Volunteers pitch in countless hours
With the help of many volunteers, the National Trust for the Cayman Islands has re-cleared the entire Mastic Trail for the first time since Hurricane Ivan.
‘The trail is finally open again thanks to hundreds of hours of hard work by a multi-national crew of volunteers who braved rain, mud, sweat, sunburn and maiden plum to complete the restoration of the trail,’ said Trust General Manager Frank Roulstone.
The work was hampered by long periods of flooding on the southern end and falling trees throughout the trail, possibly weakened from the effects of the hurricane, said a National Trust press release.
‘An unusually wet season also brought dramatic growth and we were continually re-clearing areas which had previously been completed. I am just glad to see it finished so we can move on to other sites in desperate need of attention.’
The public can now walk the trail in its entirety but should still exercise caution particularly on the southern end which is still muddy and slick in low areas.
‘There is still work to be done on the trail but it is at least passable. Some numbered signs are missing and will be replaced and new informational signage is in development for placement at both ends of the trail,’ said Mr. Roulstone.
The Mastic Trail is open to the public 365 days per year and is a wilderness trail.
There are no facilities and the public uses the trail at their own risk. The trail is not suitable for young children and adults should be physically fit and in good health. Stout footwear, personal water supply, sunscreen and insect repellent are highly recommended. Pets are not permitted and cell phones should be turned off while on the trail.
‘Wildlife along the trail is rebounding and there were quite a number of birds out despite the noise of machetes and chainsaws as we worked,’ said Mr. Roulstone.
‘This is the best time of the year for the trail as it is reasonably cool and you have the added bonus of seeing lots of migratory birds.’
FYI
For further information, call the Trust at 949-0121 or visit its headquarters at 359 South Church Street.
Pullout:
‘This is the best time of the year for the trail as it is reasonably cool and you have the added bonus of seeing lots of migratory birds.’
– National Trust General Manager Frank Roulstone
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