01/11/2007
1/11/2007
Cash for a Closing Peregrines Return - Vandalized Again
The WMCC is approaching a milestone event in its efforts to secure permanent access to some of the finest climbing and bouldering in southern New England. Soon representatives of the WMCC will attend a property closing with sufficient financial resources in hand to acquire a 9-acre parcel of property adjacent to the base of Farley Ledge in Erving, MA. The purchase of the property will allow the WMCC to restrict development at the base of the crag, establish a new parking area and provide unfettered access to the excellent climbing and hiking options.
To date the WMCC has raised over $55,000. The donations have come from a variety of sources including local climbers and businesses as well as regional and national organizations. A special thanks goes out to the Access Fund who provided a substantial grant and to the AMC for critical support to meet financial requirements at the closing.
The fundraising continues. The WMCC needs money to build the parking area and repay loans. Your help is needed now. There are currently five different challenge grants we are working on. For more information or to make a donation visit our website at www.westernmacc.com.
In other news, Peregrine Falcons made a late appearance this season. A pair of birds was discovered in early April on the Yellow Wall area. Local climbers are respecting the closure of this area until further notice. The WMCC asks all visiting climbers to do the same.
Lastly, in what has become an unfortunate seasonal event over 50 bolts plus an additional 15 anchor bolts were found vandalized at Farley Ledge during the week of April 1. All hardware was either stolen or hammered useless damaging 6 established routes. The action was taken at night or on a wet/cold weather day. No individual(s) has taken responsibility. If anyone has any information on the individual(s) that committed this act please contact the WMCC at [email protected].