(Photo courtesy of John Cartwright)
April 16th 2009 Salt Fork State Park
The American Bigfoot Society would first like to thank Don Keating of the E.O.B.I.C and Eric Altman of the Pennsylvania Bigfoot Society for their help and offering of information about this area.
Salt Fork State Park sits on 17,299 land acres. The present impoundment at Salt Fork dates back to 1956 when planning for the lake was begun. The reservoir was originally slated to become a water source for the city of Cambridge, but the potential for the area to become a major recreation area in the state was so great that, in 1960, land acquisition was begun to create a state park. The earthen dam was completed in 1967, and construction of recreational facilities began in mid 1968. The spacious Salt Fork Lodge was opened in May 1972.
Due to a long history of sightings and activity at this park and surrounding south eastern portion of Ohio, it was decided by the American Bigfoot Society (ABS) this would be a good place for our first expedition.
American Bigfoot Society members who attended.
Melissa Hovey
Billy Willard
Wayne Larsen
Toby Tollman
Kelly Fain
Lynda Wilkinson
Former ABS Member John Cartwright
Joedy Cook
Joe Kremer
Sally Peckham
Carl Kremer
Members arrived at the Lodge at Salt Fork starting early on Thursday April 16, 2009. All members were in attendance with the exception of Lynda Wilkinson for Thursdays activities.
Once everyone was checked into their cabins, members met at one of the centrally located cabins. It was decided due to the long travel some had to endure, night time operations for Thursday would be relaxed. Recording equipment would be utilized, and call blasting would be done. A long hike in and strict protocols would be relaxed for this night.
Thursday April 16, 2009 Handicapped Parking area:
The group was assembled to include all members with the exception of Lynda Wilkinson, who was not due to arrive until Friday morning. As members began to get their gear together for the hike on an established trail, members of the American Bigfoot Society were approached by a woman identifying herself as "Nancy", along with a gentleman. Nancy reported to ABS members she had seen a structure down the trail we intended to hike down. Fellow ABS Member Joedy Cook stated he had already received a phone call from another local Cambridge researcher who had found this structure a few days prior. This witness stated to Joedy that he had been keeping this structure under observation and it continued to grow larger as the days went by. Joedy Cook identified this researcher from Cambridge as "Doug", and said Doug had left a business card on the structure.
The group of researchers then decided to hike down the trail and look for the structure, as day light was fading fast. Researchers did not have to look long for the structure in question. When the structure was located, it sat approximately 10 feet off a well developed trail.
Approximate height: 9 feet
Approximate length: 18 feet
As noted by the above photos, this structure was made from tree fall from the area. Some of the downfall had been drug a short distance to the area. A large majority of the branches were examined and found to be either broken from weather related tree fall, or had been removed from trees by twisting and pulling. Researchers searched the area for the trees with corresponding damage, but this was found to be impossible due to extensive weather related tree damage in this area. Inside the structure pine branches had been placed to provide a "bedding" type area.
There were 3 large rocks observed in a triangle pattern within the structure itself (as noted in the yellow boxes in the photo below)
Approximate length: 18 feet
As noted by the above photos, this structure was made from tree fall from the area. Some of the downfall had been drug a short distance to the area. A large majority of the branches were examined and found to be either broken from weather related tree fall, or had been removed from trees by twisting and pulling. Researchers searched the area for the trees with corresponding damage, but this was found to be impossible due to extensive weather related tree damage in this area. Inside the structure pine branches had been placed to provide a "bedding" type area.
There were 3 large rocks observed in a triangle pattern within the structure itself (as noted in the yellow boxes in the photo below)
There was also a curious squared knot made from forest debris of some kind, holding together 3-4 sticks which were standing up on end, possibly to give the structure more strength or support. This knot was one of many indications that this structure was man made.
After looking over the structure and discussing the construction and the contents, it was decided by all, this structure was man made. Investigators could find nothing to indicate this was in any way Bigfoot related. A few days later, the group also received a report of other structures in this general area, which were being built. So, it would appear someone is setting up these structures. For what purpose, is unknown to the ABS at this time, other than a blatant attempt to hoax the large number of researchers which frequent the park.
While the structure was identified as man made almost immediately by the ABS, it was still decided to investigate and document as much information as possible about this structure.
It was decided, with darkness upon the researchers, to go ahead and set up in this area. After a continued short search of the area, it was decided to try and wood knock. Responses were heard by Toby Tollman, while he was in a position away from the main group. Whether the responses were from the target animal or other researchers is unknown. Toby and Joe then decided they would return to the parking area and begin call blasting.
