North Shore Blog

Special resource management deer hunts to take place at some Minnesota North Shore State Parks this fall

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 19:53:00 +0000

Special resource management deer hunts to take place at some Minnesota North Shore State Parks this fall

Numerous special resource management deer hunts are scheduled to take place at Minnesota state parks this fall, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The DNR advises anyone visiting a park during these hunts to wear blaze orange or other brightly colored clothing. Visitors should also check for hunt-related information at the park office when they arrive and look carefully for signage related to the hunt. Access to the parks will vary around the state during the special hunts.

Some parks will remain open to all visitors, some will have limited public access, and some will be open only to hunters with special permits. The deadlines for youth and adults to apply for a special permit to participate in the hunts - which include regular firearms, muzzleloader and archery options - have passed.

“The DNR allows these annual resource management hunts as a way to help control the deer population at state parks,” said Ed Quinn, resource management coordinator for the DNR’s Division of Parks and Trails. “When there are too many deer in one area, the native plants and animals can be negatively affected. Our goal is to ensure healthy natural communities.”

The DNR thanks park visitors for their patience and understanding at parks where access will be limited during the hunts.

Parks that will remain open to all visitors during special hunts (hunt dates in parentheses):
( North Shore state parks are marked in red )

Beaver Creek Valley State Park (Nov. 6-7)
Buffalo River State Park (Oct. 23-24 and Oct. 30-31)
Crow Wing State Park (Dec. 3-5)
Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park (Nov. 6-8)
Glacial Lakes State Park (Nov. 6-7)
Greenleaf Lake State Recreation Area (Sept. 18-Dec. 31)
Hayes Lake State Park (Oct. 16-17 and Nov. 6-21)
Itasca State Park (Nov. 6-14 and Nov. 27-Dec. 12)
Judge C.R. Magney State Park (Nov. 6-21)
Lake Bemidji State Park (Oct. 16-17 and Nov. 6-9)
Lake Bronson State Park (Nov. 6-14)
Lake Carlos State Park (Nov. 6-9)
Lake Louise State Park (Nov. 13-14)
Maplewood State Park (Nov. 6-9)
Schoolcraft State Park (Nov. 6-21)
Sibley State Park (Dec. 4-5)
Soudan Underground Mine State Park (Nov. 27-Dec. 12)
Zippel Bay State Park (Nov. 6-21)

Parks where some areas will be open only to hunters with special permits but other areas will remain open to all visitors:
( North Shore state parks are marked in red )

Banning State Park (Oct. 30-31)
Big Stone Lake State Park (Dec. 4-5)
Gooseberry Falls State Park (Nov. 6-21)
Hayes Lake State Park (Oct. 21-24)
Itasca State Park (Oct. 16-17)
Jay Cooke State Park (Dec. 4-8)
Lake Bronson State Park (Oct. 21-24)
Old Mill State Park (Oct. 21-24)
St. Croix State Park (Oct. 30-31)
Savanna Portage State Park (Oct. 30-31 and Nov. 13-17)
Scenic State Park (Nov. 6-21)
Split Rock Lighthouse State Park (Nov. 6-21)
Tettegouche State Park (Oct. 16-17 and Nov. 6-21)
Zippel Bay State Park (Oct. 17-18)

Parks that will be open only to hunters with special permits:
( North Shore state parks are marked in red )

Father Hennepin State Park (Oct. 30-31 and Dec. 4-5)
Frontenac State Park (Nov. 20-22)
Lake Maria State Park (Dec. 4-6)
Lake Shetek State Park (Dec. 4-5)
Lake Vermilion State Park (Nov. 6-14)
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park (Nov. 27-28)
Rice Lake State Park (Nov. 27-28)
St. Croix State Park (Nov. 12-15)
Whitewater State Park (Nov. 20-21)
William O’Brien State Park (Nov. 6-7)

Parks that are not having any special hunts and will remain open to the public:
( North Shore state parks are marked in red )

Afton State Park
Bear Head Lake State Park
Big Bog State Recreation Area
Blue Mounds State Park
Camden State Park
Carley State Park
Cascade River State Park
Charles A. Lindbergh State Park
Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
Fort Ridgely State Park
Franz Jevne State Park
Garden Island State Recreation Area
Glendalough State Park
Grand Portage State Park
Great River Bluffs State Park
Interstate State Park
John A. Latsch State Park
Kilen Woods State Park
Lac qui Parle State Park
McCarthy Beach State Park
Mille Lacs Kathio State Park
Minneopa State Park
Monson Lake State Park
Moose Lake State Park
Myre-Big Island State Park
Red River State Recreation Area
Sakatah Lake State Park
Split Rock Creek State Park
Temperance River State Park
Upper Sioux Agency State Park
Wild River State Park

Special situations:
Fort Snelling State Park and Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area will not be having a special hunt, but access to these parks is currently limited due to flooding.

George H. Crosby-Manitou State Park is not having a special hunt, but hunting is allowed in a portion of the park during the normal season, Nov. 6-21. The park will remain open to all visitors during this time.

The city of New Ulm is having an archery deer hunt Oct. 9-Dec. 31. Some of the deer stands are located within Flandrau State Park, but nowhere near trails or public use areas. The park will therefore remain open to all visitors during this time.

Although there is no hunt at Hill Annex Mine State Park, the park is only open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Details on which areas of each park will be affected by the special deer hunts will be included in the “visitor alert” boxes on the individual park web pages on Minnesota DNR website.

Information is also available by calling the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-646-6367, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Minnesota North Shore State Park information; http://www.northshorestateparks.com/
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Nordic Walking Lesson and Walk at Cascade Lodge

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 14:30:00 +0000

Nordic Walking Lesson and Walk at Cascade Lodge

Cascade Lodge and Nordic Walk for Life are offering a Nordic Walking beginner’s lesson and an all-levels lesson, followed by a guided trail walk on Saturday, Oct. 16th from 9:00 – 11:45 a.m.

