The Rock Stacking Tent at Rec Fest 2021, to be held at the Spencerport Firemen’s Field from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 28, will take on a new twist this year as rock stackers may choose to enter one of their stacking creations into a competition. Their unique creation could win them a gift card and inspire others to give rock stacking a try.
Why balance rocks? This simple way of interacting with nature: the dirt, rocks, sand, grass, sun, fresh air, and even water. Rock stacking offers many potential benefits to “the stacker.” Stacking cultivates patience, stamina, awareness skills, problem-solving, concentration, focus, solitude, discipline, and sensitivity to touch and tactile sensations. It is a chance to create personal, public art, participate in an inexpensive but rewarding hobby, have fun, and experience success.
To keep rock stacking an environmentally friendly activity, stackers are advised to not take rocks from gardens, landscaping features, or natural habitats in and around rivers, streams, and hiking trails. Do not stack rocks where people walk, where mowing is done, where a collapsing stack could be a danger, or on trails where hikers rely on cairns for direction.
Longtime Spencerport resident, Teresa Schreiber Werth, is an avid rock stacker. At Rec Fest, she shares pictures of past stackings, tips on techniques, and gentle encouragement. This year, in addition to personal coaching, she will oversee a competition for stackers in three age groups (seven and under, eight to 17, and 18+) and four categories. Stacking categories are:
•An inversion (large rock with point balanced on a small rock);
•Tallest single stack (measured in inches);
•A bridge (center stones elevated and held between two larger stones – minimum five stones;
•Most creative stack (minimum eight rocks).
To enter the Rock Stacking Competition, stackers must register at the Rock Stacking Tent by completing a form in person or online, giving name, address, age group, contact information (email or phone), and choosing one category to enter. When the entry is complete, it should be photographed and posted to Facebook or Instagram the day of the festival with the tags #rockstackingcomp and #recfestny. Winners will be notified, and prizes will be mailed.
Find various size stones. Find a safe, flat place. Stack one rock at a time, and if it falls, try again. Settle in. Breathe deeply. Balance rocks.
Provided information and photo