Billy Willard, John Cartwright, Melissa Hovey, Wayne Larsen, Kelly Fain, Carl Kremer, Joedy Cook, and Sally Peckham remained behind in the area of the structure and began setting up recording equipment to include: audio recording devices, parabolic mics, bionic ears, and night vision.
No response from the call blasting was noted, but both Toby and Joe stated that they had heard vocalization type noises from the area. Source of the noises is unknown. It was decided around 12:30 to go ahead and break operations for the night. All equipment was packed up, and everyone headed back to their respective cabins.
Friday April 17, 2009 12:00 noon.
After breakfast, the days activities were discussed at the main cabin. While there had been some discussion about visiting Hosacks Cave on this morning, a change in plans was made. Two ABS members who had not made it to the cabin were called and told of our plans to visit the site of the previous nights operation. It was decided to go back to the area of the man made structure, to explore the area better in the daylight.
Researchers present: Melissa Hovey, Wayne Larsen, Billy Willard, John Cartwright, Joedy Cook, Toby Tollman, Sally Peckham and Joe Kremer.
Approximately one-hundred yards from the structure, Billy Willard and Wayne Larsen identified a track of some sort which appeared to be fresh. There was too much leaf cover and water within the track to decide what the track was, but photos were taken. It was decided to then hike a little further into this area. After hiking approximately ten minutes, Wayne and Joedy discovered a ravine. Billy, Melissa and John followed to their location. After surveying the area members with the exception of John decided to hike down into the ravine.
After looking over the structure and discussing the construction and the contents, it was decided by all, this structure was man made. Investigators could find nothing to indicate this was in any way Bigfoot related. A few days later, the group also received a report of other structures in this general area, which were being built. So, it would appear someone is setting up these structures. For what purpose, is unknown to the ABS at this time, other than a blatant attempt to hoax the large number of researchers which frequent the park.
While the structure was identified as man made almost immediately by the ABS, it was still decided to investigate and document as much information as possible about this structure.
It was decided, with darkness upon the researchers, to go ahead and set up in this area. After a continued short search of the area, it was decided to try and wood knock. Responses were heard by Toby Tollman, while he was in a position away from the main group. Whether the responses were from the target animal or other researchers is unknown. Toby and Joe then decided they would return to the parking area and begin call blasting.
Billy Willard, John Cartwright, Melissa Hovey, Wayne Larsen, Kelly Fain, Carl Kremer, Joedy Cook, and Sally Peckham remained behind in the area of the structure and began setting up recording equipment to include: audio recording devices, parabolic mics, bionic ears, and night vision.
No response from the call blasting was noted, but both Toby and Joe stated that they had heard vocalization type noises from the area. Source of the noises is unknown. It was decided around 12:30 to go ahead and break operations for the night. All equipment was packed up, and everyone headed back to their respective cabins.
Friday April 17, 2009 12:00 noon.
After breakfast, the days activities were discussed at the main cabin. While there had been some discussion about visiting Hosacks Cave on this morning, a change in plans was made. Two ABS members who had not made it to the cabin were called and told of our plans to visit the site of the previous nights operation. It was decided to go back to the area of the man made structure, to explore the area better in the daylight.
Researchers present: Melissa Hovey, Wayne Larsen, Billy Willard, John Cartwright, Joedy Cook, Toby Tollman, Sally Peckham and Joe Kremer.
Approximately one-hundred yards from the structure, Billy Willard and Wayne Larsen identified a track of some sort which appeared to be fresh. There was too much leaf cover and water within the track to decide what the track was, but photos were taken. It was decided to then hike a little further into this area. After hiking approximately ten minutes, Wayne and Joedy discovered a ravine. Billy, Melissa and John followed to their location. After surveying the area members with the exception of John decided to hike down into the ravine.
The researchers reached the bottom and discovered a small partially dried up area where water appears to flow more heavily with rainfall. This appeared to have slowed to a trickle, but was flowing none the less. As everyone continued to follow through the lower half of the ravine, Joedy Cook discovered what appeared to be a small track, well preserved, and appeared to be fresh.
Track information:
4 defined toes in finished cast.
Length from Toes to Heel: Approximately 6 inches.
No dermal impressions were noted at time of casting, or upon completion of cast cleaning.
Track information:
4 defined toes in finished cast.
Length from Toes to Heel: Approximately 6 inches.
No dermal impressions were noted at time of casting, or upon completion of cast cleaning.
The track was still somewhat wet due to the water flowing in the bottom of the ravine, but not disturbed by it. The most recent rain fall in the area of Salt Fork was three-days prior to this expedition, and with the condition of this track, whatever made it, must have passed through within the last two to three days.
