Decades in the making, and destroyed in a days time... That's the inital thoughts after recon crews got the first looks at the "OT" through central Missouri. Over 100 miles of trail is now closed due to the devastation from the "Derecho" that blew through 5-8-09. The hurricane force winds ripped the freshly leafed out tress from the ground roots and all. Trees lay scattered on the trail for miles.
I worked with a crew of 6 last Saturday and I believe we only cleared about 1/2 mile of trail and we hadn't even made it to the ridgetop, which is the location of the major damage. As you can see from the photo's that follow tree's of all sizes took a hit during this storm. The clean up work is demanding for sure with leaners, widow makers, and binds of all shapes and sizes. The sawyers will earn their keep this year for sure!
For more information on the trail status please visit the
If you have a free day, lend a hand. Large sections of trail are closed until the cleanup is complete.
On a brighter note...If you are looking for a dog and a dozen eggs then look no further. The only place in Missouri to offer both.
There must be some rule written in ancient sanscript stored in a 
Mud, Girls, and....ahh, yup she's just givin a little slap to the head.
In the words of another group of famous boys..."
Thanks to all involved for a great test of endurance!
Did you take a Pajama hike on a beautiful spring day with your favorite Trail Monster?
Did you see a Purple Red Hatted, Black WoodPecker going to a meeting?
Or maybe you finished off a little nightcap?
Did you fall asleep by the fire?
Did you get some snuggle time?
And to top the whole weekend did you get two really cool gifts, like the a prized "Team Seagal Cycling Jersey", or maybe a nighttime sighting of the last of the wild mustangs in the Ozarks?
