropped me and another friend off at a trailhead. The two of us hikers had been drinking and were pretty toasted when we started down the trail. We had very heavy packs and were planning to make it to a base camp we'd set up 12 miles away.
"We were having a great time, drunk as skunks, when it started to snow. It was one of those big snows with heavy wet flakes that stick. It was beautiful and we were like kids, throwing snowballs and me, making snow angels. Before long, I was soaking wet and cold; I wasn't dressed for the snow.
"Not surprisingly, by the time it started getting dark, we were a long way from our intended camp spot. We had enough sense to make camp before the light was completely gone, but our hands were so cold that we couldn't light a match or use a lighter. We had trouble putting up the tent. We only had one sleeping bag.
"When I look back on this experience, I realize how lucky I was, and how embarrassingly stupid. The Gila's 'gentle seasons' can be unforgiving; nature is not sympathetic to human ignorance. Getting sloppy drunk out in the wilderness is about as dumb as it gets. Thankfully, I learned from this experience."
What is the WNMU Outdoor Program all about? "The Outdoor Program (OP) allows students of WNMU to take classes for academic credit. Classes include Outdoor Leadership, Foundations in Experiential and Adventure Education, Introduction to Rock Climbing, Introduction to Backpacking, SCUBA, Fundamentals of Search and Rescue, Mountain Biking and more. This fall the OP is teaming with the Art Department to offer a wilderness photography course. Participants will learn photography and practice skills on a four-day horse-packing trip to photograph elk. The university Outpost has gear for rent to students and the public as well as maps and other information.
"Students (and WILL members) may also attend trips (not for credit) that the outdoor program leads. Previous trips have included: Carlsbad Caverns, scuba diving, skiing/snowboarding, White Sands National Monument, whitewater rafting, and wilderness horseback riding."
Want to know more about WNMU's Outdoor Program? Check out their website: www.wnmuoutdoors.org.
To read more about Linda Ferrara's 100-hike challenge, check out her blog at 100hikesinayear.wordpress.com.
See a collection of Linda Ferrara's previous 100 Hikes columns
at www.desertexposure.com/100hikes.
May 2014 – Saddlerock Canyon area
Trooping Along
Tackling Saddlerock Canyon with Boy Scout Troop 930.
You don't need a professional trainer to get good aerobic exercise — just hike with six members of local Boy Scout Troop 930 out in the Saddlerock Canyon area. Recently, on a sunny Saturday morning, I got such a workout. The group included: Kagen Richey, birthday boy Will Kammerer, Steven Cross, Richard Gallegos, Oscar Lopez, Aaron Lopez and Scout Leaders Ryan Cross, Brian Richey and Jamie Lopez, along with a golden retriever named Lego. These "Boy Scout Tenderfoots" were filling a requirement of a one-mile hike for both their Second and First Class awards. The leaders let the boys choose the trail and had them lead the way. With unending energy, they treated every rock outcropping like nature's jungle gym.
Throughout the morning hike they told me about many Boy Scout activities. Their favorites include cleaning the Big Ditch, camping in Meadow Creek, and spending a week at Camp Wehinahpay near Cloudcroft. At the camp, they can earn badges by learning such things as leatherworking, basket weaving, wood carving, knot tying, Indian lore, compass and map reading, swimming, fishing, rifle, shotgun, first aid, climbing, environmental science and fire building.
They have also assisted the Forest Service with erosion issues by playing a game called "Gold Rush": The boys are divided into two teams (Prospectors and Indians) and they have to move rocks from one spot to the erosion area; whoever gets the most rocks over to the erosion area wins. Their most recent such project was last year at the base of Signal Peak.
During our hike, they scampered up a steep incline in moments, while I huffed and puffed, stumbled and fell, sweated and clawed my way to the top (all worth it, my friends, all worth it). I'm proud to say I came home dirtier than on any other hike. I admit I was the last one up to the top; I was not going to be the last one down. How did I accomplish that? I pointed my finger at the troop and told them, "No one goes ahead of me!" Call it "grandma intimidation" if you must; it worked.
Name: Off Trail in Saddlerock Canyon
Distance: Various
Difficulty: 20% hard, 60% moderate, 20% easy
Directions: From the intersection of Hwy. 180 and Hwy. 90 in Silver City, take Hwy. 180 west 12.9 miles to Saddlerock Canyon Road (on the south side of the highway). This road is close to mile marker 100 and is right after Mangus Valley Road. Make a left on Saddlerock Canyon Road. Travel on this dirt road for 1.3 miles, which is where the Gila National Forest sign will be. Soon after the sign, the dirt road divides. Stay to the right. This is Forest Road 810. You know you are correct if you see cattle corrals on your left (a few minutes up the road). At the 2.4-mile mark, park. You are now at the base of Saddle Rock. It is on your left as you look up the road. For this off-trail hike, you are going to head up the short dirt road to the right. There are many other hiking opportunities here, of varying levels of difficulty.
Hike Description: After a short walk up the dirt road, you'll see a campground. Continue walking up the gap (no trail here) in front of you. It soon becomes very narrow with thick brush. Make your way to the left up the very steep side of the hill. Climb to the top. If you're 12 years old, this will take moments. If your knees are 53 years old, this will take 20 minutes. Once you get to the top, you will enjoy 360-degree views. Continue upward along the ridge and enjoy the many interesting rock formations and views. Spend some time exploring the rocks. Go as long as you dare and then head down the hill to the base of Saddlerock Canyon. Walk along the road back to your vehicle.
After the hike, I asked the boys what they carried in their packs. I got a long list: water, knife and knife sharpener, poncho, snack, first aid kit, cell phone, lighter or matches, and flashlight.
Several also gave me words of advice for my readers: "Think before you do." "Stay together."
Interested in learning more about becoming a Boy Scout? Troop Leader Ryan Cross encourages any boy between the ages of 11 and 18 to contact him if they are interested in joining the Boy Scouts. Call him at (575) 538-1694.
"Before joining, you can come and see if you think it's fun and something you'd like to do," adds scout Will Kammerer.
The reveal of what the "Flying Saucer" from my April 2014 column really is: Russell Ward of the Gila National Forest explains, "The fiberglass dome is actually a water collection and disbursement device called a 'Wildlife Guzzler' [picturd below left]. Many were installed in the late 1980s and early 1990s in the Gila National Forest, mostly in remote areas that are extremely dry. Rain or snow hits the fiberglass top and runs down the sides and collects in a tank under the dome. Water is then disbursed to the trough on the side where animals may drink."
April 2014 – Flying Saucer Hike
Are you coming here to record your guess? Put it in a 'comment' attached to this post. And thanks for stopping by!
Susan and Tom Lynch
My first impression when I met Susan and Tom Lynch was that here are two happy, in love people. They live south of town where they grow much of their own vegetables, raise chickens and enjoy retirement. They are creative people who hand painted their walking sticks and knitted their own warm, wool hats. When not busy in the garden, you might find them playing pool at the Senior Center or hiking on Boston Hill with their dog, Gus.
They also hike often in the Burro Mountains south of Silver City and since it's one of the areas I want to learn more about, I was eager to get in touch with them through mutual friends. When I asked about one of their favorite trails, they offered this option if I agreed to keep the trail's namesake a mystery and encourage hikers to get out and discover what it is for themselves.
