Imagine now that you arrive at the area or woods that has held so many good memories, and find that it has been timbered (raped is another good word). It happened to me. As I wandered down the gas well road that bisected these formerly beautiful woods, I was literally lost. The land was so shockingly different that I could hardly get my bearings. I have read that this will be beneficial, in the long run, for all game, but in the short term it is repulsive, and gut wrenching. It is like having something stolen from you. I don’t own the land but I truly enjoyed the mature trees and quiet it afforded.

I never did venture off the gas well road. I had no interest in the landscape the chain saws left behind. Where there were once shaded mysteries and solitude only torn and naked earth remained.

I did find deer sign and saw one squirrel. The cutting of those trees is such a final act. My great grandson may enjoy the big woods but for me it is gone. The owner of the property is an older widow and maybe she needed the money. I really didn’t think about the reasons to justify what happened. As I walked back to the car I knew that, for a while, I would not be going back "home".

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Lost at "Home"

Nick Loprire

There are places where outdoorsmen go year after year. The particular area or woods holds some unknown attraction for the hunter, camper, hiker, fisherman, etc. Anticipation of a visit heightens because, having been there, you can see the place in your minds eye. Maybe there is a good acorn crop this year and you remember the buck sign in the heavy oak tree area of your special place. Sitting in the easy chair and pondering, you know just where you want place that stand when the season rolls around.