LOCALadk Magazine

logistical challenges that stand in their way? Or the camaraderie and laughter while pushing themselves beyond normal physical limits? Probably it was a bit of both, but I think what really drew me was the sense of pride and in the shared experience of building a lean-to that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Today's mission is to haul more materials and equipment onto canoes so we can finish up the foundation and build a fire pit. These fine folks that I met just yesterday overload the canoes and then lash the canoes together with ropes. We find ourselves a place to sit among the carts, wood, and tools and once more begin our journey across the river. As we paddle I notice the water is about two inches below the gunwales of the canoe. I fear we will either sink from the weight of the load, or capsize. I don't remember the last time I've had this much fun. Projects of this scope could not happen without key partnerships. The group has worked closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Adirondack 46ers, the Open Space Institute, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Boy Scouts of America troops, General Electric, Welch Allyn, the towns of Webb and Lake Pleasant, and the Adirondack Mountain Club. These projects become reality thanks to the hard work of approximately 175 volunteers. "The volunteers are of a wide variety of personalities that make it interesting. They come from all stages of life: adults (young and old) adolescents, and children – all are working hard for a common goal," DeLucia said. End of day 2: Foundation rocks have been strategically placed and are ready for the next step in the building process: the delivery of the logs to build the lean-to. A new fire pit, built entirely from hand, stands in front of what will be the lean-to's opening. I didn't believe we would finish all we set out to do in these two days, but I underestimated this group's passion and incredible work ethic. Much to my surprise, as we load up left-over materials and equipment for the hike out to the canoes, I find myself already looking forward to the next project. Lean2Rescue has already been hard at work in 2014, completing substantial work at both Bushnell Falls #2 and Biesemeyer lean-tos. Other projects are in the planning stages and more volunteers are not only needed, but also appreciated. Dan Berns of Geneva, N.Y., a volunteer since 2009, sums up what it's like to be part of Lean2Rescue: "This is a fun group. On each adventure we learn as we go. We're working to do it right, do it well, and build something that will last for the next 50 years." LOCALadk 40 Winter 2014

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