Northeast Association of 4WD Clubs
Delegates Meeting Minutes
June 30, 2012
Mass Maritime Academy, Buzzards Bay, MA
Attendance
Executive Officers: Tammy VanGemert, Brian Churchill, Paul Regish, Liza Siwinski,
Delegates/Alternates: : Pat Charon (Baystate Jeepers), Bob Cobb (CCJC), Ryan Schneider (FTR), Caleb Sugarman (GMC), Mike Eastland (JonFund), Warren Reynolds (LIOR), Joe Ostrenga (NE4Wi), Chuck Rosetti (NEJeepz), Scott Hatch (NEWJO), Mike Ciccolo (NEXterra), Dan Modaglio (NCRS4X4), Lauriston Bragg (NWOR), Eric Weybrant (OSJ), Alden Baker (Ronin), Jon Price (SSW), Robert Gatautis (USAJO), Chris Blais (VJA), Jeremy Martineau (WM4x4), Rick Smith (YT)
Guests: Lucinda Bragg (NWOR), LJ Bragg (NWOR)
Excused Absences: CC4W, Mass Krawlers
Absences: Adirondack Jeep, DWE, Mass Mudders, Northeast Jeep, NTC, Summit Crawlers, UJ
Land Use:Land Reports
Vermont:
- The VJA (Vermont Jeep Assc.) has been busy enjoying the great weather we've been receiving lately. A Green-up event got started with the road sides getting policed en route to a trail maintenance project at one of our generous land owners, followed up with a ride, just to "make sure" the maintenance cut was up to par.
- The "Go Topless Day” garnered a healthy group of enthusiasts willing to endure sunburn exposure for a good cause, with $156 being raised, with matching funds from the VJA for a grand total of $312, going to the Irene Recovery Fund.
- A combined club ride was attended in Maine by several of our members and their families, all reporting a very good time, all be it, quite muddy in places.
- At our May 18th meeting, Doug Webber, President of VORA, was present to address the membership, giving updates on RTP grants, and the ongoing trail repairs being done in the Central Vt. area. He also made mention that VORA was seeking donations from state clubs toward the new trailer VORA purchased to get it lettered up. A motion was made to donate $100 toward getting it done.
- A July 4th parade in Morrisville, Vt. is another positive exposure event for the VJA. Seems the town folk enjoy seeing the many different 4x4's rumble along the route, and have asked us to participate again this year. A short ride and BBQ will be attended following the parade at a member/land owner’s property.
- Other land owner trail maintenance events are in the schedule, as are several club/family friendly camp-outs, and of course, more rides.
- VORA has been busy this year following up on Class 4 legislation with the Forest & Parks Commission. Forest, Parks and Rec. has monies for VAST and other organizations, but their interpretation of the law is not for off-roading. VORA has reviewed this law and continues to challenge them on this. May 29th was supposed to be a dead line for making a decision regarding a definitive definition as to whether these funds can be used to repair Class 4's. That dead line came and went with no decision being made, only to push it off until June 28th. (stay tuned folks)
- The project in the Central Vt. area is/was coming along splendidly, until the state suspended the river abatement program, which allowed dredging and working in waterways without permits. This now has VORA waiting to install two remaining bridges, pending review of he bridge site and plans by the State and FEMA, who are the overseeing body(s) covered under the initial grant funds.
- On a happier note, VORA has purchased an enclosed trailer and hand tools, which are available to participating member clubs for trail maintenance and educational uses. The trailer has been lettered up identifying it with the VORA logo. Sponsoring groups have their club logos and identifiers lettered up on the tail gate, most prominently and proudly. The trailer has been signed up for by many of the clubs already, to attend their specific events and maintenance ops. .This should be a great PR tool, bringing a positive presents to the general public. VJA is the first to show case the trailer at the July 4th parade since it has been lettered and set up with the tools.
