Haystack’s history mapped
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
THE HISTORY OF HAYSTACK, from a geological perspective, has been mapped out and is now on display at the popular Castle Hill landmark, thanks to the dedication of local volunteers and community officials who studied the site and documented what they found. Pictured with the new map are, from left: Bill Forbes, volunteer; Aroostook State Park Director Scott Thompson; UMPI student Nolan Gagnon, who worked on the project; Chunzeng Wang, assistant professor of earth and environmental science at the Unversity of Maine at Presque Isle; and Gary Boone, volunteer.
CASTLE HILL — Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Haystack Mountain now can learn more about the geological composition of the popular landmark, following the recent installation of a map that details the evolution of the mountain — from volcano to popular park and picnic area.
In May, officials from the Aroostook State Park and the University of Maine at Presque Isle joined project volunteers for the unveiling of the map.
“We officially began the process of creating the final map last fall. A class at UMPI processed the data, used GPS (global positioning system) to map the trails and GIS (geographic information systems) was used to process data on the area and create the map,” said Chunzeng Wang, assistant professor of earth and environmental science at UMPI.
Wang credited Gary Boone with providing the group valuable geological data from the mountain.
“Gary came here years before me. He’d already compiled quite a bit of data,” he said. “We have a good combination of GIS and GPS work here — much of it was put together using the new GIS lab at UMPI.”
Wang said Haystack was one of his first sites he visited when he arrived in Aroostook County.
“This was one of the first geological trips Bill (Forbes) took me on. There are fossils here and a lot to learn,” he said.
“One of the most important things I learned from Chunzeng was to discard all pre-conceived concepts. He taught me this was once a volcano — something I never knew,” said Forbes.
Wang hopes visitors will take the time to read the map and learn more about the mountain.
“Visitors may stop to look at the map and learn about the mountain’s geological makeup,” said Wang.
Wang said this has been a “productive year.” He said he plans to come to the site each year to continue to map changes.
“When I see rocks — something new, I call Gary,” said Wang.
Road construction along Route 163 adjacent to the mountain uncovered some remarkable geological finds, according to Boone.
“We discovered volcanic rock called ‘conduit’ rock along the ledge when they worked on the road last year. MDOT would tell us when new exposures occurred,” explained Boone, noting how each discovery was quickly examined and mapped out, before construction began again.
Conduit rock now lines Haystack’s parking area.
“Conduit is volcanic rock that’s not fully developed,” said Boone.
“There was an incredible amount of cooperation between DOT and Soderberg (that allowed officials to inspect and map such a find),” said Forbes. “They actually held up construction for us to document what was found.”
Wang said plans include installing plaques on the adjacent rocks telling more about the area’s origins. He was quick to give credit to Forbes and Boone for the work each contributed to the project.
“Without Gary and Bill, we wouldn’t have any of this,” Wang said.
Boone said he’s been coming to Haystack for as long as he can remember.
“My first trip here was for birthday picnics dating back to 1934,” said Boone.
Scott Thompson, director of the Aroostook State Park, was on hand for the installation of the map at the base of the mountain train. He said development at the popular site continues, with the goal of creating an informative and fun atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
“Once we knew we could create a shopping-sized parking lot, we moved ahead with plans to address maintenance issues and make improvements — improvements to increase use. The interpretive panel does a great job at explaining the history of the ‘Gem of Aroostook,’ as we like to refer to Haystack,” said Thompson.
The public will have an opportunity to take part in an ‘open house’ June 27, complete with guided hikes at the mountain.
“On June 27, starting at the parking lot at Haystack, we’ll have two guided hikes — one starting at 6 a.m. and the second at 9 a.m. Participants will climb to the top of one of the best views in Aroostook County,” said Thompson.
Geological discussions will be held at the trail head.
“Visitors will learn why this mountain looks the way it does and what a real ‘gem’ it is to northern Maine,” Thompson said.
Participants are asked to dress appropriately for the weather and be sure to wear sturdy footwear.
“Please, no sandals or flip flops. You might want to bring fly dope too. Water will be provided or you can bring your own,” said Thompson, adding that fanny packs will be given out to participants, while supplies last.
The event is sponsored by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands, Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce, Healthy Aroostook and Poland Springs water. The event is free.
“Our goal is to have the best year at Haystack we’ve had in 50 years. We want this to become a fun spot for families and friends to gather — a place to create memories,” said Thompson.
For more information, call 768-8341.
