Join Betsy Higgins and Marcia Merithew in an exploration of the area around the dam. We'll start at the top of the dam, then drive down to the road along the East Branch of the Westfield River. The past several years we did not have access to drive the dirt road along the East Branch so we'll park by the gate and walk as far as the group wants. Highlights include flycatchers, Bank Swallows, Spotted Sandpipers, several species of warblers, and cuckoos. There will be a combination of walking (and maybe driving if the gate is open) on dirt roads over moderately uneven terrain. Bring snacks and water and sun protection as there is no shade along the road. Meet in the JFK Middle School parking lot on Bridge Road, Northampton at 7 AM. It's about a 20-minute drive to the Knightville area. Let us know if you prefer to meet at the top of the dam at 7:30 rather than meeting at JFK School. Outhouses available at the bottom of the dam where we'll stop briefly before heading to the lower portion. No sitting areas available. Questions? Contact Marcia at mmerithew@comcast.net. Limited to 10 participants. (M) 

Field Trip designations:
(E) – Easy conditions, fairly accessible for most, usually flat terrain on improved trails or roads. 
(M) – Moderately difficult, more challenging trail conditions, short steep sections, longer hikes. 
(S) – Strenuous conditions, muddy or rocky trails, steep sections, difficult footing in part.