A force of nature

Published 10.13.2021

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Alicia Martinez, an aviation maintenance technology major from Allentown, and Austin W. Clement, of Harrisburg, enrolled in information technology: network specialist concentration, do some heavy lifting along the nature trail. Clement is part of the Information Security Association at Penn College, one of a number of student organizations whose members signed on for "(community) Service Saturday." Other participants included representatives from Baja SAE, the Emergency Management Club, the Horticulture Technicians’ Association – National Association of Landscape Professionals Student Chapter, the Institute of Electronics & Electrical Engineers, the Physician Assistant Club, and United Campus Ministry.The "corduroy road" takes shape.An inspirational rock, placed along the trailThe group gathers on the student-constructed deck leading to the freshly reclaimed and beautified pond.As expected when traversing Penn's Woods, not all of the critters are bipeds!Sherry McKinney, secretary to the Office of Student Engagement, and 23 students ventured to Penn College's Schneebeli Earth Science Center on Saturday and met with Andrew Bartholomay, assistant professor of forestry, to work on a hiking trail rehabilitation project. "(community) Service Saturday" participants were tasked with cutting and clearing brush, leveling the soil and building a corduroy road. Corduroy roads are constructed over low or swampy areas by placing logs perpendicular to the direction of the road, providing a surface to walk on while still allowing water to flow through. "It was a great opportunity for our students to check out the ESC, especially for those who have never had the opportunity to visit," said Shannon Skaluba, student organization specialist. "We would like to thank Justin Beishline (assistant dean of diesel technology/natural resources) and his team for making this opportunity possible and extend an extra 'Thank you' to Dr. Bartholomay for hosting us!
Photos by McKinney