Hidden Cove: 2014

It has been brought to our attention that the Hemlock trees in Hidden Cove are at risk of an aggressive attack by an intruder called the Hemlock Wooly Adelgid. This is a non-native insect that has been destructive to the Hemlocks through neighboring states, and areas near our property.

What to look for:

In regard to definition, according to the National Park Service:

The Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (Adlges tsugae) is an aphid-like insect that covers itself with a white, waxy “wool” which acts as a protective coating for the insect. Adelgid infestations are easily recognizable by the appearance of tiny “cotton balls” at the base of hemlock needles. The “wool” is most conspicuous on the undersides of branches from fall through spring. Without successful intervention, the hemlock woolly adelgid is likely to kill most of the hemlock trees in the park.

Example of a HWA infected Hemlock:

More information can be found at: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/hemlock-woolly-adelgid.htm

The Hemlock tree has been documented to have a lifespan exceeding 200 years, and has for this reason had a tremendous impact on the ecosystems of inhabiting areas. With such a lifespan, it has known few threats with the exception of HWA. Midwestern and Eastern States, namely Tennessee, South Carolina, Ohio and Kentucky have seen the damaging effect of HWA on Hemlock population.

Why is this important to us?

For some of us, visiting Hidden Cove is mostly about family, exploring, relaxing, and Flipcup rivalries. We may not know the details or impact of each piece of nature we see.

This is a Hemlock Tree:

It should look familiar. Here are a few reasons why the Hemlock trees are important:

The Hemlock trees, due to their size, are integral to the natural design and structure of Hidden Cove.
Hemlocks sustain themselves. These mammoth trees rely on a dense wet ecosystem, and the canopy of a Hemlock naturally creates this below its stem. The oldest Hemlock is 500+ years old.
The shade provided from the Hemlocks have a huge impact on the ecosystem below the water. If the shade across Nolin Lake currently created by the Hemlocks were to be lessened, it would challenge the current aquatic ecosystem entirely. Less food, fewer fish, life would dwindle.
If you use any type of suntan lotion above SPF 15, you need the Hemlocks. (You know who you are).
To have fallen trees of this size would be devastating. Especially considering the log cabin, RVs, and other residential structures we have placed below them.
Birds rely on the Hemlocks for their homes. We rely on the birds for pest control. Although at times it seems the mosquitos are everywhere in Hidden Cove, it actually could be much, much, worse.
We are not renaming Hemlock Way.

What can we do?

At this point we are ahead of the attack and intend to keep it that way.

There is a specific type of insecticide designed to protect Hemlock trees from HWAs. It is applied to the roots of the tree and it will absorb into the soil, and then into the tree. Any HWAs that feed from the sap of a protected tree will die.

This insecticide will save the trees.

This insecticide is expensive.

Jack and Lei are making the initial investment toward preventative protection of many trees in area that they have determined to be the most detrimental to the property if lost. Timing is crucial and we have to be prepared. There are many Hemlock trees in the area at risk and this is where we can all contribute.

SAVE THE HEMLOCK CONTRIBUTION OPTIONS

In harmony with the Hidden Cove fashion, with each investment to the Save the Hemlock Campaign there will be exclusive Hidden Cove swag rewarded based on contribution. There will be several donation options, to summarize:

Donation 1: THE INDIFFERENT
For those that read this blog, and are generally uninterested, but do not want to be gossiped about for lack of participation, there is this option. Contribute $10 and receive another Hidden Cove coozie. This one says “Save the Hemlock.”

Donation 2: THE TREE HUGGER
You are a true loyalist to Hidden Cove. You want to Save the Hemlocks but also are bringing enough beer for everyone next time. Contribute $20 and receive the limited edition “Save the Hemlock” t-shirt.

Donation 3: THE ALL WEATHER TREE HUGGER
You are as loyal as the tree hugger, but also committed in the less comfortable seasons. You likely have higher Platinum Points than the Tree Hugger, own a pair of Storm Chasers, and know how to start the Gator. Contribute $30 and receive the limited edition “Save the Hemlock” long sleeve t-shirt.

Donation 4: THE HEMLOCK DEFENDER
You bask in the shade of the mighty Hemlock. In that shade you require no sunscreen, no bug spray. You are one with nature and no Hemlocks will die on your watch. Contribute $40 and receive the exclusive “Save the Hemlock” hoodie!

Donation 5: THE ANGEL INVESTOR
For those that wish to go further, call Jack and Lei at 614-273-9266.

We are serious about this cause, and want to be proactive while in the preventative stage. Hidden Cove means so much to us all. The loss of these trees could be more than uncomfortable, it could compromise the landscape of the entire area. We won’t let that happen.

This campaign will run through September 30^th as this effort is preventative and we must stay ahead of the HWA. ORDERS ARE NOW CLOSED- Thanks for all that supported this effort!
Orders will be available in Hidden Cove for pickup.

Thank you for your contribution.

I just returned home from a lovely family weekend retreat in Hidden Cove.

I’m grateful to have such a wonderful place to visit when I want to get away from the normal grind of my everyday life.

This weekend’s visit was special, because I was able to share two days with my parents and my aunts and uncles.

Hanging out in the Lodge after everyone arrived Friday evening.

We had a fantastic time.

The natural beauty of the property was breathtaking.
The melting snow and ice around the area highlighted the waterfalls and streams we have surrounding us.

The spring-like temperatures helped us enjoy a long hike and hang out around the campfire together.