Intrigued enough to go for this hike yet? Read on………
Describe one of your favorite hikes that you'd like to share with the readers:
Name: Flying Saucer Trail, Burro Mountains
Distance: 2+ miles round trip
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Directions: Starting at the corner of Broadway and Highway 90 (a.k.a. Hudson St.), take Highway 90 south 11.3 miles to Tyrone Thompson Road (if you pass MM 30, you passed it). Make right on to Tyrone Thompson Road and drive 7.6 miles. On the left you will see a Forest Road sign for Forest Road 4090C. Pull into parking area on left.
Hike Description: Take Forest Road 4090C for 1 mile to see the Flying Saucer. Please note that at the .66 mile mark, there is a road to the left labeled FR4248Y. Stay to the right for this hike and shortly pass by a green wildlife water tank. From there the road veers to the left and uphill. At the .96 mark there is a bifurcation (okay, I'm showing off the new word Tom taught me, it's a fork in the road). Stay to the right here also. Soon afterwards you will see the "Flying Saucer" on your right.
The trail is a shaded, mildly sloping walk on a dirt road through pine trees and other low brush. You will enjoy glimpses of long range views and interesting rock formations along the way.
Notes: If you would like to take a longer hike, there are several side trails to explore, or you can continue past the 'Saucer" and hike further up the hill.
What piece of equipment can you not hike without? Tom explains, "Our 2 year old dog, a Coonhound / Catahoula mix named 'Gus' always wears a "Sport Dog" brand GPS Tracking System when we are out in the woods. It consists of a handheld wireless device that allows us to see where and how far he is from us, and a collar unit that is waterproof. It has a range of up to 7 miles, has rechargeable batteries and a variety of stimulation levels and types for training. We like it for our piece of mind. If he gets too far away, we can call him back verbally or with a tone transmitted through the system. We can see if he is stationary which would indicate he may be in trouble and we can get to him to help, like the time he got tangled up in some fencing."
I did some investigation into this product and find that there are numerous brands, options and price points for these. It can be as simple as a beeper system (price around $100.) to a deluxe system with beacon lights, expansion packages for multiple dogs, waypoint storage capabilities and more for $400-500. There are smart phone apps also available. These units are used for training a dog, tracking a dog and hunting with a dog.
Want to know what the Flying Saucer actually is? Come to: http://100hikesinayear.wordpress.com/ on May 1, 2014 to find out. It will also be printed in the May 2014 "Desert Exposure" at the end of my 100 Hikes article.
The reveal of what the "Flying Saucer" from my April 2014 column really is: Russell Ward of the Gila National Forest explains, "The fiberglass dome is actually a water collection and disbursement device called a 'Wildlife Guzzler' [picturd below left]. Many were installed in the late 1980s and early 1990s in the Gila National Forest, mostly in remote areas that are extremely dry. Rain or snow hits the fiberglass top and runs down the sides and collects in a tank under the dome. Water is then disbursed to the trough on the side where animals may drink."
March 2014 – Table Mountain Trail – City of Rocks
Now don't be jealous, fellow trekkers, but this lucky hiker got to spend a sunny winter day with Marc Levesque hiking a stellar trail, hearing stories about adventures in Maine, New Hampshire and Antarctica, and listening to firsthand accounts of local area search and rescue missions.
Marc and his wife, Susan Porter, have been exploring the trails in this area since they moved here in 2005, and have been avid hikers for over 40 years, mostly in the mountains of northern New England. Marc was a member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, where he was involved in winter ascents, rock climbing, leading hikes and directing the AMC Mountain Leadership School in 1979-1980. Here in Silver City, he is a battalion chief with the Pinos Altos Volunteer Fire Rescue, teaches "Fundamentals of Search and Rescue" at WNMU's Outdoor Program, and is president of Grant County Search and Rescue. Was I a little intimidated hiking with the president of Search and Rescue? Sure was. Did I have a ball hiking with him? You bet I did!
He suggested we hike a newly created trail that he described as "a gem."
Name: Table Mountain Trail, City of Rocks State Park
Distance: 2.0-6.0 miles
Difficulty: 70% easy, 20% medium, 10% difficult
Directions: Starting from the intersection of 32nd Street By-Pass and Hwy. 180 in Silver City, drive 24.8 miles southeast on Hwy. 180 until you reach Hwy. 61. Turn left onto Hwy. 61 and drive 3.0 miles to the entrance of City of Rocks State Park.
Hike description: I suggest you stop into the Visitors' Center and check out the history and geology of this wonderful park. Be sure to chat with park volunteers, who are extremely knowledgeable, helpful and pleasant. They have a map of the park that will assist you. Here is more info about the park for those of you who want to do some homework before you go: www.emnrd.state.nm.us/SPD/cityofrocksstatepark.html.
For a shorter hike, park in the northeast corner of the park near the Pegasus Campground. Walk 0.22 miles on the trail that heads east. Turn right (south) onto Hydra Trail and then turn left (east) onto the trail that takes you up to Table Top Mountain.
For a longer hike, park at the Visitors' Center Parking lot and take the Hydra Walking Trail for 1.0 mile. Turn right (east) onto the trail that heads up to Table Top Mountain.
When you go through the gate, the trail starts the ascent uphill toward the first bench of the mountain. It gets steeper still until you finally reach the top. Look down and see the 557 feet you just climbed. Now walk around the mesa top, have fun boulder jumping, and enjoy the scenery. Return the way you came.
Notes: This is a newer trail that volunteer Tim Davis has been working on for the past few years. We met Tim on the trail; perhaps you will, too! City of Rocks State Park requires an entrance fee of $5 per car. Gates are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Why not bring a lunch and spend the day? Enjoy this trail in the morning, check out the rocks in the early afternoon, and then head over to Faywood Hot Springs for a soak to end the day just right! Or bring camping gear and explore for several days.
Tell us about a particularly memorable hiking experience:
"I was 34 years old and had just returned from a contract job at South Pole Station in Antarctica, where we had set a temperature record during the year I was there of minus-117 degrees," says Levesque. "I had lost 22 pounds during that time and had virtually no body fat. Upon returning, I decided to get out and enjoy the White Mountains of New Hampshire on a solo day hike in 20-degree February weather. My body had not adjusted to the loss of body fat, and when I reached a spot just below the summit, I realized I was deeply shivering. I knew this was the first stage of hypothermia and probably should have turned back. But sometimes one's testosterone level exceeds one's intelligence quotient, so I just stopped, ate something, put on all the clothes I had with me, and continued on towards the summit.
"It all turned out okay, but between the clouds, the wind, the deep snow and the temperature, I could have easily found myself in serious trouble." The rescuer in him comes out as he adds, "It's really not a great idea to hike alone in such winter conditions."
In closing, Levesque has a final comment: "Always let someone know where you're going on a hike. It will make it much easier for us to find you if you get lost or injured."
For more information about Grant County Search and Rescue, go to: gcsar-nm.org.
This is a repost of an article that originally appeared in Desert Exposure.
Check them out at: http://www.desertexposure.com/100hikes/