Massachusetts:
The Summit
- A group from Nexterra, NE4WI and CCJC were able to cut the new trail that runs parallel to Sloppy seconds. The intent was to cut something a little easier to encourage more moderately built rigs to use the place. We got a first time driver in a 4 door JK on 33's open/open up it with just 1 tug. The new trail is called chairlift. If you ever been skiing and looked down under the chair lift, picture that. Nice work guys.
- We also fixed the corduroy section on the Perimeter Trail so the logs shouldn't move any more.
- There was a go around cut after the bridge, Jay's ok with it, because it is a lot easier then trying to get around the 2 large rocks, and it looks like it will hold up pretty well. Next time just let us know that you cut it please.
- Liza confirmed with the landowner the property isn't being actively marketed, but it IS for sale. He did say that he is trying to sell the whole parcel, and "nobody wants that". Anyway...that might have actually been a realtor you guys saw. We just remind everyone if you run into anyone out there, do not volunteer any info about the trail system. Give them Jay's contact info or refer them to the NEA. BTW price is 107 acres...$275,000. Just more of an incentive to keep our land acquisition fund raiser going.
- With this trail network still being very new, we will need to see see how things break in and what repairs/changes may need to be made. We are lifting the 50/50 work days for the rest of the year since everyone busted ass early and got almost the whole check list done. The only things left are to clean up the stocker side of the property and see if we need to haul some crushed stone in for the banks of the steep water crossing. That’s definitely going to need some addressing sooner than later.
- Definitely a great job to everybody getting this property up to snuff in such a short time.
Gremlin Graveyard
- Joe proposed a cut July 15th to open up a few harder obstacles/lines...Let’s make this happen. I think some more signs on this property would be very helpful.
Mabell
- No news to report: Still need a property manager for Mabell. I have been talking to Don from Friends of Sylvester Road and he has been very helpful on keeping me up to date. As well as members who have been there recently providing some information as well.
Old Florida Road
- No new to report: Again need a property manager for OFR as well. Relying on members who have run this trail recently, if you notice anything out of the ordinary please bring it to our attention.
Rhode Island: Nothing to report
Connecticut: No report
New York: No report
New Hampshire:
Swanzey
- Todd from LMFT has developed a pass system for the Swanzey property. The passes are limited to 20 per day and do not include the Class VI’s, the powerlines, or Carnage.
- The Association did purchase signs for the property. Exploring New Hampshire has put up some kiosks.
- Jay and Scott are trying to secure trails at this property for Fall Crawl. However, Shawn (the owner of the property) is difficult to get a hold of. Jeremy said that he does have some contact with Shawn though his job and will make an attempt to contact him about the pass system.
- Scott said that runs scheduled there for the time being should be OK,the pass system is not in place at this time.
- Scott suggested avoiding the town of Troy when using the area.
- Tammy also suggested treading lightly in the area, especially in the Troy area.
Carnage
- Land Manager is needed.
Moose Mountain
- The road into the property seems to be in good shape.
Gretchen’s
- Trail braiding here is becoming a big issue. Scott pointed out that the trail blockages are there for a reason, “Do not go through them”. We should be abiding by Tread Lightly principles.
- On site cameras were discussed. The general consensus was that we shouldn’t have to police ourselves. Scott said that we should look to ourselves and take the initiative. We need to enforce these things with our own members.
- Vehicle requirements are posted. Trail Leaders should be cognizant of the group and insisting that everybody is abiding by responsible trail ethics.
- Several people expressed their disappointment at the misuse of the trails at Gretchen’s as we have nobody to blame but ourselves for it.
Fall Crawl
- Set up is on Friday. Break-down will be on Sunday and Monday.
- There have only been 5 electric site request so far.
- Plans are to have clubs camping in the same spots as they usually do.
- Quiet time will start at 11:00. Please be considerate and keep loud music and generators off after 11.
- Scott needs a Trail Leader for Trail 8.
Tammy thanked Bob Cobb and CCJC for hosting the meeting.
Bob Cobb made a motion to adjourn, Pat Charon seconded the motion. Motion passes. Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Liza Siwinski
President - Summit Crawlers
Liza
Secretary
Thanks to the NEA and all participating Clubs.