Within moments Wayne had found another track on the hillside to the left of the possible foot track approximately twenty-feet away. This track appeared to be going up hill. The track appeared to have a squared look. What this track was, no one could immediately identify with certainty, so it was decided to cast the track for later discernment. It was then decided after much discussion, both impressions should be casted and preserved. Everyone not with this group, Toby Tollman, Joe, Carl and Kelly were radioed with the location of the impression finds, and asked to move to our location.
Both tracks were measured, photographed and video taped. Melissa then went about casting the impression on the hillside first. She then moved on to the lower track. Once the casts were set sufficiently, both were pulled from the ground carefully and transported back to the vehicles. All ABS members decided to break for dinner and later meet back at the cabins for discussion of Friday night field operations.
It should be noted, shortly after arriving in the area of the ravine, Wayne Larsen reported hearing a growl type sound. He was unable to identify the source of the noise he heard. This same growl type sound was later witnessed during the casting of the track on the hillside, by Joedy Cook and Sally Peckham. Once again, the source of the growl was not able to be identified. Joedy Cook did walk the area and looked for any possible source of this growl, but was unable to visualize any animal. It should also be noted, that the group was within approximately 300 yards from the lake. The possible source of the sounds, could have been made from the low rumble of boat motor's.
Audio recorders were operating at the time, and the audio is being analyzed.
Park Rangers were called and asked about the bear population in Salt Fork. The ABS was told "Bears are seen in Salt Fork, but those sightings are far, few and in between." The ABS can not rule out a bear as the creator of these impressions that have been casted and preserved until the casts can be analyzed.
Friday April 17, 2009 Night Time Briefing. 6:00 p.m.
At approximately 6:00 p.m. all ABS members met back at the Cabins and night time operations were discussed. Due to the track find from earlier that morning and the possible growls heard by multiple ABS Investigators, it was decided to return to the Handicapped parking area, and set up in smaller groups, than Thursday night, and spread investigators around the area.
Groups:
Base camp
Lynda Wilkinson- Team Leader
Sally Peckham
Group 2
Billy Willard- Team Leader
John Cartwright
Joedy Cook
Group 3
Toby Tollman- Team Leader
Joe Kremer
Group 4
Wayne Larsen- Team Leader
Melissa Hovey
Kelly Fain
Carl Kremer
It was decided there would be no call blasting on this night. Joedy Cook had proven his ability to be an effective human call blaster on Thursday night. This cleared Toby and Joe for field operations.
Within moments Wayne had found another track on the hillside to the left of the possible foot track approximately twenty-feet away. This track appeared to be going up hill. The track appeared to have a squared look. What this track was, no one could immediately identify with certainty, so it was decided to cast the track for later discernment. It was then decided after much discussion, both impressions should be casted and preserved. Everyone not with this group, Toby Tollman, Joe, Carl and Kelly were radioed with the location of the impression finds, and asked to move to our location.
Both tracks were measured, photographed and video taped. Melissa then went about casting the impression on the hillside first. She then moved on to the lower track. Once the casts were set sufficiently, both were pulled from the ground carefully and transported back to the vehicles. All ABS members decided to break for dinner and later meet back at the cabins for discussion of Friday night field operations.
It should be noted, shortly after arriving in the area of the ravine, Wayne Larsen reported hearing a growl type sound. He was unable to identify the source of the noise he heard. This same growl type sound was later witnessed during the casting of the track on the hillside, by Joedy Cook and Sally Peckham. Once again, the source of the growl was not able to be identified. Joedy Cook did walk the area and looked for any possible source of this growl, but was unable to visualize any animal. It should also be noted, that the group was within approximately 300 yards from the lake. The possible source of the sounds, could have been made from the low rumble of boat motor's.
Audio recorders were operating at the time, and the audio is being analyzed.
Park Rangers were called and asked about the bear population in Salt Fork. The ABS was told "Bears are seen in Salt Fork, but those sightings are far, few and in between." The ABS can not rule out a bear as the creator of these impressions that have been casted and preserved until the casts can be analyzed.
Friday April 17, 2009 Night Time Briefing. 6:00 p.m.
At approximately 6:00 p.m. all ABS members met back at the Cabins and night time operations were discussed. Due to the track find from earlier that morning and the possible growls heard by multiple ABS Investigators, it was decided to return to the Handicapped parking area, and set up in smaller groups, than Thursday night, and spread investigators around the area.
