November 2009

Ian’s summary of Willow Plot planting based upon GPS observations (November 25th, 2009)

• The double row parallel to and closest to Hamilton street is 650 feet long.
• The full-length double row parallel to and farthest from Hamilton Street is 580 feet long.
• The right side of the field extends less far back than the left side, and in general the double rows are in some places rather difficult to distinguish amidst all the other competing growth. Moreover – and this is big – the identifying markers that were placed by Dennis Rak on the right side of the field to distinguish the 3 varieties have disappeared. I had difficulty distinguishing the dividing lines between the three species in their absence, although I could return to attempt that task (it will be obvious in the spring). I BELIEVE that the 3rd of the field closest to the road consists of Fish Creek willow, the second 3rd of SV1, and the 3rd farthest from the road of Tully Champion (this is based on the receipt and memory).
• Walking from the right side row closest to road to the right side row farthest from the road there are, to my best count, 106 rows (53 double rows).Walking from the left side row closest to road to the left side row farthest from the road there are, to my best count, 126 rows (63 double rows).

Next steps: I think we need to create a map/diagram of the field, as well as to re-identify the species and number of rows devoted to each species. We should also reconfirm the numbers (the foot-length measurements are solid).