Schedule:
9:00 – 9:30 am Beginning Nordic walking lesson

9:30 – 10:15 am Nordic walking lesson: ‘Walk with Comfort and Ease: Techniques to Help You Relax, Relieve Strain and Build Strength’ (also applicable to walking without poles)

10:15 – 11:45 am Group walk in Cascade River State Park

These activities are part of a special Nordic Walking Weekend Getaway based at Cascade Lodge.

Classic Nordic walking is an all-body fitness activity originally developed in Finland to help people train for cross country skiing. It is now practiced by millions of people of all ages and abilities worldwide, and is especially popular in Europe. Nordic walking, by involving more of the body’s muscle mass, burns more calories, provides more cardiovascular benefits and increases overall conditioning more effectively than regular walking. It can also help improve coordination and stability when walking.

Leading the lessons and walk is Amy Okaya, MPH, a Professional level trainer certified by the American Nordic Walking Association and the Founder of Nordic Walk for Life (www.nordicwalkforlife.com). “Nordic walking can be done year round, and is great winter exercise. You can get many of the same benefits as cross country skiing without having to worry so much about controlling your speed or the risk of falling. I’m especially excited to be offering this class on the North Shore where there are so many great walking trails!”

Cost is $30 for the two lessons, walk, and pole rental. Individual components are $10 each (pole rental $5 extra).

To sign up, contact Cascade Lodge at (218) 387-1112.
info@cascadelodgemn.com

Cascade Lodge on the North Shore Visitor Guide
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Cascade River Fall Colors Lutsen, Minnesota

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 14:43:00 +0000

Cascade River Fall Colors Lutsen, Minnesota

from September 30th, 2010 by Don Davison

Images are clickable to larger images...

Go to Don's Blog to see more awesome North Shore images at http://frozenfingersphotos.blogspot.com/

North Shore Fall Color Reports from http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/
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Oberg Mountain Fall Colors Lutsen, Minnesota

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 20:17:00 +0000

Oberg Mountain Fall Colors Lutsen, Minnesota

from September 30th, 2010 by Don Davison

Images are clickable to larger images...

Go to Don's Blog to see more awesome North Shore images at http://frozenfingersphotos.blogspot.com/

North Shore Fall Color Reports from http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/

Incredible day for bird migration and fall colors

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 22:43:00 +0000

Incredible day for bird migration and fall colors

[ image of turkey vulture ]

Huge numbers of turkey vultures are passing over upper North Shore areas today. Also plenty of immature bald eagles, merlins, sharp-shinned hawks, bluejays, and kestrels. Winds have been optimal out of the west or north combination. Causing birds to funnel up along Lake Superior.

Favorable winds for optimal funneling effect are out of the north, west or combination of. Turkey vultures and immature bald eagles have made a large number migration now that frost is becoming common at night. Sharp-shinned and broad-winged hawks have been on the move for many weeks and were seeing lower numbers as most have already migrated through. Observers are hitting popular locations and the shoreline to enjoy the lakeshore and passing birds. Find out why birds get funneled along Lake Superior. Or find good birding spots.

Many types of birds migrate through the Minnesota North Shore. Large numbers of bluejays and bluebirds have been passing through the past few weeks. We've also seen a marked increase of migratory birds especially immature raptors; kestrels, turkey vultures and bald eagles along the hills adjacent to Lake Superior.

Check out great places to experience bird migration and fall colors.
North Shore Fall Color Tours
Updated every day.
http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/report/index.html
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Did a wolf attack a woman in Pincushion Recreation Area above Grand Marais, Minnesota?

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 19:14:00 +0000

Did a wolf attack a woman in Pincushion Recreation Area above Grand Marais, Minnesota?

[ Image is of wolf not from Minnesota ]

Following text is pasted directly from the Cook County government Web site;
"On Wednesday, August 25th, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office investigated a report of a 19 year old Grand Marais woman being attacked by a stray dog near the Pincushion Trail system. The attack occurred around 7:30pm on Tuesday night, August 24th. The woman was alone walking along the trail that leads to the old dump. She heard a noise behind her, and when she turned to look she observed a dog approaching her. Unprovoked, the dog charged and attacked her, biting and clawing at her face. The woman defended herself by covering her head and face and playing dead. The dog eventually left.

The woman received scratches mainly to her face and shoulder, and a couple of puncture wounds. She was treated and released.

The woman described the dog as a mostly black, skinny German Shepherd mix, with matted hair and possibly mangy. The woman was certain it was a domesticated dog.

There have been no other reports of similar stray dogs and or attacks. The Cook County Sheriff’s Office has searched for the dog and continues to investigate the matter. The Minnesota Humane Society and United States Forest Service have also been contacted. The Pincushion Trails have been posted warning hikers of the potentially stray dangerous dog.

