Hollow Oak News

 

"I think having land and not ruining it is the most beautiful art

that anybody could ever want to own."

- Andy Warhol
  
September 3, 2014
Volume 2, Number 6

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Nature Notes:  Catalpa Moth (Ceratomia catalpa)
 
The catalpa sphinx is a one of our largest local species of moths, with a wingspan of 7-9 cm. The caterpillar stage (pictured) is most commonly encountered, and the species is named for the catalpa tree on which the caterpillars feed. You may have seen the long "tobies" or seed pods hanging from this tree's large, heart-shaped leaves.

 

The Catalpa Sphinx caterpillar has been valued as excellent fishing bait since the species was first described in the late 1800s. Caterpillars are yellow with a black stripe along the back and black spots along the sides of the body. Adult moths are camouflaged in drab brown, but these stout bodied moths take flight at dusk or night and are able to fly rapidly, hovering in mid-air like a hummingbird, as they seek nectar from hard to reach flowers. A catalpa sphinx caterpillar was recently found near its namesake tree at the mouth of Meeks Run in the Montour Woods Conservation Area.
 
Volunteer Profile: Darin Shaffer 
  
Darin is one of Hollow Oak's most motivated volunteers, having served two terms on the Board of Directors and one term as Treasurer on the Executive Committee. But the majority of Darin's volunteer hours come in the form of trail maintenance and bridge construction. Pictured here working with his dad, Chuck, on the 2014 boardwalk project, Darin also builds footbridges, owl boxes and he contributes countless hours building the Montour Woods trail system along with fellow Hollow Oak members and friends.

 

What inspired you to volunteer
with Hollow Oak?

I think what inspired me most was the value the organization has to offer to its members, the community and, most importantly, to the natural environment.

 

What do you like most about Hollow Oak? 
What I like most is the organization's emphasis on outdoor recreation while pursuing its mission to protect greenspace.

 

Any tips for aspiring volunteers? 
Just one tip...don't be afraid to volunteer. We all have that 'first' time fear whether it's not knowing what to expect or not knowing anyone involved.  It's a great organization and once you get involved you will meet some nice people...like me!

 

Hollow Oak Trail Host: Stacey Styborski 
   
Recent visitors to Montour Woods have been greeted by Stacey Styborski, the new Hollow Oak Trail Host. Several days each week, Stacey provides helpful information to visitors select a good route to hike or bike. She also collects data to help us understand how people use the trails, how far they travel and other info that can help define our impact on the community.
 
If you see Stacey's smiling face at the Hassam Road trailhead, please say Hello and fill out the survey, which will make us all smile! Anyone who signs up at the trailhead also receives a special edition wicking t-shirt, along with other goodies. Stacey says, "There's never been a better time to become a Hollow Oak member!"  
Corporate Land Stewardship

 

Hollow Oak Land Trust partners with Pittsburgh area corporations to improve quality of life in local communities by preserving greenspace, restoring wildlife habitat and developing trail systems. Volunteer trail projects boost quality of life and economic development in the Pittsburgh Airport corridor.

 

Sponsorship packages include financial and volunteer support:

  • GOLD  $2,500 donation + 50 volunteer hours

  • SILVER  $1,000 donation + 30 volunteer hours

  • BRONZE  $500 donation + 20 volunteer hours

 

Companies interested in the Hollow Oak Land Stewardship Program can contact Sean Brady for more information at sbrady@hollowoak.org or (412) 264-5354. 

 
Trail Maintenance 

Join the Hollow Oak Wednesday trail crew to learn the science of trail building and the art of conservation. We promise a good workout, good company and the great result of improved public access to nature. Dress for the weather, pants and sturdy shoes/boots recommended. All instruction, tools, work gloves provided, followed by refreshments!

 

Location: Montour Woods Conservation Area, Moon Township.

Check our Facebook page for specific location or call/email: info@hollowoak.org or (412) 417-5825
 

 

Hollow Oak Land Trust | PO Box 741 | Coraopolis, PA 15108 

(412) 264-5354

 

 

 

 


  
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