GRIZEDALE NATIONAL FOREST

A UNIQUE HIKE

            In England we did many great hikes, one that stands out in my mind was through the sculpture of the Grizedale National Forest. Enroute we were told, “In the 10^th century peaceful Vikings came to this area. Many married the villagers. Monks from 1150-1539 dominated this area. In 1539 Henry VIII destroyed the monastery and sold the property to landowners.”

Scotch pine is the only native coniferous tree in the area and the English oak the only native deciduous tree.  In the 17^th century the larch tree was introduced for its aroma and medicinal uses.

Our guide continued, “In 1936 one could purchase parcels of 1500-2000 acres. During World War II women tended the farms when the men went off to war. The Forest Commission was formed after the war ended. Soon after, lodgepole pines were planted on the high area.

“In 1960 English representatives went to the United States to study the park system and brought back many ideas to England.  Grizedale was one of the first forests in England opened to the public. In the mid 1970s sculptures were allowed and encouraged. They can be made of wood, stone, or metal.  There even is a special sculpture map of the park.”

The hike started out with us climbing 500 feet straight up a rocky eroded path, but the view when one reached the top was magnificent! We viewed many sculptures hiking that day. Some were really neat, some conventional, and some pretty weird. It made the hike interesting—sort of like a treasure hunt. It was a fun afternoon.

            In England people live and farm in the parks. While hiking, during our visit, we opened many a gate to continue on our way.

During a lecture we learned that today there are many pressures on the National Parks. One of the most urgent and biggest problems is the impact of tourism. The area needs tourist income, but how to control the impact of many people using and enjoying the landscape. Then there is the need for tourist facilities and control of building and type of structures, all of which impact the growth. The need of the residents is always  present. Modern farming methods and commercial forestry are also needs.

Erosion is a constant problem, often caused by people straying off paths destroying vegetation. Repair of paths is a constant man-power and financial problem.     Leveling walk-ways, providing disabled access, identifying drainage problems, replanting and protecting such from sheep and deer are other problems facing the area. It might be said that the area has been loved to death. Trying to find a quiet balance is a challenge.

LOWITZ, POLAND

POLISH COUNTRYSIDE

            It is always nice to get out of the city and ride through the countryside. When in Poland we stopped at the Bernardine Monastery where the nuns had prepared and served us lunch.

            The nuns basically run a soup kitchen serving lunch to several poor people every day. They were expecting us and I must say it was one of the most memorial meals I’ve ever had. The vegetable soup was delicious and the bread was hot out of the oven. It was not elegant dining but it was a delightful time. The nuns were friendly and gracious and it was a pleasure to add to their coffers. When we left, the nuns standing on the front stoop, serenaded us with their lovely voices.

            When we arrived at the Lowicz Castle ruins musicians and dancers were waiting for us. Dressed in native costume they performed songs and dances specially for us. This was a real native performance, not some commercial affair.

Lowicz is a small native Polish village. The spokesman for the group explained, “I bought these ruins a few years ago and built this building on the grounds. My wife and I live here. Eventually, I want to restore part of the castle.”

            They were most gracious people and invited us into their home. I don’t know much about the history of the castle but it looked like he had an ambitious restoration project before him.

            Inside the home the man’s wife and a girl maybe 11 or 12 years old were doing some paper cutting. We all stood gaping in amazement at the intricate designs they were creating with sheep-shearing shears! The designs were beautiful and the shears were so big. I couldn’t imagine the patience it would take to accomplish such a fine art.

            We asked if the designs were for sale and were stunned when they said they ranged from 6-10 zoltys which translated into $2-3. We learned that this craft is unique to only this part of the country. I treasure my paper cutting and have it hanging in my living room.

As we were leaving, the fellow climbed a small hill to give us a cannon salute from his real live cannon. What a nice tribute!