If you see this dog, do not approach and immediately contact the Cook County Sheriff’s Office at 218-387-3030. " --end
Direct link to press Release from the Cook County Sheriff Office:
http://co.cook.mn.us/index.php/component/content/article/64-press-releases/1059-press-release-dog-attack

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Editor note - Questions and comments;
Who owns a mangy german sheperd?
Isn't a mangy wolf a desperate animal that may have a higher tendency to go after domestic animals, pets and possibily humans?
Wolves with mange look a lot like a german sheperd.
There seems to be a epidemic of wolves in and around Cook County with signs of mange.
This past winter while fishing Gunflint Lake there were numerous complaints about mangy wolves hanging out around homes and businesses. And there were wolves killed by some agency that sent a person to trap and or kill wolves.
My blog post refers to mangy wolves we witnessed this winter.
http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2010/02/snowmobiling-fishing-and-wolf-watching.html
Mangy wolves are booted out of the pack and are faced with starvation, freezing to death, severe sun burning due to no hair left.
A couple years ago while under my truck changing my oil in my driveway, a mangy wolf walked right up to me and circled the vehicle. Smelling a foul odor as it passed me again, I realized it wasn't one of my golden retrievers, that were in the house. It circled my truck again and again until I got up and jumped into the truck box. The wolf stopped circling and stared at me.
It was trying to figure out how to attack me. I could see it in it's eyes. It was hurting and hungry.
It was difiicult to not want to help it, no animal deserves to die a slow death caused by mange. But, I probably would have been charge with some felony if I put it out of its misery... I moved slowly over to the garden hose and sprayed it until it left. It came back for about a week, usually showing up when my dogs were outside.

Bear hunters have experienced much higher incidents of wolves raiding their bear bait stations this year. Even standing off with bears protecting the bait pile.

The wolf population in Minnesota was targeted to be 1500 wolves. Actual numbers today may exceed 3000 wolves.

Link to interesting article from Northlands News Center in Duluth, Minnesota
'Wolves Attack Wisconsin Hunting Dogs'
http://www.northlandsnewscenter.com/video/Wolves-Attack-Wisconsin-Hunting-Dogs-104053694.html

Despite the persistence of diseases such as canine parvovirus, as well as Lyme Disease, and mange, the wolf population in Wisconsin continues to grow.
http://www.wolf.org/wolves/learn/intermed/inter_population/wi.asp

The Wisconsin DNR actually has a web site for subscribing to Wisconsin Gray Wolf Depredation Alerts
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/land/er/mammals/wolf/

Minnesota DNR wants gray wolf off the endangered list
http://www.startribune.com/local/88199997.html

Western US lawmakers turn sights on gray wolves from Associated Press
Oct 3rd, 2010 article from Anchorage Daily News
http://www.adn.com/2010/10/03/1484363/western-lawmakers-turn-sights.html

In the past two weeks I've done a study of my own. I asked 44 known to me, but random people who are Cook County residents two questions;
1. Is there too many wolves in Cook County?
2. What they thought about the possibility that it was a wolf, not a german sheperd, that attacked a 19 year old woman in Pincushion Recreation Area? All individuals surveyed were given the press release about the attack linked above after I asked question 1.

Results were;
Question 1. Is there too many wolves in Cook County?
44 total individuals
32 individuals said; Yes.
10 individuals said; No.
2 individuals said; I don't know.
Of the total; 30 individuals of those surveyed stated they have seen wolves on or near their residential property.

Question 2. What they thought about the possibility that it was a wolf, not a german sheperd, that attacked a 19 year old woman in Pincushion Recreation Area? All individuals surveyed were given the press release about the attack linked above.
44 total individuals
19 individuals said; It is obviously a wolf, generally these people didn't believe that someone actually owns a german sheperd with mange.
16 individuals said; Yes.
7 individuals said; No.
2 individuals said; I don't know.
Of the total; 26 individuals indicated they knew nothing about this event prior to my request.
Some indicated they have hiked there since and never saw any info about the attack.
Some indicated I made this up and there has been no attack, by wolf or dog. Even though I showed them an official press release printed off of the Cook County Government Web site, with the Cook County Sheriff logo/letterhead plainly visible.
Some indicated why isn't there a reward?
Many indicated it doesn't surprise them.

There needs to be more transparency about wolf populations, survey methods, depredation of domestic livestock, pets and possible attacks on humans...
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Very Interesting - Driver texting bans don't work: found U.S. study

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 22:20:00 +0000

Bans on texting and driving are unsuccessful at reducing crashes, a new U.S. study on the road-safety law has found.

Researchers at the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) examined collision-based insurance claims made in four U.S. states — California, Louisiana, Minnesota and Washington — in the months immediately before and after driver texting was banned.

They found the bans didn't have an impact on reducing crashes — and could even up the risk.

"Texting bans haven't reduced crashes at all. In a perverse twist, crashes increased in three of the four states we studied after bans were enacted," Adrian Lund, HLDI president, said in a statement. "It's an indication that texting bans might even increase the risk of texting for drivers who continue to do so despite the laws."

But ultimately, the institute suggests the reason for the counter-intuitative results is simple non-compliance: many drivers, especially younger ones, shrug off these bans.

In recent years, a number of U.S. states and Canadian provinces have enacted legislation and launched public-awareness campaigns aimed at curbing the use of hand-held devices while driving. A 2009 study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found collision risk was 23 times greater for drivers who text-message, surpassing any other driving distraction by far.

The study released Tuesday found that among drivers younger than 25 — the group most likely to text — 45 per cent reported they still texted in states that bar such activity. This fell just shy of the 48 per cent of drivers who reported text-messaging in ban-free states.

And in all four states, crashes increased among that younger cohort after the ban was put in place, jumping by as much as 12 per cent (in California). "The point of texting bans is to reduce crashes, and by this essential measure, the laws are ineffective," Lund said.

According the the study, many respondents who knew it was illegal to text said they didn't think police were strongly enforcing the law.

Christopher Schneider, a UBC sociology professor, says our society is likely just in a transitional phase before such legislation is transformed into being understood as a "public evil" — similar to campaigns waged against drunk driving in the 1970s and 80s.

"A lot of the promotion of texting while driving is being given to us as a widspread social problem, which I think it is. . . . People could get hurt," he said. "I suspect in another 20 years, the youth who are ignoring some of this legislation will be teaching their kids, who will grow up learning about the evil that is texting while driving."