Groups:
Base camp
Lynda Wilkinson- Team Leader
Sally Peckham
Group 2
Billy Willard- Team Leader
John Cartwright
Joedy Cook
Group 3
Toby Tollman- Team Leader
Joe Kremer
Group 4
Wayne Larsen- Team Leader
Melissa Hovey
Kelly Fain
Carl Kremer
It was decided there would be no call blasting on this night. Joedy Cook had proven his ability to be an effective human call blaster on Thursday night. This cleared Toby and Joe for field operations.
(Photo courtesy of Toby Tollman)
Once all groups were in place, and radio communication was established with all groups, night time operations began. All groups utilized audio and video recorders, along with Night vision, Parabolic Microphones and Bionic Ears. Billy Willard and John Cartwright were the first to report movement of at their location. Neither Billy or John Cartwright were able to identify the source of the movement in their location.
For the first few hours all groups sat silently and listened for any movement. With no notable animal movement, after a couple hours, Wayne decided to proceed with a set of three wood knocks. Roughly fifteen minutes passed, then another series of three knocks was done. No response was heard by any of the research groups.
It should be noted that two ABS researchers, Lynda Wilkinson and Sally Peckham, did report hearing a "growl". The animal (that was the source of this reported growl) was not visualized by either of the women after a search of the area. This incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m.
It was decided at approximately 1:00 a.m to break our positions and head back to base camp, as no activity was being reported. Upon breaking the group positions everyone met at the upper pavilion closest to the parking lot. It was decided that all would return to their lodging areas, and meet back at the cabins the next morning at roughly 12:00 p.m. for a hike of Hosacks Cave and a casting class.
Saturday April 18, 2009 Daytime Activities:
Once all groups were in place, and radio communication was established with all groups, night time operations began. All groups utilized audio and video recorders, along with Night vision, Parabolic Microphones and Bionic Ears. Billy Willard and John Cartwright were the first to report movement of at their location. Neither Billy or John Cartwright were able to identify the source of the movement in their location.
For the first few hours all groups sat silently and listened for any movement. With no notable animal movement, after a couple hours, Wayne decided to proceed with a set of three wood knocks. Roughly fifteen minutes passed, then another series of three knocks was done. No response was heard by any of the research groups.
It should be noted that two ABS researchers, Lynda Wilkinson and Sally Peckham, did report hearing a "growl". The animal (that was the source of this reported growl) was not visualized by either of the women after a search of the area. This incident occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m.
It was decided at approximately 1:00 a.m to break our positions and head back to base camp, as no activity was being reported. Upon breaking the group positions everyone met at the upper pavilion closest to the parking lot. It was decided that all would return to their lodging areas, and meet back at the cabins the next morning at roughly 12:00 p.m. for a hike of Hosacks Cave and a casting class.
Saturday April 18, 2009 Daytime Activities:
All Investigators met at the parking lot of Hosacks Cave, at roughly 12:00 noon. Once we completed the hike to the cave, everyone returned to the parking lot area, for a short break in the shade, and to prepare for a casting class.
Once the casting class was completed, it was decided to break for lunch, and to prepare for the night time operations. A discussion was had between Melissa, Billy, Toby and Wayne at this time in reference to having a planned group barbecue, not at the cabins, but at the pavilion which is located at the handicapped parking area. The idea being to put the smell of food in the air. Billy agreed that this would be an idea worthy of trying. At this point everyone returned to their cabins, and retrieved the food they had planned to barbecue that night.
Everything was loaded into vehicles and taken to the pavilion area of the Handicapped parking area.
Once the casting class was completed, it was decided to break for lunch, and to prepare for the night time operations. A discussion was had between Melissa, Billy, Toby and Wayne at this time in reference to having a planned group barbecue, not at the cabins, but at the pavilion which is located at the handicapped parking area. The idea being to put the smell of food in the air. Billy agreed that this would be an idea worthy of trying. At this point everyone returned to their cabins, and retrieved the food they had planned to barbecue that night.
Everything was loaded into vehicles and taken to the pavilion area of the Handicapped parking area.
(Photo courtesy of Billy Willard)
Billy Willard served as chef, selflessly allowing himself to be covered with the smell of cooked hamburgers, brats and hot dogs. Once the mess of cooking was cleaned up, discussion began of the night time operations to take place in this area.
