Death by Hemlock Woolly Traditional Geocache
Team Rampant Lion: I'm moving west (SF) so asked some friends to help me clean up. Treequest was kind enough to help remove this cache. Thank you very much
-
Difficulty:
-
-
Terrain:
-
Size: 
(regular)
Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions
in our disclaimer.
Placed with permission from Sparta Parks & Recreation.
The Sparta Glen area is one of northwest New Jersey's spectacular natural resources. It is located in Sparta, NJ.
This cache is located on a section of the mountain that has come under seige by the Hemlock Wooly. This is not a type of bear (although there are a few of those here as well) or a cousin of the abominable snowman but as explained in a research effort by Dr. Denise Royle and Dr. Richard Lathrop (Rutgers U.):
Over the past four decades, the eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) has been declining in health and vigor in eastern North America. Although other factors may be involved, the major cause of hemlock decline is infestation by an introduced, sap-feeding insect, the hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae). Feeding by the adelgid causes hemlock needles to dry up and fall off the tree, resulting in death to the tree within 2-4 years.
As you will see, the result of these insects visit has been very devastating to the area.
This is a nice hike and climb to this spot. There are lots of opportunities to see wildlife so bring your cameras and a good understanding of how to interact with the locals (black bears). Armed with this information you will have a great visit.
The cache is a large ammo can filled with the usual goodies. Please replace as you found. Enjoy!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Qvq lbh ybbx va lbhe gehaxf?