Periodic journal entries allowed me to reflect on my progress through the project and to document any difficulties I was having in order to think more about solving them.
Journal #1: Getting Started
"The newest part of this project for me is the planning and communicating associated with getting clearance and resources from multiple different groups to complete my project. For example, I need to get permission from both the school board and the board of selectmen in order to build on the town land where I am planning my project."
Presentation to the Board of Selectmen
Journal #2: Fieldwork Part One
"The largest and most consistent obstacle facing the project is bureaucratic consent. Since the land on which I plan to build is owned in part by the town and in part by the school district, I need permission from both, as well as clearance from the conservation agent, in order to even begin construction. Due to relatively infrequent meetings and lack of availability at these, it has been difficult to present my project to the necessary authorities, especially the Selectmen. After meeting with the School Committee, it was relatively simple to win their approval after discussion, and it should therefore be similarly fluid with the town government as soon as I get an audience."
Rough plan for the path route.
Journal #3: Fieldwork Part Two
"I was granted an audience with the Board of Selectmen and finally received all of the building permissions that I needed to begin construction. Since receiving them, I have flagged the route for my path and therefore taken the first step to the actual development of the path and establishment of more passive recreation space in Mansfield."
Wetlands map used to plan trail route in order to avoid damaging protected wetlands ecosystems.