Committee discussed best times for meetings--will try 9 am on Fridays.  Committee identified 3 people to ask to participate and assigned different committee members to ask.

From our "To Determine" list:

Several committee members commented that there was LESS ice on rock portion of the campus trails compared to the asphalted sections.  Both sections had been shoveled and rocky portion did not need melting salts.  C Flaherty explained a way to stabilize all or portions of the trail using non-polluting bonding agent.  He will provide and estimate to use this on the area of the trail that meets the roadway.

R Wilson discussed commencing the Ravine Trail.  He and C Flaherty agreed to host a work day to take out invasive species on JANUARY 23 at 10 a.m. 

K Kelly inquired about slicing up logs to use as stepping "stones"--this would require some planning and good chainsaws.  

C Flaherty reviewed the native plantings that Green Guerrilla installed around the gym to help with drainage issues.  He used native seed and no-mow grass, 1 gal and plug size natives.  He created a natural buffer on the hill and reused flagstone in the walkway.

There are 3 native planting grants available, NEXT STEPS:

R Wilson noted a new area of concern at the gym--he, D Alexander, & C Flaherty were to address it right after the meeting.

Elementary School gutter system working well!

Green Guerrilla proposal for storm water mitigation starting at the southwest corner of Elementary School included creation of a a dry creek bed and native rain garden along south side of building discussed and supported by the committee.  

Green Guerrilla's proposal for a low-cost mitigation to moving water away from the gym building's south and west sides was reviewed and supported.

NEXT STEPS:

S Said wondered where could kids play right now instead of asphalt area by gym.  It was recommended that the grassy area just slightly up the hill by the "abandoned K play ground) would be great for right now.  Also, S Said will look at the area behind admin as a possibility, keeping in mind the drop-offs would make ball play difficult.  Also, the big field is a great option--kids will have to hustle over there but S Said is going to recommend it.  NEXT STEPS:

Creating more play space while respecting nature is one of the Passion Project focus areas.  Committee discussed:

The chimney caps will need attention twice per year to allow for the chimney swifts.  R Wilson knows how to do this.

D Alexander recommends seeking funding to add bird strike prevention per the existing bid.  In the meantime, R Wilson can add some temporary strips to lower windows.

The window paintings on the dining hall and dorm are serving the purpose of eliminating bird strikes!  R Wilson suggested publishing this success story.  S Said volunteered to write a press release.  K Kelly has photos.

R Wilson and D Alexander reported the "huge progress" made by Davey Tree on the highest and most difficult tree work (removing dead branches and trimming above gym) and J & R which took care of easier to reach issues.  Next focus:  behind the dining hall.

Committee discussed a new mowing pattern at the big field--to be reviewed in the coming months but committee seemed to think it was a good idea.

Hwy 25 entry signage:  K Kelly to ask Rep Moeller for guidance.

S Said is incorporating land acknowledgements in crew, how can the Board do the same?

This will take some time--perhaps a special session to set goals/vision.  D Alexander provided a description of the committee work to get us started.  March or April?