If you have ever taken the time to walk the wetland boardwalk at Viles Arboretum, you have probably noticed the remains of an old deck structure looming within the pond. The now soft, skeletal beams were once a part of the original boardwalk, serving as a wider viewing platform. With the original boardwalk long since removed, the old observation deck has remained. Perhaps the occasional Cormorant or Mallard Duck has appreciated the structure in recent years, but to those using the boardwalk for wildlife viewing or photography, those weathered beams only stand in the way.
The deck needed to be removed, but removing a structure from a body of water requires a unique approach.
Removal of partially submerged structures presents a variety of challenges. Not only is accessing the structure difficult during summer months, but moving the heavy beams across the soft, muddy surface of the surrounding wetland made the removal of the deck a daunting task. Most land-stewardship projects are conducted during the summer, however, winter does present an unique opportunity for certain projects. With the pond safely frozen, and negligible snow depth, a determined group of volunteers was granted a rare window of opportunity to easily access the remains of the old observation deck on the pond.
"It took planning, good help and a sturdy sled" said Howard Lake who organized the project.
Rather than trying to remove the fixtures that anchored the wooden posts to granite slab anchors at the bottom of the pond, the beams were sawed off at water level using a chainsaw.
View of the boardwalk following removal of the observation deck.
While the very ends of the wooden beams, and the granite slab that was used to anchor them, remain within the pond, we are certain the painted turtles and green frogs will not object to having additional places to bask during the summer months. Removal of this structure from the pond will allow for an enhanced wildlife viewing experience this coming spring and summer, allowing for unobstructed views of herons, ducks and mink.
We are thankful for our dedicated volunteers!
The old observation deck patiently awaits spring removal at the end of the boardwalk.