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IronMan - Page 2
'Man of Steel' Is The Planned First Step Toward A Broader DC Movie Universe
Though the Christopher Nolan Batman movies were "deliberately and smartly positioned as a stand-alone," DC's new Superman movie, Man of Steel, is meant to open up a wide DC movie universe similar to the one Marvel started with Iron Man, Jeff Robinov, president of Warner Bros. Pictures Group, told Entertainment Week
Link Ink: '300: Rise of an Empire' Stills, Andy Richter Walks Dead And 'Iron Man IV'
Movies: The first stills from Zack Snyder's 300: Rise of an Empire are... shiny and full of ab.
Gaming: Though Iron Man 3 probably won't be getting a current generation console tie-in video game, a new Grand Theft Auto IV Liberty City mod dubbed "Iron Man IV" may help tide over fans.
Video: Andy Richter dons full The Walking Dead zombie make
Hot Toys Releases 'Iron Man 3′ 1/6 Scale Mark XLII Figure Images
Hot Toys' new diecast take on its 1/6 scale Iron Man 3 Movie Masterpiece Series has finally caught up with Tony Stark's new Mark XLII suit. Just as in the IM3 trailers, however, the metal and plastic rendition of the new suit is set to get trashed something fierce, with swappable battle-damaged pieces aplenty - including an unmask
Link Ink: Animated 'Flashpoint,' Stumptown Posters And 'We Can Be Heroes' Raises $50K
Animation: The next animated feature from DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation will be Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox, an adaptation of the 2011 Flashpoint DC Comics event. It's slated for a July 30 release
'Iron Man 3′ Endless Runner Game Coming To iOS And Android In April [Video]
While the age of current-gen console movie tie-in video games seems to be in the rearview when it comes to Marvel movies (at least for now), Gameloft is on top of a mobile option for Iron Man 3. Set for an April 25 release on iOS and Android (just about a week before the film's May 3 debut), Iron Man 3 -
Link Ink: 'Iron Man 3′ Super Alloy Suits, Wonder Woman's XXX Costume And Wolverine's Motion Posters
Gaikuo-Captain's Profile Pictures Are Way Better Than Anyone Else's
With the rise of social media, profile pictures have become a pretty important way to represent yourself. Between all the flattering selfies and beloved cartoon characters (like, say, a hot pink version of Destro),
'Marvel Heroes' MMO Shows Iron Man Comic And Movie Armors In Action [Video]
Following its earlier Founders Program offerings, Gazillion's back for another round of premium packs as the countdown to the still vague spring launch of its Marvel Heroes MMO continues. In honor of the May 3 release of Iron Man 3, the latest MH premium packs focus on Tony Stark's comic book and movie
Link Ink: Amy Adams As Lois Lane, Building Batarangs And The Snailvengers
Movies: Total Film's upcoming issue closes in on Henry Cavill as Superman and Amy Adams as Lois Lane with a Man of Steel cover.
Video: Tony Swatton uses a plasma cutter to replicate Batman's batarangs in the latest Man at Arms.
Movies: Captain Canuck is getting a five-episode live act

