AVIS 48th Annual Rafton Trek Successful

On Sunday, January 29, 2017, fifteen people from Andover, Newburyport and Lawrence participated in the 48^th Annual Rafton Snowshoe and Cross Country Ski Trek. The lack of snow did not daunt the group as they hiked for two hours in the Harold R. Rafton Reservation, one of the largest reservations owned by the Andover Village Improvement Society, AVIS. The hike was led by David Dargie, Burt Batcheller, and Ken Doran. In addition to the joy of being outside on a beautiful Sunday morning, the group learned about the many stone walls in the reservation and became acquainted with the different types of trees in the forest. By the end of the hike most participants could identify a white oak tree and a shag bark hickory tree. One of the highlights of the walk was a view of a beaver lodge in a pond created by a beaver dam on Fish Brook just west of I-93 in Andover.

David Dargie began taking this Trek in 1970 when his father started the tradition. He has now completed every one of the 48 hikes. He took over the leadership of this annual outing which brings families and individuals together to enjoy one of the nicest reservations in Andover.

The Andover Village Improvement Society (AVIS) was founded in 1894 and manages over 1,100 acres of land in the Town of Andover. This all volunteer organization protects lands often considered “Andover’s Backyard” because most residents of the Town live within 15-20 minutes of an AVIS property. AVIS volunteers maintain trails, clear meadows, and keep all properties open for the enjoyment of the public. AVIS welcomes your help and support! More information is available at www.avisandover.org.