We had arranged to meet with Keith, a Massachusetts Forest Fire Control worker at the Goshen Fire Tower in the DAR Forest. The day was totally fogged in as we climbed the 78 feet to the top of the open structure metal tower (trying to keep calm and not look down on the way up). Atop the tower is an enclosure where 6 to 8 hour shifts happen during fire seasons. We learned how fires are located using methods of triangulation from tower to tower. I was surprised to learn that as many as 3 or more fires may be spotted on any given day. We learned a lot! Too much for this report sorry to say. The methodology is tried and true and not high tech. I’ve included Kevin’s notebook for you to see and the map with strings and pushpins used in the triangulation process. It was great to see such a dedicated and enthusiastic young man at his work. The Forest Control Teams are also trained forest fire fighters and get sent to Colorado, Oregon, wherever there’s a need. Thanks, Keith! Then back down to the lumpy trails at DAR, the gradual clearing of fog., and a great 2 hour hike on Long Trail. Then!! We came upon an Osprey floundering in the water near the shore of the lake (last photo).There was no way for us to assist, and it was sad to watch, but once we got into cell phone range, we were able to call DAR Ranger and Tom Ricardi ( bird rehab expert) and gave adequate directions for finding the Osprey. I’ve just learned that Tom rescued it, it is a young Osprey, near starvation, no broken bones, and prognosis looks good. Apparently it’s difficult to get an Osprey to take handed out food (they catch and eat fish) but Tom had a fine trout in the rehab cage with it and if it doesn’t take the trout, Tom will force feed it.. Lunch at the old Williamsburg Inn where most of us had the incredible $5.00 turkey dinner, a Thursday hiker favorite! Happy October, Happy Birthday Phil! Love, Penny 
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