Groups
Base camp (Group 1)
Lynda Wilkinson- Team Leader
Sally Peckham
Joedy Cook
Trail walking team (Group 2)
Wayne Larsen- Team Leader
Melissa Hovey
Group 3
Billy Willard- Team Leader
John Cartwright
Group 4
Toby Tollman- Team Leader
Joe Kremer
Group 5
Kelly Fain- Team Leader
Carl Kremer
Billy Willard served as chef, selflessly allowing himself to be covered with the smell of cooked hamburgers, brats and hot dogs. Once the mess of cooking was cleaned up, discussion began of the night time operations to take place in this area.
Groups
Base camp (Group 1)
Lynda Wilkinson- Team Leader
Sally Peckham
Joedy Cook
Trail walking team (Group 2)
Wayne Larsen- Team Leader
Melissa Hovey
Group 3
Billy Willard- Team Leader
John Cartwright
Group 4
Toby Tollman- Team Leader
Joe Kremer
Group 5
Kelly Fain- Team Leader
Carl Kremer
(Photo courtesy of Toby Tollman)
Everyone was in place by dusk. Approximately one hour into the night time ops, there was no activity. It was decided that Wayne Larsen would do a set of three wood knocks, and Joedy Cook would act as call blaster. Roughly twenty minutes after this first set of knocks and calls, a growl was reported by two investigators located at Base camp (group 1 and 2) in the area of the woods to the back of the pavilion. Billy and John Cartwright (group 3) were contacted via radio, and a discussion was had about trail walking at this time. Billy asked that everyone hold their location, as they were having movement of some kind at their location. Billy reported the animal that was moving, was between them, and the location of group 5 (Kelly Fain and Carl Kremer) and sounded very large.
Within minutes group 5 (Kelly Fain and Carl Kremer) reported movement in the same general location, reported by Billy. At roughly the same time, both groups located at the pavilion reported movement and noises coming from the wooded area, where a growl was reported earlier by Base camp, in this same general location of the movement being reported by both Group 3 and 5.
All positions were held, and the movement continued for a minimum of an hour. All locations with the exception of Group 4 (Toby Tollman and Joe Kremer) reporting activity. All activity being reported by the various groups seemed to be coming from the same direction as was originally reported by Billy and JC. Billy Willard reported using a flashlight at one point, as both Billy and John Cartwright stated the sound of movement was so close, they expected to see the animal in question step out of the wood line in front of them. Neither Billy or John were able to visualize the animal in question, even after using flashlights and a visual search of the area.
At roughly 12:30 a.m it was decided all Groups would break their positions and return to base camp. Activity had stopped about an hour prior. The nights activities were discussed once all groups, with the exception of Group 4 (Toby and Joe) who had a further hike out, had returned to the pavilion (base camp). All options were discussed, as to what was causing the activity. With no group having a visual sighting of the animal in question, all were in agreement the animal in question would have to remain unknown. The likely hood of this animal being one which has been identified by Wildlife officials being highly probable.
Everyone was in place by dusk. Approximately one hour into the night time ops, there was no activity. It was decided that Wayne Larsen would do a set of three wood knocks, and Joedy Cook would act as call blaster. Roughly twenty minutes after this first set of knocks and calls, a growl was reported by two investigators located at Base camp (group 1 and 2) in the area of the woods to the back of the pavilion. Billy and John Cartwright (group 3) were contacted via radio, and a discussion was had about trail walking at this time. Billy asked that everyone hold their location, as they were having movement of some kind at their location. Billy reported the animal that was moving, was between them, and the location of group 5 (Kelly Fain and Carl Kremer) and sounded very large.
Within minutes group 5 (Kelly Fain and Carl Kremer) reported movement in the same general location, reported by Billy. At roughly the same time, both groups located at the pavilion reported movement and noises coming from the wooded area, where a growl was reported earlier by Base camp, in this same general location of the movement being reported by both Group 3 and 5.
All positions were held, and the movement continued for a minimum of an hour. All locations with the exception of Group 4 (Toby Tollman and Joe Kremer) reporting activity. All activity being reported by the various groups seemed to be coming from the same direction as was originally reported by Billy and JC. Billy Willard reported using a flashlight at one point, as both Billy and John Cartwright stated the sound of movement was so close, they expected to see the animal in question step out of the wood line in front of them. Neither Billy or John were able to visualize the animal in question, even after using flashlights and a visual search of the area.
At roughly 12:30 a.m it was decided all Groups would break their positions and return to base camp. Activity had stopped about an hour prior. The nights activities were discussed once all groups, with the exception of Group 4 (Toby and Joe) who had a further hike out, had returned to the pavilion (base camp). All options were discussed, as to what was causing the activity. With no group having a visual sighting of the animal in question, all were in agreement the animal in question would have to remain unknown. The likely hood of this animal being one which has been identified by Wildlife officials being highly probable.
