Sportsmen working with coal company

Here's a look at a coal mine reforestation success story. The first photo was taken not long after seedlings were planted on barren landscape. The second picture was taken at the same plot four years later. Photos compliments of Appalachian Technical Services Inc.

Sinnemahoning Sportsmen's Assn. is working with River Hill Coal Company for improvements to property formerly used for mining in Karthaus Township.

At their January meeting, members agreed to provide seed that will be planted to help create wildlife food plots on the surface of land strip-mined by River Hill. A similar cooperative arrangement with the coal company on another retired coal mine last year was a success, members noted.

Plans are in place for the popular coyote hunt Feb. 17- 18. It is open to all SSA members. Additional information is available by phone at 546- 2835.

Membership Chair Kathy Fabin said the club is nearing the 4,100 mark, but still has a way to go to reach the 2007 goal of 6,000 members.

SSA members are encouraged to turn out for a work party to be scheduled in March for the pruning of fruit trees to benefit wildlife. Details will be announced.

Winter wildlife feeding continues. Corn can be picked up by members at the clubhouse on Feb. 3, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24.

SSA committee chairs have been announced for 2007: Ray Savel, public relations; Bruce Whitman and Tim Horner, personnel; Don Simonetti and Shirley Sipe, Youth Field Day; Sam Brunatti, Snake Hunt; Larry Erickson, Coyote Hunt; Don Simonetti, inside building and maintenance; Sam Brunatti, grounds and outside building; Bonnie Ramsey, Children's Fishing Derby.