Delegates Meeting Minutes
June 30, 2012
Mass Maritime Academy, Buzzards Bay, MA
Attendance
Executive Officers: Tammy VanGemert, Brian Churchill, Paul Regish, Liza Siwinski,
Delegates/Alternates: : Pat Charon (Baystate Jeepers), Bob Cobb (CCJC), Ryan Schneider (FTR), Caleb Sugarman (GMC), Mike Eastland (JonFund), Warren Reynolds (LIOR), Joe Ostrenga (NE4Wi), Chuck Rosetti (NEJeepz), Scott Hatch (NEWJO), Mike Ciccolo (NEXterra), Dan Modaglio (NCRS4X4), Lauriston Bragg (NWOR), Eric Weybrant (OSJ), Alden Baker (Ronin), Jon Price (SSW), Robert Gatautis (USAJO), Chris Blais (VJA), Jeremy Martineau (WM4x4), Rick Smith (YT)
Guests: Lucinda Bragg (NWOR), LJ Bragg (NWOR)
Excused Absences: CC4W, Mass Krawlers
Absences: Adirondack Jeep, DWE, Mass Mudders, Northeast Jeep, NTC, Summit Crawlers, UJ
Land Use:Land Reports
Vermont:
- The VJA (Vermont Jeep Assc.) has been busy enjoying the great weather we've been receiving lately. A Green-up event got started with the road sides getting policed en route to a trail maintenance project at one of our generous land owners, followed up with a ride, just to "make sure" the maintenance cut was up to par.
- The "Go Topless Day” garnered a healthy group of enthusiasts willing to endure sunburn exposure for a good cause, with $156 being raised, with matching funds from the VJA for a grand total of $312, going to the Irene Recovery Fund.
- A combined club ride was attended in Maine by several of our members and their families, all reporting a very good time, all be it, quite muddy in places.
- At our May 18th meeting, Doug Webber, President of VORA, was present to address the membership, giving updates on RTP grants, and the ongoing trail repairs being done in the Central Vt. area. He also made mention that VORA was seeking donations from state clubs toward the new trailer VORA purchased to get it lettered up. A motion was made to donate $100 toward getting it done.
- A July 4th parade in Morrisville, Vt. is another positive exposure event for the VJA. Seems the town folk enjoy seeing the many different 4x4's rumble along the route, and have asked us to participate again this year. A short ride and BBQ will be attended following the parade at a member/land owner’s property.
- Other land owner trail maintenance events are in the schedule, as are several club/family friendly camp-outs, and of course, more rides.
- VORA has been busy this year following up on Class 4 legislation with the Forest & Parks Commission. Forest, Parks and Rec. has monies for VAST and other organizations, but their interpretation of the law is not for off-roading. VORA has reviewed this law and continues to challenge them on this. May 29th was supposed to be a dead line for making a decision regarding a definitive definition as to whether these funds can be used to repair Class 4's. That dead line came and went with no decision being made, only to push it off until June 28th. (stay tuned folks)
- The project in the Central Vt. area is/was coming along splendidly, until the state suspended the river abatement program, which allowed dredging and working in waterways without permits. This now has VORA waiting to install two remaining bridges, pending review of he bridge site and plans by the State and FEMA, who are the overseeing body(s) covered under the initial grant funds.
- On a happier note, VORA has purchased an enclosed trailer and hand tools, which are available to participating member clubs for trail maintenance and educational uses. The trailer has been lettered up identifying it with the VORA logo. Sponsoring groups have their club logos and identifiers lettered up on the tail gate, most prominently and proudly. The trailer has been signed up for by many of the clubs already, to attend their specific events and maintenance ops. .This should be a great PR tool, bringing a positive presents to the general public. VJA is the first to show case the trailer at the July 4th parade since it has been lettered and set up with the tools.
Massachusetts:
The Summit
- A group from Nexterra, NE4WI and CCJC were able to cut the new trail that runs parallel to Sloppy seconds. The intent was to cut something a little easier to encourage more moderately built rigs to use the place. We got a first time driver in a 4 door JK on 33's open/open up it with just 1 tug. The new trail is called chairlift. If you ever been skiing and looked down under the chair lift, picture that. Nice work guys.