(Photo courtesy of Toby Tollman)
At this point it was decided to pack up and return to the cabins. Toby and Joe were still hiking out of their location, so the groups would wait until they returned. At this point John Cartwright walked away from the pavilion, stating he had heard a noise coming from the back of the pavilion, in the area of the dumpsters. Melissa Hovey stated, "that's Billy, he just walked back there." John Cartwright along with others to include Wayne Larsen, Linda Wilkinson, and Joedy Cook walked to area near John's location and began scanning the tree line. Melissa Hovey and Sally Peckham remained at the pavilion. Within a few minutes Wayne Larsen and Billy Willard returned to the pavilion. Melissa asked, "what's going on?" Wayne and Billy told Melissa, John and others are hearing movement once again in this same area to the back of the pavilion, near the dumpster. This is the same general location where movement and a growl were heard earlier, by the groups located at the pavilion.
Wayne also reported those still with John near the tree line were stating they smelled something strange. Melissa asked Wayne if he smelled it too, Wayne stated he had, along with Billy. Melissa then got up and followed Wayne, Billy and Joedy Cook to the back of the pavilion. Once this group reached the back of the pavilion, both Melissa and Wayne reported a smell that was quite extraordinary. The smell was the equivalent of urine which had been sitting in the sun for a few days. This smell was very strong and lingered to the tree line. Everyone with the exception of Toby Tollman and Joe Kremer reported smelling the strong odor of urine.
There was discussion between Melissa and Wayne as to whether the bathrooms located at the pavilion could be the source of this urine smell, but Wayne noted the breeze was blowing up and out of the ravine, and the smell was still noticed well past the pavilion bathroom area.
At this point a group of 4, to include, Billy Willard, Joedy Cook, Wayne Larsen and Melissa Hovey, were moving into the treeline at the back of the pavilion. All four entered the tree line and began moving into the area which was a steep ravine. Billy headed up this group. After hiking down approximately fifty yards Joedy Cook reported eye shine. The group then moved toward the area where the eye shine was seen by Joedy, which was approximately another twenty-five to fifty yards from where the eye shine was reported. The group then stopped and focused on movement in a tree line directly ahead of their position. After shining flashlights into this area of movement, Billy Willard picked up a stick and threw it in the general location of the movement. All movement ceased. Billy then picked up a large rock, and threw it in this same general area. No movement was reported. The group then spot lighted the area with flashlights, when eye shine was reported by Melissa Hovey. The eye shine was low to the ground, and in the same general area where the flashlights were being pointed. Billy Willard within a few seconds stated he too had just seen eye shine in the same area, as reported by Melissa. The group then moved in closer to this location, approximately ten yards from their location. The group then checked out the area, and nothing was seen.
No animals of any kind were visualized by anyone in the group. Joedy Cook then stated he seen eye shine off to the left and ahead of where the group was now located. In the process of moving to this new location Billy stopped abruptly and turned around, stating, "Did you see that?" Melissa said, "No, what?" Billy then stated, "I just got a stick thrown at me." The thrown stick was corroborated by Wayne Larsen. Wayne was asked if it fell from a tree, he replied "No, it was a straight shot, as if it had been thrown from ahead of billy."
All investigators stopped, and searched the area for whatever could have thrown the stick. It was then realized, the investigators had stopped almost dead center of where the second report of eye shine had been reported, and the current eye shine that was being investigated. Since flashlights were not working in obtaining a visual, it was decided to radio for Toby to come to the area, and bring his spot light. Once Toby arrived, the area was lit up, and no animal or person could be seen. Trees were spotlighted as well as the surrounding woods, and nothing could be seen.
Worthy of note, the investigators of this incident hiked into a very steep ravine. While researchers of other organizations, and independents were in the area, their positions had been given to Melissa, Joedy and Wayne earlier by a Park Ranger patrolling the area. The nearest researcher not affiliated with the ABS was approximately two miles away. While it is possible another researcher(s) could have come into this area to interfere with our operations, the likely hood of this is not only small, but would have been extremely dangerous for the individual(s) who attempted it. This area is thickly wooded, and without the use of flashlights, walking up this ravine would be hazardous, unless they were to use night vision strapped to their head. Anyone going down or up this ravine would have needed the use of hands to help steady and move in this area, and no flashlights other than those used by ABS investigators were seen.
As nothing could be visualized by any of the now 5 investigators, who had traveled into this ravine and all activity had ceased, it was decided to head back up the ravine and end the nights activities.
