The Nature Conservancy of West Virginia will be hosting a fun-filled volunteer workday on Saturday, August 20th at our Ice Mountain Preserve in Hampshire County, WV near the town of Capon Bridge. Ice Mountain takes its name from an unusual geologic process that results in a natural refrigeration effect—cold air flowing out of 60 or so holes at the mountain's base throughout the year. This constant exhalation of markedly colder air allows a group of boreal (northern) plants to grow around the ice vents. For some species, this is one of their southernmost known occurences. These northern species - twinflower, dwarf dogwood, and bristly rose - grow in close proximity to southern mountain endemics such as the Appalachian oak fern. Japanese stiltgrass, an invasive exotic specie, is threatening this unique plant community. It is spreading very quickly, and could outcompete many of the plants that make this preserve worth protecting! That's why we're heading out, armed with trashbags and gloves, for some hand-to-hand COMBAT.... Come help us at our annual Japanese stiltgrass pull -- cool yourself in the natural wintry breeze the mountain breathes in mid-August, after a climb to the magnificent rock outcroppings at the top, where you are sure to be staggered by the spectacular view. Our preserve neighbors and docents will be providing us with lunch and refreshments. Please contact me for more details: directions, meeting place, time, etc...

I have to admit, this sounds enticing....

I recently saw a thing on TV about Ice Mountain. Very interesting place. Lots of history behind it too.

Sounds like a great place to go in August...Just like a Peppermint Patty commercial! aaahhhh

Too bad I'll be working.

WAH!

I wanted to go. Just realized it will be only two days after surgery for me :-(

Drats. Maybe next year I will work, but will go soon to visit!

That sounds awesome! kgarringer, I would appreciate more information please: time, address, how far from H-town, etc. Thanks!!

Boe-- Check it out on the calendar of events! It's about 1 1/2 hours from Hagerstown. Contact Kgarringer@tnc.org for meeting time & more info!


I wish I could go.

Here is a link for the West Virginia preserves, including Ice Mountain. There are other areas in MD that sound great to visit too!

http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northame...inia/preserves/

Unfortunately, we are CANCELING Saturday's workday at our Ice Mtn. Preserve. Not enough people were going to be able to make it!

If you're interested in helping out at future TNC volunteer workdays, or are interested in other volunteer work with TNC, please visit our website at
http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica...
OR give me a call at 304.637.0160

WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOUR HELP!!!!!

Also, for information on other volunteer opportunities through out the state of WV, check out http://www.volunteerwv.org.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!!

Kristen Garringer
Volunteer Program Developer
The Nature Conservancy in West Virginia

Please join the Tree Huggers when you can.

*JUST KIDDING*

Ah shucks!!