Schneider also said laws may get stricter as public pressure builds. In Alaska, he noted, a fatality caused by phone-based distracted driving carries a maximum penalty of 20 years — much more than a fine and lost demerit points.

Thirty-one U.S. states have implemented texting bans for drivers. In Canada, nearly every province has similiar laws in place against using hand-held phones while driving. Alberta and New Brunswick have both said they are in the process of studying potential bans.

from the Winnipeg Free Press.
http://www.leaderpost.com/technology/Driver+texting+bans+work+study/3593087/story.html
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Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program schedules

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 14:45:00 +0000

Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program schedules

(Released September 27, 2010)

Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program has scheduled three workshops in early October to explain the application process for its annual grant program. The workshops will run from 10 a.m. to noon.

Dates and locations of the workshops are:
* Tuesday, Oct. 5, Superior National Forest office, 2020 W. Highway 61, Grand Marais.
*Wednesday, Oct. 6, Department of Natural Resources office, 1568 Highway 2, Two Harbors.
*Thursday, Oct. 7, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) office, 525 Lake Ave. S., Suite 400, Duluth.

Workshops will cover eligibility, types of fundable activities and match requirements. They will also include tips on grant writing, information about the scoring and ranking system, and an update on required forms and attachments. Coastal program staff will be available after the meeting to answer questions and to discuss specific projects.

“The application process has changed a bit this year,” said Karla Sundberg, grants specialist, Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program. “Our workshops will cover those changes and much more.”

This year, Minnesota’s Lake Superior Coastal Program anticipates having approximately $500,000 to award to projects that address coastal issues. Priority will be given to projects focused on coastal habitat, coastal water quality, coastal hazards, public access, coastal community planning and development, government coordination and public involvement, cultural and historical resources, and coastal education and outreach.

Funds are available to local and state governmental entities and nonprofit organizations working in the state’s coastal area, which includes portions of the lower St. Louis River, its estuary, Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Minnesota’s Coastal Program was approved in July 1999, and is administered through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Ecological Resources/Waters Division in Two Harbors.

For more information about the program or application materials, contact Sundberg at 218-834-1447 or karla.sundberg@state.mn.us.

Additional information and application materials are also available online at www.mndnr.gov/waters/lakesuperior. Applications are due Nov. 19 for funds available in summer/fall 2011.
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Bird Migration Report for Minnesota North Shore

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:40:00 +0000

Bird Migration Report for Minnesota North Shore
Birds Are Heading South
from http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/report/index.html#BIRDS

Last week had many tremendous days with favorable wind and sky conditions for watching migrating birds. West-northwest winds were causing birds to funneled up along Lake Superior shoreline. Rain and overcast skies were widespread on Wednesday causing birds to sit and wait for better conditions. Usually after a day of rain birds are eager to move and find food. Today's wind is out of the SSW, which will help disperse birds. Favorable winds for optimal funneling effect are out of the north, west or combination of.

Turkey vultures and immature bald eagles have made a large number migration now that frost is becoming common at night. Sharp-shinned and broad-winged hawks have been on the move for many weeks and were seeing lower numbers as most have already migrated through. Observers are hitting popular locations and the shoreline to enjoy the lakeshore and passing birds. Find out why birds get funneled along Lake Superior. Or find good birding spots.

Many types of birds migrate through the Minnesota North Shore. Large numbers of bluejays and bluebirds have been passing through the past few weeks. We've also seen a marked increase of migratory birds especially immature raptors; kestrels, turkey vultures and bald eagles along the hills adjacent to Lake Superior.

from http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/report/index.html#BIRDS
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North Shore Fall Color Report for September 27th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 19:10:00 +0000

North Shore Fall Color Report for September 27th, 2010

Fall Color Status: Now is the time to get up here! Fall colors are peaking now through next weekend. Maples are bright red and orange, birch and poplar are turning bright yellow. Generally colors are best for maples from now to end of September. Colors for birch and poplar are last two weeks of September into October. Last two years late fall colors ended rather abruptly Oct 15th and 17th respectively, from fall squalls with strong gusts. Watching the storms roll in and leaves disappear the past few years has been quite a scene.

Please be courteous to those that don't want to drive as slow as you. Turn-out in a safe location and let faster traffic pass. Not everyone is leaf looking and who wants to be followed to close?

REPORT FOR LOWER NORTH SHORE / DULUTH AREA / HWY 61 MILE 0 TO MILE 70>>>Duluth through Little Marais, which includes Tettegouche State Park, St. Louis and Lake Counties. Current Report; Maples are peaking. Try any early or mid season route. Birch and poplar are really turning yellow are best seen on mid season routes. Go to fall color routes at: http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/fall_color_tours.htm

REPORT FOR UPPER NORTH SHORE HWY 61 MILE 70 TO USA / CANADA BORDER >>>All of Cook County from Schroeder up through Grand Portage, Gunflint Trail and the Canadian border area. Current Report; Maples are showing tremendous color on early season routes. Trout Lake Road / Country Roads 14 and 60 tours are awesome. Birch and poplar are really turning yellow are best seen on mid season routes. On the Gunflint Trail / County Road 12; maples are bright red and orange as you pass through the Maple Hill area, 4 miles up the Trail from downtown Grand Marais, Minnesota. The Upper half of the Trail is farther into fall colors than the lower half and the birch and poplar are bright yellow. Go to fall color routes at: http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/fall_color_tours.htm

SPECIAL EVENT Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Beacon lighting and anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald Nov 10th. read more about this event...

http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/
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Why Do Leaves Change Color?

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 23:28:00 +0000

Why Do Leaves Change Color?
from http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/

Leaves change color due to shifting rhythm of the day and night. The long warm days of summer eventually turn shorter and cooler, which triggers a chemical clock inside the deciduous tree to enter winter sleep or dormancy. Deciduous means "a tree with leaves instead of needles."