The American Bigfoot Society worked with other research organizations prior to the arrival of the ABS into Salt Fork State Park, to guard against any evidence tampering. If this incident is the result of an individual, with knowledge of our location and/or activities, due to their organizational affiliation or they simply came across our locations, we would request they come forward, and give a full reporting as to what they were doing in this area. If this was a person or researcher, and they come forward willingly, their identity will be kept confidential. The ABS is not interested in reporting on the activities of other researchers, our goal is the documentation of a North American Non-Human Primate.
Please email the ABS at Email: [email protected], if you think your activities could have resulted in any of the situations described in this report.
If you know of any tampering, please email the ABS at [email protected]. Your identity will remain confidential.
If the ABS learns of tampering, on their own, we will take any and all actions necessary to be certain other researchers/organizations know the ABS takes these types of actions seriously and we will not tolerate hoaxing within our own organization or from those outside our organization.
This evening brought to a close the first expedition of the American Bigfoot Society. Those who planned this expedition would like to thank all who attended for your professionalism, and your desire to help end this mystery. The ABS Board of Directors would like to thank again, Eric Altman and Don Keating for their help and support of our first operation.
Audio and castings are still being evaluated, and the results will be released once all evaluation has been completed.
Follow up investigation submitted by Billy Willard.
On Saturday night of the ABS expedition at Salt Fork State Park, a strange odor was first detected by John Cartwright on the south side of the main handicap picnic pavilion. The structure located in this area also has restroom facilities. Some questions were raised as to whether or not the odors could have been produced by the restroom facilities or possibly the septic system serving the restroom facility.
Billy Willard, an experienced environmental consultant specializing in the area of septic systems, revisited the site during the Ohio Conference. The purpose of the visit was to determine if the odors experienced could have been from the restrooms or septic system. During inspection, it was observed that the septic tank is located on the south side of the structure, however it is completely buried. In other words, there are no above ground access openings to the septic tank which would allow odors to escape. Secondly, the septic field was located to determine location and whether or not the system was in malfunction which could explain the odors. Upon inspection the septic field was observed to be on the entirely opposite side of the structure to the northeast and down gradient. No malfunctions were identified. This does not rule out the possibility of a sewer vent on top of the building; however no odors were detected near the structure. The odors that night were observed closer to the wood line south of the structure. No other underground or above ground utilities were observed in the area that could have caused the odors experienced that night.
At this point it was decided to pack up and return to the cabins. Toby and Joe were still hiking out of their location, so the groups would wait until they returned. At this point John Cartwright walked away from the pavilion, stating he had heard a noise coming from the back of the pavilion, in the area of the dumpsters. Melissa Hovey stated, "that's Billy, he just walked back there." John Cartwright along with others to include Wayne Larsen, Linda Wilkinson, and Joedy Cook walked to area near John's location and began scanning the tree line. Melissa Hovey and Sally Peckham remained at the pavilion. Within a few minutes Wayne Larsen and Billy Willard returned to the pavilion. Melissa asked, "what's going on?" Wayne and Billy told Melissa, John and others are hearing movement once again in this same area to the back of the pavilion, near the dumpster. This is the same general location where movement and a growl were heard earlier, by the groups located at the pavilion.
Wayne also reported those still with John near the tree line were stating they smelled something strange. Melissa asked Wayne if he smelled it too, Wayne stated he had, along with Billy. Melissa then got up and followed Wayne, Billy and Joedy Cook to the back of the pavilion. Once this group reached the back of the pavilion, both Melissa and Wayne reported a smell that was quite extraordinary. The smell was the equivalent of urine which had been sitting in the sun for a few days. This smell was very strong and lingered to the tree line. Everyone with the exception of Toby Tollman and Joe Kremer reported smelling the strong odor of urine.
There was discussion between Melissa and Wayne as to whether the bathrooms located at the pavilion could be the source of this urine smell, but Wayne noted the breeze was blowing up and out of the ravine, and the smell was still noticed well past the pavilion bathroom area.
At this point a group of 4, to include, Billy Willard, Joedy Cook, Wayne Larsen and Melissa Hovey, were moving into the treeline at the back of the pavilion. All four entered the tree line and began moving into the area which was a steep ravine. Billy headed up this group. After hiking down approximately fifty yards Joedy Cook reported eye shine. The group then moved toward the area where the eye shine was seen by Joedy, which was approximately another twenty-five to fifty yards from where the eye shine was reported. The group then stopped and focused on movement in a tree line directly ahead of their position. After shining flashlights into this area of movement, Billy Willard picked up a stick and threw it in the general location of the movement. All movement ceased. Billy then picked up a large rock, and threw it in this same general area. No movement was reported. The group then spot lighted the area with flashlights, when eye shine was reported by Melissa Hovey. The eye shine was low to the ground, and in the same general area where the flashlights were being pointed. Billy Willard within a few seconds stated he too had just seen eye shine in the same area, as reported by Melissa. The group then moved in closer to this location, approximately ten yards from their location. The group then checked out the area, and nothing was seen.
