RUSSELL-A unique opportunity awaits volunteers next month at the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Noble View Outdoor Center that overlooks 700 square miles with views of Westfield, Springfield and the Wilbraham hills.
Nestled on 358.5 acres of forest and field at an elevation of 1,100 feet above the Connecticut Valley, Noble View is one of the Appalachian Mountain Club’s larger land holdings and maintains the ambiance of the original 1800s New England farmstead. For hikers, evidence of the once prosperous farm includes a plow, a cellar hole and a stone wall.
Volunteers are needed during “Wood Day” at the Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell.
Volunteers are currently being recruited for “Wood Day at Noble View” to help in a variety of roles on Dec. 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., from splitting and stacking wood to picking up litter along its scenic trails. The day is important to prepare the outdoor center’s cottages for winter, according to Frank Evans, chairperson, Noble View Outdoor Center.
“We could use 10 to 15 volunteers, more if we are able to bring more wood in before Dec. 10,” said Evans.
Noble View, at 635 S. Quarter Road, is a volunteer-managed facility so visits are “self-service” since there is no staff on site unless there is a scheduled event planned. Day visitors are welcome and lodging options are available from cottages to wall tents with wood stoves.
“Noble View Outdoor Center is open to the public for hiking, the view, and they are also able to rent cabins or tenting spaces,” said Evans, adding, “This helps us to maintain the camp for everyone’s use.”
The Timber Wolf will be among the tools that volunteers can use during during “Wood Day at Noble View.” (Submitted photo)
On Dec. 10, volunteers of all ages are welcome to join members of the Noble View Outdoor Center Committee who are responsible for maintaining and improving the property. Work days are organized throughout the year and volunteers are always needed.
“While it is hard work, many hands make it easier and the camaraderie makes it seem much easier,” said Evans, adding, “Everyone is welcome and there are things for everyone to do.”
Evans said in addition to those with lumberjack skills, volunteers will be needed to clean up after recent windstorms, help with minor repairs, and assist with ensuring that all volunteers receive plenty of water.
“My grandchildren frequently pitch in and help when we are stacking the split logs or cleaning up blowdowns from the open areas,” said Evans.
At lunchtime, all volunteers will be treated to a hearty bowl of beef stew or chili, along with cocoa and coffee.
“If volunteers have specific dietary needs we are open to additions,” he said.
Volunteers work on one of the trails at the Noble View Outdoor Center in Russell. (Submitted photo)
As chairperson of the committee, Evans is responsible for the operation of the camp, payment of bills, insuring there are enough supplies on hand, working with the committee to maintain a smooth operation, and interfacing with the local community and its neighbors. He is also responsible to the national Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) which is the owner of Noble View. Noble View has been an AMC recreational property since 1931.
“Noble View brings many people into the area who are usually purchasing supplies and other merchandise from area merchants,” said Evans. “When we are in need of services which cannot be done by our members and volunteers, we turn to local providers as we recently did in getting the foundation for the 1831 Noble House rebuilt.”
On a related note, work has begun on restoring the farmhouse. The foundation has been repaired and grading has been done to the slope behind it to facilitate drainage. The roof will be replaced next year and the barn will be dismantled and replaced using as much of the old beams as possible.
For persons interested in lending a helping hand for the volunteer day, contact Evans via email to [email protected] since an accurate count of volunteers is needed to ensure there is ample food for all. Volunteers are also reminded to dress appropriately in layers for the work day and should bring work gloves.
For more information on additional volunteer opportunities or yearlong programs, visit www.nobleviewoutdoorcenter.org.
“Noble View provides a large recreational area for local residents who frequently hike our trails, walk their dogs and otherwise enjoy Noble View,” said Evans.