subset: commoncrawl


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Wed, Dec 18, 13 at 22:11
I've been told there are earthworms in the soil in the Phoenix area but I've never seen any in my vegetable garden. I've been adding a lot of organic matter so if there are any I figured I'd have seen them by now. Does anyone know if earthworms exist here? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Gene |
Follow-Up Postings:
- Posted by tomatofreak Z9 Phx USA (My Page) on Thu, Dec 19, 13 at 14:27
Yes, they are here. I even find them in pots and can only assume they came up through drainage holes. I also add worms to newly filled containers. If your soil is hard and dry, you may not have any earthworms. |
The do live here at least in some areas of the valley. I have lived in Tempe for 30 years and have seen them in my garden a few times during the wetter years. Once we had enough rain that they even came up on the sidewalk to commit suicide like they do back east after a rainfall. Most of the time they stay down deep in the wetter areas of my garden. |
- Posted by GeneJr 9A (email@example.com) on Thu, Dec 19, 13 at 19:13
That's good to hear. I haven't seen any yet but hopefully I can entice them to the organic matter and green manures I've been adding. If you build it they'll come. Gene |
- Posted by jaspermplants 9 az (My Page) on Thu, Dec 19, 13 at 21:41
Of course we do...if your soil is completely devoid of organic material you may not have many. I am digging up a portion of my front yard for a rose garden and I have found many in the top couple inches. I've actually been surprised to see so many since I haven't added done much to improve the soil in this part of my yard yet. Adding organic mulch and compost will bring them but don't know how long it will take; feed the soil and you'll have earthworms. |
- Posted by KevininPHX none (My Page) on Sun, Dec 22, 13 at 16:49
I have many in all beds of my yard - I live in central Phoenix! |
I have them in my backyard especially underneath the pots since that area is almost always kept moist throughout the year. |
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Follow Us
Preaching with Power coming March 15 – March 19
The Thirty-third Anniversary of Preaching with Power brings outstanding preaching, teaching, and an African American Sacred Music Concert to Philadelphia. Proceeds from Preaching with Power benefit the J. Q. Jackson Scholarship Fund. Join us Sunday, March 15 - Thursday, March 19, 2015 – this year's preachers and lecturer include Bishop Richard F. Norris, Dr. Leslie D. Callahan, The Rev. Dr. Cheryl J. Sanders, The Rev. Barry C. Black, The Rev. Traci D. Blackmon, and The Rev. Olu Brown, plus an African American Sacred Music Concert and a pre-Preaching with Power Worship Service at Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ on Sunday, March 15 with Dr. Quintin L. Robertson preaching at 7:30 am and Dr. J. Louis Felton preaching at 10:45 am.
Learn More >News • PS Portions
PS Portions – January 2015
In this issue: President David Lose reflects on Forming Communities of Hope, plus stories on Revival in East Lansdowne: Alumnus Moses Suah-Dennis's ground-breaking ministry, Namibia's pioneering woman: Magdalena Ya-Shalongo holds two LTSP degrees, An LTSP Teach-In explores "Moving beyond racism and violence," Seminary Director of Music Ministries Michael Krentz: Inheriting a rich seminary legacy (and the newly renovated Bornemann harpsichord, "Shining In, Shining Out" - Project Connect Hosts Discernment Retreat - along with Class Notes, LTSP Notes, upcoming events and learning opportunities.
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Alumni Board Nominations – you can still nominate!
LTSP alumni! Now is the time to submit your nominations for Alumni Board members and Distinguished Alumni 2015. Make your submissions online now! Nomination period extended...
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LTSP Distinguished Alumni Award – Nominations still accepted!
LTSP Alumni! Do you know a colleague in ministry who... Has given distinguished and faithful service in parish ministry? Has made a significant contribution to the greater church? Is distinguished for service in the world? Has made a contribution to the life of LTSP? Nominate them for the Distinguished Alumni Award 2015! Nomination period extended! Submit your nominations today!
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Wet Toes Weekend is next week – There's Still Time to Register!
Friday-Sunday FEBRUARY 6-8, 2015 | Wet Toes Weekend is a great way to get your feet wet and see what LTSP seminary life is like. We will accompany you as you discern how you will respond to the invitation of Jesus. Together we will explore "moving forward in faith." The weekend is for anyone thinking about earning a seminary degree. REGISTER TODAY! SPACE IS LIMITED!
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Seminars on Educational Ministry in Congregations
Continuing through April! - This Saturday, Jan. 31: Sunday School and Young Adult Ministry One-day seminars/ workshops on select Saturdays, exploring various facets of educational ministries in congregations. Open to LTSP students, pastors, and Christian educators (available for credit, CE and not for credit). The seminars are open to students (for credit) and to interested pastors and Christian educators (for non-credit or continuing education credit).
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Next Generation Air Transportation System:
Issues Associated with Midterm Implementation of Capabilities and Full System Transformation
GAO-09-481T: Published: Mar 25, 2009. Publicly Released: Mar 25, 2009.
Additional Materials:
- Highlights Page:
- Full Report:
- Accessible Text:
(202) 512-4803
Office of Public Affairs
(202) 512-4800
To prepare for forecasted air traffic growth, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including its Joint Planning and Development Office (JPDO) and Air Traffic Organization (ATO), is planning for and implementing the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) in partnership with other federal agencies and the aviation industry. NextGen will transform the current radar-based air traffic control system into a more automated aircraft-centered, satellite-based system. GAO's previous work has identified issues related to the usefulness of NextGen planning documents, FAA's organizational structure to manage the transition to NextGen, and FAA's workforce to oversee and implement NextGen. Recently, the focus of NextGen planning and implementation has shifted to capabilities that can be achieved in the midterm, defined as 2012 through 2018. GAO's testimony focuses on (1) JPDO's and ATO's progress in planning NextGen and changes in the NextGen management structure; (2) ongoing efforts to implement midterm capabilities to address capacity constraints, and issues related to these efforts; and (3) key human capital issues, research and development needs, and facilities maintenance and reconfiguration challenges going forward. GAO's testimony updates prior GAO work with FAA data and interviews with agency and union officials and industry stakeholders, including airline, aircraft, and avionics manufacturer representatives.
