HCC LUMBERJACKS TAKE THE CRADLE!

On October 2nd, the HCC Lumberjacks met four other schools on the field of competition and left with a solid win. The team, mostly freshmen this year, showed unmatched focus and resolve in the face of teams that were perhaps more seasoned, but not unbeatable. Though the competition was fierce, a good time was had by all, as camaraderie and mutual respect are hallmarks of the forestry programs that participate in this event yearly. Students are tested not only on their skill with an axe and chainsaw, but also on their abilities to navigate in the woods, their knowledge of native trees and shrubs, and the knowledge that they have acquired during their tenure in the various programs that they attend. The competition, commonly referred to as "The Cradle," is known formally as The John G. Palmer Annual Intercollegiate Woodsmen's Meet. The event is named for Dr. Palmer, a former forestry instructor at HCC respected for his dedication to The Cradle, as well as to the students. The Cradle of Forestry, located in the Pisgah National Forest, generously lends HCC its corral annually to use as the timbersports playing field. It is no accident that this annual competition is held in this iconic location, as The Cradle of Forestry is the location of America's first school of forestry, then known as The Biltmore Forest School. As many of the events in the competition are reminiscent of the games and skills taught to budding foresters by Dr. Carl Alwin Schenck, back when the Cradle was The Biltmore Forest School, this woodsmen's meet serves as a supplemental attraction for visitors to the Cradle's Forest Festival Day. This competition is definitely something to mark on your calendars, as it is always good fun for all. The HCC Forestry Club is, as always, grateful to the The Cradle of Forestry and the event's sponsor, STIHL, as well as all of the many volunteers that helped to make the event a success!