Special thanks to
Mid Peninsula Open Space District
for approving the boulder's removal
and loan to Santa
Clara County Parks & Recreation Department for preservation and
display.
Colorful IV Removing the Stone |
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| On a warm July afternoon, a team of volunteers hiked up-creek for some heavy lifting. | ||
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| Two county agencies agreed in advance to the boulder's removal and preservation. | ||
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| But first, this Banana Slug's right to eminent domain had to be settled. (Slug was relocated.) | ||
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| Team leader Mike Cox's removal strategy included the use of nylon rope and 2"x4"s. | ||
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| First, the boulder was eased onto a web of loosely knotted rope. | ||
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| Next, knots throughout the web were pulled tight. | ||
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| Ready for the fun part, but first a commemorative photo. | ||
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| Mike's initial estimate of the boulder's weight -- just tripled. | ||
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| The Team moved the boulder in stages, resting before each change in terrain. | ||
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| Removal route followed a game trail that angled precariously in places. | ||
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| After pausing to assess the footing ahead (or lack thereof), the Team carefully advanced. | ||
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| At last the boulder is safely brought through the narrows. | ||
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| It's uphill from here all the way! | ||
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| Bravo Mike, Ed, Mark, Mike & Skip! You guys made it look easy! | ||
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| OK, here we go! | ||
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| All together now! | ||
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| Time for a breather! | ||
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| Here, Mike imparts to the others the history of the boulder's deep seabed formation. | ||
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| Removal Team arriving at New Almaden's Quicksilver Mining Museum. | ||
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| The boulder removal phase nears successful completion. | ||
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| Now the work will begin to prepare the boulder for eventual public display. Well done Mike! | ||
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Special thanks to
Mid Peninsula Open Space District
for approving the boulder's removal |
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