JPDO and ATO have made progress in planning for and developing NextGen. JPDO has continued to update its basic planning documents, and in January 2009, ATO released the current version of its NextGen Implementation Plan, which focuses on the midterm implementation of capabilities. Recent versions of NextGen planning documents have partially addressed some of GAO's previously reported concerns about their usefulness, but industry participants continue to express frustration that the documents lack any specific timelines or commitments. Recent changes in the management structure for NextGen, though designed to address industry stakeholders' and others' concerns about fragmentation of authority and lack of accountability, have not fully addressed these issues and have raised further questions about parties' roles and responsibilities. To help address current congestion and delays, industry stakeholders have frequently suggested that FAA shift its focus from planning for NextGen to maximizing what can be done with existing, proven capabilities and existing infrastructure. In January of this year, FAA created a NextGen Midterm Implementation Task Force, which responds to this suggestion and is to report its recommendations to FAA in August 2009. The task force plans to identify and prioritize capabilities that can be implemented in the midterm and potentially be deployed regionally to address key bottlenecks. Essential to the mid- and long-term success of these efforts is persuading the airlines to make costly investments in NextGen equipment--a step they are reluctant to take without clearly demonstrated benefits. Incentives that could encourage such investments include operational preferences--such as preferred airspace, routings, or runway access--and equipment investment tax credits. FAA will also have to validate, certify, and issue rules for these capabilities. Going forward, FAA faces challenges in resolving human capital issues, addressing needed research and development, reconfiguring and maintaining existing facilities, and enhancing capacity. Human capital issues include involving stakeholders, such as controllers and technicians, in NextGen efforts and acquiring the systems engineering, contract management, leadership, and other skills needed for NextGen. FAA plans to fill 378 NextGen positions in fiscal years 2009 and 2010. Additionally, for NextGen, research and development efforts to address the environmental impact of aviation, human factors, and weather will be critical. Air traffic facilities will also have to be reconfigured to support NextGen, and existing facilities require maintenance to ensure safety and reliability. FAA is currently reviewing its facility needs.Finally, even with the efficiencies anticipated from implementing NextGen, FAA has determined that it will need additional airport and runway capacity. Efforts to enhance capacity will require substantial advance planning and cost and safety analyses.
Jan 21, 2015
Aviation Safety:
Issues Related to Domestic Certification and Foreign Approval of U.S. Aviation ProductsGAO-15-327T: Published: Jan 21, 2015. Publicly Released: Jan 21, 2015.
Jan 16, 2015
Surface Transportation:
DOT Is Progressing toward a Performance-Based Approach, but States and Grantees Report Potential Implementation ChallengesGAO-15-217: Published: Jan 16, 2015. Publicly Released: Jan 16, 2015.
Jan 12, 2015
Commercial Aviation:
Raising Passenger Facility Charges Would Increase Airport Funding, but Other Effects Less CertainGAO-15-107: Published: Dec 11, 2014. Publicly Released: Jan 12, 2015.
Jan 9, 2015
Transportation Disadvantaged Populations:
Nonemergency Medical Transportation Not Well Coordinated, and Additional Federal Leadership NeededGAO-15-110: Published: Dec 10, 2014. Publicly Released: Jan 9, 2015.
Dec 19, 2014
Airport Privatization:
Limited Interest despite FAA's Pilot ProgramGAO-15-42: Published: Nov 19, 2014. Publicly Released: Dec 19, 2014.
Dec 10, 2014
Public Transit:
Federal and Transit Agencies Taking Steps to Build Transit Systems' Resilience but Face ChallengesGAO-15-159: Published: Dec 10, 2014. Publicly Released: Dec 10, 2014. -
Transportation for Older Adults:
Measuring Results Could Help Determine If Coordination Efforts Improve MobilityGAO-15-158: Published: Dec 10, 2014. Publicly Released: Dec 10, 2014. -
Unmanned Aerial Systems:
Efforts Made toward Integration into the National Airspace Continue, but Many Actions Still RequiredGAO-15-254T: Published: Dec 10, 2014. Publicly Released: Dec 10, 2014.
Nov 18, 2014
Highway Projects:
Many Federal and State Environmental Review Requirements Are Similar, and Little Duplication of Effort OccursGAO-15-71: Published: Nov 18, 2014. Publicly Released: Nov 18, 2014. -
Public Transportation:
Multiple Factors Influence Extent of Transit-Oriented DevelopmentGAO-15-70: Published: Nov 18, 2014. Publicly Released: Nov 18, 2014.
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I'd like to join but paypal says the recipient can't receive money. So I can't post or send messages.
gary |
Follow-Up Postings:
- Posted by Randy31513 Georgia 8b (My Page) on Mon, Apr 9, 12 at 6:11
I did not join because i think it is deceptive to get you to register then after tell you need to pay to use the site. The site is already loaded with ads. |
yeah Im not paying either. good people there with lots of info though. I just wish this forum would pick up a bit. |
- Posted by Randy31513 Georgia 8b (My Page) on Tue, Apr 10, 12 at 6:53
Mksmth, best I can tell, from old post here most people there used to be here. It is slow here but it seems to be picking up. Randy |
Yea I wish this forum would pick up a bit also. However its been busy recently.Maybe with the new fee based access many will jump over. |
I recently signed up to use that site and then saw they wanted $5 to post. No thanks, on principal alone. I use many forums for all the things I grow and I'm totally fine with ads as I'm not paying for the site to use it, but ads and cash? Come on, all other forums I've seen run ads and ask for donations. I plan on donating to the sites I've consistently used, but won't give money to one I can't tell if I'll use or not. I use forums based on the people posting and how friendly, helpful, they are and the general atmosphere of a board. I can't know about that unless I can post and try it out. I'm a banana noob though, so I can't contribute much in the way of help for others, but I've been lurking here as the information is just as good as over there. Maybe I'll be able to contribute more in the future! |
I will say that the types of forum that they use and the new one that some of the tropical fruit members started is much more user friendly that this one. Mike |
- Posted by love_the_yard z9A Jax FL (My Page) on Wed, Apr 11, 12 at 21:12
Use Firefox and the add-on Adblock Plus. No more ads on any website. |
@love the yard, The reason free websites are free is because of ads. So not only do I not use Adblock, but sometimes I'll click on an ad. Clicks generate revenue, so I'm supporting the sites that way. |
I agree.Ads support the website and I have no problem with it as long as the ads are not too agressive and interfere with viewing the content. |
I believe the site is now free http://www.bananas.org/f5/bananas-org-free-now-how-long-15326.html mike |
- Posted by Randy31513 Georgia 8b (My Page) on Mon, Apr 16, 12 at 18:14
An expected change. I suspect their new membership fell off and forums must have new blood to stay fresh. |
- Posted by Randy31513 Georgia 8b (My Page) on Fri, Apr 27, 12 at 16:17
I think everyone has gone to banana org now that the charge for joining has been dropped. |
It is a great forum that I belong to. They tried the $5 dollar subscription for awhile, but dropped it. It is free and well worth joining. |
- Posted by matthew_2007 5b (My Page) on Fri, Jul 5, 13 at 22:06
what the heck are you people talking about. I have been a member on there in 2008 you don't need to pay for anything. |
- Posted by matthew_2007 5b (My Page) on Fri, Jul 5, 13 at 22:08
what the heck are you talking about having to pay? I have been a member since 2008. you don't have to pay for anything. |
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Same as daily carry. OWB in a Alessi CQC/S.
This is a discussion on Car/ truck carry within the Concealed Carry Issues & Discussions forums, part of the Defensive Carry Discussions category; Same as daily carry. OWB in a Alessi CQC/S....
Same as daily carry. OWB in a Alessi CQC/S.
I take my weapon out of it's IWB holster and transfer it to an Andrews Leather "Carjacker Crossdraw" holster on my seat belt, then pull my shirt over it. Switch back when ready to leave the vehicle.
If you stand up and be counted, from time to time you may get yourself knocked down. But remember this: A man flattened by an opponent can get up again. A man flattened by conformity stays down for good. ~ Thomas J. Watson, Jr.
I either have a normal hoster on or I have found a new holster call Ace Car Holster.
It is a nylon holster with loop side velcro on the outside and a 4x6 pad of hook side velcro to mount on your car. I mounted mine next to the shifter on the lower center council by the stick shift. Don't even have to shift my body to reach the gun. Grab pull and go. It pulls right off by twisting to carry into the house and it has a basic IWB clip on it. I have mounted the pad in each of my cars and truck. Works for me.
"If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn't thinking" - George S. Patton.
Usually in a backpack or briefcase in a pocket holster on the passenger seat. Sometimes OWB at 4. Otherwise a Desantis Kingston.


