Clearing Early Snow

Snow removal requires more skill than is apparent to the casual observer. Most cabins are not designed with snow removal in mind. Each residence has its own set of obstacles that must be immediately assessed and avoided. Rocks, logs and low-hanging trees line driveways. Cabins and garages create ninety degree window-lined alcoves that must be blown out without damaging the glass.

Anticipating my second year of blowing snow, Greg Walker walked me through his plan for the first few weeks of snow removal. He would be responsible for the initial clearing of each property because the ground would not be frozen, making it easier to throw rock and mud with the snow. He would use the older blower because it was lighter and less likely to dig into the dirt. Once the base was established, he would assign areas for me to clear.

Last week Greg and his wife attended an emergency services training seminar in Sun Valley. Of course that turned out to be the same week of the first snowfall requiring blowing and the only blower that was operational was the new one.

Friday I received a flurry of texts from Greg informing me which cabins to blow out. With some anxiety I warmed up the tractor and proceeded on my route. I have been around enough of the locals who are skilled at moving snow to know that they pride themselves on leaving no trace of loose snow when they are finished with a driveway. I had no such expectation of myself.

My objectives were simple:

 Remove the snow so residents can get in and out of their driveways.  

    

    Don’t break anything on the customer’s property. Don’t hit buildings, fences, etc. with the tractor or flying debris.

   

           Don’t damage the blower by hitting large rocks, logs or other items obscured by the snow.

I was relieved that at the end of the day I accomplished all three of my goals. I did manage to skim a little driveway gravel causing a concerned resident to remind me that she would rather have the gravel remain in her driveway. I also received a texted photo of Thanksgiving porch decorations that received a dusting of snow as I was clearing a driveway. Apparently my inadvertent addition to her holiday display was not a welcomed addition to her original concept. Thankfully both individuals were very gracious and understanding as I worked through my learning curve.

I was mildly relieved when Greg returned the following evening and resumed his role as the blower of unfrozen ground. The more I watch others operate in Island Park, the more I realize how much I have to learn.