Mini Projects

[Dave]

Via UCF I got invited to the June 5 Volunteer Day. Shawn was a great help in setting up some direction to the large group of volunteers. I am an experienced builder and carpenter. It became obvious at first observation that a priority at the site would be to prevent further deterioration. Water and wood yeilds rot. Maintanence and waterproofing prevents rot. Paint and caulk are the first line of defense. This is what you are concentrating on now.

As I got involved in some of the minor carpentry repairs on Saturday it became apparent that rot has set in at many locations. Much of what we did was first aid and bandaids to make the site more secure and safe. I am sure you are having discussions on the big picture for the site. Decisions regarding preservation and restoration require research, discussion, and leadership. You will need to set standards for design and specifications for materials and workmanship.

I would like to recommend that the total project be broken down into mini projects. Committees if you like.

An example would be the perimeter fence. Being involved in some of the patch work and painting this Saturday it was obvious it is in a serious state of disrepair and large sections of it require replacement. Much of it is currently built in a way that encourages rot and decay. Once a final decision has been made on the period, design, style, specifications and material it can be restored to a more secure and permenant state. One way to do it would be a section at a time. To raise funds to do it the Trust could solicit donations for one picket, post or rail at a time. It is also the kind of project that a small team of volunteers could complete without too much detailed supervision.