No animals of any kind were visualized by anyone in the group. Joedy Cook then stated he seen eye shine off to the left and ahead of where the group was now located. In the process of moving to this new location Billy stopped abruptly and turned around, stating, "Did you see that?" Melissa said, "No, what?" Billy then stated, "I just got a stick thrown at me." The thrown stick was corroborated by Wayne Larsen. Wayne was asked if it fell from a tree, he replied "No, it was a straight shot, as if it had been thrown from ahead of billy."
All investigators stopped, and searched the area for whatever could have thrown the stick. It was then realized, the investigators had stopped almost dead center of where the second report of eye shine had been reported, and the current eye shine that was being investigated. Since flashlights were not working in obtaining a visual, it was decided to radio for Toby to come to the area, and bring his spot light. Once Toby arrived, the area was lit up, and no animal or person could be seen. Trees were spotlighted as well as the surrounding woods, and nothing could be seen.
Worthy of note, the investigators of this incident hiked into a very steep ravine. While researchers of other organizations, and independents were in the area, their positions had been given to Melissa, Joedy and Wayne earlier by a Park Ranger patrolling the area. The nearest researcher not affiliated with the ABS was approximately two miles away. While it is possible another researcher(s) could have come into this area to interfere with our operations, the likely hood of this is not only small, but would have been extremely dangerous for the individual(s) who attempted it. This area is thickly wooded, and without the use of flashlights, walking up this ravine would be hazardous, unless they were to use night vision strapped to their head. Anyone going down or up this ravine would have needed the use of hands to help steady and move in this area, and no flashlights other than those used by ABS investigators were seen.
As nothing could be visualized by any of the now 5 investigators, who had traveled into this ravine and all activity had ceased, it was decided to head back up the ravine and end the nights activities.
The American Bigfoot Society worked with other research organizations prior to the arrival of the ABS into Salt Fork State Park, to guard against any evidence tampering. If this incident is the result of an individual, with knowledge of our location and/or activities, due to their organizational affiliation or they simply came across our locations, we would request they come forward, and give a full reporting as to what they were doing in this area. If this was a person or researcher, and they come forward willingly, their identity will be kept confidential. The ABS is not interested in reporting on the activities of other researchers, our goal is the documentation of a North American Non-Human Primate.
Please email the ABS at Email: [email protected], if you think your activities could have resulted in any of the situations described in this report.
If you know of any tampering, please email the ABS at [email protected]. Your identity will remain confidential.
If the ABS learns of tampering, on their own, we will take any and all actions necessary to be certain other researchers/organizations know the ABS takes these types of actions seriously and we will not tolerate hoaxing within our own organization or from those outside our organization.
This evening brought to a close the first expedition of the American Bigfoot Society. Those who planned this expedition would like to thank all who attended for your professionalism, and your desire to help end this mystery. The ABS Board of Directors would like to thank again, Eric Altman and Don Keating for their help and support of our first operation.
Audio and castings are still being evaluated, and the results will be released once all evaluation has been completed.
Follow up investigation submitted by Billy Willard.
On Saturday night of the ABS expedition at Salt Fork State Park, a strange odor was first detected by John Cartwright on the south side of the main handicap picnic pavilion. The structure located in this area also has restroom facilities. Some questions were raised as to whether or not the odors could have been produced by the restroom facilities or possibly the septic system serving the restroom facility.
Billy Willard, an experienced environmental consultant specializing in the area of septic systems, revisited the site during the Ohio Conference. The purpose of the visit was to determine if the odors experienced could have been from the restrooms or septic system. During inspection, it was observed that the septic tank is located on the south side of the structure, however it is completely buried. In other words, there are no above ground access openings to the septic tank which would allow odors to escape. Secondly, the septic field was located to determine location and whether or not the system was in malfunction which could explain the odors. Upon inspection the septic field was observed to be on the entirely opposite side of the structure to the northeast and down gradient. No malfunctions were identified. This does not rule out the possibility of a sewer vent on top of the building; however no odors were detected near the structure. The odors that night were observed closer to the wood line south of the structure. No other underground or above ground utilities were observed in the area that could have caused the odors experienced that night.