During the summer months the color or "pigment" of leaves are mostly green from the chlorophyll which the tree is abundantly producing. But as fall approaches the tree enters dormancy and stops producing food and chlorophyll. As the amount of chlorophyll diminishes, a group of pigments called carotenoids start to show. Carotenoids are the yellow, brown and orange colors we see during fall.

Deciduous trees on the North Shore are mainly; sugar maple, aspen [aka poplars], paper birch, ash, silver maple, tamarack and some black cherry and oaks. Trees with needles are called conifers, on the North Shore conifers are mainly; balsam fir, white spruce, white pine, red pine, jack pine, and white cedar. The tamarack appears to be a species of evergreen during the growing season, but, in fact, is deciduous, making a late-season color change to yellow and dropping it's needles as the snow begins to fly in November.

Autumn is the best time for being out-of-doors. The bugs have pretty much died off and the days are still warm, and the nights are cool, great for hiking, paddling, biking, sailing or driving the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Check out our current fall color reports and fall color tours detailed for; hiking, biking, birding, paddling, driving or sailing on http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/
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Lake Superior Fun Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 14:57:00 +0000

Lake Superior Fun Facts

Largest freshwater lake in the world, one inch of surface water is equal to 553 billion gallons. Superior is the coldest, deepest, and highest in elevation of any of the Great Lakes. Old timers say that Superior doesn't give up her dead. If you go down on Superior, chances are your body will not be found. This is one lake that you need to know what your doing if you play in her waters.

Last time Superior froze over was 2009 and 1997. In 2003 the lake almost froze over again, except the western areas along the Minnesota shoreline. Superior is being effected by a drought, lack of normal snow and rainfall accumulations the past four years. This has caused Lake Superior to reach low water levels not seen in recent decades.

Lake Superior was conceived 1.1 to 1.2 billion years ago during the mid-continent rift. For over 2 million years Superior was repeatedly inundated with thick flow of lava. During the periods between these flows, the crust down-warped, creating a basin that accumulated sediments until the cycle begun again with the next flood of molten lava.

Weather and climate is moderated by Lake Superior, winter is warmer and summers are cooler. This effect is strongest when the winds blow off her waters and is most pronounced along the immediate shorelines and on the slopes that face the lake. Between late spring and late fall the shore can be shrouded in fog when the land surrounding Lake Superior heats up much warmer than the water. This warm season fog occurs when when moisture in the warm air condenses as it flows over the cold lake. Duluth, Minnesota has an average of 52 days of heavy fog each year. Most of Lake Superior shipwrecks occurred during fall storms called "northeasters." These storms build when low pressure systems pass over the lake.

Winter temperatures rarely dip below -30°F/-35°C, inland temps however can go well below -30°F/-35°C. During most winters the lake can become 40-95% covered with ice.

Length: east-west 350 miles/563 km
Width: south-north 160 miles/257 km
Elevation: approx. 602 feet/183 meters above sea level
Basin population: 425,500+ U.S. citizens and 181,500+ Canadians
Shoreline Total: 2,980 miles/2938 kilometers including island shorelines
Water Surface Area: 31,700 square miles/82,100 square kilometers
Average Depth: 489 feet
Number of fish species: 78
Maximum Depth: 222 fathoms or 1,333 feet, 406 meters, 46 miles southwest of caribou Island or 5 degrees and 25 miles from Grand Island Picture Rocks National Lakeshore. In the area west of Marquette, Michigan.
High Water Level: 602.86 feet above sea level in 1876
Low Water Level: 598.23 feet above sea level in 1926
Water Clarity: 65-75 feet of visibility in some areas, average is 24 feet/8 meters
Water Volume: 3,000,000,000,000,000 gallons of 440 trillion cubic feet or 10% of the world's fresh water. Enough to flood North and South America to one foot deep.
Flushing Rate: 400-500 years for a complete water change
Detention Rate: 191 years for a drop of water to remain in the lake
Flow Rate Into Lake Huron: 73,7000 cubic feet/2,124 cubic meters per second average
Average Water Temperature: 40° F/4° C
Calmest months: June and July
Stormy Months: October and November
Maximum Wave Height Recorded: 31 feet
Yearly average number of vessels that visit the Duluth/Superior port: 1000
Yearly average visitor count: 3-4 million persons
Shipwrecks Recorded: 350 and more than 1,000 lives have been lost. [more shipwreck info]

See story about Lake Superior ice coverage March 2009.

Duluth Harbor Picture | Grand Marais, Minnesota Harbor Pictures

Minnesota North Shore Visitor Guide

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Beacon lighting and anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 14:25:00 +0000

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park Beacon lighting and anniversary of the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald

November 10th every year Split Rock Lighthouse marks the anniversary of the loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald with a public program that includes a reading of the names of the 29 men who lost their lives on the Fitzgerald on November 10th, 1975. The lighthouse, an aid to Lake Superior navigation for 59 years (1910 - 1969), is normally closed during the winter, but is reopened for this one day event and the beacon is lighted at dusk. Hundreds of visitors have attended this event each year since the ceremony was started in 1985 on the tenth anniversary of the sinking of 'the Big Fitz.'

Split Rock Lighthouse is located outside of Two Harbors, Minnesota. The lighthouse commands a panoramic view of Lake Superior from the 130 foot cliff from which it stands on. Built after a 1905 fierce storm that sank one ship nearby and more than 30 others on Lake Superior. Superior is the most unpredictable, deepest, and coldest of the Great Lakes.

Visitors can view films and exhibits about the lighthouse and the big lakes storms and shipwrecks.

More information is available about Split Rock Lighthouse at the North Shore Visitor Guide.

