Greetings All,
From my desk outside Duluth I know that spring is on the way but it can be hard tell as I continue to see snow on the ground and in the forecast. It’s this time of year when I can’t help but laugh remembering the Simpsons complaining about “Smarch” weather. Smarch seems to be the perfect way to describe the weeks of winter when the suns rays are finally winning the battle against winter’s icy grip.
Texts and conversations with folks from our “southern climate” states confirm that indeed lakes are thawing, creeks are running, marshes are filled with the signature sound of redwing blackbirds, turkeys are gobbling, and high above are prehistoric screeching echoes from sandhill cranes flying northward.
Although Smarch can feel like the doldrums of outdoor adventure there is still so much that Minnesotas outdoors has to offer.
Shed antler hunting? Early foraging? Fishing the spring runs of native Suckers and Redhorse? A trip to Grand Marais for one last taste of snow? Yes, please!
The itch to get on the newly liquified water can be strong. If you decide to dip a paddle in the water please exercise caution as meltwaters can change typically calm waterways into powerful and unpredictable currents. Even calm waters are still colder than they look. Wearing a PFD and telling someone of your adventure plans are a must this time of year.
As a newer resident of an area of the state where black bears are common I got a clear warning last year that I had not done enough to store my grill and bird-feeders properly. A ruckus on our second story walk out deck turned out to be a large bear that had scaled it’s way up with ease. Minnesota is bear country. Make sure to be bear aware!
Thank you all for supporting the Minnesota Wildlife Federation. I look forward to continuing our work together. Please reach out anytime.
If you aren’t already a supporting MWF through a financial donation I ask that you consider making a donation today. All funds raised directly support our mission and stay in Minnesota.
Yours in Conservation,
Brad Gausman
[email protected]