- We also fixed the corduroy section on the Perimeter Trail so the logs shouldn't move any more.
- There was a go around cut after the bridge, Jay's ok with it, because it is a lot easier then trying to get around the 2 large rocks, and it looks like it will hold up pretty well. Next time just let us know that you cut it please.
- Liza confirmed with the landowner the property isn't being actively marketed, but it IS for sale. He did say that he is trying to sell the whole parcel, and "nobody wants that". Anyway...that might have actually been a realtor you guys saw. We just remind everyone if you run into anyone out there, do not volunteer any info about the trail system. Give them Jay's contact info or refer them to the NEA. BTW price is 107 acres...$275,000. Just more of an incentive to keep our land acquisition fund raiser going.
- With this trail network still being very new, we will need to see see how things break in and what repairs/changes may need to be made. We are lifting the 50/50 work days for the rest of the year since everyone busted ass early and got almost the whole check list done. The only things left are to clean up the stocker side of the property and see if we need to haul some crushed stone in for the banks of the steep water crossing. That’s definitely going to need some addressing sooner than later.
- Definitely a great job to everybody getting this property up to snuff in such a short time.
Gremlin Graveyard
- Joe proposed a cut July 15th to open up a few harder obstacles/lines...Let’s make this happen. I think some more signs on this property would be very helpful.
Mabell
- No news to report: Still need a property manager for Mabell. I have been talking to Don from Friends of Sylvester Road and he has been very helpful on keeping me up to date. As well as members who have been there recently providing some information as well.
Old Florida Road
- No new to report: Again need a property manager for OFR as well. Relying on members who have run this trail recently, if you notice anything out of the ordinary please bring it to our attention.
Rhode Island: Nothing to report
Connecticut: No report
New York: No report
New Hampshire:
Swanzey
- Todd from LMFT has developed a pass system for the Swanzey property. The passes are limited to 20 per day and do not include the Class VI’s, the powerlines, or Carnage.
- The Association did purchase signs for the property. Exploring New Hampshire has put up some kiosks.
- Jay and Scott are trying to secure trails at this property for Fall Crawl. However, Shawn (the owner of the property) is difficult to get a hold of. Jeremy said that he does have some contact with Shawn though his job and will make an attempt to contact him about the pass system.
- Scott said that runs scheduled there for the time being should be OK,the pass system is not in place at this time.
- Scott suggested avoiding the town of Troy when using the area.
- Tammy also suggested treading lightly in the area, especially in the Troy area.
Carnage
- Land Manager is needed.
Moose Mountain
- The road into the property seems to be in good shape.
Gretchen’s
- Trail braiding here is becoming a big issue. Scott pointed out that the trail blockages are there for a reason, “Do not go through them”. We should be abiding by Tread Lightly principles.
- On site cameras were discussed. The general consensus was that we shouldn’t have to police ourselves. Scott said that we should look to ourselves and take the initiative. We need to enforce these things with our own members.
- Vehicle requirements are posted. Trail Leaders should be cognizant of the group and insisting that everybody is abiding by responsible trail ethics.
- Several people expressed their disappointment at the misuse of the trails at Gretchen’s as we have nobody to blame but ourselves for it.
Fall Crawl
- Set up is on Friday. Break-down will be on Sunday and Monday.
- There have only been 5 electric site request so far.
- Plans are to have clubs camping in the same spots as they usually do.
- Quiet time will start at 11:00. Please be considerate and keep loud music and generators off after 11.
- Scott needs a Trail Leader for Trail 8.
Tammy thanked Bob Cobb and CCJC for hosting the meeting.
Bob Cobb made a motion to adjourn, Pat Charon seconded the motion. Motion passes. Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Liza Siwinski
President - Summit Crawlers
Liza
Secretary
Thanks to the NEA and all participating Clubs.
Last edited:
