TRAINING WEEK

Bright and early on Monday morning we and the 15 other volunteers began our Cradle of Forestry volunteer training in a classroom in the Discovery Center. After introductions of staff, learning about the history of the Cradle of Forestry and the connections with the Vanderbilts and Biltmore, we “took to the trails”. We walked the 1 mile Biltmore Campus Trail as we learned about the the Biltmore Forest School and toured the historic buildings. Along the way we were enchanted by the forest and wildflowers. This truly is a magical place.Toward the end of the day our work schedules for the first session (until July 20) were passed out. We’ll be working 4 days one week and 3 days the next week. The training ended about 6pm and everyone was in bed early that night.

On Tuesday and Wednesday we learned about each of the stations. All volunteers rotate through 8 different stations, fee gate, front desk, gift desk, exhibit hall, helicopter (yes!), rover, building attendant, and trail attendant. There is an overwhelming amount of information to learn, about both the stations and the Cradle and forestry itself. We also walked another 1.5 mile trail called the Forest Festival Trail. Jim said that it reminded him of his boy scout days learning about the forest and trees. We’ve probably walked more during this week that we have in the last several months!  Gonna have to get in shape for this experience. On Wednesday we also got our uniforms – pants, shirts, and jackets – in the lovely shade of green the Forest Service wears.  The outfits are affectionately referred to as the “pickle suits”. Pictures to follow later.

On Thursday the Cradle arranged for all volunteers to spend a day at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville as part of our training. What an incredible experience not only to see Biltmore but to become more familiar with the contribution George Vanderbilt made to the preservation of our forests here in the US. He was an amazing visionary. We rode to Asheville with Howard and Linda Jackson. They actually live in Asheville and Howard worked at the Biltmore Winery for 8 years. They provided much information about the area and the estate and while we walked through the Biltmore house, Howard acted as our own personal tour guide.

After touring the house and having lunch in the Stable Café, we drove to the Winery and received another personal guided tour. The complimentary tasting room at the end provided samples of all the Biltmore wines. Of course, we bought a few bottles to take home. What a day!!

Friday began on a bad note as the low overnight temps  (29 degree) caused our water hose to freeze. We had just enough water to make coffee before heading back to the classroom for our last day of training. We reminisced about yesterday’s activities and tied up some loose ends. Our final task was a “brief” (68 questions!) scavenger hunt around the entire facility. We started alone but soon teamed up with other people as we walked and talked…and searched!  Jim said that we walked over 5 miles seeking answers to the questions before we decided to break for lunch. Our training ended with a discussion of the answers everyone found and a charge to have fun and enjoy the next 3 months.

Unfortunately, our day was only partially done as we drove down the mountain to town – 12 miles. We still had phone issues to resolved; Lydia needed some hiking boots; we needed a few more groceries. As we returned to our campsite, we saw other people doing outside chores. It only took a few moments before we were visiting and chatting. We really like our new volunteer friends!

Saturday was opening day for the Cradle of Forestry. We weren’t  scheduled to work, but were there to check out the jobs and partake in the fun of the day.  Stay tuned!

‘Til next time…