The committee finalized the details for the upcoming National Trails Day event at Bunker Hill Natural Area. Interactive activities were planned to engage the community, with contingency measures discussed to accommodate weather conditions and participant preferences. The event’s promotion strategy was comprehensive, involving social media, the local library, and community groups, with considerations to include Spanish translations for the flyers.

A presentation by an intern named Michael brought to light the concerning state of the bird blind at Negri Nepot Native Grasslands. The structure suffered from water damage, warping, and other signs of deterioration, prompting discussions on potential solutions to restore its functionality. The committee explored various materials for the reconstruction, such as softwood, hardwood, and aluminum, while considering factors like durability, cost, and environmental impact.

Maintenance challenges were not limited to the bird blind itself. The surrounding area, including the ramp and railing leading to it, also showed signs of wear and neglect. The presence of pests, overgrowth, and litter were among the issues identified. The committee debated the feasibility of engaging the Department of Public Works for maintenance tasks and the possibility of collaborating with other groups for area design. The need for a plans to secure grants and present to the open space committee was emphasized.

Further discussions highlighted structural concerns, such as the bird blind’s floor and roof. Solutions, including the installation of a gutter system to prevent water damage, were considered. The committee also deliberated on the bird blind’s positioning, taking into account the vegetation that might obstruct views of the water. The importance of maintaining clear sightlines and collaborating with institutions like Rutgers University to address long-term maintenance and design issues was acknowledged.

The meeting delved into the pathways and trails plan, addressing public comments received. These included formatting issues, the necessity of a legend for maps, and concerns about trail connections, particularly with the Van Cleave bike trail. The committee responded to a lack of information about the north-south trail in the plan and debated whether to expand on this trail or focus on proposed trails and connectors.

Safety concerns were also a topic of discussion, with specific attention paid to the crossing at East Avenue and the proposed loop trail around the bird blind. The committee considered revisions to the plan to incorporate a more realistic portrayal of the North South Trail and to reevaluate the proposed trail extension at Negri Nepot based on the potential disturbance to birds and maintenance feasibility.