Benson’s Committee having 2nd cleanup

HUDSON – Clearing walking paths and trails at Benson’s will move forward this weekend in what’s fast becoming a biannual event.

The Benson’s Committee today is holding its second cleanup day this year. So far, members have cleared out overgrowth and trimmed bushes, shrubs and trees.

More than 100 people attended the May cleanup, some staying hours after the cleanup was supposed to end.

Although the town does not own the land, it has a memorandum of agreement with the state that allows the town to access the property. The town hopes to offer passive recreation on the property, such a walking trails.

Participants in the last cleanup focused on developing a perimeter trail, clearing off old asphalt sidewalks left from when Benson’s operated as an amusement park.

The group also worked on the Storybook Trail loop, which goes by the Old Woman in the Shoe and a lake path. Volunteer efforts have begun to research restoring the Old Woman in the Shoe.

Two classes from Alvirne High School will be helping out during the cleanup.

Volunteers will trim shrubs, trees and tree branches, remove invasive plants and collect trash and debris.

Areas with poison ivy have been marked with yellow caution tape to help protect volunteers.

Still, participants should bring gloves and wear long sleeves, and it is recommended they wear bug spray and bring lunch, snacks and water.

Participants are also asked to bring their own tools, such as pruning shears, bow saws, loppers and rakes.

The cleanup will take place rain or shine.

Although the estimated stop time is 2 p.m., it might last longer if the previous cleanup is a good indication. Some people stayed until 5:30 p.m. last time.

“No one wanted to go home,” Benson’s Committee member Esther McGraw said. “Everyone was having so much fun.”