Fun facts about Lake Superior are also available on the North Shore Visitor Guide

Minnesota North Shore and Gunflint Trail Fall Color Report

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Sat, 18 Sep 2010 17:21:00 +0000

Minnesota North Shore and Gunflint Trail Fall Color Report

http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/

Tucker Lake area Gunflint Trail image

Fall Color Status: Upper North Shore Maples are going to be peaking as early as this weekend into next weekend. Birch and poplar are turning bright yellow. Generally colors are best for maples from now to mid/late September. Colors for birch and poplar are last two weeks of September to about the 10-15th of October, peaking colors for birch and poplar should be starting approx. last ten days of September into early October. Last two years color ended rather abruptly Oct 15th and 17th respectively, from fall squalls with strong gusts. Watching the storms roll in and leaves disappear was quite a scene.

Please be courteous to those that don't want to drive as slow as you. Turn-out in a safe location and let faster traffic pass. Not everyone is leaf looking and who wants to be followed to close?

REPORT FOR LOWER NORTH SHORE / DULUTH AREA / HWY 61 MILE 0 TO MILE 70>>>Duluth through Little Marais, which includes Tettegouche State Park, St. Louis and Lake Counties. Current Report; Maples are showing about nice color. Try the Section 13 hiking tour or any early season route. Birch and poplar are turning yellow are best seen on mid season routes. Go to fall color routes and current report.

REPORT FOR UPPER NORTH SHORE HWY 61 MILE 70 TO USA / CANADA BORDER >>>All of Cook County from Schroeder up through Grand Portage, Gunflint Trail and the Canadian border area. Current Report; Maples are showing tremendous color on the Trout Lake Road / Country Roads 14 and 60 Tour. Use early season routes for maples. Birch and poplar are turning yellow are best seen on mid season routes. On the Gunflint Trail / County Road 12; maples are bright red and orange as you pass through the Maple Hill area, 4 miles up the Trail from downtown Grand Marais, Minnesota. The Upper half of the Trail is farther into fall colors than the lower half. Go to fall color routes and current report.

SPECIAL EVENT>>Grand Portage State Park visitor center grand opening during North Shore fall colors on September 25th, 2010. Read more about this event.

Birds Heading South: >>>Tuesday was a great day for watching migrating birds. West-northwest winds were causing birds to funneled up along Lake Superior shoreline. Rain and overcast skies were widespread on Wednesday causing birds to sit and wait for better conditions. Usually after a day of rain birds are eager to move and find food. Today winds are optimal and overcast skies will make it ideal for birding. Turkey vultures and immature bald eagles are making a large number migration now that frost is becoming common at night. Sharp-shinned and broad-winged hawks have been on the move for many weeks, and are very plentiful and rather easy to spot with overcast skies. Observers are hitting popular locations and the shoreline to enjoy the lakeshore and passing birds. Find out why birds get funneled along Lake Superior. Or find good birding spots. Go to current bird migration report.

More info, reports, routes and images are at:
http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/

DNR North Shore Land Sales in Cook, St.Louis and Lake County

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 14:17:00 +0000

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will offer land on the Minnesota North Shore for sale at public auctions scheduled for October.

The first “oral auction” will be held on Thursday, Oct. 21, at the DNR Central Office (500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN) at 10 a.m., with registration to begin at 9:45 a.m. There are a variety of parcels being offered in Aitkin, Cook, Hennepin, Lake, Martin, Nobles, Pipestone, St. Louis, and Washington counties.

The second oral auction will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at the Bemidji City Hall (317 4th Street NW, Council Chambers Room, Bemidji, MN) at 11 a.m., with registration beginning at 10:45 a.m. Parcels in Beltrami, Hubbard, Itasca, Polk, Red Lake, Roseau, and Wadena counties will be up for sale.

These sales include parcels with a mix of potential uses, from residential to recreational to riparian.

More information is available at:
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/lands_minerals/landsale

North Shore Fall Color Tours 2010 Report

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:27:00 +0000

North Shore Fall Color Tours 2010 Reports

September 16th, 2010
Upper North Shore Maples are going to be peaking as early as this weekend into next week. Birch and poplar are turning bright yellow. Generally colors are best for maples from now to mid/late September. Colors for birch and poplar are last two weeks of September to about the 10-15th of October, peaking colors for birch and poplar should be starting approx. last ten days of September into early October. Last two years color ended rather abruptly Oct 15th and 17th respectively from fall squalls with strong gusts.

Go to updated fall color report at: http://www.northshorefallcolors.com/

Grand Portage State Park visitor center grand opening during fall colors on September 25th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 19:32:00 +0000

Grand Portage State Park visitor center grand opening during North Shore fall colors on September 25th, 2010.

(Released September 16, 2010 from the Minnesota DNR)

Against a backdrop of fall color that will be at or near peak and a short distance from the state’s highest waterfall, a new visitor center at Grand Portage State Park will be the subject of a community celebration on Saturday, Sept. 25.

The structure and its surroundings will serve as a new highway rest area, a state travel information center, and park visitor center, complete with exhibits showcasing the lifeways of the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa.

The project is a partnership with the Grand Portage Band, on whose land the park is located; the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR); the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT); and Explore Minnesota Tourism. Family-oriented activities will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a building dedication at noon. Activities will feature a pipe ceremony and ribbon-cutting, along with local drummers and dancers.

Officials participating in a building dedication ceremony will include:
DNR Commissioner Mark Holsten.
MnDOT Commissioner Tom Sorel.
Norman Deschampe, tribal chairman of the Grand Portage Band of Chippewa.
Laurie Martinson, DNR deputy commissioner, and Courtland Nelson, director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division, will be in attendance to thank those who saw the project through to completion. Many tribal leaders and elected officials also will be present and involved in the day’s events.

