The Great Outdoors

I recently had the opportunity to attend an in-service training at the Chambers County Agricultural Center. It was a very informative and hands-on workshop. I had the pleasure to hear and see a demonstration by Dr. David Hall, a native to Chambers County, on how wood plays a part in the U.S.  Space Program. I […]

I recently had the opportunity to attend an in-service training at the Chambers County Agricultural Center. It was a very informative and hands-on workshop. I had the pleasure to hear and see a demonstration by Dr. David Hall, a native to Chambers County, on how wood plays a part in the U.S.  Space Program. I got the chance to tour the LaFayette Sawmill, which was loud but a great experience, and I went on a timber cruise. Timber cruising, for those who don’t know, is where you walk around a plot of land and measure the diameter and height of several trees. After you record your findings, you go back and calculate how much money you are willing to bid in order to clear this specific piece of land. After you calculate your bid, you attempt to buy the land and sell the wood to a local sawmill. I had no idea how much time and effort went into logging, but I now have a greater appreciation for it. While I might not be the most “outdoorsy” person, I did thoroughly enjoy the time spent touring the sawmill, measuring trees, and hearing some wonderful speakers. I learned a great deal of information, and I cannot wait to share my findings with my students.