Fall Underbrush Clearing Day

Purpose: Site Preparation for the GPR Survey

The purpose of this workday is to remove underbrush, vines, and small vegetation to ensure full visibility and access for the upcoming Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey. The GPR team needs a clear ground surface, no vine obstructions, no low brush interfering with equipment, and safe walking paths throughout the cemetery.

All work must be performed with respect for burial locations and the historic landscape.

1. Arrival and Check-In

• Check-in location: Main entrance of Snow Hill Cemetery
• Check-in time: 8:00 AM
• Volunteers will sign in and receive a work zone assignment, safety briefing, tools if needed, and instructions for the day's tasks.
• Please park vehicles at Snow Hill Church parking lot.

2. Workday Objectives

• Clear the ground surface for the GPR equipment.
• Remove vine obstructions and low brush.
• Maintain safe walking paths throughout the cemetery.
• Protect grave locations and the historic landscape while clearing.

3. Assigned Tasks

• Brush Removal: Cutting and removing small brush, vines, briars, and low vegetation.
• Perimeter Clearing: Opening walking paths along the fence line and boundary edges.
• Grave Area Protection: Clearing around grave markers without moving, lifting, or disturbing stones.
• Debris Consolidation: Gathering brush into designated piles for later removal.
• Pathway Stabilization: Ensuring safe walking routes for the GPR team.

No digging, probing, or soil disturbance is permitted.

4. Tools and Equipment

Volunteers may bring:

• Hand pruners
• Loppers
• Small hand saws
• Gloves
• Rakes

Prohibited tools:

• Chainsaws
• Gas-powered equipment
• Shovels
• Post-hole diggers
• Any tool that disturbs soil or grave surfaces

Angels of Snow Hill Cemetery will provide additional hand tools as available.

5. Safety Guidelines

• Wear sturdy shoes or boots.
• Gloves and long sleeves are strongly recommended.
• Be aware of uneven ground, roots, and hidden depressions.
• Do not step directly on grave surfaces.
• Report hazards immediately to a site coordinator.
• Hydration breaks will be provided. Take them as needed.
• Children under 16 must be supervised at all times.

6. Preservation Guidelines

• Do not move or adjust any headstones.
• Do not remove flowers, tokens, or personal memorial items.
• Do not disturb soil, depressions, or potential burial locations.
• Do not cut tree limbs larger than 1 inch in diameter.
• Do not enter areas marked for GPR priority unless assigned.

All clearing must be light, controlled, and preservation-appropriate.

7. Coordination and Oversight

• Michael L. Woods, President & Project Lead
• Angels of Snow Hill Cemetery Site Coordinators
• Safety Lead: Assigned at check-in
• Documentation Lead: Photographing cleared areas for GPR records

Coordinators will monitor progress and direct volunteers to new areas as tasks are completed.

8. Completion and Sign-Out

• Volunteers will return tools to the check-in station.
• Coordinators will confirm completion of assigned zones.
• A brief closing update will be provided on next steps toward the GPR survey.

9. Purpose and Appreciation

This underbrush clearing is a critical step toward producing the first formal burial map of Snow Hill Cemetery through GPR technology. Your participation directly supports the preservation of one of Pleasant Grove Township's important historic sites.

Angels of Snow Hill Cemetery sincerely thanks all volunteers for their time, care, and commitment.