Rick's "Folly"

Our western line runs nearly 2,000 feet with the meanderings of Thornton's Creek, a (very) minor tributary of the Cape Fear River.  Over the past century, this shallow brook has been impacted by farming, logging, the construction of two high tension power transmission lines, and a beaver infestation.  Today it is overgrown, inaccessible and, for most of the year, quite swampy.  In short, it's a PERFECT wildlife habitat.

For years we've wanted a way to enjoy the abundant wildlife activity this area hosts - and this year we found the means and opportunity to do it.  In mid-November when this area was driest,  Rick and Glenn Lucas began clearing a small patch of land close to Thornton's Creek.  Then they carefully carried at least two tons of buiding materials (mostly pressure-treated lumber and concrete) to the site - and started building a 160 sq. ft. observation deck suspended 14' above the normal high-water level.

Rick documented the construction progress in a photo diary which is available here.  Just click on the "Play" icon on the bottom right to start the slideshow.