Letters
August 26, 2010, Page 3.....

Fire Department Fundraiser Thanks

I want to thank everyone who was able to come and support the Firemen’s Fundraiser at the Old Lantern this Sunday (August 15). There were more than 300 people who came out to enjoy the BBQ and great music. It was very exciting when we got to see the department in action as they rushed off to a call, but everyone was OK and they returned for the rest of the party. I look forward to many more fun events like this...there was talk of having a “Firemen’s Ball”... I would love to know your thoughts on this, so if you would like to get involved in the planning, you can e-mail me at lgaujac@gmail.com.

Lisa Gaujac, Old Lantern
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September Hawk Migration Alert!

Did you know that Mt. Philo right here in Charlotte is one of the best places in all of Vermont for observing the fall migration of hawks? Migration peaks during the second and third weeks of September. According to Ted Murin and Brian Pfeiffer in their book, Birdwatching in Vermont, on a good migration day more than 1,000 hawks of many species pass over and around Mt. Philo. And, in fact, Mt. Philo holds the record for the highest number of hawks sighted in a single day in Vermont: 3,688!
If you want to catch some of this action, when should you be watching? Weather is more important than a particular date. A high-pressure system on the heels of a low often will bring the north winds that the hawks favor. The busiest time is usually from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. when the birds can catch warm thermal updrafts. The power and grace of a hawk – not to mention several dozen at a time ­– circling in a thermal updraft is an amazing sight. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, grab your binoculars and head up to the top of Mt. Philo whenever you can during this period. Chances are there will be plenty of other folks there, too, sharing the fun and excitement of this fine natural display.

Linda Hamilton and Alicia Daniel

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Any Candidates for Charlotte’s Big Tree Roster?

We recently lost Charlotte’s largest balsam poplar, which stood near the intersection of Church Hill and Hinesburg Roads. It was removed on August 10 as a potential hazard to the dwelling and store. It had a circumference of 78 inches, quite large for this species. Balsam poplar is relatively rare in Charlotte. This species of poplar has fragrant, sticky buds with that familiar oil of balsam aroma. Scientifically it is named Populus balsamifera or Populus tacamahaca (the latter ostensibly from a native Indian name). It is most abundant in the boreal forests of Canada, but is often planted farther south by beekeepers near their apiaries. The resin has been used in some traditional medicines. Frequently the propolis of bees is scented with the resin in areas where the trees occur. A variety of the species is known as Balm of Gilead.
Consequently, anyone having a balsam poplar on their property may have a new Charlotte champion. Measure the circumference 4 ˝ feet above ground level by wrapping a string around the tree, and then measure the string length with an inches-measuring straight edge. Send any entry to me at silverfox@ gmavt.net or to 342 Bittersweet Lane.
The Big Tree List, along with some Significant Charlotte Trees, is posted in Town Hall and on the Town website. If you have one you think to be larger, please send the information to me for field checking. This fall we plan to launch a competition to identify Charlotte’s Unusual or Weird Trees. Keep tuned.
Important Post-script: Mark Dillenbeck of 104 Oak Hill Road, professionally trained as a forester and with international forestry experience, has been appointed as Deputy Tree Warden. He joins Jim Wells in that position and will work, as does Jim, largely on tasks occurring on town lands at Thompson’s Point. His phone is 425-2106. Salary has been set at the princely level of zero, like other volunteers in town. Thanks for your willingness, Mark.

Larry Hamilton, Charlotte Tree Warden