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Shipping & Handling: $9.98
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By Harbour girl
from St John s nl
I love this hair dryer...the black is shiny and expensive looking. It s ..powerful and I love the press and release feature. It comes with all the hardware so attachment to a bathroom wall is easy. We now have one mounted in each of our full bathrooms. No more looking around for the portable hair dryer. Would highly recommend purchase of it.
great gadget
By errol flynn
from Toronto
so convenient! attach beside your mirror...just like in a hotel. No more taking the blower out of a drawer, and putting it away each time. I've had mine a long time...and wouldn't do without it.
I love this blowdryer!
By Connie
from Chilliwack , British Columbia.
This blowdryer is great ! It has alot of power to it and it is a spacesaver to boot!! you always know where it is ! and the kids can't hide it ....


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> LORD, remember David..." HNV - Online Bible Study" />
Why Do Many People View Ecclesiastes as Depressing?
This Beautiful Version of Psalm 23 Had Me in Tears
How Does Luke 15 Show God's Love Towards "Bad People"?
The Hebrew Names Version is in the public domain. (Hebrew Names Version - The Holy Bible Online)


text:
Results 1 to 5 of 5
- 02-01-2013, 05:05 PM Thread Author #1
Re: saving pics from email to my dna
Long press the image should bring up option. Or click image and see if the 3dots show up.
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using Android Central ForumsPrivacy is overrated :P - 02-02-2013, 06:28 AM Thread Author #3
Re: saving pics from email to my dna
When you tap on download attachment, it should say something like "download and save" or just "view"? Some files are automatically saved when you hit download. Have you checked your download folder in your gallery? Are you using the stock email app?
My GS3 sleeps in the bed and I make my girlfriend sleep on the couch - 02-02-2013, 12:06 PM #5
Re: saving pics from email to my dna
Click picture. Let it load. There should be the 3dots on the top right . Press that should give unthe options
Sent from my HTC6435LVW using Android Central ForumsPrivacy is overrated :P -
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I recently had a large cherry tree removed from my front yard. They ground much of it down and I was left with a pile of wood chips mixed with dirt, which the guy from the tree service said makes a great planting medium. I spread the pile out over the spot where I want to plant my flower bed, and will probably plant in a couple weeks. It's not quite mulch, as it's mixed in with soil, but it's not exactly sawdust either. Has anyone ever used something like this? Can I plant right away, or should I let it decompose a bit? |
Follow-Up Postings:
I did a similar thing last year with some chips from the chain saw effect, before reading that generally, you don't want wood chips in with your soil. But I think it also depends on the quantity that you are adding. In my case, I did not have that much that I added to the flower bed. However, this year, the soil seems really good, and while digging down a few inches to plant new annuals, I did not see any evidence of the wood chips but did see ample worms and dark, loose soil. Not sure how much related that could be to the wood chips, or how much different the plants last year could have grown, but in my case, it did not have a horribly bad negative effect and this year, the soil seems fine. I'll have to see how this year's plants turn out in that particular area, in case the long-term effect is still to come. |
- Posted by gardengal48 PNW zone 8 (My Page) on Fri, Mar 28, 14 at 18:04
If you are planting annuals, edibles or perennials, you may want to add a nitrogen source, like alfalfa meal. Wood chips/sawdust incorporated into the soil creates a temporary nitrogen deficiency that smaller, more shallow rooted plants find very challenging. Not so much an issue for trees or shrubs - unless a large amount of wood material - but easily counteracted with supplemented nitrogen. |
The link below was posted by a member of this forum and shows the benefit of adding wood chips to soil. As gardengal mentions adding extra nitrogen is necessary initially. |
Here is a link that might be useful: pics of wood chips added to soil
- Posted by kathy9norcal CA 9 (My Page) on Fri, Mar 28, 14 at 19:50
So glad to hear this. We had a stump ground a month ago and I have so much soil-wood chips just waiting to be put to use. After hearing how bad it was to mix right into the soil, this is really good news. It seems there are always at least two sides to every story. |
We did this after cutting down two trees and it worked out very well. The "soil" tends to dry out quicker than soil without wood chips so you may need to water the flower bed more often. |
http://www.healthy-vegetable-gardening.com/support-files/rcw-the-clue-to-a-sustainable-fertile-soil.pdf |
What happens when wood chips, a high carbon material, are mixed into soil depends on what kind of shape that soil is in, so it is difficult to make a general statement that it is bad or not so bad. GardenGal has it right on the money however. |
Hi, we have super high fertility in our garden from years of only adding compost and barn cleanings (sheep poop and fine bits of hay) as mulch. I bought a load of composted wood chips, called "Soil pep" in Montana. My thought was to mix it in the soil a bit and try to balance out the fertility. I didn't think there would be a nitrogen deficiency as all the n-p-k are very high. What do you guys think? |
You mention it as being "composted" already, so that is probably why it is sold and used as soil amendment. It's just like saying "manure compost" or "mushroom compost" -- naming what it started from and what you might expect to find in it. In your case, you have "wood chip compost" |
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How to Keep Weight Gain from Ruining Your Sex Life
It's easy to indulge in the mountain of cookies, candies and other calorie-packed goodies we stuff in our mouths over the Holidays without considering the consequences. However, if you pack more padding on your belly, it could have less-than-exciting ramifications for your sex life.
Not to mention the fact that a few extra pounds can have an impact on your psyche, and this can also correlate to your performance in bed. If you're looking for ways to improve your sex life whether it's losing a few inches or finding the self-confidence to love yourself, no matter what your jean size, here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Eat healthier: Although easier said than done, a few simple changes to your diet will kick start your metabolism – and the sparks between you and your man. Start by cutting out bad habits, such as having a daily dessert. Limit treats. Instead, save the raspberry swirled cheesecake when you are on a special date with your partner.
Related: Stop Counting, Start Eating: Feel Fresh for Fall
2. Get moving: Jump up and start moving. For starters, having sex can burn up to 150 calories in only 30 minutes. Dancing with your girlfriends, going for a walk with your man or even a shopping trip are some fun ways to work up a sweat. Of course, if you challenge each other at the gym and make fitness goals together you may be surprised at how turned on you become.
3. Keep the lights off: If you're a proponent of ambiance and mood lighting, candlelight or other dim lights can engage a smoldering mood. Plan a romantic evening, and lead your man to a bedroom filled with a warm glow of cinnamon scented tealights. Mood lighting will provide calm, relaxing background so you and your partner can enjoy each other's company without worry.
4. Talk to your partner: For all you know, your man is drooling over your curves. Many guys enjoy a full sized woman, as there's more to love. However, if you're feeling insecure about your shape, let your partner know how you feel so he doesn't suspect that you're cheating if you skip out on sex. When you communicate the concerns you have with your body, he will most likely be supportive. If not, it's time to survey the market.


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w00t is 3rd Favorite Non-Dictionary Word
Sprog travesty (422 comments)
The "previous words" defines sprog as sprog (v): "to go faster than a jog but slower than a sprint". When clearly this word has a well established prior use:
Sprog: child, kid, nipper, tiddler, youngster, tike, tyke, shaver, small fry, nestling, fry.... How else could we then use the wonderful phrase "dropping sprogs"?
Furthermore, the absence of the red dwarf term smeg clearly shows which side of the atlantic the survey was compiled (or that its been sanitised....)