During the event, naturalists and volunteers will be stationed along the half-mile trail to High Falls, which is accessible to visitors of all abilities. Visitors of all ages will be able to work on make-and-take projects at each location. These educational projects will touch on topics including Lake Superior, traditional wild rice harvesting, fall colors, black bears, moose and wolves. Visitors can bring a picnic lunch or purchase food, including Native American fry bread, from local vendors who will be on site that day.

Construction workers broke ground on June 15, 2009, for the 5,800-square-foot building, which will provide year-round services to travelers. It replaces the seasonal Grand Portage Bay rest area and travel information center, which was open for about five months a year.

The travel information center will be staffed by the Grand Portage Band. A new trail to the falls, a new observation deck overlooking the Pigeon River, and a 30-foot “gathering shelter” to be used for programs and picnicking, have also been constructed at the park.

For more information about the park, call the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free at 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Grand Portage State Park info at www.northshorestateparks.com/grandportage.htm

Snowmobiling, icefishing and wolf watching the Gunflint Trail area

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:42:00 +0000

The past few weekends I've spent up the Gunflint Trail snowmobiling, icefishing and wolf watching with my friend Cory Christianson, a longtime fishing guide with Sea Gull Creek Fishing Camp. Lake trout, brookies, splake, and rainbows are abundant in many lakes such as; Gunflint, Loon, Birch, Mayhew, and Moss.

[ all images are clickable to a larger image ]

Minutes later...

We drilled through 30-36 inches of really good hard ice, pushing the limit of our ice auger.

We caught some nice rainbow trout on Birch lake.

It was calm and sunny all day and we didn't even set-up our shelter.

I took a solo trip into South Lake from Gunflint Lake, where snowmobiles have to stay on the Canadian side because the U.S. / Minnesota side is in the BWCA.

A railroad ran on the trail between Little Gunflint and Little North lake, it still exists from the logging days. See rails about 48 inches wide sticking out of snow.

Stream next to portage trail between Little Gunflint Lake and Little North Lake.

What's left of a deer the wolves chased out on the lake surface and devoured. Usually the only remains are bone fragments, hide, blood and what the deer had in its stomach. We got to this one before the ravens and other birds picked it clean. On Gunflint Lake we counted 4 kill sites that were less than 5 days old.

Lone wolf trotting over to above kill site during the day? Usually when you see a 'lone' wolf out in the open, on a lake in the middle of the day, something is wrong. This animal had a bad case of mange, an ectoparasite that causes wolves to loose hair and weight. This animal was probably kicked out of the pack and is on its own. It only had about 25 percent of its hair left, and has been relegated to leftover scraps and to fend for itself.

Well traveled trail by wolves on Canadian side of Gunflint Lake

Recently the People responsible for regulating wolves destroyed at least one wolf with mange, that was hanging out around people and resorts on Gunflint Lake. If you want to see wolves or signs of wolves head up to Gunflint Lake, they are very abundant. As far as I'm concerned wolf populations are out of control and we are being deceived about their numbers. The number of moose are declining rapidly and if you read between the lines of the MNDNR Moose study, wolves are taking large percentages of pregnant cows and moose calves. See my blog post about moose at: http://www.snowmobiletrailsblog.com/2010/02/moose-population-decline-continues-in.html. Don't take me wrong, wolves have their place in the world, but when you see more wolves than deer and moose, something is wrong. On recent hikes in 4 North Shore State Parks wolf tracks were the main tracks we found on the hiking trails and on the rivers.

Popular waterskipping area at the east end of Gunflint Lake where water runs into Gunflint Lake from Little Gunflint Lake.

As the sun dropped below the treeline our great weekend being outside icefishing and snowmobiling was quickly coming to an end. The sense of going back to the grind tomorrow made me envy the wolves and their freedom; lay on a lake in the sun at day and eat deer or moose at night. Nice!

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Interesting links about wolves;

A retired Fairbanks wolf biologist played a key role in confirming what has been declared North America's first documented fatal wolf attack on a human in the wild. http://www.wolfsongnews.org/news/Alaska_current_events_2448.html

The death of Kenton Carnegie by CBC News Online

http://www.cbc.ca/sask/features/wolves/2.html

International Wolf Center - Ely, Minnesota

http://www.wolf.org/

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North Shore Snowmobile trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/ for lodging and trail info.

Snowmobile rentals on Gunflint Lake; http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/snowmobilerental.htm

North Shore Snowmobile Trail Report Feb 20, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 23:23:00 +0000

February 20th, 2010 Our group of 3 left Silver Bay and headed to Devil Track Lake for Lunch via the North Shore State Trail. The trail was freshly groomed and made for a quick ride. After a great lunch at the 'Landing' at Devil Track Resort we heading to Hungry Jack Lodge to see the new building. We took the Gunflint Trail up to Hungry Jack. The 'G' trail was not groomed and we wondered why we went that way. However we made it and the lodge is beautiful! We returned to Silver Bay via the North Shore State Trail late in the afternoon, the trail was still great! 230 miles for the day.

Report by Scott S., Hastings, Minnesota. See trailhead option H for planning this route.

Send your report to us!

North Shore Snowmobile Trails - http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/
North Shore Visitor Guide - http://www.lakesuperiordrive.com/
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North Shore Weekend Snowmobile Events for February 27 and 28th, 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:02:00 +0000

Fishcakes @ Carbine's - Saturday, February 27 Fishcakes on McFarland Lake. Organized ride leaves Devil Track General Store at 9 a.m. See trailhead option C for location/directions/parking. This event takes place on McFarland Lake at the end of the Arrowhead Trail / Cook County Road 16.

>>Always have a trail map with you while you ride snowmobile trails.

