At a site that we monitor for the migration of the Spotted Salamander we came across these egg masses that were present a full three weeks before we usually see them here. We also saw wood frog egg masses, again much earlier than normal. Amphibians, like Spotted Salamanders, are a good species to track to measure the quality and changing nature of the local environment. No doubt this winter has been mild, so whether this is a long-term trend or just an unusual coincidence only time will tell.
In various places along the Ghost Town Trail you will find former railroad mileage markers. These markers were erected by the Pennsylvania Railroad to note the distance to the railroad junction at Cresson, PA.
As you travel past the former town of Wehrum in 2016 you will notice that a new highway bridge is being constructed over Blacklick Creek. The highway bridge project will not affect the use of the trail. The Wehrum Access Area remains open but it can only be accessed from the Vintondale side of the access area, not from Route 22. A highway detour route is posted.