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In researching the best curcumin preparations for health reasons, I have decided to grow my own because the best tested preparations include the essential turmeric oil (but are very expensive). Therefore, I have included a link with a cool picture (and article) of some plants that I just received. |
Here is a link that might be useful: Growing Turmeric
Follow-Up Postings:
- Posted by fatamorgana Zone 5/6 (My Page) on Thu, Aug 16, 12 at 17:49
I've grown these plants from roots I get at the local health and organic foods store. Since the plants are not hardy here, I have them in pots. They do go dormant when the house temps in the winter are in the mid-60's. Since they are potted plants, I really can't grow them for use - they just don't get that big. But they are fun and pretty anyways. Share more pics as your plants grow - especially if they ever bloom for you! FataMorgana |
powdered turmeric, a near panacea in the medicinal herb world and which contains the oil in significant amounts, is very inexpensive and can be bought in bulk at many health food stores. turmeric is a tropical plant which requires a very long season of long hot sunny days which you can't get in the u.s. the growing climate determines the amount of essential oils the plant contains, the plants will not produce normal amounts in a few months in the temperate zones. you're better off buying the powder of well grown turmeric and using that, its more potent and will contain a lot more oil. if you want it for medicine that is. if you're growing it as a novelty or for horticultural fun right on! |
Thanks kaliaman. You mention that the powdered turmeric would not be lacking in any of the 'essentials' of the fresh root? I am wondering then, if the turmeric sold in small containers in grocery stores, would be just as fresh as that in health food stores? Another question on growing, I posted a youtube video at the bottom of my blog which showed removal of the top growth during transplanting to facilitate rhizome growth. So I am wondering if keeping the plant trimmed in general, and not allowing flower growth would also facilitate more rhizome growth? |
From what I've seen about growing turmeric (including a prevous GW thread), getting adequate rhizomes seems to be a natural outcome of good growing conditions, whether or not the plant flowers. To help the plant channel more energy into the roots/rhizomes, I'd avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer. Sounds like it'd be a fun plant to grow. |
the turmeric sold in small bottles is an unknown as re how long its been on the shelf and is pricier. bulk herbs are usually fresher and considerably cheaper. cutting the flower stalks off as they come out will allow the plant to use those nutrients for producing larger rhizomes and so is recommended....this is a very common horticultural practice on many crops and works well. |
Thanks everyone, that confirms what I suspected about keeping the flowers cut (though I would let some grow out just for looks). Now, can anyone recommend a good place to order some fresh rhizomes? I can't find any near by. |
try the produce department at a health food grocer or whole foods market...they sell fresh turmeric root that grows readily when potted up, i've done it..works fine. |
Yes, I am sure it would work as I have planted ginger this way. I just didn't want to drive an hour to the nearest city that sells it - if I can order it online. |
- Posted by fatamorgana Zone 5/6 (My Page) on Sun, Aug 19, 12 at 16:18
Various Asian or Indian grocery stores that have fresh produce may also stock it as well. Call around before making the trip. The health store I shop at only occasionally sells the fresh roots. I suspect it is a seasonal thing for their organic growers/suppliers. FataMorgana |
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Below are the first 10 and last 10 pages of uncorrected machine-read text (when available) of this chapter, followed by the top 30 algorithmically extracted key phrases from the chapter as a whole.
Intended to provide our own search engines and external engines with highly rich, chapter-representative searchable text on the opening pages of each chapter.
Because it is UNCORRECTED material, please consider the following text as a useful but insufficient proxy for the authoritative book pages.
Do not use for reproduction, copying, pasting, or reading; exclusively for search engines.
OCR for page 95
Emissions and Cost Impacts 95
Table 122. DrayFLEET modeling results.
Hours Fuel CO2 NOx PM 2.5 Cost
(million) (million gal.) (tons) (tons) (tons) (million)
2008 National Default 39.1 69.9 782,613 7,678 149 $1,440.00
30 vs. 40 Minute Terminal Time (3.2) (1.4) (15,652) (160) (3) $(79)
Change -8.1% -2.0% -2.0% -2.1% -1.9% -5.5%
10 vs. 20 Minute Queue Time (2.7) (2.0) (21,913) (225) (4) $(69)
Change -6.8% -2.8% -2.8% -2.9% -2.7% -4.8%
3% vs. 5% Trouble Tickets (0.3) (0.1) (1,632) (17) (0) $(8)
Change -0.8% -0.2% -0.2% -0.2% -0.2% -0.5%
0% vs. 5% Trouble Tickets (0.8) (0.3) (3,913) (42) (1) $(20)
Change -2.0% -0.5% -0.5% -0.5% -0.5% -1.4%
Idling Control - 50% - (5.9) (65,739) (450) (8) $(17)
Change 0.0% -8.4% -8.4% -5.9% -5.4% -1.2%
100% vs. 20% Neutral Pools (0.8) (0.3) (3,913) (42) (1) $(20)
Change -2.0% -0.5% -0.5% -0.6% -0.5% -1.4%
Trucker-Supplied Chassis (6.1) (4.4) (49,305) (503) (9) $(137)
Change -15.6% -6.3% -6.3% -6.6% -6.1% -9.5%
Combined Strategies (14.5) (9.9) (111,050) (979) (18) $(202)
Change -37.1% -14.2% -14.2% -12.8% -11.8% -14.0%
As Table 122 shows, those tractors emitted an estimated 7,678 tons of NOx and 149 tons of
PM2.5, as well as other criteria pollutants.
The estimated total port-area drayage cost was $1.44 billion, an average of about $112 per con-
tainer. That total included about $210 million in fuel costs at $3 per gallon, which accounted for
4.6% of the total cost.
Impacts of Drayage Bottlenecks
DrayFLEET can be used to estimate the impacts of bottlenecks and sources of delay identified
in the study. As an illustration, Table 122 also summarizes the results of national scenario esti-
mates made in the course of NCFRP Project 14.
Terminal and Queue Time Reduction
The default national model was configured with a 60-minute average port turn time divided
into 20 minutes of queuing outside the gate and 40 minutes inside the terminal. Reduction of
the average terminal time from 40 minutes to 30 minutes would reduce the total time required
by about 3 million hours (8.1%), and the fuel burned by about 1 million gallons (2.1%). CO2
emissions would also drop by 2.0%. NOx would drop by 160 tons (2.09%) and PM 2.5 by 3 tons
(1.9%). The annual cost savings would be about $79 million.
If the average queue time were reduced from 20 minutes to 10 minutes, the impacts would be
similar (Table 122), although the fuel and emissions savings would be greater due to the greater
reduction in the relatively inefficient and "dirty" stop-and-go queuing operations.
If both the terminal time and the queue time were reduced by 10 minutes the impacts would
be additive.
Trouble Ticket Reduction
In NCFRP Project 14, the study team found that experienced draymen appear to average about
3% trouble tickets (exceptions), although the overall average was 5%. Reducing the incidence of
OCR for page 95
96 Truck Drayage Productivity Guide
trouble tickets from 5% to 3% would save about 300,000 hours of drayage time, 100,000 gallons
of fuel, 17 tons of NOx, and $8 million dollars in port-area drayage costs.
If trouble tickets could be completely eliminated (0%), the savings would be greater yet:
800,000 drayage hours, 300,000 gallons of fuel, 42 tons of NOx, 1 ton of PM 2.5, and $20 million.
These potential savings are therefore the estimated costs of trouble tickets.
The estimated 46% of drayage time spent idling, which accounts for nearly 18 million hours
nationwide, suggests large potential benefits from idling controls or hybrid truck tractors that would
neither burn fuel nor emit pollutants when they were not moving. If the tractor engines could be
turned off for half of the time they are now estimated to be idling, yearly fuel use would drop by
5.9 million gallons. Greenhouse gasses (CO2) would be reduced by over 65,000 tons, NOx would
decline by 450 annual tons, and PM 2.5 would decline by 8 tons in port areas. The fuel saving would
reduce drayage cost by about $17 million annually. The hours required would not decline, but for
half the 18 million idling hours, the engines would be off.
Chassis Logistics
The EPA SmartWay Program has identified chassis pooling as a promising strategy for improv-
ing drayage efficiency and reducing emissions. The DrayFLEET modeling bears out this conclu-
sion. With an assumed 50% of the containers being stacked in the terminals, raising the default
20% usage of neutral chassis pools to 100% usage yielded almost exactly the same benefits as elim-
inating trouble tickets (Table 122). The benefits of neutral chassis pools show up in the model
mostly as reduced chassis search time.
A shift to trucker-supplied chassis yielded the greatest benefits of the individual scenarios
shown in Table 122. Modeling a trucker-supplied chassis system entailed the following:
· Raising the share of containers stacked from 50% to 100%,
· Eliminating chassis search time and bare chassis drop-off time,
· Reducing overall in-terminal time by 10 minutes per move,
· Reducing average gate transaction times from 5 minutes to 3 minutes,
· Reducing average queue times from 20 minutes to 15 minutes, and
· Adding $2 per move (about $6 per day) to drayage costs to account for truckers' chassis
supply costs.
Although these modeling changes are necessarily inexact approximations of an emerging
system, they indicate the kinds of pervasive changes that can be expected.
The estimated benefits of trucker-supplied chassis include an annual savings of over 6 mil-
lion hours of driver and tractor time, over 4 million gallons of fuel, and $137 million in drayage
costs. CO2 emissions would decline by an estimated 49,305 tons. Port-area NOx would decline
by an estimated 503 tons, and PM 2.5 by 9 tons.
Combined Impacts and Benefits
Combining all of the scenarios yields an estimate of the improvements possible if queuing were
to be minimized, trouble tickets eliminated, idling control implemented on half the fleet, and the
transition to trucker-supplied chassis completed. As Table 122 indicates, the benefits would
be substantial and indicate the value of progress toward drayage bottleneck solutions as follows:
· A 37.1% reduction in total hours--14.5 million hours of driver and tractor time annually,
· A 14.2% reduction in fuel use--an annual savings of nearly 10 million gallons of diesel fuel,