Annual Trout Derby Picnic and fishing contest - Sunday Feb 28th. Anglers check-in by 9 a.m. Door prizes to be given away. Gunflint Lake boat access. Bring along your Vintage Snowmobile for display. See trailhead option G for location/directions/parking. This event takes place on Gunflint Lake surface infront of public landing and Gunflint Lodge. This event is 45 miles from downtown Grand Marais, Minnnesota up the Gunflint Trail / Cook County Road 12. Fish must be checked in by 1 p.m. Event lasts until about 3pm.

More events click here
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Snowmobile Drag Races Feb 13th Gunflint Trail Grand Marais

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:41:00 +0000

Snowmobile Drag Races - Saturday, February 13 @ Windigo Lodge on Poplar Lake - Gunflint Trail . Sign up at 11 a.m.

Racing starts at noon. Windigo Lodge is approx. 31 miles up the Gunflint Trail from downtown Grand Marais, in the Mid-Trail area, on the left side as you drive up. Large moose statue in front of lodge. In the 40 MPH zone. There are also many trailheads from which you can launch and ride to Poplar Lake. There is usually a plowed parking area on lake surface infront of lodge. See all trailheads http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/#trailheads
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http://www.snowmobiletrails.com/

HELP! Lost Quarter Horse. May be using snowmobile trails to get around.

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:42:00 +0000

Published Feb 10th, 2010
Updated Feb 13th, 2010 09:20am

Help needed from area snowmobilers and others!

Lost Quarter Horse. May be using snowmobile trails to get around.

Description: 10 year old gelding, Brown with white mark on forehead - back two feet have whte socks. Wearing a halter. Named El Nino.

Horse left property northeast of Island Lake (22 miles north of Duluth) Sunday afternoon Feb 7th. Tracked to last known location Alden Lake area, west side of Cloquet River. Headed in an easterly direction. Horse was born/raised in northwest Wisconsin - near Port Wing - likely wanting to return there.

Horse was tracked on the snowmobile trail off North Alden Lake Road heading east toward Alden Lake. He stuck to the trail until it turned north about 1/2 mile west of Alden Lake turned east by southeast.

Track is significanlty larger than deer track. Have not yet confirmed crossing the Cloquet River. No reported sightings. Officials in St. Louis Co, Lake Co and DNR have been notified.

Hoping Snowmobilers and others in area can network this info around as widely as possible.

If you sight El Nino Please call Scott immediately 218-393-2779 with any information.

Thanks!
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Updated Saturday 2-13.

We had a helicopter with a thermal image camera in the air last night. No CONFIRMED sightings yet but there were 2 hits. Most likely appeared south of Island Lake, just west of Cty Rd 273/Old Vermillion Trail, very close to the Island Lake Spur snowmobile trail. Likely heading south and looking for other horses and food.
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Moose population decline continues in northeastern Minnesota - News release from MNDNR

noreply@blogger.com (Chad Jones) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:59:00 +0000

Two moose enjoy a warm spring day along the Gunflint Trail. Moose on right gave birth to calf moments later in water.

Moose population decline continues in northeastern Minnesota

(Released February 8, 2010)

According to results of an aerial survey released by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the moose population in northeastern Minnesota continues to decline.

Survey results revealed lower moose numbers and the proportion of cows accompanied by calves continued a 13-year decline and dropping to a record low of 28 calves per 100 cows.

“These indices along with results from research using radio-collared moose all indicate that the population has been declining in recent years,” said Dr. Mark Lenarz, DNR forest wildlife group leader.

Moose populations are estimated using an aerial survey of the northeast Minnesota moose range. Based on the survey, wildlife researchers estimate that there were 5,500 moose in northeastern Minnesota. The estimate, while not statistically different from last year’s 7,600, reinforces the inference that the moose population is declining. In addition to the decline in the calf to cow ratio, the bull to cow also continued to decline with an estimated 83 bulls per 100 cows. Aerial surveys have been conducted each year since 1960 in the northeast and are based on flying transects in 40 randomly selected plots spread across the Arrowhead.

A study of radio-collared moose in northeastern Minnesota between 2002 and 2008 determined that non-hunting mortality was substantially higher than in moose populations outside of Minnesota. Lenarz indicated that, “combined with the reduced number of calves, the high mortality results in a population with a downward trend.”

The causes of moose mortality are not well understood. Of 150 adult moose radio-collared since 2002 in Minnesota, 103 have subsequently died, most from unknown causes thought to be diseases or parasites. Nine moose died as a result of highway vehicle accidents. Two were killed by trains. Only six deaths were clearly the result of wolf predation.

Analyses by Lenarz and other scientists have indicated a significant relationship between warmer temperatures and non-hunting mortality. “Moose are superbly adapted to the cold but intolerant of heat,” said Lenarz, “and scientists believe that summer temperatures will likely determine the southern limit of this species.”

As recently as the 1980s as many as 4,000 moose inhabited northwestern Minnesota, an area of agricultural land interspersed with woodlots. The population declined dramatically during the 1990s and currently numbers fewer than 100 animals. In contrast, the northeastern population occurs in wetland-rich forested habitat which presumably provides thermal cover in a warming environment.

In August, a Moose Advisory Committee convened by the DNR released their findings which will be used in the development of a legislatively-mandated research and management plan. They indicated that while climate change is a long-term threat to the moose in Minnesota, moose will likely persist in the state for the foreseeable future. The plan should be ready later this spring and will be open to the public for comment.

The Fond du Lac band of Lake Superior Chippewa and 1854 Treaty Authority contributed funding and provided personnel for the annual survey.

A copy of the aerial survey report is available online at:
http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/outdoor_activities/hunting/moose/moose_survey_2010.pdf
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