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                         May 10, 2002

DHPW to conduct annual guided nature walk

By Martha Hinote
DHPW Customer Service

Would you like the perfect Saturday afternoon family activity in a nearby location that is absolutely free?

The U.S. Military Academy’s Directorate of Housing and Public Works is offering the perfect solution. Take part in our Annual Spring Guided Nature Walk. This year’s walk will be held May 18, 3 to 5 p.m. at Round Pond and Wilkens Pond. Jim Beemer, Fish and Wildlife Biologist and Joe Deschenes, USMA Forestry Officer will be the guides.

The walk begins at Bonneville Cabin at Round Pond and encompasses a 1½ mile trail. The terrain is an easy-to-moderate hike and not suitable for strollers. All walkers should use protection against ticks such as long pants and sleeves and repellant. The hike is not recommended for children under five.

West Point offers a wide variety of birds, animals, and plant life, many of which can be seen during the hike. More than 1,000 plants, including Ladyslipper, Jack-in-the Pulpit, azalea, and the American Chestnut Tree have been identified at West Point. Some of the plants are considered rare. Additionally, there are 200 species of birds (including yellow warbler, robin, tree swallow, redstart, Baltimore Oriole, and redwing blackbird. There are 40 species of reptiles/amphibians and 60 species of mammals, from the Pigmy Shrew weighing less than a dime to the Black Bear, which can weigh up to 500 pounds. Of course, you will probably see an assortment of deer, chipmunks, gray squirrels, beavers, painted turtles, frogs, geese and ducks.

The hike is open to the entire West Point community and their guests. There is no charge, but you must make a reservation by calling 938-5189. In the event of inclement weather the hike will be cancelled.