Holes!

The joy of digging holes!  It's good for the body, mind and spirit to be working for such a cause.  It's not really work if you enjoy it, so they say.

The first hole was started where I suspect is the hardest ground that will be utilized for tree holes, in an area that was dozed and compacted some years ago in preparation for the large building behind the church.  I had tested it some weeks ago with post hole diggers and found them to be fairly useless.  A good sharp tip shovel with the wide foot spot was used.

As suspected, the surface soil was very hard and compact to about 9-10 inches, then the original topsoil was found.

The dark topsoil really was a joy to dig versus the previous cement like stuff.  It went down another 10-12 inches and turned into a somewhat rocky clay that started to show some fairly good moisture as it was sticking to my shoes.

Here's the result of my hour of digging.  The top grass was first set aside and larger rocks next to it.  The rest of the soil and small rocks will go back into the hole along with some amending items to add fertility.

The measuring stake back in the hole.  It will be left as is for awhile as an example for others to follow.

As I was finishing up, the first volunteer showed up to begin her adopted spot. She said it may take her a week and that is perfectly fine.  Go Carla! 

 I suspect as we go down the slope, the digging will get easier.