RAF GRANT FUNDS PATTERSON ISLAND LIMB REMOVAL

Another Spanish moss-draped oak-lined Georgia island airfield is being reclaimed from its fast-growing subtropical environment. Owners of Patterson Island airfield, G21 have already invested a huge effort reclaiming this overgrown 2,000-foot long runway that hadn’t been used in over a decade, “and have made it look like a fairway,” RAF Georgia Liaison Kevin Barry reports.

To finish making the field safe to land, Barry assessed the need to cut back encroaching oak limbs along a third of the runway. He determined the best course was to hire a professional tree removal service, then round up volunteers to arrive on the island and chop and remove the resulting wood waste. Owners Ken and Kellie Day provided use of their ferry. Volunteers successfully conducted the clean up in mid-September, however damage from September’s Hurricane Helene will require additional effort. A future work party is planned to clean things back up. “The goal is to have the runway open as soon as possible,” Barry said.

“Patterson Island is a gateway airfield to this pristine, remote and beautiful part of the Georgia coast,” Barry says. Statistics show that nearby Creighton Island is the third most reviewed listing in the Airfield Guide proving its popularity with recreational pilots. The improvements at Patterson Island will increase the ability to access the many recreational opportunities in the area. Jekyll and St. Simon Islands are immediately to the east and offer beaches, bicycle rentals, lodging, golf, and popular restaurants. Cumberland Island, to the south, is a state park with pristine beaches, wild horses, hiking, and historical structures. Patterson Island owners will allow camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. Local fishing charter service is available as well.

Stay tuned for more information on the opening of Patterson Island.

Posted September 30, 2024
By Carmine Mowbray