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Family "Tacky Christmas Sweater" Project
Merry Christmas, everyone! Hope you all have enjoyed the holiday season. This year seemed a lot more eventful for me with lots of parties, events and crafty projects. This Christmas, my family was invited to a Tacky Sweater party, so I decided to create my own sweaters for each member of my family. Read more »


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After my last couple of times taking the truck out it became very apparent that at least a rear locker was necessary.
So look what the UPS man left for me today! I picked a complete assembled 3rd, in the long run this was the most cost effective solution. I'll use my current rear 3rd up front when I do the SAS.
Took the day off this Friday to plug it in.


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I have been a magician for 40 years. Your company is the first I have bought from that I was really happy with. Great merchandise, FREE SHIPPING,...Read More ->
All I can say is, #1 They are for REAL, unlike some other 'Ellusions.' #2 - they are not 'BIRDING' around like the penguins. #3 BEST customer...Read More ->


text:
My Profile
Helen Kuper
Emmaus, Pennsylvania
Member since Feb 2006
Flag This ProfileFlag as Inappropriate
Reviewed Sweet Corn and Chicken Soup
Feb 18, 2013 in Food Network Community Toolbox on FoodNetwork.com
"Perfect soup for a chilly day during flu season! I omitted the corn starch to make it more of a brothy soup. Next time I might add a little minced garlic with the ginger to give a little extra kick. Great flavor and a definite remake!""


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Coastal Living SEPTEMBER 2011
1. Combine first 8 ingredients in a medium bowl. Fold in crabmeat. Shape crab mixture into 4 (4-inch) patties; chill 1 hour.
2. Melt butter with oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add crab cakes, and cook 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until golden.
3. Divide Radish-and-Avocado Salad among 4 serving plates; top each with 1 crab cake.
Go to Full Version of
Herbed Crab Cake with Radish-and-Avocado Salad Recipe


text: Hallo! We are here to share our stories about trips and emposing places to visit and for planning new. Unfortunately, traveling is not cheap now, especially if we need money not only for road and food, but for hostels to stay. This group can help you to meet good travel-fellows, if you like to travel in company, and invite or to be invited in guests in foreign country. This way we are to unite people over the world, learn other traditions and cultures!


text:
I'm using Androgel, but am trying to make a baby w/my wife. I'm worried that the Androgel will make my semen count too low to get her pregnant. Would I be better off taking clomid? My Testosterone level is only 197 so I need to "get it up" (sorry). Anyway, what's the best bet? My GP told me clomid can cause blod clots and that Androgel won't lower my semen count all that much?
- trying to get pergnant when on androgel


text:
Summary: Referring to Lewis Carroll's Red Queen from Through the Looking-Glass, a character who has to keep running to stay in the same place, Matt Ridley demonstrates why sex is humanity's best strategy for outwitting its constantly mutating internal predators. The Red Queen answers dozens of other riddles of human nature and culture -- including why men propose marriage, the method behind our maddening notions of beauty, and the disquieting fact that a woman is more likely ...show moreto conceive a child by an adulterous lover than by her husband. Brilliantly written, The Red Queen offers an extraordinary new way of interpreting the human condition and how it has evolved. ...show less
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FREE UPS 2nd Day Air Terms
Rental and Marketplace items are excluded. Offer is valid from 1/21/2013 12:00PM to 1/23/2013 11:59AM CST. Your order must be placed by 12 Noon CST to be processed on the same day. Minimum order value is $100.00 excluding Rental and Marketplace items. To redeem this offer, select "FREE UPS 2ND DAY AIR" at checkout. Offer not is not valid on previous orders.Close | ||